Centroid Community CNC Support Forum

I am new to CNC and spent the last 24 months converting a mill and learning Fusion 360. I am a CNC hobbyist. I have finally become comfortable with the mill and have been machining lots of fun parts. When I converted the mill, I always planned on using the Hallmark ITTP probe and wired a jack for it at that time. Next month I turn 60 and my wife convinced me to buy the probe!

I emailed Cliff at Hallmark Designs 2 years ago and he confirmed that the Hallmark probe is normally closed and that he could prepare one for me with a jumper across two of the terminals to act as a normally closed detection circuit (see below) to be used to let CNC12 "Know" when the probe was plugged in and turn on the probe protection mode.

Since this all took place over two years ago, can someone take a quick look at the schematic/notes I created and confirm that I'm good to go before I order this probe?

Thanks for all your help... Richard

looks ok, but I would consider getting the KP3 instead. Best non Renishaw probe I have used so far, and you can use a wide range of common available stylus sizes.

Uwe

KP3 is the way. Plus if any issues, you will have Centroid right there to help.

Thanks Uwe. I will take another look at the KP3. I was intrigued by the Hallmark probe due to its crash resistant design and the fact that the contacts are immersed in a dielectric gel.

What is the advantage of the different tip sizes on the KP3? Do the smaller sizes allow you to probe smaller internal spaces? Also, does the Software Probe Protection feature of CNC12 save the ruby in most cases should you jog in the wrong direction?

One other question... If I use the KP3, what is the best way to use it with the TTS tooling system. The Hallmark probe is available with a 3/4" TTS shank. How do you use the KP3 in this situation... Do you use a 1/2-inch collet which introduces some runout?

Thanks... Richard

Hi Richard,

KP3 is oil filled too.

If you do curved surface scanning for engraving, you want a tip <1mm
I you want to make a direkt 3D copy you want a tip of the same diameter as the ballnose mill is.
To reach deep areas, you need a long tip ect.

Allways use a dedicated toolholder for probes and mount it allways in the same direction in the spindle.

CNC12 features a very good probe protection, almost impossible to break a tip.

Uwe

Note that the downside of smaller diameter or longer probe styli is more probe shaft deflection.

Thanks, guys, for taking the time to provide such great insight. I am pressing the button to order the KP3 NOW!

Thanks again... Richard