PlanetCNC TNG

User manual
2020/02/28
Disclaimer
Disclaimer
CONTROLLER AND CONTROLLER SOFTWARE ARE PROVIDED TO YOU "AS IS," WITHOUT
WARRANTY. THERE IS NO WARRANTY FOR THE CONTROLLER AND CONTROLLER
SOFTWARE, EITHER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE
IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE AND NONINFRINGEMENT OF THIRD PARTY RIGHTS. THE ENTIRE RISK AS TO
THE QUALITY AND PERFORMANCE OF THE CONTROLLER OR CONTROLLER SOFTWARE
IS WITH YOU. SHOULD THE CONTROLLER OR CONTROLLER SOFTWARE PROVE
DEFECTIVE, YOU ASSUME THE COST OF ALL NECESSARY SERVICING, REPAIR OR
CORRECTION.
IN NO EVENT SHALL THE AUTHOR BE LIABLE TO YOU FOR DAMAGES, INCLUDING ANY
GENERAL, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE
USE OR INABILITY TO USE THE CONTROLLER OR CONTROLLER SOFTWARE.
2
Introduction
1 Introduction
1.1 Overview
The PlanetCNC series of CNC motion controllers are link between a personal computer and motor
drivers supporting step/direction control. They are compatible with most drivers. The controllers
use the USB or Ethernet port, available on all modern computers and laptops. They can serve as
direct replacement or upgrade for many parallel port break-out boards.
There are different models available. PlanetCNC controllers provide a complete, fully integrated
software/hardware solution. The PlanetCNC TNG software is a dedicated application, designed to
fully exploit the features of the purpose-built CNC hardware. It has many advanced features to
assist day-to-day CNC machine operation.
3
Introduction
1.2 Features and specifications:

• PC/Laptop running Windows 7, 8, 8.1 or Windows 10 (32-bit or 64-bit)
• PC/Laptop running Linux 64-bit OS
• iMAC with High Sierra or newer OS
• Raspberry Pi 3 and Pi4 running Raspbian
• PC/Laptop with USB (V2.x) or Ethernet port (Mk3 controller only)
• advanced motion interpolation and kinematic algorithms
• start, stop, pause and resume execution of program on your machine
• standard RS274/NGC G-code with extensions to achieve full LinuxCNC G-code
compatibility
• support for user defined M-codes
• customizable M-codes (e.g.: custom M6, M3,... behavior)
• tested with DeskProto, SheetCAM, SolidCAM, MasterCAM, ArtCAM, Vectric, CamBam,
MeshCAM ... generated G-code
• foam cutting 4-axes G-code supported
• lathe G-codes supported
• plasma with optional THC G-code supported
• rotational axes G-code supported
• 5-axes G-code supported
• measuring and probing supported
• spindle synchronization supported
• canned cycles supported
• transformations, different coordinate systems and offsets supported
• PWM, I2C, SPI, USART communication with external devices
• import toolpath from DXF files
• import toolpath from PLT/HPGL files
• import toolpath from image files
• import toolpath from NC-Drill (Excellon) files
• import toolpath from Gerber (RS-274X) files
• export toolpath to different formats
• simulation
• automatic and fully configurable homing procedure
• fully configurable toolchange procedure
• automatic tool length measuring
4
Introduction
1.3 System Requirements

PlanetCNC TNG is a high performance CNC system. It is designed with flexibility in mind and it
can be used for mills, routers, lathes, plasma or laser machines as well as any other machine or
system where coordinated movement of servo or stepper motors is needed.
PlanetCNC TNG software works with Mk3 series of PlanetCNC motion controllers and PC running
Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10 or Linux.
For best performance of PlanetCNC TNG software, PC with 4 virtual processors(cores) CPU is
recommended. However, PC’s with 2 virtual processors will do just fine. Various services running in
the background, antivirus software and program updates can interfere with PlanetCNC TNG
performance and that is why dedicated computer is recommended.
If using USB, controller should be connected directly to computers root USB port. We recommend
that you connect controller to computer root USB port via USB HUB device. Note that controller
should be the only USB device connected on this HUB.
You see, all devices connected to the same HUB device share available bandwidth. Because data
traffic is prioritized by the OS, it would not be uncommon if another device connected to same HUB
would interfere with controller and therefore compromise the communication between controller
and PC.
5
Software
2 Software
2.1 Overview
PlanetCNC TNG software is designed to fully exploit the advanced features of controller hardware.
At the same time the software remains user friendly. Even those new to CNC machining can
employ advanced functions with ease.
Configuration options allow for maximum flexibility, integration and customization.
Simulation features are designed for fast verification of NC programs. Simulation can run
automatically, under keyboard or mouse control, or by selection of individual lines in an NC
program. Zoom, pan or rotate of the preview does not interrupt simulation.
The software has useful G-Code manipulation and transformation functions. G-Code can be
bookmarked, copied pasted and edited. It can be shifted, scaled mirrored and rotated. Code re-
mapping for foam cutter applications is available.
There are many functions to assist creation of toolpaths. A wide range of content can be directly
imported or converted to NC program.
6
Software
2.2 Installation
PlanetCNC TNG software is compatible with Linux (tested with Ubuntu MATE distribution),
Windows 7, Windows 8, 8.1 and Windows 10(32 or 64 bit). Installation is a two-part process. Driver
installation is performed, after which the main application can be installed and configured. The
installation process is largely ‘automatic.’ In most cases it’s possible to accept ‘default’ options.
7
Software
2.2.1 Software installation on Windows

