NcStudio V8 Milling CNC System

Users’ Manual
4th Edition

(For three axes / dual Z axes)

Weihong Electronic Technology Co., Ltd.

 The copyright of this manual belongs to Weihong Electronic Technology Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as
Weihong Company). This manual and any image, table, data or other information contained in this manual may
not be reproduced, transferred, or translated without any prior written permission of Weihong Company.

The information contained in this manual is constantly being updated. You can login to the official website of
Weihong Company http://en.weihong.com.cn to download the latest PDF edition for free.
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Preface
About This Manual

This manual is intended for end-users or operators of machine tools. If you use the CNC system for the
first time, you need to read through the manual. If you are experienced with the system, you can search
for the desired information via the contents.
With 13 chapters, this manual can be divided into 6 parts, as follows:
1) Part 1: preface, introducing the precautions about transportation and storage, installation, wiring,
debugging, usage, and so on. You need to read them carefully beforehand to ensure safe
operations.
2) Part 2: an overview of the product, including Chapter 1~2. The two chapters give general
description of NcStudio V8 milling CNC system from the perspective of hardware, software as well
as installation and wiring, etc.
3) Part 3: Chapter 4~8, introduction to software operation, taking the general three axes software as an
example on most occasions. The former two chapters illustrate detailed operations of single
functionality and its corresponding interfaces, which will be an intuitional guidance to users and
operators in real practice. Chapter 6 lists all the parameters of operators‟ permission and their
modification method. The latter two chapters outline operating and debugging steps as well as
precautions.
4) Part 4: including chapter 9 and 10. Chapter 9 introduces the tool magazine configuration while
chapter 10 describes the operation of the software with multi-cylinder.
5) Part 5: separate and special introduction to double Z axes software in Chapter 11. It highlights the
differences between general three axes software and double Z axes software.
6) Part 6: appendix part, consisting of chapter 3, chapter 12 and chapter 13. You can get the basic
concepts of NcStudio, shortcut keys list and the software license agreement accordingly.

Applicable Product Models

This manual is applicable to NcStudio V8 milling CNC system. Refer to the table below for details:
Product Model Remarks
NcStudio V8 Milling CNC Herein referred to V8 as abbreviation, including general three axes
System series and double Z axes series CNC system for milling machines.

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Contact Us

You can contact us by the following info for technical support and pre-sales/after-sales service:
Company Name: Weihong Electronic Technology Co., Ltd.
Headquarters Address: No.1590, Huhang Rd., Fengxian, Shanghai, PRC 201400
Tel: +86-21-33587550
Fax: +86-21-33587519
Website: http://en.weihong.com.cn

Revision History

You can refer to the following table for the revision records of each edition.
Date Edition Revision
2016.02 R4 Contact information updated.
1) Modify the chapter 5.5.
2015.10 R3 2) Add the chapter 9.
3) Other revisions.
1) Delete descriptions about “Auto hardware update” in Chapter 2.2.2.
2015.08 R2
2) Other revisions.
1) Released for the first time as combination of CNC System
NcStudio-V8 for three axes engraving machines users’ manual and
CNC System NcStudio-V8 for three axes (double Z axes) engraving
2015.04 R1 machines users’ manual.
2) Update software installation steps as the latest version of software.
3) Add “Configuration selection” function before software installation.
4) Other revisions.

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Precautions

Precautions can be divided into caution and warning according to the degree of possible loss or injury in
case of negligence or omission of precautions stipulated in this manual.

CAUTION
: General info, mainly for informing, such as supplementary instructions and
conditions to enable a function. In case of negligence or omission of this kind of precautions, you may
not activate a function. Note that in some circumstances, negligence or omission of even this kind of
precautions could cause physical injury or machine damage.

WARNING
: Warning info requiring special attention. In case of negligence or omission of this
kind of precautions, you may suffer physical injury, or even death, machine damage or other losses.

WARNING

1) Precautions Related to Storage and Transportation

 The products should be transported properly in terms of the weight;

 An excess of specified quantity of stacking products is prohibited;

 Climbing, standing or placing heavy loads on the products is prohibited;

 Dragging or carrying the products via cables or devices connected to them is prohibited;

2) Precautions Related to Installation

 Only when this equipment installed in the qualified electricity cabinet can it be used. The
construction of the cabinet must reach IP54 grade of protection;

 Paste sealing strips on the joint of the cabinet to seal all the cracks;

 Cable entry should be sealed while easy-to-open on the spot;

 A fan or heat exchanger should be adopted for the heat dissipation and air convection of the
cabinet;

 If a fan is adopted, air strainer is a must in air inlet or air outlet;

 Dust or cutting fluids may have access to the CNC device via the tiny cracks and tuyere.
Therefore it is necessary to pay attention to the surroundings and air flow direction of the air
vent to make sure that the outflow gas is towards pollution source;

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WARNING
 100 mm space should be preserved between the back of the CNC device and the cabinet wall
for plugging cable connected with the device and the ventilation & heat dissipation in the
cabinet;

 Space between this device and other equipment should also be preserved according to the
requirements;

 The product should be installed firmly and without vibration. During installing, casting,
knocking, striking, or loading on the product is forbidden;

 To reduce electromagnetic interference, power-supply components used should be above AC

or DC 50V and the space between cable and CNC device should be preserved above 100mm;

 It will be better if CNC device is installed at a position facilitating debugging and maintenance.

3) Precautions Related to Wiring

 Only qualified people are allowed to participate in the wiring and checking;

 The CNC device should be grounded reliably and grounding resistance should be less than 4
ohm. Neutral line is absolutely not allowed to replace earth wire. Otherwise, it may result in
malfunction of the device due to the interference;

 Wiring should be firm and steady, or misoperation may occur;

 Voltage values and positive & negative polarity of any connection plug should be in accordance
with specifications set forth in the manual, or it may result in breakdowns such as short circuit
and permanent damage to the device;

 To guard against electric shock or CNC device damage, fingers should keep dry before
plugging or touching switch;

 The connecting wire should not be damaged and squeezed, or the leakage or short circuit may
occur;

 It is prohibited to plug or open the chassis of CNC device when power on.

4) Precautions Related to Running & Debugging

 Parameters setting should be checked before running, since wrong setting may lead to
accidental movements;

 Modification to parameters should be within the allowable range, or such breakdowns as

unsteady running and machine damage will occur.

5) Precautions in Use

 Before power-on, please make sure that the switch is on blackout to avoid occasional start-up;

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WARNING
 Please check the electromagnetic compatibility during electrical design in order to avoid or
reduce electromagnetic interference to the CNC device. A low pass filter should be employed
to reduce electromagnetic interference if there are other electrical devices nearby;

 It is not allowed to frequently power on and power off. It is recommended to power up the
machine again at least one (1) minute later after power failure or blackout.

CAUTION

1) Precautions Related to Product and Manual

 Matters related to restrictions and functions available stipulated in the manuals issued by the
machine manufacturer are prior to those in this manual;

 This manual assumes all the optional functions are available, which you must confirm through
manuals issued by the machine manufacturer;

 Please refer to manuals issued by the machine manufacturer for the instructions of machine
tools;

 Functions, and software interfaces vary with the system and the version of software. Before
using the system, you must confirm the specifications.

2) Precautions When Opening the Package

 Please make sure that the products are what you have ordered;

 Check if the products are damaged in transit;

 Check if the components and accessories are damaged or missing in terms of the detailed list;

 Please contact us promptly if product discrepancy, accessory missing or transit damage

occurs.

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Contents
1. ABOUT NCSTUDIO ...................................................................................................................................... 1

1.1. SYSTEM CHARACTERISTICS ................................................................................................................................ 1

2. SYSTEM INSTALLATION AND CONNECTION ................................................................................................. 4

2.1. BASIC CONFIGURATIONS OF NCSTUDIO ............................................................................................................... 4

2.2. INSTALLATION OF NCSTUDIO ............................................................................................................................. 4

2.2.1. Software Setup .................................................................................................................................. 4

2.2.2. Installation of NcStudio Motion Control Card and Other Periphery Equipment ................................ 7

2.2.3. Update the Hardware Driver Manually ............................................................................................. 7

2.2.4. Uninstall of NcStudio ....................................................................................................................... 10

3. BASIC CONCEPTS OF NCSTUDIO .................................................................................................................11

3.1. OPERATION MODE AND STATE......................................................................................................................... 11

3.1.1. Operation Mode .............................................................................................................................. 11

3.1.2. Operation State ............................................................................................................................... 11

3.2. COORDINATE SYSTEM .................................................................................................................................... 12

3.2.1. Machine Coordinate System (MCS) ................................................................................................. 13

3.2.2. Workpiece Coordinate System (WCS) .............................................................................................. 13

4. OPERATION INTERFACE OF NCSTUDIO .......................................................................................................14

4.1. TITLE BAR ................................................................................................................................................... 14

4.2. MENU BAR.................................................................................................................................................. 15

4.3. TOOL BAR ................................................................................................................................................... 16

4.4. CNC INFO BAR............................................................................................................................................. 17

4.5. CNC STATUS BAR ......................................................................................................................................... 18

4.6. CNC STATE WINDOW .................................................................................................................................... 18

4.6.1. Current Position ............................................................................................................................... 18

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4.6.2. Feedrate Area .................................................................................................................................. 19

4.6.3. Spindle Speed Area .......................................................................................................................... 21

4.6.4. Current Command Set, Repeat Process ........................................................................................... 22

4.6.5. Too Info Area ................................................................................................................................... 23

4.6.6. Time Info ......................................................................................................................................... 23

4.7. AUTO OPERATION WINDOW ........................................................................................................................... 24

4.8. MANUAL OPERATION WINDOW ...................................................................................................................... 24

4.9. CALIBRATION OPERATION WINDOW ................................................................................................................. 28

4.9.1. Calibrate the Workpiece Surface ..................................................................................................... 28

4.9.2. Fixed Calibration .............................................................................................................................. 29

4.9.3. Centering ......................................................................................................................................... 30

4.9.4. Special Measurement ...................................................................................................................... 32

4.10. COMPENSATION OPERATION WINDOW ............................................................................................................. 35

4.11. TRACE WINDOW .......................................................................................................................................... 37

4.12. LOG WINDOW ............................................................................................................................................. 42

4.13. MANAGER WINDOW ..................................................................................................................................... 43

4.14. EDITOR WINDOW ......................................................................................................................................... 47

4.15. I/O STATE WINDOW ..................................................................................................................................... 47

5. NCSTUDIO MENU SYSTEM .........................................................................................................................49

5.1. "FILE" MENU............................................................................................................................................... 49

5.2. "EDIT" MENU .............................................................................................................................................. 53

5.3. "VIEW" MENU ............................................................................................................................................. 57

5.4. "OPERATION" MENU .................................................................................................................................... 59

5.5. “MACHINE” MENU ....................................................................................................................................... 73

5.6. "WINDOW" MENU ....................................................................................................................................... 77

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5.7. "HELP" MENU ............................................................................................................................................. 77

6. PARAMETER SETUP ....................................................................................................................................79

6.1. PARAMETER MODIFICATION PERMISSION .......................................................................................................... 79

6.2. PARAMETER MODIFICATION METHOD............................................................................................................... 80

6.3. OPERATOR’S PARAMETERS .............................................................................................................................. 80

7. OPERATION STEPS..................................................................................................................................... 88

7.1. START-UP .................................................................................................................................................... 89

7.2. MACHINE RESET ........................................................................................................................................... 89

7.3. LOAD A MACHINING PROGRAM FILE ................................................................................................................. 90

7.4. MANUAL OPERATION .................................................................................................................................... 90

7.5. SET WORKPIECE ORIGIN................................................................................................................................. 90

7.6. CHECK THE POLARITY OF I/O PORTS IN IO STATE WINDOW................................................................................... 91

7.7. SET SPEED PARAMETERS................................................................................................................................. 91

7.7.1. LinearAcceleration (N4053) ............................................................................................................. 91

7.7.2. ConnectionAcceleration (N4054) ..................................................................................................... 91

7.7.3. ReferenceCircleMaxSpeed (N4058) ................................................................................................. 92

7.7.4. MinSpeedInACircularMotion (N4059).............................................................................................. 92

7.8. EXECUTE AUTO MACHINING ........................................................................................................................... 92

8. PRECAUTIONS IN OPERATION ....................................................................................................................94

8.1. PRECAUTIONS FOR MULTI-TASKING .................................................................................................................. 94

8.2. PRECAUTIONS FOR HOMING ........................................................................................................................... 94

9. OPERATION OF SOFTWARE WITH MULTI-TOOL ..........................................................................................95

9.1. LINE-TOOL CONFIG ........................................................................................................................................ 95

9.1.1. Related Parameters Setting ............................................................................................................. 95

9.1.2. Function Introduction ...................................................................................................................... 96

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9.2. DISK-TOOL CONFIG ....................................................................................................................................... 98

9.2.1. Related Parameters Setting ............................................................................................................. 98

9.2.2. Function Introduction ...................................................................................................................... 99

10. OPERATION OF SOFTWARE WITH MULTI-CYLINDER .............................................................................101

10.1. MEASUREMENT .......................................................................................................................................... 102

10.2. SELECT CYLINDERS ...................................................................................................................................... 103

10.3. CLEAR....................................................................................................................................................... 104

10.4. FINE TUNE THE TOOL POSITION OFFSET .......................................................................................................... 104

11. OPERATION OF DOUBLE Z SOFTWARE ..................................................................................................105

11.1. CNC STATE WINDOW .................................................................................................................................. 105

11.2. NCSTUDIO OPERATION WINDOWS ................................................................................................................. 106

11.3. NCSTUDIO MENU SYSTEM............................................................................................................................ 109

11.3.1. “File” Menu ................................................................................................................................... 109

11.3.2. “Operation” Menu ......................................................................................................................... 110

11.3.3. “Machine” Menu ........................................................................................................................... 111

12. SHORTCUT KEYS LIST............................................................................................................................113

13. SOFTWARE LICENSE AGREEMENT ........................................................................................................115

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1. About NcStudio

NcStudio milling and engraving CNC system is independently developed by Weihong Electronic
Technology Co., Ltd., with copyright reserved. This system can directly support G code and PLT code
format files generated by various CAD/CAM software, such as UG, MasterCAM, CASMate, Art CAM,
AUTOCAD and CorelDraw.

NcStudio is based on the PC operating system and boasts of stable interface which is intuitive and
user-friendly.

Apart from functions of automatic mode, manual mode and backing to the reference point, this CNC
system also features the following functions: simulation, real-time motion track displaying, automatic
calibration of Z axis, breakpoint resume (advanced start), rotary axis machining, and so on.

This system can be applied to various three-axis routers and engraving & milling machines, also can be
used in complex mold machining, advertising, decorating and cutting industries, etc.

1.1. System Characteristics

This system has the following functions:

1) General three axes series is equipped with three motion axes, namely X/Y/Z axis, while double Z
axes series is equipped with four motion axes, namely X/Y/Z1/Z2 axis. The binary input & output
points and analog outputs can be further extended. The above configuration varies with different
choices of machine tool builders.
2) It supports CNC rotary table (varying with different versions).
3) Auto processing supports G code of ISO standard, HP PLT format, DXF format, JDPaint ENG
format and various formats built by popular CAD/CAM software at home and abroad, like UG, Pro/E,
MasterCAM, Cimatron, CASMate and ArtCAM, etc.
4) It supports manual operation, like jog mode, stepping (increment) mode and handwheel mode. In
these modes, the user is entitled to manipulate the machine with the help of machine tool input
equipment like hand-held device or with the help of computer input device such as keyboard and
mouse.
5) It supports array processing: the user can repeatedly carry out a program machining according to
columns and arrays pre-defined.
6) It supports rotating & mirroring processing. This function can mirror and rotate a program with the
workpiece origin as the center.

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7) It supports stepping function or incremental feeding: the user can set the precise feeding distance
and adjust the step length value.
8) It supports user data input function: the user can input G code online and execute it right away.
9) It supports advanced processing instructions. Inputting a few parameters will suffice to perform
bottom milling and frame milling.
10) It supports single step mode, also known as single block function: the user can execute a machining
task in single step mode, which can serve as a good support for error diagnosing and
troubleshooting.
11) Advanced auto functions such as breakpoint resume (resume machining from the interrupted point)
and advanced start (start machining from a pre-defined program line as desired) are supported.
12) High precision during motion axes returning to the machine origin (also known as the reference
point).
13) It supports automatic tool measurement function, including fixed calibration, mobile calibration and
auto centering, etc.
14) It supports workpiece field save/restore function. In case of sudden power failure, the system has
been designed to prevent any system file damage caused by sudden power interruption. Functions
like breakpoint resume, backing to machine origin precisely, etc, also guarantee machining field
restoration after the system is restarted.
15) It supports real-time adjustment of feedrate override. The user can adjust feedrate override freely
during machining. The minimum value is 0, equivalent to a pause in processing and the maximum
value is 120%.
16) It supports high-smooth speed connection function. In general, the connecting speed between two
G codes usually is a fixed value, such as 0 or a very small value. However, by adopting machining
speed adaptive forecasting algorithm, our system can decide the connecting speed between the
current code and the next code by taking the connecting speed, its direction, and the maximum
acceleration speed into consideration and by employing forward predicting function. This not only
improves machining efficiency (from 30% to 300%), but also enhances the machining performance
by eliminating speed chatter marks left on the surface of the workpiece.
17) It supports three-dimensional simulation display function. With simple operation, the user can
observe the three-dimensional machining result from various orientations to understand it more
accurately and more intuitionally.
18) It supports simulation function. This function supports rapid simulation machining which can be
finished in an extremely short period of time. Besides the user can check the machining file and
result and learn the actual processing time.

