Setting A Zero

X/Y

When low precision location of the X/Y zero is needed, simply jog the machine to the location over the material where the X/Y zero will be located. Once in the correct location, press the “Zero X” and “Zero Y” buttons in Mach3 or on the wireless remote. For most situations this is more than precise enough.

If more precision is needed, then an edge finder will need to be used. Once the edge has been found, press the “Zero X” and “Zero Y” buttons again.

Z (Manually)

The Z zero for the program should be set at the bottom or top of the material. Before zeroing the Z, this must be known and match the work coordinate location in the CAM software. Also have the end mill that will be used in the program installed and tightened in the collet.

Manually setting the Z zero is generally precise enough, if using a spoil board, for basic operations such as cutting though plate material. Jog the machine over the location where the Z zero will be set. Now jog the machine to be about 1/8th above the surface. Set the machine into step mode of .01”. Lower the Z slowly and stop before the material. Set the step value to .001”. Slowly spin the spindle by hand in reverse while slowly stepping down. When the end mill catches and stop spinning, stop stepping down in Z. This is Z zero. Press “Zero Z” in Mach3 or on the wireless remote.

Z (Auto)

Measure the thickness of the tool probe pad. Type this number into the “Gage Block Height” input field under the “Offsets” menu.

Position the probe pad on the surface that will be Z zero. Jog the tool over the probe pad and position it about 0.75” or less above the surface of the probe pad. Plug one end of the probe cable into the “Probe” port on the front of the machine. Attach the alligator clip to the end mill in the machine. In Mach3 press the “Auto Tool Zero” on the “Program Run” page. The machine will move down and touch the probe pad to set the Z zero.

Be sure to check that the tool probe is connected properly by going to the diagnostic page and touching the probe clamp to the probe base. The digitize light should turn on when this happens. If not, DO NOT use the probe as the machine will not stop when the tool touches the probe.