Re: [Emc-users] Weird EMC2 tuning issue (direction reverses intermittently)
Yes, I had a stepper system run backwards when pushed too hard. I believe it was a combination of accel and start frequency being too aggressive. However, the backwards motion was NOT smooth or at commanded speed- slow and noisy is what I remember. Jeffrey did not report, though, that his backwards motion was anything but normal except direction-wise. So, I'm thinking this isn't the case here. Glenn -Original Message- From: emc-users-boun...@lists.sourceforge.net [mailto:emc-users-boun...@lists.sourceforge.net] On Behalf Of Gene Heskett Sent: Tuesday, July 07, 2009 7:30 AM To: Enhanced Machine Controller (EMC) Subject: Re: [Emc-users] Weird EMC2 tuning issue (direction reverses intermittently) On Tuesday 07 July 2009, Andy Pugh wrote: 2009/7/5 Jeffrey Pease jpe...@peasej.com: One mysterious issue I've seen that I'm trying to figure out is that very, very rarely, a movement command to the milling machine will make an axis move the correct distance in the INCORRECT direction. Is there any possibility that this is a mechanical problem with the motors? I am wondering if they can get into some form or resonance when pushing the step rate too far, such that they start stepping backwards? Note that I don't even know if this is possible/ Yes it is, particularly when using a driver that can't microstep. Resonance can build up to the point where its actually turning backwards due to the magnetic spring action, and it could find it easier to keep on turning backwards, having overshot the center. I have not personally observed that in my machine however, cuz if it skips a step, mine just locks in place and sings. Dampers will help to squash this, allowing considerably higher speeds. The dampers should take the form of loosely coupled weights that can slip and therefore absorb the resonance motions. Mine are built from a steel spool with one flange removable and adjustable, with alternating layers of sheet rubber whose center holes are a drag fit on the spool hub, and large fender washers that are free to turn on the spool hub. The removable flange is adjusted so that the stack of washers/rubber is snug but can be turned in place when the motors are powered up locked. This works well for microstepping drivers such as the xylotex I use, allowing about 2x speed increases but probably needs a more mathematically based design for stuff running at half or full step. They can be see at http://gene.homelinux.net:85/gene/emc -- Cheers, Gene There are four boxes to be used in defense of liberty: soap, ballot, jury, and ammo. Please use in that order. -Ed Howdershelt (Author) The NRA is offering FREE Associate memberships to anyone who wants them. https://www.nrahq.org/nrabonus/accept-membership.asp Celebrate Hannibal Day this year. Take an elephant to lunch. -- Enter the BlackBerry Developer Challenge This is your chance to win up to $100,000 in prizes! For a limited time, vendors submitting new applications to BlackBerry App World(TM) will have the opportunity to enter the BlackBerry Developer Challenge. See full prize details at: http://p.sf.net/sfu/blackberry ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users -- Enter the BlackBerry Developer Challenge This is your chance to win up to $100,000 in prizes! For a limited time, vendors submitting new applications to BlackBerry App World(TM) will have the opportunity to enter the BlackBerry Developer Challenge. See full prize details at: http://p.sf.net/sfu/blackberry ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users
Re: [Emc-users] 5 axis compensation kinematics
Stuart, In your axis compensation plan, do you assume that the axes are perfectly straight and not bowed? Such as table sag at the end of travels. Glenn -Original Message- From: emc-users-boun...@lists.sourceforge.net [mailto:emc-users-boun...@lists.sourceforge.net] On Behalf Of Stuart Stevenson Sent: Thursday, June 25, 2009 7:46 AM To: EMC2-Users-List Subject: [Emc-users] 5 axis compensation kinematics Gentlemen, I have the kinematics file on the cinci. I am running the emc-dev (trunk) from the git download. The machine is running and looking/moving as expected. Measuring and adjusting is the next task. I will assume the X axis is the perfect axis/joint combination and comp everything to the X axis and the table top. My plan is to: (in this order) comp the Y axis to X comp the Y axis to Z (table top) comp the Z axis to X comp the Z axis to Y comp the parallelism of the A and X axes comp the parallelism of the B and Y axes comp the construction errors of the AB head (the spindle centerline does not project exactly through either the A or B axes centerliines of rotation having some fun now (sweet) thanks (many thanks to the developers for this incredible EMC software) this sow's ear is looking like a denim (not quite silk) purse. Stuart ps - axis jog would be especially nice for this :) -- you can lead a person to knowledge but you cannot make him think -- ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users -- ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users
Re: [Emc-users] Roles in the manufacturing chain (was Metriks)
Doug, There are well-defined drafting standards such as ANSI Y14.5M-1994 used mostly in the USA. No doubt CNC has changed the landscape; imported solid models defining the part geometry (through the CAD to CAM to CNC pipeline) and drawings used mostly as inspection tools. Still, a good machinist will always make a better part and a good engineer will always design one, compared to their untrained/unskilled/sloppy brethren, no matter what tools they use. And, I find abundance of the good type wherever I go, still to this day. I've been at it for 25+ years Glenn -Original Message- From: emc-users-boun...@lists.sourceforge.net [mailto:emc-users-boun...