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19) It supports powerful and agile keyboard operation. The new system strongly supports keyboard
operation and thus can fulfill the user‟s needs in operation.
20) It supports log function. The powerful log function can help the user check the detailed processing
information and system diagnosis.
21) Built-in machining file manager: the user only needs to save the machining files into the designated
directory and NcStudio will manage these files in a built-in manager.
22) Built-in file editor: With which, the user can load a machining file into the editor for editing and
modifying.
23) It displays file machining information; through simulation or actual machining, machining information
window can help the user get such important information as executing time and processing range.
24) It supports auto parameters backup function. The user can back up the parameter settings and
recover them when necessary.

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2. System Installation and Connection

2.1. Basic Configurations of NcStudio

 Host Computer Requirement
CPU: basic frequency 1G or above
Memory: above 512M
Hard disk: above 20G
Display adapter: 1024*768 at least
Display: above 14" VGA
CD-ROM: 4X or higher (optional)
Main board extension slot: 1 PCI/PCIE slot or above

2.2. Installation of NcStudio

If there is already an old version of NcStudio on the computer, please delete it first before installing a new
version. Please turn to Chapter 2.2.4 and follow the instructions to delete the old version. You can install
a new version of NcStudio directly instead, however, please note that such operation will overwrite all
data of the old version.
NcStudio system includes two parts: the software and the motion control card. As a result, the setup of
the system is also divided into two stages: the software setup and the motion control card setup.
Please install the motion control card before installing the software, to save the trouble of separate
installation of driver for the motion control card. Following description excludes installation and wiring of
related electrical devices, which you can refer to specified manufacturers‟ manual.

2.2.1. Software Setup

Please install the software as following steps:
1) Power up and start the computer (hereinafter referred to as PC), the system will run the operating
system of PC automatically. If your PC has not installed any OS, please install one first. After PC is
started, please shut down unrelated running applications.

2) Insert the installation CD. Double click My Computer on desktop to open it and double click the

CD-ROM drive. Under the directory, find software installation package (the icon ) and double
click it.

3) The first dialog box during installation is as below, see Fig. 2-1:

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Fig. 2-1 Update prompt dialog

4) Click [Yes] to continue. To avoid interference of old version software to the installation of the new
one, the system prompts that the setup will delete all files of old version software, see Fig. 2-2.

Fig. 2-2 Warning to delete previous files

5) Click [OK] for confirmation. If old version software has been installed in this PC, the system will
prompt to save its parameter settings. If you save the parameter settings here, you can apply all the
settings to the current software, needless to set the parameters again afterwards. You can make
your own decision and choose [Yes] or [No] to go ahead, see Fig. 2-3. If you install the software of
the type for the first time, this step would be absent. Please jump to “Step 6)” to move on.

Fig. 2-3 Prompt to reserve parameter settings

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6) Installation begins. The NcStudio system will be installed in the directory C:\Program Files\Naiky by
default. Progressing picture is as shown in Fig. 2-4. With that, a dialog will appear to prompt the
user to decide whether to put the generated files and the executive files together or separately, see
Fig. 2-5. [No] is recommended here. The next dialog to appear is prompting shutdown of the
computer for convenience of motion control card installation ([Yes] is recommended), see Fig. 2-6.

Fig. 2-4 Installing

Fig. 2-5 Prompt for files location ([No] is recommended)

7) After the computer is restarted, software installation is completed.

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Fig. 2-6 Prompt to shut down the computer ([Yes] is recommended)

The installation package is separate for different languages; please verify the
CAUTION language version first before you install it.

2.2.2. Installation of NcStudio Motion Control Card and Other

Periphery Equipment
Please install the NcStudio motion control card as following steps after software installation is completed:
1) Power off the PC host, open the chassis cover, and insert the card into an available and
well-matched expansion slot, the PCI/PCIE slot. When installing the motion control card, slightly
hold the two sides of the card with your hands to secure that it is inserted into the slot firmly and well
connected with the computer baseboard. Then tighten the screw of the control card, and close the
lid. The installation of motion control card then finishes.
2) Similar with the above steps, please insert the connection parts of external devices or periphery
equipment into its available and well-matched slot.
3) Installation is completed. Please restart the computer.

2.2.3. Update the Hardware Driver Manually

After you install the motion control card and the software, you need to manually update the hardware
driver. The specific operation steps are as below:
1) Right click “My Computer”, select “Properties”, and then click “Device Manager”. Choose CNC
Adaptor, right click “Weihong CNC Adaptor (PCIMC-6A)” and select “Update Driver Software…”
2) A dialog as Fig. 2-7 will pop up. Select “Install from a list of specific location (Advanced)”, click [Next]
to continue.

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Fig. 2-7 Found new hardware wizard

3) Select “Don‟t search”, I will choose the driver to install‟, click [Next] to go ahead. See Fig. 2-8.

Fig. 2-8 Choose the driver manually

4) Click [Have Disk...] button in the following dialog, as shown Fig. 2-9.
5) Click [Browse] button in the pop-up dialog titled “Install From Disk”, see Fig. 2-10.

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Fig. 2-9 Select the driver manually

Fig. 2-10 Select the target file of driver

6) In the pop up dialog box, select the target hardware drive in the list, Choose the target file
“NcadptPci(PCIMC-6A).inf” under directory “C:\Program Files\Naiky\PCIMC-6A”.

7) Click [OK] to go back, and then click [Next] to start updating the driver software. When the updating
is finished, a dialog as Fig. 2-11 below will pop up.

8) Click [Finish] to complete the update of the hardware driver. Double click the icon on the
desktop or click the icon on the menu “Start→All Programs” can launch the software successfully.

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Fig. 2-11 Select the hardware drive

Fig. 2-12 Driver update completed

2.2.4. Uninstall of NcStudio

NcStudio is green software which has the following advantages: it can be installed or uninstalled easily
and quickly; the installation information will not be written into the registry of the computer; the files under
the installation directory can be deleted directly with no remnant files left on the hard disk. Therefore, to
delete the NcStudio software, all you need to do is to delete the folder named “Naiky” under directory
C:\Program Files and delete the NcStudio shortcut icon on the desktop as well as the Start menu.

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3. Basic Concepts of NcStudio

As a set of versatile system, NcStudio involves various concepts, such as workpiece coordinate system,
machine coordinate system, operation mode and operation status, etc. Therefore, the user needs to be
well informed of these concepts before using NcStudio.

3.1. Operation Mode and State

3.1.1. Operation Mode
Under any circumstance, the machine tool is always in one of the following operation modes. A good
understanding of them is vital for proper operation.

 Auto Mode
In auto operation mode, the machine tool generates motion according to the pre-prepared processing
program.

 Manual Mode
In manual operation mode, there are three ways to move an axis, to put it in other words, there are three
feeding ways: jog, stepping and handwheel. Stepping is also known as incremental feed, and handwheel
also known as MPG, manual pulse generator.
In jog mode, the user can directly control the motion of the machine tool via manual operation equipment,
such as computer keyboard, handheld box, and MPG. When the user sends out the motion signal with

the help of one of the equipment, for example, clicking the button in the software interface will
make the machine tool move consecutively until the button is released.
In stepping mode, the user also uses manual operation equipment, such as computer keyboard,
handheld box and MPG to control the machine tool. However, different from the jog mode, when the user
clicks a button once (from clicking the button to releasing it), the machine tool only moves a specific
distance (known as the step-size as well). In this way, the user can control the displacement of the
machine tool precisely.
Select “Handwheel” in the software interface to activate the handwheel mode. With enabled, the
connected handwheel or the MPG can be used to control the motion of the machine tool.

3.1.2. Operation State

In this system, each operation mode can be subdivided into several operation states. The operation
mode and the operation state together decide the status of a machine tool.

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 IDLE
Idle state is the most common one. Under this state, the machine tool does not generate motion, but is
ready for any new task.

 E-STOP
This is an abnormal state. In case of hardware breakdown or the E-STOP button pressed, the system
will enter into this state and execute the pre-set protection measures, such as turning off the spindle
motor and the coolant pump. Under this state, the machine tool is locked and incapable of moving. When
the hardware problem is resolved or E-STOP button is released, the system will automatically execute
[Reset] and restore the machine tool to IDLE state.

 RUNNING
When the machine tool is generating any motion, the system enters into this state.

 PAUSE
When the machine tool is running, if the user implements [Operate| Pause] order, or the system parses a
M01 command (Wait Command), the system will enter into PAUSE state and wait for the next instruction.
The user can then implement [Operation| Start] to continue the operation or select [Stop] or [Reset] to
stop the current operation and make the system enter into IDLE state.

 LOCK
As an internal state, lock state is rarely seen under normal circumstances and only exists during
state-switching.

3.2. Coordinate System

Coordinate system is a terminology describing the motion of a machine tool. For the sake of unification,
standard coordinate system adopts right-hand rule, as illustrated in Fig. 3-1:

+Y
+B +Z
+X+Y+Z
+Y
+X
+X
+C +A

+Z +Y +A+B
+C
+X
+Z

Fig. 3-1 Coordinate system following right-hand rule

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For a milling machine, the direction of machine axes is decided by both the type of the machine tool and
the layout of each component. The basic coordinate axes of a milling machine are X-axis, Y-axis, and
Z-axis:
——Z-axis coincides with spindle axis, and the direction of the cutter moving away from workpiece
is its positive direction (+Z).
——X-axis is perpendicular to Z-axis and parallel to the clamped surface of workpiece. For a single
column vertical milling machine, if the user faces the spindle and looks in the column direction, right
moving direction is the positive direction of X-axis (+X).
——X-axis, Y-axis and Z-axis together constitute the coordinate system following right-hand rule.

3.2.1. Machine Coordinate System (MCS)

Machine coordinate system is a set of fixed coordinate system following right-hand rule. Its coordinate
origin is always relative to a fixed point on the machine tool. Therefore, at any time, a certain point in
space can be fixed exclusively by the machine coordinate system.
To completely support the machine coordinate system, the machine tool must have the corresponding
function of backing to the machine origin. Otherwise, the concept of machine coordinate system only
exists in the software.

3.2.2. Workpiece Coordinate System (WCS)

In programming, programmers select a given point on the workpiece as the origin (i.e. the program origin)
to establish a new coordinate system, called workpiece coordinate system, which also abides by
right-hand rule. The origin of WCS (i.e. the workpiece origin or the work zero) is fixed with respect to a
certain point of the workpiece, while probably floating with respect to machine origin (home or the
machine zero). The choice of workpiece origin should facilitate simple programming, easy dimension
conversion and small machining error to the greatest extent.

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4. Operation Interface of NcStudio

The interface of NcStudio consists of the title bar, menu bar, toolbar, status bar and several functional
windows. The holistic interface is shown as Fig. 4-1.

NC info
Title bar Menu bar Tool bar NC state window
bar

Folding
function
Folding auto/manual
windows
windows

Status
bar

Fig. 4-1 Operation interface of NcStudio

The functional windows are divided into three sections, which can be switched by pressing Esc key, they
are:
The first section: NC state window.
The second section: Trace window, Log window, Manager window, Editor window and I/O State
window.
The third section: Auto window, Manual window, Calibration window and Compensation window.

4.1. Title Bar

On the top of the NcStudio software interface is the title bar, where software name, the current
configuration and name of the loaded program file are displayed. The color of the title bar indicates
whether the corresponding window is active or not.

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Fig. 4-2 Title bar

In the PC-based system, active and inactive window are two important concepts.
An active window means the window can accept keyboard input at present. At
any moment, there is only one active window with all the other windows being
CAUTION inactive.
Color of the title bar tells its activation status. A window with blue title bar is
active while one with grey title bar is inactive.

The icon on the left side of the title bar is system menu box and it can be used to open the window
control menu. Clicking this icon or pressing shortcut key “Alt + spacebar” will open a system menu, as
shown in Fig. 4-3.
This menu can control the position and the size of the window, such as restore, move, close, maximize
and minimize, etc. On the right side of the title bar, there are three control buttons. They are restoring
button, maximizing button and minimizing button respectively. These buttons are used to quickly set the
size of the window.
Besides, each sub-window has the corresponding title bar. An active sub-window can be distinguished
from an inactive sub-window by the color of title bar. Please refer to the following chapters for details.

Fig. 4-3 System menu

4.2. Menu Bar

Below the title bar is the menu bar, which includes many normally hidden pull-down menus, as shown
below. Each pull-down menu consists of several menu items and each menu item corresponds to a
specific function, action or state. After a menu item is selected, the system will execute the relevant
function or action, or alter the system state. The menu item can be selected either by mouse or by
keyboard.

Fig. 4-4 Menu bar

 Mouse operation
Firstly, left-click the main menu on the menu bar, and then left-click one of the pull-down menu items to
enable the operation.

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 Keyboard operation
To choose the target menu, the user can press „Alt‟ key and the hot key of the target menu
simultaneously (the hot key is the underlined letter, for example, the user can select “File” by pressing
the combination key “ALT+F”). Then the corresponding pull-down sub-menu will pop up.

 Shortcut key operation

In the pull-down submenu, some menu items are listed with their shortcut keys on the right side. For
example, the shortcut key for [Start] in [Operation] menu is F9, which indicates that by pressing F9,
instead of accessing multiple menus one by one, the user can get the menu order executed directly.
Some menu items are followed by three dots (for example, [Open and Load…] in [File] menu), which
indicates that when the user chooses this item, a dialog box will pop up automatically. If some menu
items on a pull-down submenu are shown as grey, this indicates that these items are unavailable under
current condition.
Besides, right-click the mouse on different parts of the screen will open a context shortcut menu. From
this shortcut menu, the user can execute the order which has been executed repeatedly and bears the
closest relevance to the current position.

4.3. Tool Bar

Under the menu bar is the tool bar, which is composed of some operation buttons corresponding to
specific menu orders or options. You can directly click one of these buttons to realize the specified
function.

Fig. 4-5 Tool bar

These buttons greatly simplify and visualize operation process.

Open a program file and load it into the system. Key combination: Ctrl+O.

Clear the trace in Trace window. Key combination: Ctrl+Del.

Activate the Auto window. Key combination: Ctrl+1.

Activate the Manual window. Key combination: Ctrl+2 or ScrLk.

Return to workpiece origin. Shortcut key: F7.

Fixed calibrate, used to adjust the difference value of tools before and after tool
change. Key combination: Shift+F7.

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Measure workpiece surface, setting the origin in Z axis with the help of tool
sensor. Key combination: Ctrl+F7.

Simulate, to start or terminate the simulated running of program. Shortcut key:

F8.

Breakpoint resume, to resume machining from the interrupted point. Key

combination: Shift+F9.

Start, to start or continue the program running. Shortcut key: F9.

Pause. Shortcut key: F10 or Pause key on the keyboard.

Stop normally. Shortcut key: F11.

Reset. To reset the system or restore from E-stop or erroneous status. Shortcut
key: F2.

Direct positioning input box, where you can locate an axis to a desired position
by inputting its coordinate value. With coordinate entered and Enter button
pressed, the system will move the tool to the position at rapid speed.
The former means the value input is workpiece coordinate; while the latter with
an asterisk mark “*” before means the value input is machine coordinate.

Get info about the NcStudio system and registration.

4.4. CNC Info Bar

Under the toolbar is CNC info bar, showing the current CNC state and some other info, including the
current operation mode, operation status, running state of machine as well as some possible cautions
and alarm events, as shown below. To name but a few, the following two pictures are only provides as
examples.

Operation mode
Operation status
Additional info of status Details: e.g. spindle action

Fig. 4-6 NC information bar-1

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Error(File D:\Ncfiles\Weihong\RectContour.nc-Line 0):Subprogram(WIZSTART) Not Found

Operation mode
Operation status
Additional info of status Details: e.g. alarm event

Fig. 4-7 NC information bar-2

4.5. CNC Status Bar

At the bottom of the interface is status bar, as illustrated in Fig. 4-8.

CNC state prompt Keyboard indicator

Date and time

Fig. 4-8 Status bar

 CNC State prompt

It shows the prompt info of current operation or of the selected order.

 Date & Time

It shows the current date and time.

 Keyboard Indicator
It shows the current state of the keyboard, including Caps Lock, Num Lock or ScrLK.