Download installation files from PlanetCNC (www.planet-cnc.com) homepage:
https://planet-cnc.com/software/
From Choose your download drop-down menu select PlanetCNC TNG 2018 – Windows and click
Download. Double click on downloaded PlanetCNC_Install.exe file to begin with installation.
Setup-PlanetCNC dialogue will be displayed:
8
Software
Setup-PlanetCNC dialogue will ask if you are ready to install, click Install:
9
Software
Complete PlanetCNC Setup wizard by clicking Finish:
2.2.2
10
Software
2.2.3 Software installation on Linux

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.
Start your Ubuntu MATE system:
11
Software
Using your web browser, download PlanetCNC TNG version from PlanetCNC download page:
https://planet-cnc.com/software/
12
Software
Under download options choose PlanetCNC TNG preview-Linux and click

Download button:
13
Software
When download dialogue appears, select Save File and hit OK button:
14
Software
When download is complete, click Open folder button:
15
Software
In Downloads folder, right click on downloaded file and click: Extract To…:
16
Software
Extract dialogue will appear, click: Create Folder button:
17
Software
Type in the name of new folder: PlanetCNC
18
Software
19
Software
Open PlanetCNC folder and click Extract button:
20
Software
Extracted files will now populate PlanetCNC folder:
21
Software
Right mouse click on blank space and click: Open in Terminal
22
Software
Terminal window will appear:
23
Software
Write: sh install.sh
24
Software
Type in your root password and hit enter.
25
Software
PlanetCNC TNG software will automatically launch:
26
Software
2.3 Main Window
On launch of PlanetCNC TNG software, Main Window will display.
Main window consists of nine sections - panels. Each provides information or function concerning
machine control, G-Code program execution, displaying machine or controller state, jogging,
program editing etc..
• Menu bar
• Toolbars
• Position panel
• Speed panel
• State panel
• Jog panel
• 3D
• Gcode panel
• Utilities panel
27
Software
2.3.1 Menu bar
Menu bar is populated by File, View, Program, Machine and Help menu items as also main window
manipulation buttons. If file is imported, file name and file path are displayed:
Drop down menu will appear if you click on a dedicated menu item:
2.3.1.1 Buttons for panel display manipulation

On the right side of menu bar are buttons for panel manipulation. Left button is used for show/hide
of Position, Speed, State and Jog panels, centre button is used for show/hide Utilities panel and
right button is used for show/hide of the G-code panel. When button is enabled its shape will
change.
All three buttons disabled:
All three buttons enabled:
Also buttons for minimize, resize and close PlanetCNC TNG main window:
28
Software
You can hide/show Position, Speed, State and Jog panel with left button:
29
Software
You can hide/show G-code panel with right button:
30
Software
You can hide/show utilities panel with centre button:
31
Software
2.3.2 Toolbars
2.3.2.1 Top toolbar:
Emergency stop: Executes immediate Emergency Stop (E-Stop)

Open program: Loads a G-Code program
Start execution: Start program execution
Stop execution: Stop program execution
Pause execution: Pause program execution
Top View: Display G-Code program view from the top

Side View: Display G-Code program view from the side
Front View: Display G-Code program view from the front
Perspective View: Display G-Code program using ‘Perspective’ view
Zoom In: Zoom display in to view details
Zoom Out: Zoom display out to view a larger area
Zoom Tool: Zoom display to the current tool position
Zoom Extents: Zoom display to the G-Code program extents
Mist: Activate / Deactivate Coolant Mist

Flood: Activate / Deactivate Coolant Flood
Spindle: Activate / Deactivate Spindle
32
Software
2.3.2.2 Left toolbar:
Move/To Zero:
Moves the machine XY and Z axes to zero position.
Move/Axis To Zero/XY:
Moves the machine X and Y axes to zero position.
Move/To G28:
Moves machine to the absolute G28 position as set with Machine/Absolute Position/As
G30.
Move/ To G30:
Moves machine to the absolute G30 position as set with Machine/Absolute Position/As
G30.
Work Offset/To Zero:

Sets working offset to zero.
Work Position/Axis To Zero/XY:

Sets the current XY position of machine as zero XY work position.
Work Position/Axis To Zero/Z:

