Chapter 3
Programming the Crusader II CNC Mill

Consider the following factors when writing a program:

Manual Data Input (MDI)

For programming via MDI from the controller console:

1. The mode must be active to be able to enter, insert, delete, or edit data in the Crusader's memory.
   
   
2. To step through the memory, the mode must be active; then
   • to step forward, press ; to step backward, press or
   • to search for a specific block, use the numeric keypad and the button.
     
     
3. The button works just like a carriage return-- it means end-of-block (EOB).
   
   
4. The button inserts a blank block into the program by "shoving down" the displayed and following events.
   The inserted blank block can then be programmed. Adding a statement works only in the mode.
   
   
5. The button deletes the displayed event from the memory. Deleting a statement works only in the mode.
   
   
6. The button clears the display of residual data, but does not index the memory to the next event. Individual axis data can be cleared by depressing the appropriate axis button: , , or .

Off-Line Programming

Programs input via RS 232-C serial port (microcomputer or DSI NC 2400 tape reader) must:

1. Begin and end with a block containing only a percent symbol (%) and carriage return-- and no other characters--to open and close the Crusader's memory.
   
   
2. Utilize the ASCII tape code (RS 358, even parity).
   
   
3. Utilize the following RS 274-D format:
   
                    N4.0 G2.0 XYZIJK3.4 F2.1 M4.0 T4.0 EOB.
   
   
   • In addition, S, C, D, LV, & E address words are used for Subroutine, Call, Do, Load Variable, and End.
     These words must be preceded by G29.
   • G29 is also used for LOADING tool length offset (TLO) data (e.g., G29 T1003 Z-2.375) but NOT for activating TLOs.
   • Spaces are ignored.
   • Positive values are assumed.
   • Leading and trailing zeros can be omitted (zero suppression).
     
     
4. Use G00 to initiate rapid travel (100 IPM). It is modal.
   
   
5. Use G01 to initiate linear feedrate motion. It is modal.
   • The actual feedrate utilized will be the most recent one programmed.
   • The default feedrate is 40 IPM.
   • Feedrates (utilizing the address word F) can be programmed from 0.01 to 80.0 IPM with leading and trailing zero suppression.
   • Feed rates are modal.

Programming Tool Length Offsets (TLOs)

The first section of the program must be devoted to entering tool length offsets (TLOs).

See Chapter 11for the definition of TLO and various procedures for setting TLOs.

Copyright © 2003 George C. Stanton & Bill Hemphill
All Rights Reserved

Last updated on Feb. 8, 2003 by Bill Hemphill