4.6. CNC State Window

Under the CNC Info Bar is the CNC State window, which can be divided into 6 areas according to
functions, as illustrated below:

Current Command & repeat Machining

Title position area Feedrate area Spindle area process area Tool area time area

Fig. 4-9 CNC state window

4.6.1. Current Position

To describe various positions, NcStudio supports two types of coordinate system, including workpiece
coordinate system (WCS) and machine coordinate system (MCS). As you can see in Fig. 4-10, motion
axes of machine tool, machine coordinates, workpiece coordinates as well as the remaining distance
(also known as distance-to-go) are shown in this area. Besides, you can set the current position as the
workpiece origin at any moment, which is very convenient to establish a WCS in practice.

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A mark indicating “machine coordinates effective” will appear before each axis after “back to
reference point” is executed, as illustrated below.

Fig. 4-10 Current position area

It is easy to set and adjust the workpiece origin. To set the current point as the workpiece origin, the user
only needs to move the cursor on the workpiece coordinate of the target axis and then click its button.
Taking X axis as an example, manually move the X axis to the desired origin position, and click the
button of it. A dialog box will pop up, as illustrated below:

Fig. 4-11 Setting workpiece origin

Click [Yes] to finish this operation. It is the same operation for other axes.
Remaining distance, also known as distance to go, is the remaining distance the tool should move under
the current command, with its sign indicating the moving direction.

Please check the public offset value and tool offset value if the value of “W.
CAUTION Coor” .is not zero after setting.

4.6.2. Feedrate Area

This area displays information like the setting speed, the actual speed and the feedrate override. The
user can also adjust feedrate and feedrate override here.

Fig. 4-12 Feedrate area

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 Sliding Block of Feedrate Override

By dragging the sliding block, the user can regulate the current working speed within a scope of 0~120%.
The direction keys on the keyboard can increase or decrease it by 1% while keys PageDown and
PageUp by 10%. Feedrate override is shown in percentage.

 Setting Value

In auto mode (as ), when the user clicks the figure after

“Setting” (as ), a dialog box will pop up for setting machining speed and G00 speed.

Fig. 4-13 Setting auto speed dialog box

In manual mode (as ), when the user clicks the figure after

“Setting”, a dialog box as below will pop up for setting jog speed (also known as manual/jog low speed)
and rapid jog speed (also known as manual/jog high speed).

Fig. 4-14 Setting manual speed dialog box

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To toggle between the jog speed and rapid jog speed:

Pressing “Ctrl+ a Num direction key” together makes

the system run in rapid jog mode; while pressing a Num
direction key alone makes the system run in normal jog
mode.

e.g.: as shown in picture on the right side, pressing

“Ctrl+6” makes the X axis moving at rapid jog speed;
while pressing “6” makes it moving at normal jog
speed.

Please note that the setting operation in this area shares the same effect with the setting operation in
[Operation| Set Parameters…|Opera(P)].

 Actual Value
It is the instantaneous value of feedrate which alters with the change of setting value, the current
acceleration or deceleration condition and the feedrate override. The relationship between setting
feedrate and actual one is as follows:

Actual feedrate=Setting feedrate  Current feedrate override

 Current Tool
It shows the number of the currently used tool, namely the number of spindle tool.

4.6.3. Spindle Speed Area

This area displays information like the setting speed, actual speed and spindle override, etc. The user
can also change the setting value and spindle override here. See Fig. 4-15.

Fig. 4-15 Spindle speed area

 Spindle Override Sliding Block

By dragging the sliding block, the user can regulate the current spindle speed within a scope of 0~100%.
The direction keys on the keyboard can increase or decrease it by 1% while keys PageDown and

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PageUp by 10%. Spindle override is shown in percentage. The relationship between the actual value
and setting value is as below:

Actual value=Setting value  Current spindle speed override

 Spindle Startup Button

This button is used to turn on/off the spindle.

 Spindle Speed Setting

Clicking [Setting ] button will open a dialog box named “Spindle Rev”, where you can set the spindle
revolving speed, as shown in Fig. 4-16.

Fig. 4-16 Setting spindle speed dialog box

 G00 Fixed
With this menu item selected, the running speed will be fixed at 100% of the setting value of G00 speed,
unaffected by the change of feedrate override.

4.6.4. Current Command Set, Repeat Process

This area displays the state of currently

executed command, e.g.: G54,
modal/non-modal state, G01, G17, G18,
G19, etc, as shown in the picture on the
right side.

 Part Count
It is the number of the finished workpiece. Clicking the figure button next to it can clear its count to zero.

 Repeat-Process Count
The processing times that has been cycled and the total processing times set. Clicking the figure button
next to it can set the total processing times of a program file.

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 Repeat-Process Interval Time

It refers to the interval time of cycle machining, namely the period of time between the completion of
current process and the start of the next process. Clicking on this button can set the interval time.

4.6.5. Too Info Area

This area displays information including

spindle tool number, tool diameter,
diameter wear and length wear. In
addition, you can set the tool
parameters and its compensation here.

 Set Tool Parameter

Clicking [Set Tool Param] button will open the parameter dialog box where you can directly set the
relevant parameters, as shown below. 255 tools are supported at most.

Fig. 4-17 Tool parameters

4.6.6. Time Info

On the right side of the title bar of NC State Window, you can obtain the machining time information of
machine tool. In simulation, the time displayed is the estimated time at 100% feedrate override, while in
actual machining, the time is the actual running time.

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4.7. Auto Operation Window

The auto operation window displays program lines of the currently loaded machining file. At present,
NcStudio supports the following file formats: G code of ISO standard, HP plotter (HP PLT) format, DXF
format, JDPaint ENG format and NCE format exclusively owned by our company. The user can view and
edit the current machining file in this window.
Right clicking on this window will open a shortcut menu, as shown in Fig. 4-18.

Fig. 4-18 Auto operation window

All of those menu items can also be found in standard menus, among which, “Show File Line Number”
and “Trace Current Line” can be found in “View” menu, while the other 3 items can be found in “File”
menu. Refer to chapter 5.1 and 5.3 for details.
The user can switch among the 4 mode windows: Manual, Auto, Calibration and Compensation. You
have three ways to do it, taking Auto window as the object as an example:

Menu method: choose "Window | Show Auto Window".

Shortcut key method: press “Ctrl+1" key to activate Auto window.

Mouse method: click the window title “Auto” directly.

In this window, the user can only view the loaded file instead of editing or
modifying it. To edit this file, the user needs to execute [File | Edit Loaded File]
CAUTION or click the right mouse button in this area and then choose [Edit Loaded File]
before editing the file in [Editor] window.

4.8. Manual Operation Window

Manual window provides the user with an interactive machine tool operation environment, as shown in
Fig. 4-19.

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Fig. 4-19 Manual operation window

To switch to Manual window:
Menu method: choose "Window | Show Manual Window".
Shortcut key method: press “Ctrl+2" key to activate Manual window.
Mouse method: click the window title “Manual” directly.

 Numeric Direction Buttons:

and correspond to the positive and negative direction of X axis respectively;

and correspond to the positive and negative direction of Y axis respectively;

and correspond to the positive and negative direction of Z axis respectively.

 Selection of Feed Mode

There are three feed modes: handwheel mode, jog mode and stepping mode, as illustrated below.

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1) Handwheel mode
Model of a handwheel is on the right side, as
you can see.

1st , check to enable the MPG.

2nd, turn the “Axis Select Knob” to activate an Axis Select Magnification
Knob Gear
axis to move.

3rd, turn the “Magnification Gear” to decide the

magnification ratio for the moving distance of a Turning Wheel

tool.

4th, turn the “Turning Wheel” to manipulate the

movement of a tool, with turning direction
corresponding to the moving direction of tool.

2) Jog Mode

1st, check to choose the jog mode.

2nd, press a numeric direction key on the keyboard to control the axis motion. When the key is pressed,
the axis moves at normal jog or rapid jog speed; when the key is released, the axis stops.

When Manual window is active, NUM LOCK will not be taken into
CAUTION consideration.

3) Stepping Mode
Checking any item in Fig. 4-20 will set the system into stepping mode.

Fig. 4-20 Step-size in Stepping mode

In stepping mode, the machining track in [Trace] window is displayed in the color of G01 code.

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The user can implement stepping operation via the mouse, keyboard, or operation panel. Once a
numeric direction key is triggered the corresponding axis will move a fixed step length.
Click [Customed Length] button to open a dialog box where you can set a step length, as illustrated
below.

Fig. 4-21 User-defined step length

Enter the proper step length and click “OK” for confirmation.

The customized step length should not be set too large in case of equipment
damage caused by mal-operation.
As it takes the system a certain period of time to execute each jog order, so
CAUTION please avoid frequent and repeated clicking. Otherwise, the system will give out
an error prompt as “Unable to perform the action because the last one is not
completed yet.”

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4.9. Calibration Operation Window

In this window, the user can conduct tool measurement, as shown in Fig. 4-22.

Fig. 4-22 Tool measurement window

4.9.1. Calibrate the Workpiece Surface

Specially designed for Weihong system and used to set the Z axis workpiece origin automatically, this
function can help the user to confirm the height of workpiece surface, equaling to mobile calibration
when the thickness of tool sensor is 0. The machine tool worktable must be insulated.
The method of mobile calibration is to place the tool sensor on the workpiece surface and then operate Z
axis to make the tool nose touch the tool sensor. After the measurement signal (also called calibrating
signal) is obtained and calibration stops, the system records the position of tool nose. Thus, the Z axis
coordinate of workpiece origin is obtained after the thickness of tool sensor is subtracted from tool nose
position.

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①Manually move to the upper side

of tool presetter

Manually move the machine to

this position

Position before
measurement

Tool ②Up and down measurements

Sensor
Workpiece
Worktable
Fig. 4-23 Sketch map of mobile calibration

4.9.2. Fixed Calibration

As the name implies, with an aim to adjust the workpiece origin, fixed calibration refers to the
measurement performed via a tool sensor at a fixed position on the machine tool. Weihong company
divides it into two types in this system, namely “First time calibration” and “Calibration after tool change”,
which is exclusively owned by Weihong company. The interface is shown as below:

Fig. 4-24 Fixed calibration

To begin, you should decide the baseline of workpiece surface firstly, namely, manually move tool onto
the surface and set the coordinate as the workpiece origin or work zero of Z axis. Next, before
processing a program file, perform first time calibration. In machining, anytime calibration is required,
perform calibration after tool change. Detailed steps are as followed:
1st, manually move the Z axis onto the workpiece surface, and set the origin through manual clear
operation or mobile calibration.

2nd, click button to perform the first time calibration. The system automatically
records the current machine coordinate of Z axis. The process is illustrated as Fig. 4-25.
3rd, the first time calibration is finished, ready for workpiece machining.
4th, during machining, when calibration is required in case of tool change or tool breakage, click

button to perform calibration after tool change. The system will restore the

workpiece origin of Z axis before tool change or breakage automatically. The process is illustrated in Fig.
4-26.
5th, when the calibration is finished, continue machining.

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Top

Up to the top of Z axis

Up to the top of Z axis

Back to upper side of 6
workpiece origin

2 To machine coordinate of tool sensor 3

To tool sensor
1 Workpiece Origin
Record current Z axis
machine coordinate 5
4
Up 1mm

Fig. 4-25 First time calibration

Top
To the top of Z axis

To the top of Z axis

Back to upper side of 6
workpiece origin

2 To machine coordinate of tool sensor 3

To tool sensor
1 Workpiece Origin
Restore current Z axis
workpiece coordinate 5
4
Up 1mm

Fig. 4-26 Tool calibration after tool change

The above measurement results will be ineffective instantly after NcStudio

being shut down. Therefore, you need to re-perform the calibration when you
start NcStudio again.
CAUTION “First-time calibration/calibration after tool change” are the most frequently
used tool measurement methods and mainly used in simply mode with single
WCS or tool. It is different from the fixed calibration used in multiple WCS or
multiple tools modes, which is not listed here.

4.9.3. Centering
Centering is used to get the center point of a regular workpiece and set it as the workpiece origin.
NcStudio supports two ways of centering, namely two-point centering and circle centering.
In order to get more precise results, a “Center Stick” (i.e. edge finder or touch point sensor) is needed in
centering. You can set the spindle speed for the stick and the activation of it in

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. Enter a desired value for the centering stick, and click the button

to turn on/off the stick.

The spindle should be turned off before the centering stick being turned on.
WARNING Otherwise, there may be dangerous as a result of the fast spindle speed.

 Two-point Centering
Two-point centering, also known as line centering, refers to finding the midpoint of a line between any
two points in X/Y direction. It can be used to locate the center point of a workpiece, and set it as the
starting point of a machining program, namely, the workpiece origin.

Fig. 4-27 Two-point centering (Line centering)

Taking X axis as example, the centering steps are as followed:
1st, manually move the X axis to one side of the workpiece, click [Record X] button. The software will get
and record the machine coordinate.
2nd, move the axis to the other side of the workpiece, click [Halve X] button. The software will calculate
the machine coordinate of the center point based on the current position and the previous position. The
center will be set as the origin in X axis.

CAUTION When one axis is being centered, the other should be motionless.

 Circle centering
Circle centering refers to the automatic calculation of the center point of a circular blank via three
positions on the circumference. The center point will be set as the workpiece origin.

Fig. 4-28 Circle centering

Taking X axis as an example, the steps of circle centering are as followed:

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1st, manually move the tool to one position on the circumference of circular blank, and click [Record 1].
The software will get and record the machine coordinate of the position 1.
2nd, move the tool to another position on the circumference, and click [Record 2]. The software will get
and record the machine coordinate of the position 2.
3rd, move the tool to the third position on the circumference, and click [Circle Three Halve]. The software
will calculate the center point based on the machine coordinates of position 3 and the two recorded ones.
This center point will be set as the workpiece origin.

4.9.4. Special Measurement

Special measurement includes auto measurement of workpiece origin and workpiece boundary. As
measurement signal is used, they are called special measurement, exclusively used in Weihong system.
Special measurement is used to calibrate X and Y center of workpiece in order to facilitate machining
and generating a machining file, under the precondition that the Z axis workpiece coordinate is
confirmed and the worktable of machine tool is insulated.

X Offset: during centering, the pre-estimated distance from workpiece center to X boundary. In
outer centering, this distance must be a little larger than the actual value, while smaller
in inner centering.

Y Offset: during centering, the pre-estimated distance from workpiece center to Y boundary. In
outer centering, this distance must be a little larger than the actual value, while smaller
in inner centering.

Down: tool plunging/lifting distance in tool measurement. In inner centering, this distance
must be a little smaller than the distance from tool nose to workpiece surface, while
larger in outer centering.

Tool Diameter: the actual diameter of tool.

 Centering
Centering is used to confirm the center point of workpiece blank. It includes X inner/outer centering, Y
inner / outer centering, and XY inner / outer centering.
Taking the process of [X Inner Center] as an example: place a conducting workpiece (copper, iron,
aluminum) on the insulated workbench, and connect it to the port CUT on the terminal board, while the
cutter to COM port. Before automatic centering, put the cutter on the predicated center point position,
and then click [X Inner Center] to make the cutter fall [Down] distance, and translate towards the
workpiece a short distance until it reaches the conducting workpiece. At this time, the circuit is conducted
and the signal is sent to the system which automatically records the current axial coordinate X1. Then
the cutter will move up [Down] distance, move horizontally two [X Offset], move down [Down] distance,

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and translate towards the workpiece a short distance until it reaches the conducting workpiece. As a
result, the circuit is conducted and the signal is sent to the system which automatically records the
current axial coordinate X2. The system will then calculate the X coordinate of workpiece center point
and move the cutter to this center point. The sketch map is as shown below.

T
Center

2X
9
X
5

1
6
Up
4 2 Down
8
C C

3 7

Fig. 4-29 Measurement process of [X Inner Center]

T
Center
2X
X
1 9
5
Tool Up

6
2 4
Tool Down

8
C C

3 7

Fig. 4-30 Measurement process of [X Outer Center]

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T
Center

2Y
9
Y
5

1
6
4 2 Down Up

8
C C

3 7

Fig. 4-31 Measurement process of [Y Inner Center]

Center
2Y
Y
1 9
5

6
2
Down
4 Up
8
C C

3 7

Fig. 4-32 Measurement process of [Y Outer Center]

Before centering, the user must place the tool nose over the pre-estimated center
point, as well as set the value of “X\Y Offset”, “Down” and “Tool Diameter”.
CAUTION In inner centering, the “Down” distance should be smaller than the distance
between tool nose and workpiece surface, while larger in outer centering.

 Boundary Measurement
Boundary measurement includes calibrating +X boundary, -X boundary, +Y boundary and -Y boundary,
mainly used for setting the boundary point as the workpiece origin.

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3 Go to boundary point
T

Motion along positive

1 direction until signal appears

Tool up
C
2

Fig. 4-33 Measurement process of +X boundary

The measurement processes of -X boundary, +Y boundary and -Y boundary are the same as that of +X
boundary.

Special measurement function is not available for double Z axis series software,
please note that.
In double Z axis series software, “Calibrate the workpiece surface” function is
CAUTION absent; instead, the counterpart “Coordinate manager and calibrate” function is
available. The two may differ in minor ways which should be paid attention to.
You can turn to chapter 11.2 for details.