Sets current Z position as zero Z work position.
Work Position/Measure:
Measures Z working position at current machine position, using movable tool sensor.
Tool Offset/Measure:
Measures tool length using a fixed tool sensor.
Home:
Initiate automatic homing procedure.
33
Software
2.3.2.3 Toolbar additional features
2.3.2.3.1 Pop-up clouds

If you hover a mouse cursor over toolbar button, pop-up cloud with buttons name appears:
2.3.2.3.2 Spindle and coolant buttons

If Mist, Flood and Spindle output pins are configured in settings, then when buttons are activated
either directly via toolbar or dedicated spindle or flood g-codes M3,M7,M8 are active, buttons will
change colour.
Spindle and coolant OFF:
Spindle and coolant ON:
2.3.2.3.3 Adding toolbars

User can add additional toolbars to main window and populate them with user created buttons.
Example below displays additional bottom (horizontal) and right (vertical) toolbars, both populated
with user toolbar buttons (User 1, User 2):
2.3.2.3.4 Adding user toolbar buttons

Buttons can be created and added to any existing or newly added toolbar. Buttons can be
designed to use custom made graphics or images.
34
Software
35
Software
2.3.3 Position panel

Position panel can display four different types of position coordinates.
Each is located under separate position panel tab: Work, Machine, Motors, GCode.
2.3.3.1 Work
This tab displays work position coordinates of machine.
User can set new Work/Coordinate System position value by double clicking on the axis position
value of Work tab. To Value... insert field will appear:
36
Software
User can set new Work zero position value by clicking on the axis zero button:
Please note:
As a safety feature, this option needs to be enabled in settings under:
File/Settings/User Interface/Position/Commands
37
Software
2.3.3.2 Machine
This tab displays machine position coordinates of machine.
User can set new Machine position value by double clicking on the axis position value of Machine
tab. To Value... insert field will appear:
38
Software
User can set new Machine zero position value by clicking on the axis zero button:
Please note:
As a safety feature, this option needs to be enabled in settings under:
File/Settings/User Interface/Position/Commands
39
Software
2.3.3.3 Motors
This tab displays motor position coordinates.
2.3.3.4 GCode
This tab displays position coordinates of selected g-code line. These values are relative to machine
position.
40
Software
2.3.4 Speed Panel

Displays current machine and spindle speed. Additional speed options are available such as feed
speed and spindle speed override. Displayed speed can be either speed during jog motion, or feed
speed set within the program.
2.3.4.1 Feed speed display:
By clicking speed dial button additional override feed speed options will appear:
Reset button: Resets any speed override
Decrease button: Decreases speed override value for10%
Increase button: Increases speed override value for 10%
Mouse cursor can be used to grab and drag the feed override value bar.
Any feed override value other than 100% (100% means no feed override set) will as a result have
a coloured speed dial button. This way user can quickly see if feed override is being used.
41
Software
In settings, user can also enable traverse speed override options. Set of buttons for traverse speed
override uses symbol of a rabbit:
42
Software
2.3.4.2 Spindle speed display:
By clicking spindle button additional override spindle speed options will appear:
Reset button: Resets any speed override
Decrease button: Decreases speed override value for10%
Increase button: Increases speed override value for 10%
Mouse cursor can be used to grab and drag the spindle speed override value bar.
Any spindle speed override value other than 100% (100% means no spindle speed override set)
will as a result have a coloured spindle button. This way user can quickly see if spindle speed
override is being used.
43
Software
2.3.5 State panel

State panel is used for display of g-code modal states, controller hardware status, parameter value
display etc... And as such it can be used as a diagnostic tool in the troubleshooting process.
All data and information described above are available using state panel tabs.
By default, PlanetCNC TNG software provides user with two state tabs: GCode and IO.
User can configure and add up to 30 state tabs.
2.3.5.1 Gcode state tab

GCode tab displays currently active modal states. This tab will register and display modal states
executed either from running g-code program or MDI (manual data input).
Gcode tab is divided into: G-codes, M-codes and Other codes.
Active G-code:
Displays all currently active G-codes.
Active M-Codes:
Displays all currently active M-codes.
Other Codes:
Displays all currently active G-codes such as F-word, S-word g-codes and current tool number.
44
Software
2.3.5.2 IO state tab