@lists.sourceforge.net] On Behalf Of Douglas Pollard Sent: Saturday, June 13, 2009 9:20 AM To: Enhanced Machine Controller (EMC) Subject: Re: [Emc-users] Roles in the manufacturing chain (was Metriks) Jon Elson wrote: Andy Pugh wrote: Most of the dimensions for the general geometry were +/- 0.2mm except for the flexural element, which was 0.2mm +/- 0.05mm dimensioned from a face with a stacked-up positional tolerance of about 0.4mm. The machinist set up his CNC mill to the centre value of each tolerance starting from a part edge and pressed go. When the program finished the flexural element was not even there. Who was at fault? I argued that the wider tolerances elsewhere in the geometry were specifically so that they could get the flexure right, they said You always work to mid-tolerance, and the drawing should assume that Well, if the drawing showed metal to be there, and there was no metal in that position, then the part did not match the drawing. How can they argue with that? Now, if the dimensions were in some way wrong, so you cut one side, flip it, cut the other side and there's nothing left, because the drawing instructs them to mill more than half the thickness from both sides, that's an inconsistent drawing, and should have been caught before machining, but the drawing is wrong. If the problem was due to tolerance stackup or the relief of stresses in the stock as material was removed, and competent machinist SHOULD have been aware of the problem just from examining the drawing. If tolerance stackup, then a fixture should have been made so the part could have been machined with fewer setups (preferably just one or two). If part warpage, then the whole machining process was flawed, either due to wrong material selection, wrong approach, wrong fixturing or whatever. Some shops would be offended if you tell them how to machine a part, they OUGHT to know better how to do it with their machines and materials. But any shop that complains that the part doesn't match the drawing and it is YOUR fault for making it hard to machine sounds like a bunch of idiots. Button pushers, not machininsts. Ie, they went straight from a drawing, to CAD, to CAM, with no understanding of materials and machining processes. If they complained about this, it is actually FUNNY, because they were revealing their own ignorance in a VERY embarrassing way! Jon -- Crystal Reports - New Free Runtime and 30 Day Trial Check out the new simplified licensing option that enables unlimited royalty-free distribution of the report engine for externally facing server and web deployment. http://p.sf.net/sfu/businessobjects ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users I may be all wet, but it seems to me there aren't any standards much now. Mostly mayhem in machining. At one time there was Henry Ford and his people writing automotive standards and they were an authority. Seems like professors are doing the same thing in teaching, in a lot of areas but there seems little agreement between them. I guess this is because we are in transition in manufacturing. The fact that there is misunderstanding over you drawing is proof of that. I believe mechanical design is mostly bedlam for now. More and more it doesn't matter though the machine just follows the codes given it. It has no knowledge of making a part it is simply following code. Doug -- Crystal Reports - New Free Runtime and 30 Day Trial Check out the new simplified licensing option that enables unlimited royalty-free distribution of the report engine for externally facing server and web deployment. http://p.sf.net/sfu/businessobjects ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users --
Re: [Emc-users] EMC in South West UK
Yup, Palo Alto. Glenn -Original Message- From: emc-users-boun...@lists.sourceforge.net [mailto:emc-users-boun...@lists.sourceforge.net] On Behalf Of Rafael Skodlar Sent: Friday, April 03, 2009 12:33 PM To: Enhanced Machine Controller (EMC) Subject: Re: [Emc-users] EMC in South West UK Eric H. Johnson wrote: Peter, Er, you mean like this? http://www.frappr.com/emc2/ that was pointed to me earlier on IRC but the map part was broken unfortunately. I too am interested to get in touch with local users to exchange experience and possibly mutual support. SF (south) bay area anybody? :) Regards, Eric Hello community, I think Aaron had a great idea. How about a world map showing the places where EMC addicts are so we could visit each other and profit from their experiences? I guess it would be quite around the world with the center of gravity in the US. -- Rafael -- ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users -- ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users
Re: [Emc-users] matching servo motor to axis
Hi Dave, Here's one from Galil, a pretty trusted supplier of motion systems. Of course, using one of these usually leads you to a motor the vendor recommends, but you can look at the specs and then buy one similar from anyone. http://www.galilmc.com/learning/motorsizer.php Glenn -Original Message- From: emc-users-boun...@lists.sourceforge.net [mailto:emc-users-boun...@lists.sourceforge.net] On Behalf Of Dave Engvall Sent: Friday, January 23, 2009 3:57 PM To: Enhanced Machine Controller (EMC) Subject: [Emc-users] matching servo motor to axis Hi all, Does anyone know of a good worksheet for working thru the design parameters for a servo drive. eg. given: servo motor of a given torque and speed; gear reduction ball screw dia and pitch desired accel and velocity weight of the axis coeff of friction for the slides and probably things I've not thought of. With a good set of specs it ought to be possible to calculate ... yes this will work ... or it is beyond the given parameters. TIA Dave -- This SF.net email is sponsored by: SourcForge Community SourceForge wants to tell your story. http://p.sf.net/sfu/sf-spreadtheword ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users -- This SF.net email is sponsored by: SourcForge Community SourceForge wants to tell your story. http://p.sf.net/sfu/sf-spreadtheword ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users
Re: [Emc-users] [OT] MFG.com
Hi Kirk, My reply is from a user's viewpoint, meaning as a purchaser of machined parts. Mfg.com is simple to use and at no cost for consumer. I use it from time to time to source simple parts that I want made cheaply. I think this is a common use of mfg.com so there is a lot of price pressure on suppliers. My only complaint is finding suppliers for my RFQ's- there are so many at mfg.com and I do not want to send out hundreds and then deal with hundreds of returns. Mfg.com's system of pre-selecting suppliers could be better. Glenn -Original Message- From: emc-users-boun...@lists.sourceforge.net [mailto:emc-users-boun...@lists.sourceforge.net] On Behalf Of Kirk Wallace Sent: Tuesday, January 20, 2009 2:18 PM To: Enhanced Machine Controller (EMC) Subject: [Emc-users] [OT] MFG.com Has anyone used MFG.com to get jobs to run on your CNC's? I'm trying to figure out if I should make the effort to get up to speed with it. Thanks. Kirk http://www.wallacecompany.com/machine_shop/ -- This SF.net email is sponsored by: SourcForge Community SourceForge wants to tell your story. http://p.sf.net/sfu/sf-spreadtheword ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users -- This SF.net email is sponsored by: SourcForge Community SourceForge wants to tell your story. http://p.sf.net/sfu/sf-spreadtheword ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users
Re: [Emc-users] CNC Newbie Questions.