4.10. Compensation Operation Window

The system offers two kinds of workpiece compensation, single compensation and row-column
compensation. When one of them is selected, the corresponding button will turn to grey. In Fig. 4-34,
single compensation is selected. Single compensation will be made to compensate each workpiece
separately, i.e. the compensation for each file can be different, while row-column compensation is to
compensate machine files in a row or in a column. For example, X01Y01 in row-column compensation
mode can compensate the first row and column of all files, and so on.
To enable workpiece compensation, firstly select “Comp enabled” as “Yes”. Otherwise, workpiece
compensation does not work.

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Fig. 4-34 Compensation window

Set File: used to load the single workpiece file to be processed. Before clicking this button, load the file
into the system and then click this button to load it into this function, or the system will give a prompt that
the source file does not exist, as shown below.

Fig. 4-35 Source file error prompt

After entering the value of X\Y size, row\column number and row\column space, first select direction and
order under “Task Way” tab, then enter the relative compensation value of each workpiece. Next click
“Build” to generate a multi workpiece file. Designated to the save path, the new generated files will be
loaded into the system automatically.

After the file is loaded into this compensation function, the source file in the
system will be unloaded automatically, because the final machining file is the
newly generated compensation file.
After parameter setting, remember to click “Save Param”. Otherwise, the setting
CAUTION of parameters will be lost after a new file is loaded.
Some codes are not supported in scale and array functions, like G28, G29, G65,
G92, M30 and M2, neither are the subroutines in the tool path. If there are
above-mentioned codes, the system will prompt the user to delete them
manually or automatically.

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4.11. Trace Window

When machining or simulation is being performed, the trace window will follow the machining track of
tool in real time. In this window, the user then can view the tool path intuitionally so as to ensure the
proper implementation of machining file.
Trace window adopts 3D view mode and can be personalized via the option [Customize Trace View…]
under [View] menu. Refer to the following chapters for details.
In 3D tracking mode, the various functions this system provides enable the user to zoom in/out and view
the object from different orientations and at proper scaling.

Fig. 4-36 Trace window

Right clicking on the window will open a shortcut menu, as shown in Fig. 4-37. All of these options can
also be found under [View] menu.

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Fig. 4-37 Shortcut menu of trace window

 Clear
After a long period of machining, the simulation graph will become very complicated and the temporary
file recording the machining track will also become excessively big. As it is time-consuming to re-draw,
move or rotate the simulative graph, the user needs to clear the machining track regularly.
To clear machining track, several options are available: menu, toolbar, shortcut key or keyboard.

Menu or Toolbar: choose menu "Edit | Clear View", or choose on the toolbar.

Shortcut Key: at any moment, pressing “Ctrl+ Del” keys will clear the machining track.

Mouse Method: move the mouse into Trace window, right click to eject a shortcut menu, and then
choose “Clear”.

Keyboard Method: when the Trace window is activated, press “Delete” key to clear the track.

 Move
Mouse Method: after the mouse is into Trace window and right clicked, a shortcut menu will pop

up. Select “Move”, and you will see the icon changing into . Hold down the left

mouse, and you will see the icon changing into . At this time, the machining

track moves along the mouse.

Keyboard Method: when the Trace window is active, the machining track can be moved by pressing
the four direction keys on the keyboard.

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 Zoom in/out
The user can zoom in/out the machining track via mouse, keyboard or menu.
Menu Method: choose “View | [Zoom in] or [Zoom out]”.
Mouse Method: move the mouse into the Trace window and click the right mouse button. Select
“Zoom in” or “Zoom out” in the pop-up menu to switch between and .
Keyboard Method: when the Trace window is active, the user can zoom in/out the track by pressing
“＋” or “－”on the mini-keyboard. Note that “+” or “-“ on the main keyboard are
invalid.
The user can use mouse to pick a part or an area of the track in the Trace
window to zoom in/out.
When the track is magnified to the maximum size, the system will automatically
CAUTION switch to “Zoom out” mode.
When the track is reduced to the minimum size, the system will automatically
switch to “Zoom in” mode.

 Center
It is used to show the center of current machining scope in the central area of Trace window.
Menu Method: select "View｜Center View".
Mouse Method: move the mouse into Trace window and click the right mouse button. Then select
"Center" in the pop-up shortcut menu.
Keyboard Method: press “Home” key on the keyboard when the Trace window is active.

 Fit to Window
This function enables the entire machining track displayed on the Trace window so that the user can
view the whole machining track without scrolling.
Menu Method: select "View | Fit to Window" on the menu bar.
Mouse Method: move the mouse into the Trace window and click the right mouse button. Select
"Fit to Window" in the pop-up shortcut menu.
Keyboard Method: press “﹡” on the keyboard when the Trace window is active.

 Show Current Point

The current machining position will be displayed in the center of the Trace window.
Menu Method: choose "View| Show Current Point".
Mouse Method: move the mouse into the Trace window and click the right mouse button. Select
"Show Current Point".

Keyboard Method: press "End” on the keyboard when the Trace window is active.

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 Set Zoom Ratio

To show the machining file track in the Trace window at an appropriate scale.
The easiest way to set the ratio is adjusting by rolling the mouse wheel. Move the cursor into the Trace

window, and roll the mouse wheel when the cursor turns to . Rolling up equals to zoom out, while

rolling down to zoom in.

This function (Ratio/Set Zoom Ratio) can also be found under “View” menu or right-click menu when
Trace window is active. After “Set Zoom Ratio” is selected, a dialog as shown in Fig. 4-38 will pop up.
The user can drag the block or use the direction keys to adjust the display scale.

Fig. 4-38 Zoom ratio

 Customize Trace View

Choose “View | Customize” on the menu bar, or when the trace window is active, right click the mouse
button to choose “Customize trace view…” from the pop-up shortcut menu. A “Customize” dialog box will
pop up as below, where the user can customize the trace window and design the tracking mode and
tracking color.

Fig. 4-39 Customize dialog

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With a click on a color button, a color selection box will pop up, as illustrated below.

Standard
Current color
colors
with dotted frame

Transparent
color
Currently
selected other color Other
colors

Fig. 4-40 Color selection box

1) Trace Color
In the Trace window, the user can set different colors for different codes via “Customize Trace View”.
G00 color: this color indicates the track color of G00.
G01 color: this color indicates the track color of G01.
G02 color: this color indicates the track color of G02.
G03 color: this color indicates the track color of G03.
The track color in manual mode is the same as that of G01.

2) Background Color
It is the background color of Trace window. The user can choose two different colors to realize color
gradient.

3) Coordinate Color
This color is used to highlight the worktable borders and the coordinate system.

If the trace color of a certain code is set as transparent, the track of that code
will be hidden. If the background color is set as transparent, the window can’t
CAUTION be refreshed properly. Therefore, the user needs to be cautious when selecting
“transparent”.

 View Function
The system provides 9 types of commonly-used views to help the user switch among these views by
pressing the Num keys on the small keyboard.
Southwest equiaxial lateral view Num key 1
Bottom view Num key 2
Southeast equiaxial lateral view Num key 3

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Left view Num key 4

Front view Num key 5
Right view Num key 6
Northwest equiaxial lateral view Num key 7
Top view Num key 8
Northeast equiaxial lateral view Num key 9

4.12. Log Window

The system log window records all the critical operations and events. The user can not only review all
the existing log information recorded since system starts, but can review the historical log information.

Fig. 4-41 System log window

The log information includes:
1) System on/off;
2) Auto machining on/off;
3) Workpiece coordinates modification;
4) System alarms;
5) Other system information.
A shortcut menu will pop up by right-clicking the mouse button in the system log window, as illustrated
below. A check mark “√” before the item means it is selected, while none means it is deselected.

Fig. 4-42 Shortcut menu of system Log window

 Clear Logs
It will clear the current log information in the Log window.
Menu method: choose “Edit| Clear Log”.
Mouse method: move the mouse into the Log window and right click the button to choose “Clear
Logs” in the pop-up shortcut menu.

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Please clear the system log regularly, or the system performance and responding
CAUTION time will be affected due to the overlarge log file

 Show This Session

Right click on “Log” window and then choose “Show This Session” from the pop-up shortcut menu, or
choose “Show This Session‟s Logs” from the menu “View”.
With this item selected, the window will only show the log information of operation this time. If this item is
not selected, the user can view the log information of both operation this time and history operation.

 Show Information Items

Right click on “Log” window and then choose “Show Information Items” from the pop-up shortcut menu,
or choose “Show Information Items” from the menu “View”.

Each information log is marked with the icon .

With this item selected, log information like system on/off will be shown in the window. If it is not selected,
the log information will be concealed.
The system log item is marked with the icon .

 Show Warning Items

Right click on “Log” window and then choose “Show Warning Items” from the pop-up shortcut menu, or
choose “Show Warning Items” from menu “View”.

Each warning log is marked with the icon .

This function can show warning log. If the function is not selected, the warning information will be
concealed.

 Show Error Items

Right click on “Log” window and then choose “Show Error Items” from the pop-up shortcut menu, or
choose “Show Error Items” from menu “View”.

Each error log is marked with the icon .

This function can show error log. If the function is not selected, the error info will be concealed.

4.13. Manager Window

Manager window is an area where the machining files are managed. NcStudio can manage the
machining files saved in the designated directory via a built-in manager. In this window, the user can
conduct functions like new, edit, delete, rename and load, etc.
After a right click in the Manager window, a shortcut menu will pop up, as illustrated below.

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Fig. 4-43 Shortcut menu in Manager window

 Create a new program file

There are three ways to create a new machining file instantaneously:
One: select “File| New” (shortcut key: Ctrl+N);

Two: right click in the Manager window and select [New] from the pop-up shortcut menu;

Three: click on the lower part of Manager window.

Then the system will automatically generate a new machining file “Untitle1.nc” and the user can decide
the save location of the new file.

Fig. 4-44 Save location

Click to choose the target location or directory.

The user can also edit, delete, rename or load the newly created file. Refer to the subsequent chapters
for details.

 Open an existing program file

File list box in the Manager window shows the machining files under current folder.
The user can not only enter the designated path into “Current file folder path” or select another path by

clicking . “File list” displays all machining files under current path.

“File extension” box is used to display the extensions of files under current path. The user can delete or
add one. The extension of file is also displayed in the “File list” box.
Double clicking one of the files in the “File list” box will load it automatically. The user can also click

at the lower part to load the selected file. In addition, “File| Open and Load” can also be

used.

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File list

Current file folder path Supported file formats

Current selected file

Operation buttons

Fig. 4-45 Manager window

 Edit
There are three ways to edit the selected machining file:
One: select “Edit| Edit the Selected File”.

Two: right click in the Manager window and then select “Edit” from the pop-up shortcut menu.

Three: click on the lower part of Manager window.

And then the system will switch to the Editor window automatically. The user then can do editing in this
window. For details, refer to Editor Window.
For a loaded program file, apart from the above three ways, you can also edit it in the auto mode window.
Of course, you need to load the program file into the system first, right click the mouse button in the Auto
window where program lines of the loaded file will be shown, and select “Edit Loaded File” item from the
pop-up menu.

 Delete
There are three ways to delete the selected machining file:
One: select “Edit| Delete the Selected File”.

Two: right click in the Manager window and select “Delete” from the pop-up shortcut menu.

Three: click on the lower part of Manager window.

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A dialog box will pop up for confirmation. And you need to confirm that the selected machining file to be
deleted is not being edited or called at present. Click [Yes] to delete it.

Fig. 4-46 Delete a machining file

CAUTION The selected file in the file list box is highlighted (in blue).

 Rename
There are three ways to rename the selected machining file:
One: select “Edit| Rename the Selected File”.

Two: right click in the Manager window and then select “Rename” from the pop-up shortcut menu.

Three: click on the lower part of Manager window.

Then the file name will be in edit state, as illustrated in Fig. 4-47:

Fig. 4-47 Rename dialog box

After entering the file name, press “Enter” key or click on a blank area to activate it.

 Load
There are five ways to load the selected machining file:
One: select “File| Open and Load”.
Two: right click in the Manager window and then select “Load” from the pop-up shortcut menu.

Three: click on the lower part of Manager window.

Four: click on the toolbar.

Five: right click in the Auto window and then select “Open and Load” from the pop-up shortcut
menu.

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4.14. Editor Window

In the Editor window, on the top of this window is the name and path of the file being edited, as shown in
Fig. 4-48. As you can see, it is a standard PC-style editing window.

Fig. 4-48 Editor window

It can edit a machining file with a size bigger than 1000M byte. In other words, it can meet the editing
requirements of any complex machining file.
Right clicking in the Editor window will open a shortcut menu for your choice.

CAUTION Releasing time values represents the ones with DC-cutoff using a varistor.

4.15. I/O State Window

The I/O State window displays the current state of system I/O ports, which is very helpful for system
monitoring and troubleshooting.

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Fig. 4-49 I/O State window

As shown in the above picture, the icons in the front of the ports indicate:

Green filled dot means that there is signal input in this port;

Red filled dot means that there is no signal input in this port;

Green hollow dot means that there is signal output in this port;

Red hollow dot means that there is no signal output in this port.

Please note that the content displayed in this window may vary because of the
CAUTION configuration of different motion control cards and various user-defined
requirements. The information provided here is for reference only.

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5. NcStudio Menu System

5.1. "File" Menu

The optional items in File menu is as following:

Fig. 5-1 File menu

 Open and Load

Shortcut key: Ctrl + O. The item is used for opening a machining program file on the hard disk. Clicking
the menu item will open a dialog box titled "Open and Load" dialog box, as shown below.

Fig. 5-2 Open and load dialog box

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Clicking the pull-down button in can call the processing

files under other routes. After selecting the file, click “Open”, the name of the file displayed on the title
bar.

 Unload
It is used to unload the current machining file.

 New
It is used to create a new machining file.
With this item selected, “Editor” window will be activated for file editing. After editing, right click and
select “Save” from the pop-up shortcut menu.

 Open and Edit

It is used to open an existing machining file and switch to the Editor window to edit it.

 Edit Loaded File

It is used to edit the currently loaded machining file.

 Save the Current Coordinate Origin

It is used to save the current coordinate origin into its machining file.

CAUTION Releasing time values represents the ones with DC-cutoff using a varistor.

 Save
It is used to save the machining file after editing.

 Save as
It is used to resave the current machining file in the Editor window in another name.

 Save and Load

It is used to save and load the current machining file in the Editor window as the currently loaded
machining file.

 Close
It is used to close the machining file being edited.

 Config
You can check the current configuration and change it through this item. Configuration option with mark
“√” before is the active configuration.

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Fig. 5-3 Configuration options

When changing the configuration, a prompt dialog will pop up before a new one activated. You need to
confirm your new selection and restart the software as required.

Fig. 5-4 Prompt before configuration change

The configuration is set by the machine tool builder, and the user is not entitled
to change it. Otherwise, the machine tool may not work properly.
CAUTION The above examples are configuration options in general three axes software,
please turn to chapter 11.3.1 for details about those in double Z axes software.

 Save/Read Parameter
To save or read the parameter setting made in the current configuration. As many as 10 groups of
parameter settings can be backed up.

 Recent Loaded File

This menu item includes a new submenu, displaying the recently loaded machining files. The user can
re-load them quickly with this function.

 Recent Edited File

This menu item includes a new submenu, displaying the recently edited machining files. The user can
re-edit them quickly with this function.

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 Generate Installation
This menu item is mainly used for key data backup and restoration, system installation and installation
package generation, etc. Selecting this menu item will close the NcStudio for a while and pop out a
dialog box titled “System Maintain”, including “Backup key data”, “Key data resume”, “System
installation”, and “Generate installation packet”, as shown in the figure below:

Fig. 5-5 System maintenance dialog

When the tab “Backup Key Data” is active, the user can backup all the key files in the installation
directory, including controls parameters, subroutines of common-G code, screw error data, PLC program,
etc. If there have been backup files under the default directory, they will be displayed in the top white
panel. The user can delete or preserve them, and check the backup file property in the window below by
clicking the file name. The backup operation buttons are under the indented panel. The user can select
whether to save the files into the default path or to the appointed path.

When the tab “Key data resume” is active, the user can resume the key files according to the backup
files. If there have been backup files under the default directory, they will be displayed in the top white
panel. Clicking the file name, the user can check its property in the indented panel below and execute
[Delete] and [Start resume] function. The user can also use the direction keys to select other backup files.

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If there have been backup files and they are saved in other paths, the user can click [Browse] to search.
Clicking the [Start resume] button which is at the bottom of the tab control will start resuming.

When the tab “System installation” is active, the user can reinstall NcStudio system. But it should be paid
special attention that after the re-installation, all the former files under the current installation directory
will be deleted and the new version won‟t keep any data of the old version. So it‟s recommended to do
key data backup before the reinstallation. If there have been installation packages under the default
directory, they will be displayed in the top white panel. Clicking one of the packages, the user can check
its property in the indented panel below and execute [Delete] and [Start installation] function. The user
can also use the direction keys to select other packages. Clicking the [Start installation] button which is
at the bottom of the tab control will start installing.