IO state tab displays status of controllers hardware input and output pins. As well as E-stop mode
status.
Red LED indicates active state, green LED indicates in-active state.
2.3.5.2.1 Controller:
ES:
This is short for E-Stop. This LED indicator lights green when E-Stop mode is active.
SL:
This is short for Soft Limits. This LED indicator lights green when soft limits are enabled via:
Machine/Motors,Limits,Probe/Soft Limits Enable.
45
Software
LM:
This is short for Limits. This LED indicator lights green when hardware limit switch inputs are
enabled via: Machine/Motors,Limits,Probe/Hard Limits Enable.
MT:
This is short for Motors. This LED indicator lights green when axis motors are enabled via:
Machine/Motors,Limits,Probe/Motors Enable. When E-stop mode is active, MT LED indicator turns
red.
AL:
This is short for Axis Lock. This LED indicator lights green when axis is locked due to activated
probe. Axis movement is locked at direction at which it was moving when probe was activated. As
soon as probe input is inactive, axis lock of dedicated axis is disabled.
Under File/Settings/Jogging user can enable Probe Lock option. When enabled, in order to release
the axis lock state, user needs to jog the axis in the opposite direction for short distance.
ER:
This is short for Error. This LED indicator lights green when controllers Error input pin is active.
2.3.5.2.2 Output
Output LED panel displays controllers Output header pin status. When output pin is active,
corresponding 1-8 LED lights green.
2.3.5.2.3 Input
Input LED panel displays controllers Input header pin status. When input pin is active,
2.3.5.2.4 Limit
Limit LED panel displays controllers Limit header pin status. When limit input pin is active,
46
Software
2.3.5.2.5 Jog
Jog LED panel displays controllers jog header pin status. When jog input pin is active,
POT:
This LED indicator displays jogging potentiometer input value. POT indicator resembles a progress
bar, and depending on potentiometer value(rod position), indicator will display progress of pot.
input value – jogging speed.
Potentiometer at 0%: 50%: 100%:
S:
This is short for Shift. This LED indicator lights green when Shift input is active.
A1, A2:
This is short for alternative. These LED indicators light green when A1 or A2 are active.
47
Software
2.3.5.2.6 Ctrl
Ctrl LED panel displays controllers CTRL header pin status. When CTRL pin is active,
2.3.5.2.7 Aux
2.3.5.2.8 Ext1 In
Ext1 In LED panel displays controllers EXT header pin status. When EXT pin is active,
2.3.5.2.9 Ext2 In
Ext2 In LED panel displays controllers EXT header pin status. When EXT pin is active,
2.3.5.2.10 Ext1 Out
Ext1 Out LED panel displays controllers EXT header pin status. When EXT pin is active,
2.3.5.2.11 Ext2 Out
Ext2 Out LED panel displays controllers EXT header pin status. When EXT pin is active,
48
Software
2.3.5.3 User state tabs

User state tabs can added to state panel. Each tab can include any native system parameter or
user created parameter. User can add up to 30 user state tabs.
49
Software
2.3.6 Jogging Panel

Jogging panel offers on-screen jog buttons.
Jogging panel is located under state panel:
by clicking cross-arrow button, jogging buttons will

appear:
Mouse click+hold on large arrow jog buttons to jog machine in desired direction. Machine will move
until the mouse button is released. Corner buttons allow diagonal or combined axis jogging.
Smaller arrows, near the centre of jog controls, perform a single step move per click. Step distance
is configurable.
Jogging speed can be set by double clicking on the jogging speed value, Set insert field will
appear:
50
Software
In settings (chapter ), user can change jogging panel button layout (XY Cross or UV Cross) as also
jog panel display behaviour to either Hide, Show or Fixed (jogging panel is always displayed on
main window):
Fixed XY Cross jogging panel layout:
51
Software
2.3.7 3D program visualization display

Shows 3D display of g-code program.
52
Software
2.3.8 G-Code panel

G-code panel displays and tracks current program g-code lines.
2.3.8.1 Vertical Slider

At the right side of G-code panel is vertical slider.
Dragging slider up or down, user is able navigate trough
pages of current g-code program.
2.3.8.2 Position Slider

At the bottom of G-Code panel is position slider. Dragging
slider left or right, user is able to navigate trough program
lines and observe progress of toolpath simulation in
program visualization display. User can also use PC
keyboard arrow keys to navigate trough pages of g-code
program, line by line.
53
Software
2.3.8.3 Additional G-code panel options

Right mouse click on selected g-code line opens a dialogue with additional options:
2.3.8.3.1 Start From Selected Line

Program will start at position of selected program g-
code line.
2.3.8.3.2 Move/To Selected Line

See chapter 2.6.12.6
2.3.8.3.3 Move To Selected Line XY

2.3.8.3.4 Move/Camera To Selected Line XY

2.3.8.3.5 Copy To Clipboard

See chapter 2.5.16
2.3.8.3.6 Copy line to Clipboard
2.3.8.3.7 Paste From Clipboard

See chapter 2.5.17
2.3.8.3.8 Open...
See chapter 2.3.2
2.3.8.3.9 Close
See chapter 2.3.1
54
Software
2.3.9 Utilities panel

Utilities panel is shown/hidden with centre button for panel layout manipulation. When utilities
panel is displayed, centre button will change its symbol: →
By default, Utilities panel embeds only Output tab. User can additionally embed also Edit, Camera
and Log tabs to the utilities panel. This is done in settings (Chapter xxxxx).
Please note: Edit, Camera and Log tabs will not be embedded until you execute them from their
dedicated menus.
2.3.9.1 Output tab

