Hi

Is it possible to use A axis as a Linaer axis so that you can run with 2 tables with Y & A axis. I have a Alberti Format 90 cnc machine that I rebuild to mach 3, now I use A axis as a slave, but I want to run the two Tables separeat.

If you are trying to work two pairs of axes individually at the same time then afraid it cant be done.
Hood

If however you wanted to run the X and Y while A was at rest (loading parts?), then run X and A while unloading/loading Y,  I think you would be fine.
Just set up A as another linear axis and adjust the Gcode accordingly.

Just looked at one of these machines,(gougle) how is it originally intended to work with 2 tables ?
Looks like 1 common X and spindle with 2 (y,a)tables. ? ? What a beast !

Just guessing,
Russ

Russ, I all ready tried that, and it works, BUT only G0 and G1 when I use G2 or G3 with X - A axis I get Mach 3 radius Error and the machine stops.

Is the A axis set as linear? (config menu, General Config, left side of page)

Hood

Yes the box is unchecked. Can it have any thing to do with G17 XY plane select ?

That could well be the issue.
If it is then possibly the way to get round it would be to use SwapAxis(1,3) and that would tell Mach to swap the outputs for Y and A, thus any commands meant for Y would go to the A motor. To set it back your would have ResetAxisSwap()

To use that from code you could create two macros, one to swap the other to reset and you could have them inserted in your code.
The other option would be to have screen buttons to swap and ResetSwap.

Hood

wow, I assumed arcs would work with all linear axis'.
Guess you could convert your code from G2/3 to all G1's .... like the Roadrunner ?

Get strange results when trying G2 x,a. Y moves also anyway.
May be a way to fake it ? Not sure.
Seems a bit lame.

Regards,
Russ

Russ I suppose the problem with G2/3 is you are telling Mach that A is a linear axis but Mach has no idea of the orientation of that A axis, If it were a rotary then Mach would assume it as convention and should work fine.

Hood

Just wondering if when you choose to have  A, B or C as rotary whether Mach assumes they are still in relation to their normal axis for rotation. What I mean is I wonder if Mach assumes A goes along with X, B with Y and C with Z.
Might be worth trying the axis set as B axis and Mach may assume it runs the same way as Y when set as linear.
Hood

Edit meant Linear in the first line, not rotary.