When the tab “Generate installation packet” is active, the user can create a complete installation
package on the basis of current system data, which is useful to backup system files and save a stable
version of the system. If there have been packages under the default directory (the same with the
installation package path under the tab “System installation”), they will be displayed in the top white
panel. Clicking one of the packages, the user can view its property in the indented panel below, and
execute [Delete] or check other package properties with the direction keys. At the bottom of the tab
control, the user can generate the installation package into the default path or into the appointed path.

 Exit
It is used to shut down and exit the NcStudio system.

Menu items “Save the current coordinate origin”, “Save parameter”, “Read
CAUTION parameter” as well as “Generate installation” are absent in double Z axes
software, please note that. You can turn to chapter 11.3.1 for more details.

5.2. "Edit" Menu

The items in “Edit” menu change with the currently active window in the second window area (including
Trace window, Log window, Manager window, Editor window and I/O State window).

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With Trace window active With Log window active

With Manager window active With Editor/IO State window active

 Clear view
Clear the tracking image of the program in the Trace window. Please turn to chapter 4.11 for details.

 Clear log
Clear all log information in Log window. Please turn to chapter 4.11 for details.

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 Array Machining
This function allows executing array machining on one machining file. Clicking this item will open a
dialog box, as illustrated below:

Fig. 5-6 Array machining dialog

Click and select the machining file for array operation.

Set the correct column number, row number, row space (distance between two workpiece origins, as R
length mentioned in the above figure) and column space (distance between two workpiece origins, as C
length mentioned in the above figure) and then click [Generate G-File]. The newly generated processing
file after array will be loaded into the NcStudio automatically.

G codes like G65 and G92 are not supported in array function, neither are
CAUTION subroutines. If they appear in the machining file, the system will prompt to
delete them automatically or manually.

To set different row spaces and column spaces, click [Advance]. Then a dialog box will pop up shown as
below.

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Fig. 5-7 Array machining in advanced mode

In [Row space list] and [Column space list], the user can separately set the row/column space between
any two rows or columns. Click “Fresh” button to update the value entered.

 Mirror Rotate Machining Setting

Mirror rotate machining refers to generating a mirrored or rotated program path relative to the source
program path. With the menu item chosen, a dialog box will pop up, as shown in Fig. 5-8.

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Fig. 5-8 Mirror & rotation machining

After the user selects one of the above options and clicks [OK], the newly-generated machining file will
be loaded into NcStudio automatically.

5.3. "View" Menu

The items in “View” menu change with the currently active window in the second window area (including
Trace window, Log window, Manager window, Editor window and I/O State window).

The “View” menu with Manager/Editor/IO State

windows active

The “View” menu with Log window active.

Please turn to chapter 4.12 for details.

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The “View” menu with Trace window active.

For menu items related with tracking image
views adjustment, please turn to chapter 4.11
for details.

 Show File Line Number

This function is used to display or conceal the program line number of machining file, only available
when the Auto window is activated.

 Trace Current Line

The function is used to trace the program line number of current instruction in the Auto window during
machining.

 File Information
Click this item to open a dialog box titled “File Information”, as illustrated below.
The dialog box displays the statistic information of machining file during auto processing, such as total
time, machining range, etc. Combining with simulation function, the user can learn various information of
machining file quickly and rapidly.

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Fig. 5-9 Statistics of machining file

 Total Time
It displays the total time of machining and cutting time.

 Motion Range
It specifies the maximum and minimum workpiece coordinates of machine tool movement in machining.

 Machining Range
It specifies the maximum and minimum workpiece coordinates of machine tool in actual cutting. As

shown in Fig. 5-9, coordinate with a warning icon means the axis is travelling out of the limit.

5.4. "Operation" Menu

Here are the menu items in “Operation” menu:

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Fig. 5-10 Operation menu

 Single Block

With the function activated, every time you click (Start), the system runs a program block and

pauses; when you click (Start) again, it will run the next program block.

The user can choose this function before actual machining since it is helpful for error diagnosis and
failure recovery.
Please note that when the system is in non-idle state, the user can not enable or disable single block
function.

 Hand wheel Gear

In Auto mode, with the item activated, the system will implement the machining file with the turning of

handwheel when is pressed down. When the handwheel stops turning, machining will also stop.

What‟s more, the machining speed changes with the turning speed of handwheel.
The user can choose this function before machining to learn that whether the machining file is correct.

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 Set Current Coordinate as Workpiece Origin

Sets current coordinates of X axis and Y axis as the workpiece origin.

 Set Offsets
Right clicking in any part of NC State Widow can also call this function, Its dialog shown in Fig. 5-11.

Fig. 5-11 Set offset

A. Public Offset
Also called external offset, it is used to record the temporary adjustment value of workpiece origin. As it
can only be adjusted manually and will not be changed during the execution of any auto function, the
value will not be changed during fixed calibration and mobile calibration. For example, if the value is not
0 before measurement, the workpiece coordinate will not be 0 either when measurement completes. The
following buttons can be used to modify the value of Z public offset.

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Fig. 5-12 Buttons to modify Z public offset

One of the above buttons clicked, the Z workpiece origin will move up or down a specified distance to
form a new workpiece coordinate system; this distance will accumulate with the button clicked
repeatedly.

B. Workpiece
It specifies workpiece origin. See Fig. 5-13.

Fig. 5-13 Workpiece offset

It displays the machine coordinates of workpiece origin. Manually entering values can be used to set the
machine coordinates of workpiece origin, though not recommended.

C. Workpiece Coordinate
It displays the workpiece coordinates of current cutting point. See below.

Fig. 5-14 Workpiece coordinate

The equation is as below:
Workpiece coordinate= Machine coordinate- Public offset- Workpiece offset- Tool position offset

D. Record and Center Division

The following buttons are used to get the intermediate point of two points on a regular workpiece, with
aim to obtain the origin. The method is: firstly, move the tool to the first target point and then click
[Record X], the system recording the X machine coordinate of this point. Secondly, move the tool to the
second target point and then click [Center Division X], the system automatically working out the X

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machine coordinate of the intermediate point and make it as the X origin. This method goes for Y
coordinate too. For more details, see chapter 4.9.3.

Fig. 5-15 Record and center division

 Move to Workpiece Origin

With the item selected, if the tool nose is below the safe height, the Z axis will move up to the safe height
first and then the X axis and Y axis will move to the workpiece origin together; if the tool nose is above
the safe height, the X axis and Y axis will move to the workpiece origin together first and then the Z axis
will move down to the safe height.

The user can also execute this function by clicking on the toolbar.

 Save the Current Workpiece Origin

This function saves the current workpiece origin as well as the name of the file and the machine
coordinates of current point into NcStudio, so that the saved workpiece origin can be easily found later.
10 groups of data can be saved at most. See Fig. 5-16.

Fig. 5-16 Save the current workpiece origin

Before you save the origin, a dialog box will pop up asking for confirmation.
Click [Yes] to confirm and save the origin, click [No] to cancel it.

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 Load the Saved Workpiece Origin

It is used to load the coordinate value of the saved workpiece origin.

 Start
With [Start] clicked, the system will enter into auto processing mode. If simulation is activated, the
system will run the program in simulation mode.
The user can also execute this function by clicking on the toolbar.

 Pause
During auto processing, with [Pause] selected, the system will suspend processing and raise the cutter
to enter into “Auto| Pause” state. To resume processing, click [Start].
When simulating, [Pause] chosen, the system will suspend simulation and enter into “Auto| Pause” state.
To resume simulation, choose [Start].
The user can also execute this function by clicking on the toolbar.

 Stop
During auto processing, [Stop] chosen, the machine tool will cease processing and raise the cutter to
enter into “Auto| Idle” state. This is the normal way to stop when processing.
When simulating, [Stop] chosen, the system will suspend simulation and enter into “Auto| Idle” state. To
start or resume simulation, choose [Start], [Advanced Start] or [Breakpoint Resume], etc.
The user can also execute this function by clicking on the toolbar.

 Enter Simulation Mode then Start Simulating

With the item selected, the machine tool will conduct high-speed simulation from the beginning of the
machining file rapidly and vividly.
In simulation mode, differing from actual processing, the system just displays the tool path in the Trace
Window at a high speed, without any actual machine actions. Through simulation, the user can view the
machine tool‟s movement path in advance to avoid equipment damage possibly caused by programming
errors and learn other information.
Once simulation starts, this menu item will change into” Stop Simulating then Leave Simulation Mode”. It
will make the system deactivate the simulation mode immediately.

The user can also execute this function by clicking on the toolbar.

 Advanced Start
With the item selected, a dialog box titled “Execute (Advanced Options)” will pop up, as in Fig. 5-17.

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Fig. 5-17 Advanced start

This function allows selecting any blocks for machining. The user can choose the processing range in
the dialog box according to the type of machining file.
There are three ways to define the machining range, as you can see. Make your own choice according
to the tips in the dialog box above.

If a G code file is loaded, only “Specify the range according to the row number”
CAUTION is available, while the other two unavailable.
If an ENG file is loaded, the three options are all available.

 Select Tool
It is a function specified for ENG file or G file. In addition, to enable this function, the parameter “N4093
MachiningEngFileByToolNumber” or “N4129 MachiningGFileByToolNumber” should be set as “true”
correspondingly first.

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 Resume
It is also called breakpoint resume or resume from interrupted point. With the item selected, the system
will automatically resume processing from the stop line number (breakpoint) of last machining.
In case of sudden power failure, E-stop, etc, this function (breakpoint resume) can be executed to make
the machine tool quickly move to the breakpoint and resume processing, which will save considerable
machining time.

The user can also execute this function by clicking on the toolbar.

 Advanced MDI
With the item selected, an “Advanced Functions” dialog box will pop up, as shown in Fig. 5-18, including
5 function windows: [Rectangle Mill], [Round Mill], [Rectangle Frame Mill], [Round Frame Mill] and [MDI].
Bottom milling and frame milling can be completed in the first four windows simply by entering the values
of relevant parameters (“Inner” and “Outer” are used to specify whether milling the inner part or the
contour).

Fig. 5-18 Rectangle bottom milling window

See Fig. 5-19. After entering standard instructions (like G codes, T codes and M Codes, etc) into the edit
box of “MDI” window, click “Execute”, the system will execute the entered instructions instantly. In
addition, instructions entered previously are recorded in the window for inquiry.
When you want to enter more than one instruction at a time, please input semicolon “;” to break or
separate them. When the instructions are not entered properly, NcStudio will give out a prompt.

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If “Show this dialog-box while running” at the bottom is checked, this dialog can still be seen when
executing the instructions, for the convenience of rapidly setting relevant parameters of bottom milling
and frame milling or entering standard instructions.

Fig. 5-19 MDI window

 Jiggle
This function is for fine tuning without stopping machining, available in the PAUSE state and in
machining state. See Fig. 5-20.
The result of jiggle will only have an effect on the current machining task. It will become invalid when
[Start] or [Resume] is executed after [Stop].

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Fig. 5-20 Jiggle dialog box

 Mobile Calibrator
Choosing this menu item will open a dialog box, as shown below.

Fig. 5-21 Tool measurement

Choosing “Yes” will execute tool measurement. Refer to chapter 4.9.1 Calibrate the Workpiece Surface
for detail.
Choosing “No” will cancel tool measurement.

 Fixed Calibrator
Choosing this menu item will open a dialog box, as illustrated below.

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Fig. 5-22 Fixed measurement

Refer to chapter 4.9.2 for details. “The recent value” in the above picture is entered automatically by
NcStudio.

Please note that items “Mobile Calibrator” and ”Fixed Calibrator” are absent in
CAUTION item list of “Operation” menu in double Z axes series software. You can turn to
chapter 11.3.2 for details.

 Back to Mechanical Origin

Also called go home, back to machine origin, back to reference point or homing. Selecting this menu will
open a dialog box, as shown in Fig. 5-23.
[All Axes]: all the axes will go home successively (Z axis first and then X and Y axes.).
[Setting Directly]: directly setting the current machine coordinates as correct ones. Before executing this
function, the user must confirm that the current X, Y, Z coordinates are right machine coordinates. If the
machine tool was turned off or underwent an E-stop before, it is not recommended to execute this
function on most occasions.
[X Axis], [Y Axis] and [Z Axis]: homing the corresponding axis alone.

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Fig. 5-23 Back to machine origin

Fig. 5-24 NC state window

After all the axes have returned to machine origin, a mark “ ” will appear before each axis in the NC
state window. There are three ways to open the dialog box:
One: upon startup of the software;

Two: selecting the item “Back to Mechanical Origin” folded in the “Operation” menu;

Three: pressing shortcut keys “Ctrl+Home”.

 Back to Fixed Point

The machine tool will move to the fixed point (machine coordinates) automatically when this menu item
is selected. The machine coordinates of fixed point should be set in a position facilitating fast tool change
and workpiece replacement.
The machine coordinates of fixed point are determined by parameters [N4210], [N4211] and [N4212].

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 Disable Mechanical Limits

See Fig. 5-25. In case of hard limit alarm, namely the machine limit being triggered, execute this function.
The system will disable limit function and remove the alarm. At this time, move the machine tool away
from the limit switch to a normal position via the manual buttons in the Manual window.

Fig. 5-25 Disable mechanical limits

Please pay close attention to the direction when moving the machine tool away
CAUTION from the limit switch to a normal position, or the machine tool may be damaged!

 Alarm Reset
When an alarm occurs, executing this function will restore the system to the “IDLE” state.

 Scan Function
With the menu selected, a dialog will pop up, as shown in Fig. 5-26.
This function is mainly for punching. Manually move X and Y axes to the target position, then click “Note”
to record the workpiece coordinates, then to the next target position, then record…When finishing
recording, click “”Save As” to generate a machining file. Since the generated file cannot be loaded into
the system automatically, the user needs to load it into NcStudio before machining.
[Position of REFER Plane]: a plane where the punching speed is activated; the rapid traverse rate is
active above this plane.

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Fig. 5-26 Scan hole position

Please note that item “Scan Function” is absent in “Operation” menu in double
CAUTION Z axes software. You can turn to chapter 11.3.2 for details.

 Parameter Restore
NcStudio can backup parameters automatically. With this option chosen, a dialog box will pop up, as
illustrated below.

Fig. 5-27 Parameters auto backup

The system provides six kinds of parameter backups: “last parameter setting”, “parameter setting
yesterday”, “parameter setting 2 days ago”, “parameter setting 5 days ago”, “parameter setting 10 days

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ago” and “parameter setting of OEM setting”. The user can select one of them according to actual
situations.
After one of them is selected, NcStudio will exit automatically. At this time, the user needs to re-open it
manually.

 Set Parameters
It is used to open the parameter window to set parameters. Refer to Chapter 6.3 for details.

5.5. “Machine” Menu

“Machine” menu includes items like “Turn on Spindle”, “Turn on Coolant”, “Turn on Light” and “Modify
Tool No.”, etc, as following.

 Turn on Spindle
It is used to turn on the spindle.

 Turn on Coolant
It is used to turn on the coolant pump.

 Turn on Light
It is used to turn on/off the working lamp on the machine tool.

 Modify Tool No.

Mainly used during tool changing, this function can guarantee the number of current spindle tool is the
same as that of next tool (namely the tool to be changed to), so that the system can place the current
tool to the correct position or call the right tool from the correct position in the tool magazine.

Fig. 5-28 Modify tool number

 Feedrate
The feedrate can be 0%, 10%, 20%, 50%, 90%, 100%, and 120%.

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By choosing these items, the user can adjust the feedrate override to the optional percent, equaling to
adjusting the feedrate slide block in NC state window. For details, refer to Sliding Block of Feedrate
Override in chapter 4.6.2.

 Efficiency/Quality Adjustment
The option selected, a dialog box will pop up, as illustrated below:

Fig. 5-29 Efficiency – Quality adjustment

Giving priority to quality will lead to high processing quality while to speed will result in high processing
efficiency. Please balance the quality and efficiency as required.

 Modify Menu
Clicking this item will open the dialog below.

Fig. 5-30 Modify menu window

In this dialog, menu can be added, deleted and modified. Take adding menu as an example. First enter
the menu to be added in “Menu here”, and then enter a reserved input port of terminal board in “Port
here”. Please note that “Add” should be clicked before “OK”, or the port adding fails.

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You can check the “Machine” menu to confirm the addition of the port. The following shows a successful
operation.

Fig. 5-31 Adding menu successfully

Menu items in “Machine” menu in double Z axes software differ slightly. You
CAUTION can turn to chapter 11.3.3 for details.

 Port Setting of Origin/Limit Switches

This submenu clicked, a dialog for password pops up. After the input, the setting dialog is entered,
shown as Fig. 5-32.