Output tab will display any error event and data used with print command.
In a case of g-code error, exact program line where error occurs, current g-code program folder
path and the error definition will be displayed.
Bottom picture depicts output data of print command: (print,#<_x>); position value of X axis
55
Software
2.3.9.1.1 Output tab buttons

Output tab uses three buttons for easier data manipulation:
Pin:
Pin button will stick/fix last printed data so that it is always visible as a last displayed line.
Basically this is an automatic scroller, always tracking last printed data.
It is very useful if there is large and frequent flow of printed data.
Clear:
Clears any printed data on the output tab display.
Copy:
Copies any printed data to clipboard.
56
Software
2.3.9.2 Edit tab

It is used as g-code program editing tool, where user can create new or edit current g-code
program.
Edit tab will be populated with currently imported g-code program as soon as Program/Edit menu
item is executed. User then has a full control on editing or re-writing g-code program.
2.3.9.2.1 Edit tab buttons

Output tab uses four buttons for easier program editing and and tab control.
57
Software
Upload:
This buttons uploads any content in edit tab into g-code panel.
Download:
This button copies any content (g-code program) from g-code panel and pastes it to edit tab.
Verify:
This button will verify any content in edit tab. Any g-code syntax or initialization error will be
displayed.
58
Software
Example of displayed error in G-code after using verification button:
Close:
Closes edit tab.
59
Software
2.3.9.3 Log tab

Log tab will display all information regarding computer, connected USB and USB HID devices and
connected controller.
60
Software
61
Software
2.3.9.4 Camera tab

Camera tab provides docked view from connected USB camera.
2.3.9.4.1 Camera tab buttons

Camera tab uses buttons for manipulation of camera window.
62
Software
Camera:
User can select camera from the list of available USB cameras.
Example:
Zoom:
User can select zoom factor of camera view.
63
Software
Colour:
This button opens colour palette dialogue which allows user to change and set colour of
camera view cross-hairs.
Example:
64
Software
Slider:
With slider button, user is able to adjust the diameter of a circle of camera view. This comes
very useful in the procedure of capturing points for the needs of transformation.
Close:
Closes camera tab
65
Software
2.3.10 Manual data input (MDI) window

MDI window allows user of manual G-code input and
execution of MDI shortcuts.
Example (manual G-code input):

Typing G53 X0 Y0 Z10 will move machine to its absolute position of X0 Y0 Z10.
The MDI window can also be used for execution of shortcuts using MDI codes(see chapter
2.8.3.23.3 ).
Example (MDI code):
In settings, shortcut MDI code named Log was set for Show Log action.
Typing /Log into MDI window will open Show Log dialog.
Please note: Symbol “/” before MDI code needs to be used.
Line break can be created with keyboard key combination Shift+Enter. This way user can input
multi-line g-code command:
Example (Expression Evaluator):

MDI window also offers expression evaluator option.
66
Software
Result is displayed under Output window:
67
Software
2.3.11 Indication Light

Connectivity indication light is located at the bottom right corner of main window. It indicates
controller status regarding connection with PlanetCNC TNG software and license activation.
2.3.11.1 Indication light colour description:
Green indication light with S (simulation):

Indicates that simulation mode is selected and enabled in settings.
Indication light with X (no license):

PlanetCNC TNG software does not find proper license for connected controller. Make sure that
your PlanetCNC TNG license is valid and correctly imported.
The colour of indication light can be either gray, green or orange.
Green indication light: (firmware version and license OK):

Indicates that controllers firmware is updated with correct PlanetCNC TNG software version and
controller license is activated, meaning, license is found and validated by software.
Orange light (firmware version mismatch):

Indicates that controllers firmware version is not updated with PlanetCNC TNG software version
that you are using it with. Update controllers firmware: Machine/Controller/Firmware Update
Gray light with S:

Indicates that simulation mode is not enabled.
Red light with status bar:

Indicates that software is processing motion commands and is sending them to controller.
68
Software
2.4 File menu

File menu offers a group of methods for opening,
importing and exporting of machine programs.
Programs can be used for visualization, simulation, generating
toolpath and can be in various formats.
Import features display user dialogues for entry of user
parameters. Description of features is provided below.
G-Code can be exported using an option best suited to user
requirement.
‘Settings’ is where we configure and set machines main
parameters.
69
Software
2.4.1 Close
Closes program that is currently opened.
2.4.2 Open
Opens new program. Software will try to auto detect file format.
Example: If you want to open .dxf file, TNG software will automatically recognize the DXF file
format and launch DXF import dialogue.
2.4.3 Recent files

Displays a list of recently opened programs. Select file for open from a drop-down list.
70
Software
2.4.4 Import G-code

Opens program in G-code form. G-code file can use different extensions. Usually
extensions are: *.nc, *.tap, *.cnc, *.iso, *.gcode, *.ncf, *.txt.
71
Software
2.4.5 Import DXF...

and
2.4.6 Import PLT, HPGL...