Luke, Here are some links, mostly of CNC Router machines- many capable of non-ferrous metal work. You say you want to do wood which I think moves you away from CNC Milling machines because of limited working area in the horizontal plane. http://campbelldesigns.net/index.php http://solsylva.com/ http://www.mechmate.com/ http://www.multicam.com/eng/index.html http://www.rolanddga.com/asd/default.asp http://www.shopbottools.com/ http://www.techno-isel.com/CNC_Routers/index.htm http://www.cncrouter.com/index.htm http://www.fireballcnc.com/ I'm sure others will respond. Good luck. Glenn -Original Message- From: emc-users-boun...@lists.sourceforge.net [mailto:emc-users-boun...@lists.sourceforge.net] On Behalf Of Luke Scharf Sent: Thursday, December 11, 2008 8:50 AM To: Enhanced Machine Controller (EMC) Subject: [Emc-users] CNC Newbie Questions. I'm a guy who spends a fair bit of time building stuff in my garage. I started reading about the CarveWright machine, and it sounds like it could be useful. But I'm a longtime Linux user, and I'd prefer an open-source and modifiable solution. Also, I'd like to be able to work with materials that are harder than just wood -- like steel. Also, I'm concerned that the sandpaper belts that the CarveWright uses to move the material forward and backward may not produce as consistent of a result as, say, clamping the material to the plate. Also, I see that EMC2 is used with a lot of homebrew style mills. That's wonderful and I'd love to get into that -- but, at the moment, I have a lot of projects in mind -- from wood carving to the occasional adapter-plate. So, I'd like to spend more time building stuff than tinkering with a CNC machine. I'm quite capable of building a kit, soldering, and all of that -- but if I do that, I'd rather build a well-supported popular design. Or just buy a reasonably priced commercial unit. My questions are: * What kind of a desktop mill (for a hobbyist-sized workload) would you all recommend for me? * Any recommendations for CAD software? * Are there any FAQs that I should review to get myself up to speed on the small-scale CNC technologies? Thanks! -Luke -- SF.Net email is Sponsored by MIX09, March 18-20, 2009 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The future of the web can't happen without you. Join us at MIX09 to help pave the way to the Next Web now. Learn more and register at http://ad.doubleclick.net/clk;208669438;13503038;i?http://2009.visitmix.com/ ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users
Re: [Emc-users] Pissed off of EMC2 and 7i43
Mr Acosta, I've had enough. Perhaps its from seeing the 'P' word time and time again in the subject line: it's sophomoric, insulting and reflects badly on the originator, you. Or perhaps it's your insistence on blaming others. There is not a manufacturer in the world with perfect documentation and there is not a manufacturer in the world that will guarantee its system will work for you, perfectly out of the box. That's your job, if I am to assume you are the responsible engineer at your company, to make the technical decisions in a timely manner to assure success. You had several months to make this work, your words, and where were the intermediate milestones that would have alerted you to a lack of progress? Be a professional (and an adult), learn from your mistakes and move on. I, for one, know that the team developing EMC2 is extremely talented and very, very supportive of this community. Glenn -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Richard Acosta Sent: Saturday, November 15, 2008 8:27 AM To: Enhanced Machine Controller (EMC) Subject: Re: [Emc-users] Pissed off of EMC2 and 7i43 El 09/11/08 18:55, noel escribió: Richard, I'm a happy and satisfied Mesanet customer. I use a 5i20, 7i33 and 7i37. with the 'stock' and 'proven' EMC2 configurations. I have stayed away from the 7i43 until the EMC2 driver and configurations are thoroughly worked out Hi Noel, i don't doubt you're right and i think there must be some (or a lot of) people using the same hardware that i'm. To everyone else: I asked for help here on this group and despite the good will and help of the people i could'nt make it work, which has led me to loose time, money and a very important work. I choose EMC because of the freedom part, and 7i43 because emc2 claims it work. Then i read manuals and help wich made me think it was all working, and then i decided to choose this board. If at any place i would have read that the board is not working completely i could have choose another option, but i didn't find it. Those who was trying to help me asked for my config files, wich i had make by reading plus test and error since there is no clear sample, but i can't keep losing time on investigating, i had to make this work more than a couple months ago, and i lost a very important work because of this, plus time, plus money. I think it would be so much easier if you provide those files, or at least some clear paths to use the appropriate configs. I'll give it a last try, since it seems Ted Hyde has it working, and he has a VIA chipset plus the same card (400k) than i. Thanks everyone for your patience, but anyway think that i have lost this job because the lack of clear info. Again thanks. - This SF.Net email is sponsored by the Moblin Your Move Developer's challenge Build the coolest Linux based applications with Moblin SDK win great prizes Grand prize is a trip for two to an Open Source event anywhere in the world http://moblin-contest.org/redirect.php?banner_id=100url=/ ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users - This SF.Net email is sponsored by the Moblin Your Move Developer's challenge Build the coolest Linux based applications with Moblin SDK win great prizes Grand prize is a trip for two to an Open Source event anywhere in the world http://moblin-contest.org/redirect.php?banner_id=100url=/ ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users
Re: [Emc-users] Free 3D CADs on Linux WAS: BRL-CAD