Fig. 5-32 Port setting of origin/limit switches dialog box

The following lists the operation instructions:
1) In this dialog box, you can set the addresses of the origin and the positive/negative limit switches;
2) When the addresses of the origin and positive limit are set the same in certain axis, origin and
positive limit switches of this axis share one port;
3) When the addresses of the origin and negative limit are set the same in certain axis, origin and
negative limit switches of this axis share one port;

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4) When the addresses of the origin, positive limit and negative limit are set the same in certain axis,
origin switch, positive switch and negative switch of this axis share one port;
5) When the addresses of positive limit and negative limit are set the same in certain axis, positive and
negative switches of this axis share one port.
Port information can be modified in the software, as Fig. 5-33. Click [Modify Port Info] to eject the dialog
box as Fig. 5-34, then press [Modify Des] to pop up the input box as Fig. 5-35. After input, click [F1 OK],
port information modified successfully.

Fig. 5-33 Modify port information

Fig. 5-34 Port name modify dialog box

Fig. 5-35 Input box of renamed description

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5.6. "Window" Menu

“Window” menu consists of multiple optional items, such as “Show Auto Window”, “Show Manu Window”,
“Show Calibration Window” and “Show Trace Window”, and so on.
Choose items in this menu to switch among functional windows.
Program Lock: used to lock operation interface. No operation is allowed after the operation interface
locked.
“Ctrl+Alt+L” is the shortcut key to lock the NcStudio operation interface, while “Ctrl+Alt+K” to unlock it.

5.7. "Help" Menu

“Help” menu includes the following menu items.

 Tip of the Day

With the item selected, a dialog box will pop up, as illustrated below, showing information and operation
of NcStudio.

Fig. 5-36 Daily tip

 Shortcut Keys List

With the item chosen, a dialog box will pop up, displaying shortcut key information of NcStudio.

Fig. 5-37 Shortcut key list window

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 About NcStudio
With the item selected, a dialog box will pop up, providing information about NcStudio version, control
card model number and system registration, etc.

(2) Click here to open

the register dialog
Software version

(1) Control card serial number,

send it to the manufacturer to get Card ID, changing
a registration code with registered times
Remaining usage time

Fig. 5-38 “About NcStudio”

In the above dialog, the user can view such info as version, control card, manufacturer, etc.
Register function is used to restrict the system usage time. At the expiration of usage time, the user can
write down the Control Card No. (the adapter No.) and send it to the manufacturer to get a registration
code. After getting the code, the user needs to click on the button [Register…] to open registration code
input box, as shown in Fig. 5-39, input the received registration code, and click “OK” to finish registration.

Fig. 5-39 Input registry code

The card ID changes with registration times, which can be told from the last
three numbers of Control Card No. For instance, when registered times is 0, the
CAUTION last three numbers are 000; when the registration times is 1, the last three
numbers will be 001, and so on.

 Visiting NcStudio Homepage

With this item selected, the user can visit the homepage of Weihong Electronic Technology Co., Ltd. to
get informed of the latest products and relevant information about the company.

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6. Parameter Setup

Equipped with abundant machining parameters, NcStudio is competent for various machining tasks. This
chapter will introduce operator‟s parameters only. For manufacture‟s parameters, refer to Manufacturer‟s
Manual for details.
Parameters in NcStudio can also be divided into the following categories: operation parameters, axes
parameters, spindle/hand wheel. parameters, I/O address parameters, compensation parameters,
reference point parameters, cutter parameters, other parameters and parameters overview.

6.1. Parameter Modification Permission

Parameters displayed are different under different permissions. Password “ncstudio” is required to
access the manufacture‟s parameters.

Fig. 6-1 Parameter permission

If there is a need to change the password, click “Change Password” to open “Change Password” dialog,
as shown below. After entering the old password and new password correctly, click “OK” to validate the
new password.

Fig. 6-2 Change password dialog

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6.2. Parameter Modification Method

To modify a parameter, double-click on the parameter line and enter the data into the pop-up dialog box.
For “True/False” type of parameters, “1” means “True” while “0” means “False”. The user can also
directly input “True” or “False” or input the number “1” or “0”.

CAUTION Parameters cannot be modified in machining.

6.3. Operator’s Parameters

Here is the list of parameters of operator‟s access.

No. Name Setting Range Default Effective

Opera parameters
NormalJogFeedrate 0～100000（mm/min） 1800 Immediately
N4025 The moving speed of machine tool in manual mode when the feedrate override is 100%.
The manual moving speed varies with the feedrate override.
RapidJogFeedrate 0～100000（mm/min） 2400 Immediately
N4026 The speed of machine tool when one of the Num direction keys and Ctrl are pressed
simultaneously at 100% feedrate override.
MaxJogFeedrateBefore-
0～100000（mm/min） 1200 Immediately
N4260 BKREF
The max. speed in jog mode before returning to the reference point.
RapidTravelFeedrate 0～100000（mm/min） 3000 Immediately
N4031
The default positioning speed (instead of machining speed).
DefaultFeedrate 0～100000（mm/min） 1500 Immediately
N4032
The default machining speed (instead of positioning speed).
0: Not use
UseDefaultFeedrate 0 Immediately
N4034 1: Use
If it is set as “1”, the speed specified in the machining file will become invalid.
0: Not use
UseDefaultSpindleRev 0 Immediately
N4035 1: Use
If it is set as “1”, the spindle speed specified in the machining file will become invalid.
PauseDownSpeed 0～100000（mm/min） 600 Immediately
N4027 Plunge rate of Z axis (backing to the cutting point before pause) in continuous machining
after pause.
PauseUpSpeed 0～100000（mm/min） 600 Immediately
N4028
Tool lifting speed of Z axis at pause.
ToolRasingHWorkCoorOn-
N4049 0～9999（mm） 100 Immediately
Pause

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No. Name Setting Range Default Effective

The pause position of Z axis in machining.
ToolRasingHeightOnPause 0～500（mm） 10 Immediately
N4050
The lifting height of Z axis at pause with respect to cutting point.
FixedCalibratorBlockPosition X: 0 Y: 0
-99999～99999（mm） Immediately
(X/Y/Z) Z: -1
N4200 X/Y: machine coordinates of X and Y when the tool nose reaching the range of tool
～ measurement (the nearer to central point, the better).
N4202 Z: machine coordinate of Z axis when the tool nose arriving at a certain height above the
surface of tool sensor (running at G00 speed above this height while at measurement
speed below this height).
G73_G83SafeHeight -99999～99999（mm） 0 Immediately
N4006
Specifying the retract distance after each feed in the G73_G83 cycle drilling command.
0: +X; 1: -X; 2: +Y; 3:
DirectionWhileFixedDrillStop 0 Immediately
N4007 -Y
Only valid in X-Y plane (G17).
0: Invalid
IJKIncrementModeValid 1 Immediately
1: Valid
N4063
0: the coordinates of circle center are with respect to workpiece origin.
1: the coordinates of circle center are with respect to the start point of machining arc.
0: Invalid
NeedConfirmClearWC 1 Immediately
1: Valid
N1002
Whether to give a prompt when clearing current workpiece coordinates, i.e. setting
current point as workpiece origin, in order to avoid misoperation.
0: Keep still;
1: Back to fixed point;
ActionAfterProgramming 0 Immediately
2: Back to workpiece
origin

0: Keep still; after machining ends normally, the spindle remains in the stop position.
N4005
1: Back to fixed point; after machining ends normally, the machine tool will go to the
position set by parameters “N4210”, “N4211” and “N4212” (machine coordinates)
automatically.
2: Back to workpiece origin; after machining ends normally, the machine tool will return to
the current workpiece origin automatically.
JiggleFeedrate 0～100000（mm/min） 60 Immediately
N4029
The speed in jiggle.
JiggleStepLength 0.01～0.5（mm） 0.01 Immediately
N4030
The moving distance of machine tool in each jiggle.
N4044 ZDownFeedrateOption 0～3 0 Immediately

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No. Name Setting Range Default Effective

0: No special treatment; parameter “N4045” is invalid.
1: N4045 enabled when only Z axis moves downward; feeding speed is decided by
parameter N4045.
2: N4045 enabled when Z-axis downward movement included; when the Z axis moves
downward (no matter whether X axis and Y axis move or not), feeding speed is decided
by N4045.
3: Slowly regulate feed speed: from initial feedrate override to default feedrate override
over the set time.
Z_DownFeedrate 0～100000（mm/min） 480 Immediately
N4045
Enabled when parameter N4044 set as “1” or “2”.
SafeHeight 0.001～1000（mm） 10 Immediately
Calculated with respect to workpiece origin; the system regards it is safe to move
N4051
horizontally at this height; mainly used in “back to workpiece origin” and “breakpoint
resume”.
PauseAndPromptWhile- 0: false
false Immediately
N4068 ChangeTools 1: true
Whether to pause and prompt the operator when the machine tool is changing tool.
N4210 FixedPointPosition (X/Y/Z) -99999～99999（mm） 0 Immediately
～
The machine coordinates of fixed point; used together with parameter N4005.
N4212
After
SafeHeightAtG00Feedrate 0～99999（mm/min） 1
N4070 re-loading
The tool lifting height of Z axis in rapid traverse when machining a PLT file.
0.001 ～ 99999 After
N4071 PLTUnit 10
（mm/plu） re-loading
PLTToolsDistanceWhileProcessAr After
0.001～99999（mm） 0.025
ea re-loading
N4072
The ToolsDistance (tool space) should be smaller than tool diameter when machining a
PLT file.
After
TwoDimensionalFileDepth -99999～0（mm） -1
N4073 re-loading
The machining depth of 2D PLT file.
After
SafeHeightAtG00Feedrate 0～99999（mm/min） 1
N4080 re-loading
The tool lifting height of Z axis in rapid traverse when machining a DXF file.
After
TwoDimensionalFileDepth -99999～0（mm） -1
N4081 re-loading
The machining depth of 2D DXF file.
After
TheSourceOfMachineDepth 0, 1 0
N4082 re-loading
0: From parameter; 1: From DXF file
N4083 DepthDelta -99999～0（mm） -1 After

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No. Name Setting Range Default Effective

re-loading
The machining depth of 2D file each time in layer machining.
0: Invalid After
UseFirstPointAsOriginInDXFFiles 1
1: Valid re-loading
0: set the origin in the DXF file as workpiece origin
N4084 1: set a user-defined point in the DXF file as workpiece origin. For instance, when
drawing a picture in CAD, draw a point (better near or inside the picture). The system will
treat this point as workpiece origin and not process it. If there are several points in the
DXF file, the first drawn point will be set as workpiece origin.
0: Invalid After
EnableMachineDividually 0
N4085 1: Valid re-loading
If set as “1”, the system will not process the next shape until finishing current one.
After
MethodForDrillingDXFFiles 0, 1 0
re-loading
N4086
Hole machining mode in machining a DXF file. 0: Once done; 1: Reciprocating chip
removal
After
EachDepthForPolyDrill 0～99999（mm） 0.5
N4087 re-loading
Each drilling depth in reciprocating chip removal mode.
After
SafeHeightAtG00Feedrate 0～99999（mm/min） 1
N4089 re-loading
The tool lifting height of Z axis in rapid traverse when machining an ENG file.
PauseAndPromptWhileChangeToo After
0, 1 1
ls re-loading
N4090
Whether to pause and prompt tool change when it is time for tool change when
machining an ENG file. 0: Pause but not prompt; 1: Pause and prompt
0: Invalid After
MachiningEngFileByToolNumber 0
1: Valid re-loading
N4092
When set as “1”, machining will be executed in terms of the specified tool number, and
only the machining file corresponding to this tool will be processed.
After
PauseTimeAfterEachCycle 0～99999（ms） 0
N4093 re-loading
The dwell time after each cycle in ENG file machining.
After
DeepHoleMachiningWay 0, 1 0
re-loading
N4094
Deep hole machining mode. 0: Reciprocating chip removal; 1: High-speed reciprocating
chip removal
After
RETRACT_VALUE 0～99999（mm） 1
N4095 re-loading
Retract distance after each feed in high-speed reciprocating chip removal mode.
N4096 MachiningEngFileModifyToolNumb 0: Invalid 0 After

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No. Name Setting Range Default Effective

er 1: Valid re-loading
With the function, tool number can be modified during machining.
0: Machining speed
way After
DepthToolSpeedWay 0
1: Fast across move re-loading
N4097
speed way
In deep-hole drilling, the plunging speed of Z axis, 0 for machining federate, 1 for rapid
traverse speed.
0: Up to R-plane
ZUpTypeAfterDrill 1:Up to specified 0 Immediately
N4098 position
Lifting type of Z axis after single drilling. Please note that it is only effective for ENG file
with version 5.5 or above.
ZPosAfterDrill -1000~1000 mm 10 Immediately
N4099 When parameter N4098 set as 1, the workpiece coordinates of the fixed position
predefined. Please note that the version of ENG file should be 5.5 or above.
MachiningGFileByTool- 0: Invalid After
0
N4129 Number 1: Valid re-loading
Whether to execute G-code file machining according to the specified tool number.
Z_Axis_Stop_Options 0, 1, 2 0 Immediately
N8020 The position of Z axis at pause. 0: To raise a given distance; 1: To specified workpiece
coordinate; 2: To specified machine coordinate
Z_Axis_Stop_Pos_in_MCS -350～0 0 Immediately
N8021 The machine coordinate of Z axis at pause, available when parameter N8020 is set as
“2”.
Axes parameters
CheckWorkCoordinateRange 0: Invalid
N1150 0 Immediately
(X/Y/Z) 1: Valid
～
If set as “1”, the system will check whether machining is within the workpiece coordinate
N1152
range (upper limit and lower limit).
N1160 WorkCoordinateLowerLimit (X/Y/Z) -99999～99999（mm） -10000 Immediately
～
The lower limit of workpiece coordinate in each axis.
N1162
N1170 WorkCoordinateUpperLimit (X/Y/Z) -99999～99999（mm） 10000 Immediately
～
The upper limit of workpiece coordinate in each axis.
N1172
Spindle/H.W. parameters
0: Invalid
StopSpindleWhenFinish 1 Immediately
N0004 1: Valid
Whether the spindle stops rotating when machining stops.

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No. Name Setting Range Default Effective

0: Invalid
StopSpindleWhilePauseStop 1 Immediately
N0005 1: Valid
Whether spindle stops rotating when machining pauses.
Compensation parameters
0: Invalid
CutterCompensationValid 0 Immediately
N3004 1: Valid
Whether to enable tool compensation.
CUTTER_COMPENSATION_DIR
0, 1, 2 0 Immediately
ECTION
Specifying the direction of tool compensation. 0: No tool compensation; 1: Left tool
compensation; 2: Right tool compensation

Offset

Tool Moving Direction

Tool Rotary Direction Tool Rotary Direction
Tool Moving Direction

N3005

Left Compensation along

Tool Moving Direction
Offset Right Compensation along
Tool Moving Direction

Left Tool Compensation Right Tool Compensation

Ref. parameters
MoveToMechanicalPointBeforeMa 0: Invalid
1 Immediately
chining 1: Valid
N2001
When set as “1”, homing will be prompted and must be executed before each machining.
When “0”, the system will not give a prompt and can execute machining directly.
Cutter parameters
MobileCalibratorBlockThickness 0～10000（mm） 20 Immediately
N14900
The max. tool length.
ToleranceOfToolBroken 0～100（mm） 0.5 Immediately
N14901
The allowable tolerance when checking broken tools.
N15020 Name Max 127 letters. - Immediately
Diameter （mm） 0 Immediately
N15021
Tool diameter.
Length （mm） 0 Immediately
N15022
Tool length.
DiameterFray （mm） 0 Immediately
N15023
Wear loss of tool diameter.

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No. Name Setting Range Default Effective

LengthFray （mm） 0 Immediately
N15024
Wear loss of tool length.
N15030 CutterPositionOffset (X/Y/Z) （mm） 0 Immediately
～
The offset between current tool and the first tool.
N15032
The system supports 255 tools at most. The above parameters are information of the first tool
and only for reference.
Other parameters
0: Invalid
WhetherUseWorkCoorShow-Trace 0 Immediately
N0020 1: Valid
Whether to show the machining trace by workpiece coordinates in Trace window.
0: Invalid
AutoBackToZero 0 After restart
N7003 1: Valid
Whether to go home automatically after starting the system each time.
0: No red light on;
1: Red light on for 3
seconds;
N7016 MachTaskPauseInformType 2: Red light on until 0 Immediately
any input from mouse
or keyboard to make
yellow light on
MachTaskEndInformType 0, 1, 2 0 Immediately
N7017 0: Red light off; 1: Red light on for 3s; 2: Red light on until there is mouse or keyboard
input to make yellow light on
0: Invalid
NotToCoolantWhenStartMachining 1 Immediately
N7302 1: Valid
When machining task begins, whether to turn on the coolant automatically.
NotToClooantWhenFinish- 0: Invalid
1 Immediately
N7303 Machining 1: Valid
When machining task ends, whether to turn off the coolant automatically.
DelayTimeForCloseAirValve 0～100000（ms） 1000 Immediately
N7312
The delay time for tool change.
The above parameters are ones shared by both general three axes software and double Z
axes software.
Exclusive Parameters in Double Z Axes Software
StartSpindleAfterChange- 0: Invalid
0 Immediately
Tools 1: Valid
N7123
Whether to turn on the spindle after tool change. It is only effective in alternative
configuration. The spindle cannot be started until tool change is finished.
N7124 SwitchToZ1AfterTaskEnd 0: Invalid 0 Immediately

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No. Name Setting Range Default Effective

1: Valid
Whether to switch to Z1 axis after task ends, only valid in alternative configuration.
StopSpindleWhenChange- 0: Invalid
1 Immediately
N7125 Tools 1: Valid
Whether to turn off the spindle during tool change, only valid in alternative configuration.
MoveToOriginPositionAfter- 0: Invalid
1 Immediately
ChangeTools 1: Valid
N7126
Whether the tool moves to the previous position (workpiece coordinate before tool
change started) after tool change completed, only valid in alternative configuration.
TwoSpindleUseDifference- 0: Invalid
0 Immediately
WorkpieceOrigin 1: Valid
N7127
Whether the two spindles share the same workpiece origin, only valid in alternative
configuration.