Imports program in DXF and PLT/HPGL format. Most software's for CAD drawing or vector images
have option to save design in DXF format. These types of format usually contain vectors, that can
be converted to toolpath.
PlanetCNC TNG software will automatically generate toolpath g-code program based on your
imported DXF file.
When using Import DXF feature, user dialog will be displayed. User has option to configure
program parameters to suit his machining needs.
72
Software
2.4.6.1 Units
You can set units as Metric(mm) or Imperial (in) for your
DXF design. You can fine tune your units using Scale option.
2.4.6.2 Scale
Sets scale of your imported DXF design. This comes handy
when you need your toolpath to be re-sized or some other
units are used.
E.g.: If you DXF design is drawn in centimetres (cm) then select Units as Metric and set Scale to
10.
73
Software
2.4.6.3 Origin
Example:
Let say we import DXF file of which we do not know its absolute XY 0,0 coordinates.
Generated toolpath will be positioned accordingly, but not necessarily in a way that would suit us :
Generated toolpath is positioned in relation to its absolute XY 0,0 coordinates (the way it was
drawn). But what if we want that toolpath extents are aligned with working position XY0,0?
74
Software
For this purpose you can use one of five options under Extents:
-Bottom left :
-Top Left:
-Center:
-Bottom right:
-Top right:
75
Software
Example:
Bottom Left:
With this option enabled, toolpath XY0,0 point will be aligned with our working offset XY0,0:
76
Software
Center:
With this option enabled, toolpath center point will be aligned with our working offset XY0,0:
77
Software
2.4.6.4 Loops
You can set number of loops of your program. Each generated
toolpath pass will be repeated for inserted value of loops.
Example: If you insert Loop:3, pass will be repeated for 3
iterations.
2.4.6.5 Interpolate
If your DXF file contains elements such as circles, arcs etc.. you can interpolate these elements
into short lines by enabling Interpolate option.
2.4.6.6 Sort
Sorts elements of the DXF file, and optimizes generated toolpath.
2.4.6.7 Feed Speed

Sets feed speed for generated toolpath. F-word g-code will
be generated. Each feed move will be performed at this
speed.
2.4.6.8 Plunge Speed

Set feed speed of plunge moves for generated toolpath. Each feed move in Z- direction (plunge)
will be performed at this speed.
2.4.6.9 Tool change and Offset
Tool change:
Generated program will include tool change commands (Tn M6) if DXF file uses layers.
Each layer number will represent dedicated tool number in generated program.
Offset:
Tn M6 and G43 Hn g-codes will be generated for specified tool(layer).
Offset value will be taken from tool table.
78
Software
2.4.6.10 Outputs
Generated program will include M3/M5;M7,M8/M9 spindle and

coolant g-code commands, depending on options selected.
Please note: If DXF file uses layers then outputs will be turned ON
at beginning and turned OFF at end of layers toolpath.
Spindle:
With this option enabled, generated program will include M3/M5 g-codes.
If layers are used in DXF file, layers toolpath will include M3 g-code at start and M5 g-code at the
end.
If no layers are used in DXF design, spindle g-codes will be generated only at the beginning of
program and at the end.
Flood:
If layers are used, layers toolpath will include M7 g-code at the start and M9 g-code at the end.
If no layers are used, Flood g-codes will be generated only at the beginning of program and at the
end.
Mist:
If layers are used, layers toolpath will include M8 g-code at the start and M9 g-code at the end.
If no layers are used, Mist g-codes will be generated only at the beginning of program and at the
end.
2.4.6.11 Import DXF function library:

Import DXF script code is consisted from functions, each responding to specific event of the DXF
Import motion sequence configuration. Some of these events are Z axis moves for which we can
set custom behavior.
function onImportMoveUp()
function onImportHeader(filename)
function onImportFooter()
79
Software
function onImportMoveUp()
function onImportMoveDown()
function onImportMoveTraverse(x, y, z, a, b, c, u, v, w)
function onImportMoveFeed(x, y, z, a, b, c, u, v, w)
function onImportMoveArc(x, y, z, i, j)
function onImportLayerChange(layername, layertoolnumber, layertooldiameter)
80
Software
2.4.6.12 Mode
Your DXF design can be in 2D or 3D. If 2D mode is selected,
Height options will be enabled and you will be able to configure
height cutting parameters of generated toolpath (see chapter
2.4.6.14).
If 3D mode is enabled, Height options will be disabled since it is

assumed that are already defined in original DXF (however, Safe
Height option is available).
3D mode enables translation of g-code from conventional XYZ plane to UVW, ZXY or YZK plane:
XYZ-> UVW
With this option selected, generated g-code program will translate XY coordinates to UV
coordinates. This feature is useful for foam cutters, where second tower uses UV coordinates for
its motion.
XYZ->ZXY
With this option selected, generated g-code program will be in ZX plane. XYZ coordinates from
DXF will be translated to ZXY.
XYZ->YZX
With this option selected, generated g-code program will be in YZ plane. XYZ coordinates from
DXF will be translated to YZX.
81
Software
2.4.6.13 Height
2.4.6.13.1 Safe Height

