How to create “Mist Delay” script file in PlanetCNC TNG software
This tutorial will describe how to create script file for short delay after Mist(M8)is turned ON. With PlanetCNC TNG, user can create or customize g-code procedures (e.g. for M7,M8 g-codes, M6 g-code) using script files. Script files are located in Scripts folder of corresponding profile in PlanetCNC TNG installation folder. To create and modify M8 g-code script please […]
How to control PlanetCNC TNG from your own software
Command line arguments PlanetCNC TNG accepts commands from command line. Only one software instance can run at same time. When you run second instance it will simply pass its arguments to running instance. Running instance will process these arguments and execute command. Here are some examples (Windows, 64bit): 1. Open command prompt. 2. Go to PlanetCNC TNG […]
How to create custom tabs in PlanetCNC TNG software
User can create new state tabs. State tabs are displayed on main user interface and can include any parameter used by software whether its tool offset value, number of g-code line or absolute position of machine. By default, software will display only state tabs “GCode” and “IO”. User can create up to 30 state tabs. To create new […]
Using the G04 g-code with PlanetCNC TNG software
In machining it is sometimes necessary to stop the motion of all axes for a given amount of time (for example to let the spindle come up to speed or wait for the coolant to start flowing). This is called dwell. It’s activated with the G04 command. The time is specified using a P-word and […]
Using G02 and G03 g-codes with PlanetCNC TNG software
Another two g-codes used to specify machine movements are G02 and G03. They move the machine in an arc, in contrast to G00 and G01 which move the machine in a straight line. G02 moves the machine in a clockwise arc and G03 moves the machine in a counterclockwise arc. To use these codes we […]
Using spindle and coolant g-codes with PlanetCNC TNG software
A fundamental operation in CNC machining is controlling the spindle. It is controlled in g-code using M3, M4 and M5 commands. M03 will start the spindle turning clockwise. M04 will start the spindle turning counterclockwise. Both commands turn on the spindle at the speed determined separately by the S-word. It is used to set the […]
How to measure work position with movable sensor in PlanetCNC TNG software
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 […]
How to measure tool offset with fixed tool sensor in PlanetCNC TNG software
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 […]
How to configure limit switch inputs of controller in PlanetCNC TNG software
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 […]
How to set homing procedure in PlanetCNC TNG software
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 […]
How to set motion limits in PlanetCNC TNG software
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 […]
How to set motor & soft limits in PlanetCNC TNG software
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 […]