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7. Operation Steps

After the motion control card and software are installed properly according to chapter 2.2, the system is
ready for use. You can follow the flowchart below to conduct debugging and commissioning.

THE FLOWCHART OF OPERATION

（1）Startup & Choose Configuration

（2） Reset Machine

（3） Load a Program File

（4）Manually Adjust the Axes Direction

（5） Set Workpiece Origin

（6） Check Polarity of IO Ports

（7）Set Speed-related Parameters

（8） Execute Auto Machining

Fig. 7-1 Basic operation flowchart

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7.1. Start-up
1) Before booting up the computer, first make sure that the machine tool has been well connected to
the computer properly. Then power on the machine tool and the computer.

2) Double-click the shortcut icon on the desktop to open the software, or you can open it by
clicking the icon in the list of Start-All Programs of the computer. If the software runs for the first time,
a dialog box will pop up, asking you to choose a configuration before opening the software, as
shown below. You need to configure the software according to the actual condition of your machine
tool.

Fig. 7-2 Select a configuration

3) Select a desired configuration among the pull-down configuration list, and click [Yes] to activate and
go ahead; click [No] to cancel your choice and back to the configuration list and re-select one.

Fig. 7-3 Confirm your choice

4) A prompt dialog box will pop up, showing that “The operation is successful”. Click [OK] to finish. The
software will be started automatically. Please note that configuration selection only appear during
the first startup, to put it in other words, you can open the software directly by double clicking the
shortcut icon on the desktop any time after the first startup.

7.2. Machine Reset

This section is provided for machine tools with the function of backing to machine origin.
For machine tools supporting “back to machine origin” function, choosing “back to mechanical origin”
menu item will return the machine tool to the mechanical origin automatically and reset the coordinate
system.

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As NcStudio will save the current coordinates if it exits normally, so under certain circumstances, such as
restarting the system and resuming the last operation after a normal system shutdown, the user does not
have to execute machine reset operation, namely, returning axes to the reference point..
Additionally, you can skip this operation if you are definitely secure that there is no problem with the
current position.

7.3. Load a Machining Program File

Generally speaking, a machining file has to be loaded before machining begins. Otherwise, certain
functions related with auto-processing will be unavailable.
Select [Open & Load] from [File] to open a dialog box where you can choose a program file to be
processed.
Click [Open] to load the machining file into the system automatically. At this time, the user can press
“CTRL+1” to switch to “Auto” window and view the program lines in the machining file.

7.4. Manual Operation

In [Manual] window, the number keys on the keyboard can be used to operate the machine tool manually
to check whether the direction of each axis is right.
The corresponding keys are:
6------Positive direction of X axis
4------Negative direction of X axis
8------Positive direction of Y axis
2------Negative direction of Y axis
9------Positive direction of Z axis
1------Negative direction of Z axis
Pressing any one of the above keys and the number key 0 or Ctrl simultaneously will make the machine
tool move at rapid jog speed.

7.5. Set Workpiece Origin

The workpiece origin is defined as the coordinate origin of X, Y and Z in the machining file. Before
machining starts, the workpiece origin should be fixed first. The steps are:
Manually move X axis and Y axis to the intended workpiece origin position, and then clear the
coordinates of current position by clicking the “W.Coor.” buttons (X, Y) in the “NC State” window. The
system will conduct machining with the current position as the workpiece origin.
Through the above steps the workpiece origin of X axis and Y axis is fixed. To set the workpiece origin of
Z axis, more precise operation is needed. Combined with machine tool hardware, the system supports Z
axis measurement (calibration) function.

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After all these operations, the workpiece origin is set.

7.6. Check the Polarity of I/O Ports in IO State Window

The IO State window displays all ports on the terminal board which serve as indicators of communication
status between hardware and software. The ports are very helpful for system monitoring and
troubleshooting. For details, please refer to chapter 4.15. The modification of port polarity takes effect
after the software being re-started.

To invert the polarity of a port:

Firstly locate and select the target port, then right click the
mouse with keys “Ctrl+Alt+Shift” pressed at the same time,
a dialog box as shown on the right side to pop up, and then
select “Toggle Polarity”.

7.7. Set Speed Parameters

Apart from feederate (G01 speed) and rapid traverse speed (G00 speed), the system provides
speed-related parameters like axial linear acceleration, connection acceleration at corners, the
maximum speed for reference circle as well as the minimum speed for reference circle. The default
setting is only for general situation yet cannot secure the performance and outcome. Therefore, the user
needs to adjust settings of those parameters according to the conditions of machine tool as well as the
requirement, to yield the best and satisfactory result.

7.7.1. LinearAcceleration (N4053)

It is used to describe the acceleration / deceleration ability of a single axis, with unit mm/s 2. The value is
determined by the physical characteristic of machine tool, such as quality of movement part, torque,
resistance, cutting load of feed-motor, and so on. The larger the value is, the less time spent in the
process of acceleration / deceleration will be, and the higher the efficiency will be. Generally, for servo
motor systems, the value is between 400 and 1200. Set a small value at the beginning; make the
machine tool perform various typical movements for a period of time, and carefully observe it; if there is
no abnormal situation, increase the value gradually; otherwise, decrease the value and reserve 50% ~
100% insurance allowance.

7.7.2. ConnectionAcceleration (N4054)

It is used to describe the acceleration/deceleration ability in synchronized motion of multiple feeding
axes, with unit mm/s2. The value limits the maximum speed of machine tool in circular movement. The
larger this value is, the higher the maximum allowable speed on circular movement of machine tool will
be. Generally, for servo motor systems, the value is between 1000 and 5000; for heavy machine tools,

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the value should be smaller. Set a small value at the beginning; make the machine tool perform various
typical movements for a period of time, and carefully observe it; if there is no abnormal situation,
increase the value gradually; otherwise, decrease the value and reserve 50% ~ 100% insurance
allowance.

7.7.3. ReferenceCircleMaxSpeed (N4058)

Maximum speed of reference circle (Reference Circle Max Speed) corresponds to arc speed limit
function. When a machine tool processes an arc, it will vibrate due to centripetal force. To reduce this
kind of vibration, the software limits machining speed during machining an arc in terms of centripetal
acceleration. Take default setting as an example, the maximum line velocity of the reference circle
(Diameter: 10mm) is 1800mm/min.
The formula to calculate centripetal acceleration is as following:

2
v
a
r

Among the formula, r  (10 / 2) mm ; v  1800 mm / min ;

Thus centripetal acceleration a can be calculated; when other arcs are processed, this centripetal
acceleration is the maximum allowable centripetal acceleration. Arc speed will be limited, if it is too large
causing centripetal acceleration larger than a calculated in this formula.

7.7.4. MinSpeedInACircularMotion (N4059)

From the above formula, it can be seen the centripetal acceleration a is not the only factor to
determine arc speed limit.

2
v
a 
r
According to the formula, in processing an arc with small radius, the line speed will be limited, so will the
processing speed. To improve machining efficiency, the software provides this parameter to ensure the
machining speed will be larger than the value of this parameter regardless of the radius.
Usually, given the drive ability of servo motor, frication of machine assembly, and endurance capacity of
mechanical components, the maximum speed of the three axes in actual machining can be limited by
modifying the manufacturer‟s parameter “Axis Max Feedrate” (N4250~N4252).
End-users can also adjust machining speed in operator‟s parameters according to actual conditions. For
details, please refer to the chapter 6.3.

7.8. Execute Auto Machining

Auto machining means that the machine tool processes the loaded machining file automatically.

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 Start Auto Machining

Select the menu item [Operation| Start] or click on the toolbar or press the shortcut key F9 to

activate the function. The machine tool will start machining automatically from the first line of the
machining file.

 Stop
During auto machining, the user can stop machining through the following three methods: selecting the

menu item [Operation| Stop]; clicking on the toolbar; pressing shortcut key F11. With the function

activated, the machine tool will stop machining immediately and the system will enter into “IDLE” state.
As the three methods bring the system to a stop with accuracy and in order, they are the recommended
ways to stop machining.

When the adaptive connection of high-smooth speed is adopted, the system will
CAUTION stop when the connection speed becomes 0.

 Pause
During auto processing, the user can suspend machining through the following three methods: selecting

the menu item [Operation| Pause]; clicking on the toolbar; clicking shortcut key F10. To continue

machining, choose [Operation| Start] or click on the tool bar or press F9.

 Advanced Start
Also known as program block skip execution. With the menu item [Advanced Start] selected, a dialog
box will pop up. Select the starting and end program line No. to define the program block to be executed.
Refer to “Advanced Start” in chapter 5.4 “Operation” Menu for details.

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8. Precautions in Operation

8.1. Precautions for Multi-Tasking

As PC adopts time sharing operation system, generally speaking, while executing auto machining, some
other operations or applications can be done or run on the PC, such as editing machining file, but there
are two points to pay attention to:
1) It is recommended that the user should consider the computer memory and not open too many
windows at the same time.

2) For some application procedures, such as games, VCD player, etc, they might not run stably and
smoothly. They are likely to take excessive system resources like memory and CPU during running
and at last cause computer crash. Therefore, during processing, in order to avoid processing
interruption caused by system crash, it is recommended not to run these applications.

8.2. Precautions for Homing

Homing (backing to reference point/ machine origin or returning to the reference point) may vary with the
requirements of different systems. For systems with a high requirement for precision, the process of
machine reset will take a long time. Therefore, NC state window should be paid carefully attention to
during this process. Do not exit from the “Back To Mechanical Origin” dialog until the system enters into
“IDLE” state. Otherwise, the “back to mechanical origin” process will be artificially terminated instead of
being normally finished.
If the “back to mechanical origin process” is terminated manually, the consequences will be:
1) As the limit (machine origin) signal is still on, port alarm may occur;

2) Inexact positioning may occur: the calibration function of “back to mechanical origin” is damaged
artificially and as a result, the machine coordinates become inaccurate;

3) Software limit function becomes ineffective: as the “back to mechanical origin” process has not been
finished, the system will regard the software limit function as ineffective until “back to mechanical
origin” process is finished.

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9. Operation of Software with Multi-tool

For complex machining, multi-tool is always in need and tool library is added to the machine tools.
Accordingly, NcStudio XYZ type provides the line-tool configuration and disk-tool configuration, which
will be introduced in details as below.

9.1. Line-tool Config

9.1.1. Related Parameters Setting
After the [6A/63A-Standard-Line-Tool-ex7 Config] is chosen under [File] menu, you can choose
[ToolLibParameterSet] under [Operation] menu. Its interface is shown as Fig. 9-1.
Through this dialog box, you can set line-tool related parameters, including outport address, inport
address, library installed position and so on.
1) Outport/inport address setting: you can set related parameters of outport/inport address. When the
value of one of the parameters is set -1, its corresponding port will be disabled.
2) Tool library out back, library installed position and speed setting: you should set them based on
actual situation.
3) Ahead point setting: the following operation assumes the tool library parallel to X axis. When ahead
point is valid, you need to set the machine origin of ahead point. Before tool change, the spindle is
lifted to the up position at the X-axis coordinate of the current tool position and Y-axis coordinate of
the ahead position. When ahead point is invalid, however, the spindle rises to the up position and
directly moves to the current tool position to execute tool change.
4) Up down position setting: it is set invalid by default and the input of up position suffices. Otherwise,
you need to set the down position as well.
5) Tool position setting: you should first choose a tool No. and then click [Set current tool pos] to obtain
current position for the selected tool.

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Fig. 9-1 Tool library parameters of line-tool

9.1.2. Function Introduction

Under the [6A/63A-Standard-Line-Tool-ex7 Config], you can operate the tool library in the manual
window, as Fig. 9-2:

 Tool length offset setting

After modifying active tool, you can click [change tool] to execute this function;
1) Single measurement: it specifies the measurement on the current tool.
2) Multi-measurement: it specifies the measurement on multi-tools. When [Multi-Meas] is clicked, the
multi-tool measure manage dialog box pops up, shown as Fig. 9-3. You can select all the tools you
want to measure and click [start measure]. Measurement sequence: it is suggested to measure the
current toll before the next one, sticking to the order of small to large successively.
3) Manual set: it specifies setting the current tool length directly.

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Fig. 9-2 Manual function window of line-tool

Fig. 9-3 Multi-tool measure manage of line-tool

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9.2. Disk-tool Config

9.2.1. Related Parameters Setting
After the [6A/63A-Standard-Disk-Tool-ex7 Config] is chosen under [File] menu, you can choose
[ToolLibParameterSet] under [Operation] menu. Its interface is shown as Fig. 9-4.
Through this dialog box, you can set line-tool related parameters, including outport address, inport
address, library installed position and so on.
1) Outport/inport address setting: you can set related parameters of outport/inport address. When the
value of the parameters is set -1, corresponding port will be disabled.
2) Library installed position and speed setting: you should set them based on actual conditions of tool
library.
3) Up down position setting: up position and down position should be set together. Taking tool
placement operation as the example, the spindle first moves to the down position, and after tool disk
is ejected and tool is unclamped, it then rises to the up position.

Fig. 9-4 Tool library parameters of disk-tool

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9.2.2. Function Introduction

Under the [6A/63A-Standard-Line-Tool-ex7 Config], you can operate the tool library in the manual
window, as Fig. 9-5:

Fig. 9-5 Manual function window of disk-tool

 Tool length offset setting

After modifying active tool, you can click [change tool] to execute this function;
1) Single measurement: it specifies the measurement on the current tool.
2) Multi-measurement: it specifies the measurement on multi-tools. When [Multi-Meas] is clicked, the
multi-tool measure manage dialog box pops up, shown as Fig. 9-6. You can select all the tools you
want to measure and click [start measure]. Measurement sequence: it is suggested to measure the
current toll before the next one, sticking to the order of small to large successively.
3) Manual set: it specifies setting the current tool length directly.

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Fig. 9-6 Multi-tool measure manage of disk-tool

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10. Operation of Software with Multi-cylinder

According to the number of cylinder and inverter, the multi-cylinder software can be divided into
configurations of 2-cylinder-1-inverter, 2-cylinder-2-inverter, 3-cylinder-1-inverter, 3-cylinder-3-inverter,
4-cylinder-1-inverter and 4-cylinder-4-inverter. This chapter is the introduction to the software with
multi-cylinder; the user needs to pay attention to the difference between it and general three axes
software.
Cylinder settings can be done in Manual window, as shown below:

Fig. 10-1 Manual window

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10.1. Measurement
 Set Tool Length

Manually move the tool to a fixed position, click button to set the machine coordinate of Z

axis into the tool offset in Z direction.

 Single Measure

To measure tool offset for one tool at one time. Namely, button clicked once, measurement of

one tool will be conducted. With this function activated, subroutines for fixed calibration will be called,
and the calibration result will be set into the tool offset in Z direction.
During calibration, the user does not need to manually move the tool to the fixed position of tool sensor.
The system automatically moves the Z axis downward and performs calibration according to the number
of active tool, and set the result into the tool offset at the end of calibration. To finish the process, the Z
axis retracts 10 mm relative to the ending position and the cylinder will be pulled back.

 Measure All

To measure the offsets for tools one after one. Namely, button clicked once, measurement of

tools will be conducted one after one till all tools are calibrated. Similar to single measurement,
subroutines for fixed calibration will be called during measurement, and the result will be set into the tool
offset in Z direction. The calibrating orders vary due to different configurations and different active tool
number.

 For configuration with two cylinders:

The spindle tool being T1, the calibrating sequence is 1-2; the spindle tool being T2, the sequence is 2-1.

 For configuration with three cylinders:

The spindle tool being 1, the calibrating sequence is 1-2-3; the spindle tool being 2, the sequence is
2-3-1; the spindle tool being 3, the sequence will be 3-2-1.

 For configuration with four cylinders:

No matter what the tool number of the spindle tool is, the calibrating sequence remains the same,
namely, 1-2-3-4.

 Process when Measuring All (Taking 3-cylinder-1-inverter configuration as an example)

1) Assuming the spindle tool is T1, after button clicked, cylinder 1 opens, and the Z axis

moves to the pre-defined fixed position (decided by parameter “FixedCalibratorBlockPosition”) at

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rapid traverse speed, then heads towards the tool sensor surface at presetting speed (decided by
parameter “CALI_SPEED”) to find tool calibrating signal, with calibrating times being 1.