As mentioned in the beginning, when 2D mode is used, then
Height parameters can be set.
Safe height is a safety feature which helps with prevention of
machine crashing into obstacles that may interfere with
machines toolpath. Obstacles could be screws, fixtures, vises
etc..
When machine is finished with cutting toolpath A, it will
ascend to safe height and move to next cutting location of
toolpath B.
With this option enabled, generated toolpath will include traverse moves performed at safe height.
Toolpath without safe height:
82
Software
Toolpath with safe height(notice the green traverse toolpath):
2.4.6.13.2 Start Height

Start height is usually surface of workpiece material. To this height, machine will descend at
traverse rate.
2.4.6.13.3 Step Down

Depth of first cutting pass. Each new cutting pass will be deeper for this value. To this height,
machine will descend at plunge rate.
2.4.6.13.4 Cut Height

Deepest cutting depth that machine will cut at.
NOTE: Software will automatically calculate number of passes to achieve “Cut Height” depth at
“Step Down” value per pass.
83
Software
Example:
Let's say we want to cut out a square out of a solid wooden block of thickness 30mm.
We would like to cut in passes, with each pass being 4mm deeper than the previous one. To
successfully cutout our square, deepest cut should be performed at 31mm.
Set work position Z = 0 is at surface of wooden block.
Start Height = 0
Step Down = -4
Cut Height= 31
Bottom picture displays side view of generated toolpath based on parameter configuration
described above:
84
Software
2.4.6.14 Tabs
Tabs are used for holding element in place during cut.
Enable:
Enables tabs.
Distance:
Distance between two tabs.
Size:
Size of tabs.
Example of toolpath with tabs enabled:
2.4.6.15 Tangent Knife

Enable:
Enables C axis movement in direction of toolpath for use with tangential knives. Safe Height moves
are generated if required.
85
Software
2.4.6.16 Bottom - Off

Inserts OFF g-codes for Spindle, Flood, Mist (M5,M9), Delay
and Pause at the end of cut before moving up to Safe Height
Spindle:
Inserts OFF g-code for Spindle M5.
Flood:
Inserts OFF g-code for Flood M9.
Mist:
Inserts OFF g-code for Mist M9.
Delay:
Inserts Delay G04 P g-code.
Pause:
Inserts Pause M00 g-code.
2.4.6.17 Top Off

Inserts OFF g-codes for Spindle, Flood, Mist (M5,M9), Delay
and Pause at the end of cut after moving up to Safe Height.
Spindle:
Inserts OFF g-code for Spindle M5.
Flood:
Inserts OFF g-code for Flood M9.
Mist:
Inserts OFF g-code for Mist M9.
Delay:
Inserts Delay G04 P g-code
Pause:
Inserts Pause M00 g-code
86
Software
2.4.6.18 Top On
Inserts ON g-codes for Spindle, Flood, Mist (M3,M7,M8),
Delay and Pause before cut, before moving down from Safe
Height to cut (or pass) height.
Spindle:
Inserts ON g-code for Spindle M3.
Flood:
Inserts ON g-code for Flood M7.
Mist:
Inserts ON g-code for Mist M8.
Delay:
Pause:
2.4.6.19 Bottom On
Inserts ON g-codes for Spindle, Flood, Mist (M3,M7,M8),
Delay and Pause before cut, after moving down from Safe
Height to cut (or pass) height.
Spindle:
Inserts ON g-code for Spindle M3.
Flood:
Inserts ON g-code for Flood M7.
Mist:
Inserts ON g-code for Mist M8.
Delay:
Pause:
87
Software
2.4.7 Import Gerber

imported Gerber file.
Gerber files are generated with software for design of printed circuit boards(PCB's). With Gerber
files you can also mill printed circuit boards with your CNC machine.
When using Import Gerber feature, user dialog will be displayed. User has option to configure
88
Software
2.4.7.1 Feed Speed

Sets feed speed for generated toolpath. F-word g-code will
be generated. Each G01 move will be performed at this
speed.

Sets feed speed of plunge moves for generated toolpath.
Each G01 move in Z- direction will be performed at this
speed.
2.4.7.3 Safe Height

Safe height is a safety feature which helps with prevention of machine crashing into obstacles that
may interfere with machines toolpath. Obstacles could be screws, fixtures, vises etc..
When machine is finished with cutting toolpath A, it will ascend to safe height and move to next
cutting location of toolpath B.
With this option enabled, generated toolpath will include traverse moves performed at safe height.
2.4.7.4 Start Height

Start height is usually surface of workpiece material. To this height, machine will descend at
traverse rate.
2.4.7.5 Tool change

