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Category: SOFTWARE
How to create custom tabs in PlanetCNC TNG software
User can create new state tabs. State tabs are displayed on main user interface and can include any parameter used by software whether its tool offset value, number of g-code line or absolute position of machine. By default, software will display only state tabs “GCode” and “IO”. User can create up to 30 state tabs. To create new […]
How to measure work position with movable sensor in PlanetCNC TNG software
This tutorial will explain how to correctly use Work Position / Measure Height feature with movable sensor using PlanetCNC TNG software and PlanetCNC motion controllers. Movable Sensor Movable sensor is basically a switch that sends signal to motion controller corresponding input pin. Software will then calculate Z axis work position zero value, which is usually […]
How to measure tool offset with fixed tool sensor in PlanetCNC TNG software
This tutorial will explain how to correctly use Tool Offset / Measure feature with fixed tool sensor using PlanetCNC TNG software and PlanetCNC motion controllers. Fixed tool sensor For fixed tool sensor we can use a dedicated tool measuring switch or, most basic solution, a standard micro switch fixed to machine table. When tool activates tool […]
How to configure limit switch inputs of controller in PlanetCNC TNG software
Limit switches are used for reference (homing procedure) and as a safety feature. In order that software recognizes limit switch activation and makes appropriate action, we need to configure limit switch inputs in settings: File/Settings/Motors/Limit Switches. Examples below will demonstrate use of different limit switch wiring methods for X axis. All shown principles can be used for all […]
How to set homing procedure in PlanetCNC TNG software
This tutorial will explain how to correctly use Machine/Home feature. Homing procedure will reference machine axes and set machine work area. First you would need to configure your machines step per unit values, motor & soft limits and limit switch inputs of controller: How to set step per unit values in PlanetCNC TNG software How to […]
How to set motion limits in PlanetCNC TNG software
This tutorial will explain how to set motion limits of your machine under File/Settings/Motion-> “Range”. First you need to configure step per unit values, limit switch inputs of controller and motor limits: How to set Steps Per Unit values in PlanetCNC TNG software How to configure limit switch inputs of controller in PlanetCNC TNG software How to set […]
How to set motor & soft limits in PlanetCNC TNG software
This tutorial will explain how to set motor and soft limits of your machine. Soft limits (sometimes also program limits term is used) will stop machine motion when motor limit values of specific machine axis are achieved (without any limit switch activation). Soft limits will stop machine in soft stop fashion, meaning axis motors will use deceleration – hence the […]
How to set step per unit values in PlanetCNC TNG software
This tutorial will explain how to correctly configure step per unit values of your machine. Step per unit value (in further text SPU) defines how many step pulses controller needs to generate in order that machine axis moves for distance of one unit. Units can be in millimeters or in inches. SPU value depends […]
Basic PlanetCNC TNG connection settings
PlanetCNC TNG software recognizes all PlanetCNC controllers that are connected to your PC trough USB or Network ports. However, only Mk3 series of controllers (Mk3, MK3/4,MK3DRV,Mk3ECO) can be used with TNG sw. It is essential that user sets “Primary controller” in settings. Without this, you will not be able to control your machine! Basic connection […]
NEW TNG users: List of essential PlanetCNC TNG tutorials
New to PlanetCNC TNG software? Don’t worry, here you can find list of tutorials that explain how to start using PlanetCNC TNG software as fastest and as effectively as possible. It is very recommended to follow these tutorials in chronological order: 1. PlanetCNC TNG software overview and performance guidelines Short description of PlanetCNC TNG software […]
PlanetCNC TNG Linux installation guide
We used freshly installed Linux – Ubuntu MATE distribution for this guide. Please note that distributions differ one from another so these steps may not be suitable for all distributions and installation methods may vary. 1.) Start your Ubuntu MATE system. 2.) Using your web browser, download PlanetCNC TNG version from PlanetCNC download page: PlanetCNC […]
Obtaining and activating license for PlanetCNC controller with TNG software
We are aware that license is an annoyance. But please understand us. PlanetCNC TNG software works only with Mk3 series of controllers: Mk3, Mk3/4, Mk3DRVand Mk3ECO. You cannot use PlanetCNC TNG software with Mk2,Mk2/4, and Mk1 controllers! To obtain your PlanetCNC TNG license please follow steps below(follow steps very carefully and in exact order): 1.) […]
