CNC12 DEMO MODE??

[backyard_cnc]

I just ordered an ACORN to update my MACH3 6040 CNC router and i wonder if its possible to have a demo mode of the software without a connection to the board. just like to get a feel for it while waiting for the ACORN to arrive?

gerald

[centroidsupport]

The servo software has a demo program that will do what you want.

https://www.centroidcnc.com/centroid_di ... v420-D.exe

[cnckeith]

The servo software has a demo program that will do what you want.

https://www.centroidcnc.com/centroid_di ... v420-D.exe

....not quite the same as Acorn CNC12, no Acorn Wizard, and different VCP. so....
I'd wait for your Acorn to arrive and hook up in bench test configuration so you can run the actual Acorn CNC12 software.
Be sure to follow the instructions here. There many things you can do in preparation.
https://www.centroidcnc.com/centroid_di ... guide.html

[martyscncgarage]

As Keith mentioned, there is nothing to configure with the Demo software, there is no Wizard or Virtual Control Panel. The PC must be able to communicate with the hardware in order for that to work.

That said, what Centroidsupport suggested will allow you to get a feel for the software, loading a program, looking setting up tool library, etc.
Just basically a look around "kick the tires" lots of videos on YouTube you can go watch while waiting for it to arrive.

Marty

[suntravel]

IMHO the Demo is good to get used to Intercon or test programs in the living room on a Laptop. Graphics are working an you can setup the tool library.

I am using it a lot of the machine. The way you can turn 3D graphics in the Demo different to Acorn for me even better.

Regards

Uwe

[cnckeith]

The way you can turn 3D graphics in the Demo different to Acorn for me even better.

Regards

Uwe

accelerated graphics is in Acorn CNC12 as well. use parameter #260 to activate it. set P260=1

page 312 in the Mill Operator manual.

[suntravel]

The way you can turn 3D graphics in the Demo different to Acorn for me even better.

Regards

Uwe

accelerated graphics is in Acorn CNC12 as well. use parameter #260 to activate it. set P260=1

page 312 in the Mill Operator manual.

Thanks Keith for the kick

I have read about this setting but never changed it, was sure must be on by default

Now I am happy, working with Centroid gets smoother every day.

Kind regards

Uwe

[Sword]

Keith, on the topic of accelerated graphics, how about having a toggle for this on the graph screen? Since default is "off" and the only way to turn it on is through params, many may never give it a try. It would also be great if the "Run" screen could use this type of view, but with a cone that follows and highlights the toolpath as it's running, and isn't dependent upon tool diameter (thus eliminating the issue of people either not seeing the tool dot or it being too large). Here's an example of what that could look like in both "Run" and "Graph". The added dimensions would be a bonus. I seldom if ever use the "Run" screen, due to the way RTG currently is displayed.

Just some thoughts for future improvements.

[Gary Campbell]

Keith, on the topic of accelerated graphics, how about having a toggle for this on the graph screen? Since default is "off" and the only way to turn it on is through params, many may never give it a try. It would also be great if the "Run" screen could use this type of view, but with a cone that follows and highlights the toolpath as it's running, and isn't dependent upon tool diameter (thus eliminating the issue of people either not seeing the tool dot or it being too large). Here's an example of what that could look like in both "Run" and "Graph". The added dimensions would be a bonus. I seldom if ever use the "Run" screen, due to the way RTG currently is displayed.

Just some thoughts for future improvements.

A big PLUS ONE

[Nigelo]

Yep +1 from me too