...snip... Dave, I think I've go that software on my EMC machine right now. I'd forgotten all about it. Wonder if it'll read AutoCAD dwg files? Hmmm, may have to play around with it. Mark I've gotten the impression that AutoCad will go after anyone who tries to write a dwg reader. -- Cheers, Gene ..snip... SolidWorks publishes a 2D software application called DWGEditor and it reads/writes dwg files along with dxf. While not absolute proof against the above statement, I am not sure AutoDesk is aggressive against dwg editors: they are putting their muscle behind Inventor. BTW: DWGEditor is equivalent to AutoCAD LT and every SolidWorks license gets three, free DWGEditor licenses. So, ask a friend for one as it is pretty good, though only for Windoz. (I am not a SolidWorks employee or consultant, just a licensee who has already given away my three DWGEditors ;^) Glenn Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users - This SF.Net email is sponsored by the Moblin Your Move Developer's challenge Build the coolest Linux based applications with Moblin SDK win great prizes Grand prize is a trip for two to an Open Source event anywhere in the world http://moblin-contest.org/redirect.php?banner_id=100url=/ ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users
Re: [Emc-users] sherline 4400 cnc config for large pen type objects
Here's a website of similar vein which might have some pointers for you... http://www.computersculpture.com/ Glenn -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of l.collier hyams Sent: Wednesday, September 24, 2008 7:40 PM To: emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net Subject: [Emc-users] sherline 4400 cnc config for large pen type objects I'm a new emc user and have yet to develop a good technique or system for machining objects that best resemble oversized writing pens. I teach digital art, animation, music and sculpture and know my way around unix, irix, linux, all the win os and all of the mac os. I'm thinking of doing much of the design work in Google Sketch or even BobCad and have looked at a number of other packages. The starting points may be obvious for the group, but it's pretty new on my end. Any pointers? - This SF.Net email is sponsored by the Moblin Your Move Developer's challenge Build the coolest Linux based applications with Moblin SDK win great prizes Grand prize is a trip for two to an Open Source event anywhere in the world http://moblin-contest.org/redirect.php?banner_id=100url=/ ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users - This SF.Net email is sponsored by the Moblin Your Move Developer's challenge Build the coolest Linux based applications with Moblin SDK win great prizes Grand prize is a trip for two to an Open Source event anywhere in the world http://moblin-contest.org/redirect.php?banner_id=100url=/ ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users
Re: [Emc-users] A little OT: Need advice on cable
Hi Ed, I have used a high-flex ribbon cable to great success. Others have mentioned flex circuits which are great but can cost you with tooling. Digi-key should have it, or Google... Glenn -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Ed Sent: Wednesday, September 10, 2008 11:24 AM To: Enhanced Machine Controller (EMC) Subject: [Emc-users] A little OT: Need advice on cable I am finally getting to work on my Hardinge CHNC and would like to repleace the old cables that run to the back side of the cross slide. These cables run in a track something like an Igus(sp) so they get flexed constantly. The cables would be for encoder, limit and home switches,turret position, and small air solenoids. Can anyone recommend a type of cable for this purpose? Preferably from Digikey? Thanks in advance. Ed. - This SF.Net email is sponsored by the Moblin Your Move Developer's challenge Build the coolest Linux based applications with Moblin SDK win great prizes Grand prize is a trip for two to an Open Source event anywhere in the world http://moblin-contest.org/redirect.php?banner_id=100url=/ ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users - This SF.Net email is sponsored by the Moblin Your Move Developer's challenge Build the coolest Linux based applications with Moblin SDK win great prizes Grand prize is a trip for two to an Open Source event anywhere in the world http://moblin-contest.org/redirect.php?banner_id=100url=/ ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users
Re: [Emc-users] Harmonic gear and EMC2. ????
Aram, What is the total travel distance of the grinding table? Glenn -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Thursday, May 22, 2008 6:59 PM To: Enhanced Machine Controller (EMC) Cc: emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net Subject: [Emc-users] Harmonic gear and EMC2. I am building CNC tool grinder. The feed for tool grinder should be from 0.00025 to 0.001 of the inch per minute. The servo motor must perform at this feed perfect to make a good grinding job. I will use direct drive and my ball screw has 5 pitch per inch. So talking in degrees, 5 times 360 = 1800 degrees of revolution of motor to get 1 inch for linear motion. To get 1 inch need turn 1800degrees/minute of motor. To get 0.00025 need 0.45 degrees/minute of motor. Is this too slow? I think so. The one solution is to take high end controller and large AC servo motor and that is expensive. Jon Elson said about harmonic drive. I found here www.harmonicdrive.net That gear can reduce up to 1 to 160. If I will put two side by side, it gives to me 25600 to 1 reduction. So 0.45degrees/minute times 25600 equal 11520degrees/minute, or 32 revolution per minute. 32 revolution per minute is good range to any AC servomotor and with 8192 pulse per revolution drive and EMC2 will have enough pulses to be accurate. All harmonic drives have 0 backlash. One piece for NEMA34 cost $1500 and per axis it is $3500 with special plates etc. 5 axis is $17, 500 is to gears a lone to make good CNC tool grinder. I think it is very good idea! Instead of making electronics part and programming more complicated ( and not all can understand that part - I can not for sure) it is much better use mechanical gear reducer and use less expensive and more robust drives and software. I am correct? Aram - This SF.net email is sponsored by: Microsoft Defy all challenges. Microsoft(R) Visual Studio 2008. http://clk.atdmt.com/MRT/go/vse012070mrt/direct/01/ ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users - This SF.net email is sponsored by: Microsoft Defy all challenges. Microsoft(R) Visual Studio 2008. http://clk.atdmt.com/MRT/go/vse012070mrt/direct/01/ ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users
