This tutorial will explain how to correctly use Work Position / Measure Height feature with movable sensor using PlanetCNC TNG software and PlanetCNC motion controllers. Movable Sensor Movable sensor is basically a switch that sends signal to motion controller corresponding input pin. Software will then calculate Z axis work position zero value, which is usually […]
This tutorial will explain how to correctly use Tool Offset / Measure feature with fixed tool sensor using PlanetCNC TNG software and PlanetCNC motion controllers. Fixed tool sensor For fixed tool sensor we can use a dedicated tool measuring switch or, most basic solution, a standard micro switch fixed to machine table. When tool activates tool […]
Limit switches are used for reference (homing procedure) and as a safety feature. In order that software recognizes limit switch activation and makes appropriate action, we need to configure limit switch inputs in settings: File/Settings/Motors/Limit Switches. Examples below will demonstrate use of different limit switch wiring methods for X axis. All shown principles can be used for all […]
This tutorial will explain how to correctly use Machine/Home feature. Homing procedure will reference machine axes and set machine work area. First you would need to configure your machines step per unit values, motor & soft limits and limit switch inputs of controller: How to set step per unit values in PlanetCNC TNG software How to […]
This tutorial will explain how to set motion limits of your machine under File/Settings/Motion-> “Range”. First you need to configure step per unit values, limit switch inputs of controller and motor limits: How to set Steps Per Unit values in PlanetCNC TNG software How to configure limit switch inputs of controller in PlanetCNC TNG software How to set […]
This tutorial will explain how to set motor and soft limits of your machine. Soft limits (sometimes also program limits term is used) will stop machine motion when motor limit values of specific machine axis are achieved (without any limit switch activation). Soft limits will stop machine in soft stop fashion, meaning axis motors will use deceleration – hence the […]
This tutorial will explain how to correctly configure step per unit values of your machine. Step per unit value (in further text SPU) defines how many step pulses controller needs to generate in order that machine axis moves for distance of one unit. Units can be in millimeters or in inches. SPU value depends […]
PlanetCNC TNG software recognizes all PlanetCNC controllers that are connected to your PC trough USB or Network ports. However, only Mk3 series of controllers (Mk3, MK3/4,MK3DRV,Mk3ECO) can be used with TNG sw. It is essential that user sets “Primary controller” in settings. Without this, you will not be able to control your machine! Basic connection […]
New to PlanetCNC TNG software? Don’t worry, here you can find list of tutorials that explain how to start using PlanetCNC TNG software as fastest and as effectively as possible. It is very recommended to follow these tutorials in chronological order: 1. PlanetCNC TNG software overview and performance guidelines Short description of PlanetCNC TNG software […]
We used freshly installed Linux – Ubuntu MATE distribution for this guide. Please note that distributions differ one from another so these steps may not be suitable for all distributions and installation methods may vary. 1.) Start your Ubuntu MATE system. 2.) Using your web browser, download PlanetCNC TNG version from PlanetCNC download page: PlanetCNC […]
We are aware that license is an annoyance. But please understand us. PlanetCNC TNG software works only with Mk3 series of controllers: Mk3, Mk3/4, Mk3DRVand Mk3ECO. You cannot use PlanetCNC TNG software with Mk2,Mk2/4, and Mk1 controllers! To obtain your PlanetCNC TNG license please follow steps below(follow steps very carefully and in exact order): 1.) […]
To update your PlanetCNC Mk3 series controller firmware with PlanetCNC TNG software make sure that PlanetCNC controller firmware is updated with latest version of CNC USB controller software(if you are migrating from CNC USB sw to PlanetCNC TNG sw for the first time). -You can download latest version of CNC USB controller software here: PlanetCNC […]