2) After calibrating, the result is entered into the parameter of tool position offset automatically. Z axis
moves to the upper position (decided by parameter “CTUP”); cylinder 1 turns off while cylinder 2
turns on.

3) The X and Y axes move by corresponding offset (XY machine coordinates=the current machine
coordinates + tool position offset of T2). The Z axis moves to the fixed position at rapid traverse
speed.

4) The Z axis moves at presetting speed to find calibrating signal, with calibrating times being 1; at the
end of it, the result is recorded into the parameter of tool position offset automatically. The Z axis
moves to the upper position.

5) Cylinder 2 turns off and cylinder 3 turns on. The X and Y axes move by corresponding offset (XY
machine coordinates=the current machine coordinates + tool position offset of T3). The Z axis
moves to the fixed position at rapid traverse speed.

6) The Z axis moves at presetting speed to find calibrating signal, with calibrating times being 1. After
calibrating, the result is recorded into the parameter of tool position offset automatically. The Z axis
moves to the upper position.

7) The calibration ends, and the current cylinder does not turn off. The system prompts “All
measurement of tool length complete”. Click [OK] to finish the measurement.

Functions “Set Tool Length”, “Single Measure” and “Measure All” are available
only in IDLE state and the tool number being a specific number, namely, the
CAUTION tool number being 1 or 2 or 3 or 4 at one time.
In the process of “Single Measure” and “Measure All”, clicking button or
shortcut key F2 / F11 will terminate the calibration.

10.2. Select Cylinders

1) For 2-cylinder-1-inverter, 3-cylinder-1-invereter and 4-cylinder-1-inverter software, buttons of
cylinder selection are interlocked, namely, clicking one button will open the cylinder and changing
the tool number accordingly while making the rest button pop-up; clicking it again will make the
cylinder closed and the button pop-up In other words, when one cylinder is opened (the button with
raised appearance), the other cylinders will be closed (the buttons with sunken appearance).

2) For 2-cylinder-2-inverter, 3-cylinder-3-invereter and 4-cylinder-4-inverter software, all buttons of

cylinder selection are non-interference. Both alternative and linkage controls can be realized. For

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example: cylinder 1 is opened (the button being held down) and the tool number is 1, if at this time,
cylinder 2 is opened (the button being held down), the cylinder 2 will be opened with cylinder 1 still
being opened, while the tool number will be 12. Clicking the button of cylinder 1 again will make it
pop-up, cylinder 1 pulled back and tool number changed to 2, and so on.

All cylinder selection buttons are available only in IDLE status. Please note that
the system will lift the tool to the position “CTUP” first before switching among
CAUTION cylinders. Delay in tool change is effective only when encountering T command
in machining.

10.3. Clear
Manually move the spindle to the desired origin position; click to set the position

as the origin in X\Y\Z axis separately; clicking will set the origin in XY axes together.

The Clear operation in Z axis can also be done via calibration. Manually move the spindle to the desired
position, click [Measure Workpiece Surface] in Calibration window.

10.4. Fine Tune the Tool Position Offset

This function aims to fine tuning the tool position offsets. As shown below, click the button to make
corresponding adjustments.

Fig. 10-2 Adjust tool offset

CAUTION Before adjusting tool offsets, please make sure that the cylinder is open.

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11. Operation of Double Z Software

Operations of double Z axes software are similar with those of general three axes software in most
occasions. The most obvious difference is that double Z axes software includes four axes, namely
X/Y/Z1/Z2, while general three axes software includes three axes, namely X/Y/Z axes. The following
parts will illustrate the differences of double Z axes software from general three axes software.

11.1. CNC State Window

Under the NC Information Bar is the NC State window, which can be divided into five areas according to
their functions. From the left to the right, they are Current position area, Feedrate area, Spindle speed
area, Command set and machining cycle area as well as Tool info area.

Current Spindle speed Command &

Feedrate area Tool info area
position area area machining cycle area

Fig. 11-1 NC State window of double Z axes software

 Current Position Area

Different from that of general three axes software, the double Z axes software involves four axes, namely
X, Y, Z1, and Z2 axes. Therefore, specific position information of four axes will be displayed here.
There are items “Select Z1”, “Select Z2” and “Select Z1+Z2” in the menu list of Machine. The system
chooses “Select Z1” by default. You can make your own choice and the active axes will be displayed in
the current position area, while inactive axis will be displayed in grey. For example, the following two
pictures correspond to the selection of “Select Z2” and “Select Z1+Z2” separately.

Fig. 11-2 Select Z2 Fig. 11-3 Select Z1+Z2

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11.2. NcStudio Operation Windows

The different window is “Calibration Operation Window”. This window is for tool calibration or conducting
tool presetting operation. Please note that it is much different from that of general axes software. The
calibration window of double Z axes software is shown as below:

Fig. 11-4 Calibration window in double Z axes software

 [Go to “Set current work coordinates”] Button

Click this button or right-click at any position in NC State Window to open a dialog box, as illustrated
below:

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Fig. 11-5 Current workpiece coordinate setting

 Current Coordinate:
It displays the current workpiece coordinates. The user can modify the value directly here, and each
modification will be followed by a prompt, as illustrated below:

Fig. 11-6 Current coordinates setting

 Workpiece offset:
Also called part offset. Offset X/Y represents the offset of workpiece origin with respect to the machine
origin. In other words, it is the machine coordinates of X/Y axis when tool nose moves to the workpiece
origin. In this system, only G54 WCS is supported.

Fig. 11-7 Offset setting

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External offset, also known as public offset, records the temporary adjusted value of workpiece origin.
This value can only be adjusted manually and cannot be changed by any auto function. This means that
the value will not be changed and maintained during fixed calibration or mobile calibration. If the external
offset is not 0 before calibrating, the workpiece coordinate will not be 0 either after calibrating. For
example, if the external offset is 10 before calibrating, this value will remain 10 after calibrating and the
workpiece coordinate will be -10.

 Z Axis

Fig. 11-8 Z axis adjustment

Clicking one of the buttons will make the Z axis workpiece origin move up or down a fixed distance to
form a new WCS; clicking the button repeatedly will make the Z axis workpiece origin move the
accumulated distance.

 Calibration Function

Fig. 11-9 Calibration function

Workpiece thickness: the height from the workpiece surface (Z axis workpiece origin) to the workbench
surface (normally≥0).

Input a value into the box and click button to make the system
start calibrating after finding the calibration signal.
You can calibrate the tools in Z1 and Z2 axis respectively by repeating the above operation. Click button

or to switch between the two Z axes.

The above operation is mobile calibration, you can refer to 4.9.1 for more
CAUTION details.

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11.3. NcStudio Menu System

11.3.1. “File” Menu
 Configuration
The configuration of double Z axes software is determined by the combination of rotary table and
controlling pattern. Namely, it can be divided into four types, linkage configuration without rotary table,
alternative configuration without rotary table, linkage configuration with rotary table and alternative
configuration with rotary table, as you can see below. Choose the desired configuration according to the
machine conditions. It is much different from the counterpart of general three axes software, which
should be pay attention to. You can refer to the introduction in chapter 5.1.

Fig. 11-10 Configuration options

 Linkage Configuration for Double Spindles

Linkage configuration without rotary table. With the configuration active, when switching between the Z1
and Z2 axes, the system will move the current axis to the safety position “ZMAX-1” (parameter N1172
“ZWorkCoordinateUpperLimit”), while keeping the target axis unmoved. For example, the current axis
being Z1 and the target axis Z2, when switching from Z1 to Z2, the system will move Z1 axis to the safety
position first before activating Z2 axis.

 Alternative Configuration for Double Spindles

Alternative configuration without rotary table. With the configuration active, when switching between Z1
and Z2 axes, similar to the linkage configuration, the system will move the current axis to the safety
position first before activating the target axis.

 Linkage-rev Configuration for Double Spindles

Linkage configuration with rotary table. A rotary table is added based on the linkage configuration, with Y
axis as the revolving axis.

 Alternative-rev Configuration for Double Spindles

Alternative configuration with rotary table. A rotary table is added based on the alternative configuration,
with Y axis as the revolving axis.

The configuration is pre-set by the machine tool builder and beyond

CAUTION modification by the end-users. Otherwise, possible machine failure may occur.

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11.3.2. “Operation” Menu

The item list under “Operation” menu in double Z axes software is shown as below:

Fig. 11-11 Operation menu

 Set Workpiece Coordinates

With the item selected, a dialog box titled “Set current work coordinate” will pop up, as shown below,
where you can set the current position as the workpiece origin, adjust the offset in the Z axis, and
conduct centering operation, etc. please refer to chapter 11.2 for details.

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Fig. 11-12 Set work coordinates

11.3.3. “Machine” Menu

The item list under “Machine” menu is shown as below:

Fig. 11-13 Machine menu

 Select Z1, Select Z2, Select Z1+Z2

There are four available axes in double Z axes software, as implied by the name. There are three kinds
of enabled axes, that is, enabled axes XYZ1, enabled axes XYZ2 and enabled axes XYZ1Z2. Besides,

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“Select Z1+Z2” item is exclusively effective under linkage configurations. When single Z axis is active,
only one and the selected Z axis can move; while when dual Z axes are active, the two axes can move
simultaneously and share the same actions.

 Linkage Configuration for Double Spindles

Under this configuration, the machine tool will not move when the system is switching between [Select
Z1] and [Select Z2]. That is, the Z1 and Z2 axes will maintain their respective original height.
When switched to [Select Z1+Z2], the machine tool may generate motion if the workpiece coordinates of
Z1 axis and Z2 axis do not coincide. Otherwise, the machine tool will keep still. When the machine tool
ceases moving, the workpiece coordinates of Z1 and Z2 axes will be the same.

 Alternative Configuration for Double Spindles

Under this configuration, item [Select Z1+Z2] is unavailable, shown in grey.
When item [Select Z1] or [Select Z1] is chosen, the current axis will return to the machine origin but the
target axis will not move. For example, the current axis being Z1 and the selected axis being Z2, the Z2
axis will be not activated until the Z1 axis returns to the machine origin successfully.
Under this configuration, the machine tool will generate the following actions when executing T code (e.g.
change tool from T1 to T2):
1) Stop Z1 spindle;
2) Raise Z1 to the machine origin;
3) Disable Z1 axis;
4) Select and enable Z2 axis;
5) Move the Z2 axis to the previous workpiece coordinate position of Z1 before tool change.

No matter under linkage configuration or alternative configuration, the current

CAUTION workpiece coordinates can be cleared only in single-Z-axis mode. When double
Z axes are both active, such operation is forbidden.

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12. Shortcut Keys List

Here are shortcut keys for NcStudio V8 software.

Shortcut Key Function Shortcut Key Function

Global shortcut keys
Switch among function
Esc Tab Switch among controls
windows
Ctrl+1 Activate Auto window Ctrl+2 /ScrLk Activate Manual window
Activate Calibration
Ctrl+3 Ctrl+4 Enable Scan Function
window
Ctrl+F1 Switch to Z1 axis Ctrl+F2 Switch to Z2 axis
Ctrl+F7 Mobile calibration Ctrl+F9 Advanced start
Return to the reference
Ctrl+Home Ctrl+Enter Full screen
point
Switch among the
Ctrl+Tab Ctrl+Del Clear trace
folding windows
Execute MDI(Manual
Ctrl+Shift+F9 Ctrl+A Select all
Direct Input) instructions
Ctrl+C Copy Ctrl+E Open and edit
Ctrl+F Search/Find Ctrl+H Replace
Ctrl+I Show machining info Ctrl+N New
Ctrl+O Open and load Ctrl+P Edit
Ctrl+S Save Ctrl+U Unload
Ctrl+V Paste Ctrl+X Cut
Ctrl+Z Undo ALT+1/F4 Activate Trace window
Activate Manager
ALT+2 Activate Log window ALT+3
window
ALT+4 Activate Editor window ALT+5 Activate I/O state window
F3 Find next F5 Direct positioning
Set workpiece
F6 coordinates of the F7 Return to the WCS Zero
current point
F8 Enter (Exit) simulation F9 Start
F10/Pause Break Pause F11 Stop
Return to tool change
F12 Shift+F6 Set as the WCS Zero
position
Resume machining form
Shift+F7 Fixed Calibration Shift+F9
the interrupted point

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Shortcut Key Function Shortcut Key Function

Shortcut keys for Maunal window
X-
ScrLk Activate Manual window 4 ( In jog and increment
mode)
X+ Y-
6 ( In jog and increment 2 ( In jog and increment
mode) mode)
Y+ Z-
8 ( In jog and increment 1 ( In jog and increment
mode) mode)
Z+
9 ( In jog and increment
mode)
Shortcut keys for Trace window
Show current machining
Home Center End
point
+ -
Zoom in Zoom out
(mini-keyboard) (mini-keyboard)
* 5
Fit to window size Front view
(mini-keyboard) (mini-keyboard)
8 2
Top view Bottom view
(mini-keyboard) (mini-keyboard)
4 6
Left view Right view
(mini-keyboard) (mini-keyboard)
1 7
Southwest view Northwest view
(mini-keyboard) (mini-keyboard)
3 9
Southeast view Northeast view
(mini-keyboard) (mini-keyboard)
Alt+→ or Alt+← Rotate around Z axis Alt+↑ or Alt+↓ Rotate around X axis
Alt+PgUp/Alt+PgDn Rotate around Y axis

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13. Software License Agreement

Important—Read Carefully before Using This Product:

The term “Software Product” includes all copies of the licensed software and its documentation. This
license agreement is a legal agreement between You (either an individual, a legal entity or any affiliated
companies or other entities) and Weihong Electronic Technology Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as
Weihong Company). By installing, copying, or otherwise using the Software Product, you agree to be
bound by the terms and conditions of this license. Unless otherwise stated in this agreement, you shall
not use, copy, revise, rent, or transfer the Software product or any part of the Software Product for any
other purposes.

Description of Further Rights and Restrictions:

1. You may install for use one copy of the Software Product on a single machine;
2. You may make a copy of the Software Product for archive or backup purposes and the copy is
to be used on this machine only;
3. You may transfer the Software Product and the license agreement to a third party, provided that
the third party accepts the terms and conditions stated in this agreement, with prior express
permission from Weihong Company;
4. When transfer confirmed, you shall transfer all the copies of the original documents and the
supplementary documents to the third party or destroy all the copies un-transferred.
5. You can use the Software Product on a network server or intranet server only if it is stipulated in
explicit terms that you are allowed to use the Software Product on a network server or intranet
server, or you have purchased license for each node and terminal using the Software Product;
6. You may NOT sublicense, assign or transfer the license agreement;
7. You may NOT or direct any third party to reverse engineer, decompile or disassemble the
Software Product;
8. You may NOT copy or transfer the Software Product or any part of the Software Product unless
otherwise expressly stated in this agreement;
9. The license agreement shall be terminated automatically upon you transfer the Software
Product or copies of all or part of the Software Product to a third party.

Intellectual Property Rights Notice

The Software Product and all intellectual property rights therein (including but not limited to any all
copyrights, patents, trademarks, and publicity rights) are owned by Weihong Company. The Software

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 Specialized Concentrated Focused

Product is protected for Weihong Company on the basis of copyright law and international treaty
provisions as well as on the basis of other laws and agreements regarding intellectual property. You are
not allowed to remove the copyright statement made in the Software Product, and guarantee that you
shall copy the copyright statement in all copies of the Software Product or of any part of the Software
Product. You are obliged to stop any form of illegal copying of the Software Product and accompanying
materials.

After-sales Guarantee:

Weihong Company guarantees that for 90 days from the date of shipment the software carrier will be
free from defects in materials and workmanship. When such a defect has been confirmed, our only
responsibility is to replace the software carrier. This remedy is your exclusive remedy. This after-sales
guarantee is invalid for any carrier defect caused by accidents, abuses or mal-operation. The replaced
software carrier enjoys the remaining guarantee time of the original software carrier or of a 30-day
guarantee time, whichever is longer.
Except as the after-sales guarantee made above, the Software Product does not enjoy any other form of
after-sale guarantee.

Limitation of Liability:

The above guarantee, whether made explicitly or by implication, constitutes the entire contents of the
guarantee, including guarantee for the commerciality and applicability of special application aim.
Whether you follow other terms in this agreement or not, Weihong Company, as well as its agents and
sales staff, will not be responsible for any profits loss, availability loss, business break-off or any forms of
indirect, special, accidental or inevitable damage or claim made by any third party, generated from the
using of the Software Product, even if Weihong Company has been informed of the possible occurrence
of such events in advance.

Termination:

This license may be terminated by Weihong Company at any time once you violate any terms or
conditions made in this agreement. Once the license is terminated, you are obliged to destroy all the
copies of the Software Product or return them to Weihong Company.

Applicable Law:

Copyright Law, Regulations for the Protection of Computer Software, Patent Law and other relevant laws
and regulations.

Now, we affirm that you have already read through this agreement and understood it thoroughly and
agreed to comply with all of the terms and conditions of this agreement strictly.
Weihong Electronic Technology Co., Ltd.

「116」Software License Agreement