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Columns Published on 11/13/2008
Automatically Backing Up Your Fixture Offsets

In most applications, offsets are so dynamic (often changed) that that you wouldn’t even consider keeping a backup copy. But consider a more complicated machining center qualified setup. A backup copy may prove to be beneficial. 

Columns Published on 10/14/2008
Which Is Better For Looping—IF Or WHILE?

With custom macro B, there are two logic words that can be used for creating loops—the two types of loops are called IF and WHILE statement loops. So which one should you use for your applications?

Columns Published on 9/29/2008
Custom Macro To Helically Mill A Counterbore

Counterboring is a machining operation that will enlarge an existing hole’s diameter to a specified depth. Traditionally, counterboring is done with either a special counterboring tool that has a pilot, or it is done with an end mill. In either case, the diameter of the tool (end mill or counterbore) must match the diameter that is counterbored.

Columns Published on 8/20/2008
Did A Parameter Setting Cause That Problem?

As you probably know, parameters control many functions of a CNC. Just about every CNC function has at least one related parameter setting—everything from setting initialized states at power-up to determining the specific procedure required for powering down is controlled by parameter settings.

Columns Published on 7/26/2008
Multiple Machine Operation Revisited

Multiple machine operation has been the subject of several recent Tech Talk columns (January through May of 2008). I have received many comments, and I want to thank everyone who responded. The series states that successful applications for having one operator run multiple machines do not just happen—a successf

Columns Published on 7/23/2008
Can Parametric Programming And CAM Systems Coexist?

I know most high-level CAM system programmers cringe when the topic of CNC-based parametric programming is discussed. Most programmers need clean output that will run in CNCs without modification—and if misapplied, some of these parametric programming applications can really gum up the works. There are five applic

Columns Published on 6/1/2008
Diagnosing Unusual Machine Behavior

Though problems can still exist with machine electronics and internal software, most of the common problems today are caused by user mistakes.

Columns Published on 5/1/2008
Multiple Machine Operation—Interference

I urge you to proceed with caution when studying the feasibility of having one operator run two machines. Be absolutely sure that doing so will render the desired results—and that it will not cost more than having a separate operator run each machine. One cause of interference that is often overlooked prior to the operator-utilization decision is related to the tasks you expect your operators to perform on each finished part upon its completion.

Columns Published on 4/2/2008
Multiple Machine Operation—Evaluating Specific Applications

To determine whether a given application consistently falls within or exceeds the operator-utilization cutoff point, I’ve developed a spreadsheet that you can download at

Columns Published on 4/1/2008
Multiple Machine Operation—Interference Is The Enemy

Interference is the term I use to describe when one machine sits idle while waiting for the operator to do something on another machine. For example, if both machines finish their cycles at precisely the same time, and if neither machine has an automatic loading device, one machine will sit idle waiting for the (one) operator to load the other machine.

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