Re: [Emc-users] Thread Milling
Jon, I hope it doesn't appear as though I am jostling you for the final word, however you pointed out a major difference between us hobbyists and professionals. A professional must deliver a part in spec 100% of the time ( six sigma- don't get me started...) no matter if the part was cut in the cold morning or during a hot afternoon, if the part was mounted at the center of the table or if mounted near the edge, if the machine was being run by your best operator or the guy you hired yesterday. A tap can wear, but so can a thread mill cutter and probably faster. However, thread milling introduces two additional tolerances that tapping does not. Each of those tolerances can (and eventually will) produce an unacceptable thread. A loose fitting thread can have a LOT less pull-out strength than a properly formed thread. And, you might not be aware of a loose thread unless you have a GO NO-GO gage. In my day job, I want tapped holes from the machine shop (In fact, I am getting quite accustomed to roll-tapping and the superior strength thread it produces). During the weekend, I will enjoy making my own threaded holes with a thread mill. Glenn -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Jon Elson Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2008 9:51 AM To: Enhanced Machine Controller (EMC) Subject: Re: [Emc-users] Thread Milling Glenn R. Edwards wrote: Other issues with thread milling: 1)The thread mill tool will not follow the pre-drilled hole as will a tap. 2)Getting the correct pitch diameter from a thread mill is a trial and error routine. I don't think so. I bought a single-row 1/4 thread mill from Micro-100. I wrote a program to create the G-code, and after trying one pass in air, I drilled a hole and let it run. It produced a thread as close as I could tell identical to a tap. I didn't have a real certified go/no-go gauge, but a threaded part felt the same in the hole. I was very impressed. I had bought the thing because I had a job coming up that needed an NSEF thread, and I was worried about getting a tap for that. Then a sale flier on special taps crossed my desk, and I was able to get the right tap at a very reasonable price. So, I've only done one job where I needed to thread an off-size hole at a wierd angle. But, it produces a thread with very predictable pitch diameter. Jon - This SF.net email is sponsored by: Microsoft Defy all challenges. Microsoft(R) Visual Studio 2008. http://clk.atdmt.com/MRT/go/vse012070mrt/direct/01/ ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users - This SF.net email is sponsored by: Microsoft Defy all challenges. Microsoft(R) Visual Studio 2008. http://clk.atdmt.com/MRT/go/vse012070mrt/direct/01/ ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users
Re: [Emc-users] Z-Axis Drifting Problem
Focusing on possible mechanical sources: A Z-axis not capable of lifting the spindle at max slew, but sized well enough to drive the spindle down, would behave in this manner. Glenn -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Jeff Epler Sent: Saturday, May 17, 2008 3:17 PM To: Enhanced Machine Controller (EMC) Subject: Re: [Emc-users] Z-Axis Drifting Problem On Sat, May 17, 2008 at 02:33:04PM -0500, Ray Henry wrote: I can't see how electrical interference would cause bad counting in one direction only but you might make certain your encoder cables are grounded at the drive end only. I agree this sounds a bit strange, but I've seen this on two occasions. Once the encoder sensor was physically dirty, and in the other case there was electrical noise due to (iirc) bad grounding. In both these cases, the position error was consistently biased in one particular direction. You're right to suggest not dismissing electrical interference in this case. Jeff - This SF.net email is sponsored by: Microsoft Defy all challenges. Microsoft(R) Visual Studio 2008. http://clk.atdmt.com/MRT/go/vse012070mrt/direct/01/ ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users - This SF.net email is sponsored by: Microsoft Defy all challenges. Microsoft(R) Visual Studio 2008. http://clk.atdmt.com/MRT/go/vse012070mrt/direct/01/ ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users
Re: [Emc-users] How to set certain AXIS settings to defaults?
Jon, Are you implying that you manually, or otherwise, get the table to within one encoder revolution of home and then do a homing sequence with EMC? Glenn -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Jon Elson Sent: Wednesday, March 26, 2008 10:51 AM To: Enhanced Machine Controller (EMC) Subject: Re: [Emc-users] How to set certain AXIS settings to defaults? Gary Fixler wrote: One of the reasons I often drill a useless hole someplace at the start of the project, and write my code with that as the 0,0,0 point. That makes getting back to within a couple thou a bit easier. That's a great idea. I would love an absolute positioning system - something that was always the same for the mill, at least between full strip-downs, and rebuilds. Well, it depends on how your homing system works. I have index pulses on my encoders, and home to those pulses. I get quite repeatable homing that way. In theory, I could shut down one day, fire it up the next day, home the axes, and be right on the same alignment to the vise jaw or whatever. Jon - Check out the new SourceForge.net Marketplace. It's the best place to buy or sell services for just about anything Open Source. http://ad.doubleclick.net/clk;164216239;13503038;w?http://sf.net/marketplace ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users - Check out the new SourceForge.net Marketplace. It's the best place to buy or sell services for just about anything Open Source. http://ad.doubleclick.net/clk;164216239;13503038;w?http://sf.net/marketplace ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users
Re: [Emc-users] How do I calculate leadscrew push/pull forces?
And, Don't forget screw pitch, or lead. Pitch is also a big determinate of screw efficiency. Glenn -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of John Kasunich Sent: Sunday, March 16, 2008 7:57 PM To: Enhanced Machine Controller (EMC) Subject: Re: [Emc-users] How do I calculate leadscrew push/pull forces? Stephen Wille Padnos wrote: The leadscrew diameter isn't important for the force calculation. The motor can output 200 ounces force at a one inch radius, as you said. For one revolution, the 200 ounces of force is applied over 2*pi inches of travel, but produces 0.2 inches of table motion. Just divide: 200 * (2*pi*r) / (0.2) = force in ounces =2000*pi, or about 6280 ounces force (close enough to 400 pounds). The units are ounces * (inches) / (inches), which is ounces since the lengths cancel out. Actually the diameter does matter, at least for acme screws. The calculation that Steven did is correct if you neglect friction. For ballscrews, with 90% or better efficiency, you can almost neglect friction. Not so for acme screws - the majority of the torque at the motor is from friction. Here is the counter-intuitive part - a smaller diameter screw of the same pitch will be MORE efficient. Assume you have 100 lbs pushing on the nut. Steven's formula above can be used in reverse to calculate the torque on the screw from the nut. For a 100 lb load, and a 0.200 screw pitch, that torque is 100 lbs = 1600 oz, times (0.2/(2*pi)) = 50.95 oz*in (call it 51). But now you need to add the torque due to friction. The force is equal to the load times the friction coefficient, so it will depend on the material of the nut and screw. Google says the coefficient for a lubricated bronze nut on a steel screw is about 0.16. That means our 100 lb load will result in 16 pounds (256 ounces) of tangential friction force. That force is at the radius of the screw, where screw and nut meet. If the screw is 5/8 inch in diameter, its radius is 0.312 inches, and the friction needs 256oz * 0.312in = 80 oz-in of torque to overcome it. So you need 80 oz*in to overcome friction, and 51 oz*in to move the load for a total of 131 oz*in. (You'll want a motor that can deliver at LEAST twice that amount at your maximum desired speed, for insurance against lost steps.) Now switch to a 2 diameter screw. Now the 256 oz friction force acts at a radius of 1 inch, and you need 256 oz*in of torque to overcome it. Add the 51 oz*in that actually moves the load, and you get 307 oz*in. Now you see why we like ballscrews so much. Regards, John Kasunich - This SF.net email is sponsored by: Microsoft Defy all challenges. Microsoft(R) Visual Studio 2008. http://clk.atdmt.com/MRT/go/vse012070mrt/direct/01/ ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users - This SF.net email is sponsored by: Microsoft Defy all challenges. Microsoft(R) Visual Studio 2008. http://clk.atdmt.com/MRT/go/vse012070mrt/direct/01/ ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users
Re: [Emc-users] Running EMC2 from another, local app
Thanks Eric, That did the trick. And my apologies to the group for posting the same question twice. I got nervous first thing in the morning when I did not see my post from the night before. Glenn -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Eric H. Johnson Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2008 8:58 AM To: 'Enhanced Machine Controller (EMC)' Subject: Re: [Emc-users] Running EMC2 from another, local app Glenn, Do you have the following in one of the hal files for the configuration you are running: loadusr emcrsh If you do not include that, then you will get the indicated error since the application to respond to your telnet session is not running. I don't recall whether the latest thing I have run is v2.2.2 or v2.2.3, but I just downloaded the latest version a couple of weeks back, and it was working then. I will try it tonight and make sure it is working. I also know that Chris is about to release a new version, but I have not seen that it has actually been released yet. I need to add some online documentation for that utility, it is still mainly within the c source files. Regards, Eric Awhile back, EMC2 v2.1.1, I was successful in commanding EMC2 from a terminal window using commands such as 'telnet localhost 5007' and 'axis-remote'. 'Telnet' opens a variety of commands to EMC2 (through emcrsh) and 'axis-remote' allows shutdown (and a just few others). Now, with v2.2.3, telnet is not working. Here is what I get (I first start 'emc' in another terminal): ~$ telnet localhost 5007 Trying 127.0.0.1... telnet: Unable to connect to remote host: Connection refused ~$ I have searched wiki and linuxcnc for 'telnet' and 'emcrsh', but to no avail. Also, I thought, AXIS communicates with EMC2 via telnet? Any help is appreciated. - This SF.net email is sponsored by: Microsoft Defy all challenges. Microsoft(R) Visual Studio 2008. http://clk.atdmt.com/MRT/go/vse012070mrt/direct/01/ ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users - This SF.net email is sponsored by: Microsoft Defy all challenges. Microsoft(R) Visual Studio 2008. http://clk.atdmt.com/MRT/go/vse012070mrt/direct/01/ ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users
[Emc-users] Running EMC2 from another, local app
Hi all, Awhile back, EMC2 v2.1.1, I was successful in commanding EMC2 from a terminal window using commands such as 'telnet localhost 5007' and 'axis-remote'. 'Telnet' opens a variety of commands to EMC2 (through emcrsh) and 'axis-remote' allows shutdown (and a just few others). Now, with v2.2.3, telnet is not working. Here is what I get (I first start 'emc' in another terminal): ~$ telnet localhost 5007 Trying 127.0.0.1... telnet: Unable to connect to remote host: Connection refused ~$ I have searched wiki and linuxcnc for 'telnet' and 'emcrsh', but to no avail. Also, I thought, AXIS communicates with EMC2 via telnet? Any help is appreciated. Thanks, Glenn - This SF.net email is sponsored by: Microsoft Defy all challenges. Microsoft(R) Visual Studio 2008. http://clk.atdmt.com/MRT/go/vse012070mrt/direct/01/ ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users
[Emc-users] Running EMC2 from another, local application
Hi all, Awhile back, EMC2 v2.1.1, I was successful in commanding EMC2 from a terminal window using commands such as 'telnet localhost 5007' and 'axis-remote'. 'Telnet' opens a variety of commands to EMC2 (through emcrsh) and 'axis-remote' allows shutdown (and a just few others). Now, with v2.2.3, telnet is not working. Here is what I get (I first start 'emc' in another terminal): ~$ telnet localhost 5007 Trying 127.0.0.1... telnet: Unable to connect to remote host: Connection refused ~$ I have searched wiki and linuxcnc for 'telnet' and 'emcrsh', but to no avail. Also, I thought, AXIS communicates with EMC2 via telnet? Any help is appreciated. Thanks, Glenn - This SF.net email is sponsored by: Microsoft Defy all challenges. Microsoft(R) Visual Studio 2008. http://clk.atdmt.com/MRT/go/vse012070mrt/direct/01/___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users
Re: [Emc-users] LInuxCNC laptops
Hi Marcin, et al: I have two laptops running Linux and EMC2. One is a Dell 5000e and the other a Dell M50. Both were high-end laptops at the time of purchase, both have standard parports and both are running strong today (the 5000e is eight years old). I am not a Dell junkie; my latest laptop is an HP/Compaq nw9440 which is the best engineered laptop I have yet encountered. To finish my background cv: the laptops are driving a small, desktop CNC (Taig) Mill- NOT heavy metal, by any metric. Here are some URL's I found useful for running Linux on a laptop: http://www.linux-laptop.net/ https://help.ubuntu.com/community/WindowsDualBoot http://tuxmobil.org/distribution_linux_laptop_mandrake.html http://www.astro.umd.edu/~teuben/linux/laptop/dell5000.html Things to watch for: Graphics drivers (laptops come with video chipsets, not real video cards, and can misbehave) Power management (I always have trouble with waking up in Linux- so never sleep ;-) Good luck, Glenn _ From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Marcin Jakubowski Sent: Monday, March 03, 2008 5:44 PM To: Enhanced Machine Controller (EMC) Subject: Re: [Emc-users] LInuxCNC laptops Thanks for the responses on EMC laptops. But surely there must be at least one specific laptop that does work? Is there any success story out there at ALL for a working laptop? Marcin On Mon, Mar 3, 2008 at 3:33 PM, Jason Cox [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Only problem is that Printer ports are not addressed the same on PCMCIA cards and with EMC2 we talk direct to the address and not via a driver. I dont think this solution would work. Jason On Mon, 2008-03-03 at 15:07 -0600, Jack wrote: In general, laptops are not a good idea. Many of the inexpensive ones are doing away with 'legacy' ports. I would suggest, whatever you get, get one with a PCCard slot, and get a PCCard that has a printer port on it. Actually, I would want two of the cards, just in case one gets fried :( - This SF.net email is sponsored by: Microsoft Defy all challenges. Microsoft(R) Visual Studio 2008. http://clk.atdmt.com/MRT/go/vse012070mrt/direct/01/ ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users - This SF.net email is sponsored by: Microsoft Defy all challenges. Microsoft(R) Visual Studio 2008. http://clk.atdmt.com/MRT/go/vse012070mrt/direct/01/ ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users - This SF.net email is sponsored by: Microsoft Defy all challenges. Microsoft(R) Visual Studio 2008. http://clk.atdmt.com/MRT/go/vse012070mrt/direct/01/___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users
[Emc-users] Steppers and INI file
I am running a four-axis mini-type mill with a xylotec board and stepper motors throughout. Everything runs fine (pretty much) except for the 4th axis which is an angular axis. All the linear axes have the same settings in the INI file and are mechanically the same. I have noticed that when I do a fast-move command with all axes going, such as G0 X50 Y30 Z20 A90 (from home), the angular axis will move faster than when I do a single axis move such as G0 A90. And I noticed that a G0 command behaves like a G1 command in that all the axes arrive at the same time. For example, in the multi-axis move listed above, I would expect a trapezoid move profile (the axes with shorter distances arrive first) but I am getting a straight-line move profile from home to the end-point. Any suggestions or comments? Best regards, -- -- Glenn - Take Surveys. Earn Cash. Influence the Future of IT Join SourceForge.net's Techsay panel and you'll get the chance to share your opinions on IT business topics through brief surveys-and earn cash http://www.techsay.com/default.php?page=join.phpp=sourceforgeCID=DEVDEV___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users
Re: [Emc-users] Steppers and INI file
Thanks Chris. The G0 answer makes sense. I am running EMC 2.1.1 I'll post the INI file as soon as I get it off the machine. Best regards, -- -- Glenn On Thu, Mar 01, 2007 at 04:04:16PM -0800, Glenn R. Edwards wrote: I have noticed that when I do a fast-move command with all axes going, such as G0 X50 Y30 Z20 A90 (from home), the angular axis will move faster than when I do a single axis move such as G0 A90. Please post your ini (attach it here, or use www.pastebin.ca and include just a link here) and also say which version of EMC you are running. And I noticed that a G0 command behaves like a G1 command in that all the axes arrive at the same time. For example, in the multi-axis move listed above, I would expect a trapezoid move profile (the axes with shorter distances arrive first) but I am getting a straight-line move profile from home to the end-point. Any suggestions or comments? This is the correct behavior; the axes should start and stop together, according to the rs274ngc spec: http://www.linuxcnc.org/handbook/RS274NGC_3/RS274NGC_32a.html#1012110 Since you would have to wait for the slowest axis (making the longest move) anyway, this costs you no extra time, and a straight move is a lot less surprising in a lot of situations. Chris - Take Surveys. Earn Cash. Influence the Future of IT Join SourceForge.net's Techsay panel and you'll get the chance to share your opinions on IT business topics through brief surveys-and earn cash http://www.techsay.com/default.php?page=join.phpp=sourceforgeCID=DEVDE V ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users - Take Surveys. Earn Cash. Influence the Future of IT Join SourceForge.net's Techsay panel and you'll get the chance to share your opinions on IT business topics through brief surveys-and earn cash http://www.techsay.com/default.php?page=join.phpp=sourceforgeCID=DEVDEV ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users
Re: [Emc-users] M0 vs Cycle start button
I am interested in getting manual tool change to work and I have followed the below instructions. When I issue an M6 T1, the machine does not move the 4th axis (angular: C) to the position set in the ini file: TOOL_CHANGE_POSITION = 4 5 10 90. Any suggestions? Thanks! Best regards, -- -- Glenn -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Patrick Giasson Sent: Sunday, February 25, 2007 6:37 AM To: Enhanced Machine Controller (EMC) Subject: Re: [Emc-users] M0 vs Cycle start button Thank you, it works with axis, which will be fine with me. If others are looking for a solution to this problem, don't forget that you need the following line too: linkpp iocontrol.0.tool-prepare iocontrol.0.tool-prepared with the other 5 below. Thanks again Patrick Jeff Epler wrote: For emc2.1 systems with manual tool change, I recommend using 'hal_manualtoolchange'. This is demonstrated in the 'sim/axis' configuration. When you issue a tool change g-code like 'M6 T1', the machine goes to a location defined in the INI, then a dialog appears on the screen with a button for you to press when the new tool is in place. Then the machine returns to the previous location and continues with the file. The HAL lines for this are: loadusr -W hal_manualtoolchange # in case they were linked already unlinkp iocontrol.0.tool-change unlinkp iocontrol.0.tool-changed linkpp hal_manualtoolchange.change iocontrol.0.tool-change linkpp hal_manualtoolchange.changed iocontrol.0.tool-changed linkpp hal_manualtoolchange.number iocontrol.0.tool-prep-number You can specify the location to move to in the ini file: [EMCIO] TOOL_CHANGE_POSITION = 0 0 2 If you prefer to use only tkemc, then the button you are looking for is the one marked Resume, in the center just above the program listing. Jeff - Take Surveys. Earn Cash. Influence the Future of IT Join SourceForge.net's Techsay panel and you'll get the chance to share your opinions on IT business topics through brief surveys-and earn cash http://www.techsay.com/default.php?page=join.phpp=sourceforgeCID=DEVDE V ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users - Take Surveys. Earn Cash. Influence the Future of IT Join SourceForge.net's Techsay panel and you'll get the chance to share your opinions on IT business topics through brief surveys-and earn cash http://www.techsay.com/default.php?page=join.phpp=sourceforgeCID=DEVDE V ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users - Take Surveys. Earn Cash. Influence the Future of IT Join SourceForge.net's Techsay panel and you'll get the chance to share your opinions on IT business topics through brief surveys-and earn cash http://www.techsay.com/default.php?page=join.phpp=sourceforgeCID=DEVDEV ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users
Re: [Emc-users] Command-line interface to EMC2
While EMC is processing a file, how do I get its status. I am looking for Busy, Done, etc. EMCRSH and AXIS-REMOTE do not seem to have any appropriate commands, unless I am overlooking something. Best regards, -- -- Glenn -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Eric H. Johnson Sent: Wednesday, February 07, 2007 11:03 AM To: 'Enhanced Machine Controller (EMC)' Subject: Re: [Emc-users] Command-line interface to EMC2 Jeff, It should be noted however that if AXIS, or any other user interface opens a program file, that issuing: get program To emcrsh will (ok should, I know it works with tkemc) return the current open program. Regards, Eric It's possible that 'open' is working, but axis isn't doing what you expect. If another UI (including emcrsh) opens a file, AXIS doesn't automatically load that file in its preview. If you want to open a file in AXIS to preview, you can use the script 'axis-remote' to do it. - Using Tomcat but need to do more? Need to support web services, security? Get stuff done quickly with pre-integrated technology to make your job easier. Download IBM WebSphere Application Server v.1.0.1 based on Apache Geronimo http://sel.as-us.falkag.net/sel?cmd=lnkkid=120709bid=263057dat=121642 ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users - Using Tomcat but need to do more? Need to support web services, security? Get stuff done quickly with pre-integrated technology to make your job easier. Download IBM WebSphere Application Server v.1.0.1 based on Apache Geronimo http://sel.as-us.falkag.net/sel?cmd=lnkkid=120709bid=263057dat=121642 ___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users
[Emc-users] Command-line interface to EMC2
Dear fellow EMC users and developers, Several months ago I asked a question about remote control of EMC. I received many excellent responses - thank you all. As the system architecture progresses, it has become clear (or clearer) that what I need is the ability run EMC2 from within a Python shell program (or supervisory program) running on the same computer as EMC2. The shell program will start/stop EMC2 (not necessary, but nice-to-have), deliver an *.ngc file to EMC2 and have EMC2 execute that file (necessary) and get status reports from EMC2 (necessary). I have researched emcsh and emcsvr , but have come to dead-ends on both topics. Does anyone have any ideas on where to start my research? Thanks! I sense that I am just emulating a GUI (or precluding the use of one), of which there are many excellent ones that have been developed for EMC2. Best regards, -- -- Glenn Edwards - Take Surveys. Earn Cash. Influence the Future of IT Join SourceForge.net's Techsay panel and you'll get the chance to share your opinions on IT business topics through brief surveys - and earn cash http://www.techsay.com/default.php?page=join.phpp=sourceforgeCID=DEVDEV___ Emc-users mailing list Emc-users@lists.sourceforge.net https://lists.sourceforge.net/lists/listinfo/emc-users