Enables tool change for: Mark Pads, Cutting Path, Drill Pads or Clear Copper options.
Generated program will include tool change commands (Tn M6). Tool number used for each milling
option is configured with milling option settings of Gerber import dialog.
2.4.7.6 Offset
Tn M6 and G43 Hn g-codes will be generated for enabled milling options.
89
Software
2.4.7.7 Mirror
Mirrors program in XY.
Normal toolpath:
90
Software
Mirrored toolpath:
2.4.7.8 Size X
X coordinate approximate dimension of PCB board. This comes very useful when drilling holes of
PCB using NC drill file. Make sure that same value is used with NC drill import.
2.4.7.9 Size Y
Y coordinate approximate dimension of PCB board.
91
Software
2.4.7.10 Outputs
Generated program will include M3/M5;M7,M8/M9 g-code
commands, depending on options selected.
Spindle:
With this option enabled, generated program will include M3/M5 g-codes. If tool change is enabled
M3/M5 g-codes will be generated for each toolchange.
Flood:
Mist:
92
Software
2.4.7.11 Use
Gerber files can contain different elements such as polygons, tracks,

pads and holes.
You can select which element(s) will be converted to toolpath.
Polygons:
Use 'Polygons' in toolpath calculation. Only polygons will be visible.
Tracks:
Use 'Tracks' in toolpath calculation. Only tracks will be visible.
Pads:
Use 'Pads' in toolpath calculation. Only pads will be visible.
Holes:
Use 'holes' in toolpath calculation. Only holes will be visible.
93
Software
2.4.7.12 Mark Pads
You can mark selected pad shapes to ease manual drilling

later. Software will recognize shapes: Circle, Oval,
Rectangle, Polygon or Other(custom).
Circle:
Use circle pads for marking. Only circled pads will be marked.
Rectangle:
Use circle pads for marking. Only circled pads will be marked.
Oval:
Use oval pads for marking. Only oval pads will be marked.
Polygon:
Use polygon pads for marking. Only polygon pads will be marked.
Other:
Use other(custom) pads for marking. Only other(custom) pads will be marked. Cut Height
Depth of marking point.
Pause
Insert 'Pause' (M00) G-Code before marking pads.
Tool
Number of tool used for marking pads. If tool change is enabled, tool with this number will be used.
94
Software
2.4.7.13 Cutting Path
Isolation:
Enable to mill electrical isolation toolpath.
Centerline:
Enable to mill center line (for example silkscreen or cutout).
Outline:
Passes:
Number of milling passes of electrical isolation toolpath. Each
milling pass is distanced from previous one for value of tool
radius (tool used for Cutting Path).
Cut Height:
Depth of milling.
Pause:
Insert 'Pause' (M00) G-Code before milling electrical isolation toolpath.
Tool:
Number of tool used for milling electrical isolation toolpath. If tool change is enabled, tool with this
number will be used.
Diameter:
Diameter of tool used for milling electrical isolation toolpath. Radius of this value is used for
Passes toolpath.
95
Software
2.4.7.14 Drill Pads
You can drill selected pad shapes. Software will recognize

shapes: Circle, Oval, Rectangle, Polygon or Other(custom).
You might want to drill hole on circled pad for trough hole
component but not for rectangle pad for surface mount
component.
Circle:
Use circle pads for drilling. Only circled pads will be drilled.
Rectangle:
Use circle pads for drilling. Only circled pads will be drilled.
Oval:
Use oval pads for drilling. Only oval pads will be drilled.
Polygon:
Use polygon pads for drilling. Only polygon pads will be drilled.
Other:
Use other(custom) pads for drilling. Only other(custom) pads will be drilled.
Cut Height:
Depth of drilling.
Pause:
Insert 'Pause' (M00) G-Code before drilling.
Tool:
Number of tool used for drilling. If tool change is enabled, tool with this number will be used.
96
Software
2.4.7.15 Clear Copper
2.4.7.16 Enable
Generates toolpath that mills(“clears”) unused copper. Toolpath without cleared copper:
97
Software
Toolpath with cleared copper:
98
Software
2.4.7.17 Outline
Finishes cleared copper toolpath with additional outline to prevent edges.
Without outline:
With outline:
99
Software
2.4.7.18 Border
Distance value for area beyond PCB max extents where copper will
also be milled.
Border zero:
100
Software
Border value set to 15mm:
101
Software
2.4.7.19 Cute Height

Depth of clear copper milling.
2.4.7.20 Pause
Insert 'Pause' (M00) G-Code before clearing copper.
2.4.7.21 Tool
Number of tool used for clearing copper. If tool change is enabled, tool with inserted number will be
used.
2.4.7.22 Diameter
Diameter of tool used for clearing copper.
102
Software
2.4.8 Import NC drill

imported NC drill file.
NC Drill files are generated by software for design of printed circuit boards. NC Drill files are used
for drilling holes of printed circuit boards.
When using Import NC Drill feature, user dialog will be displayed. User has option to configure
103
Software
2.4.8.1 Feed Speed

Sets feed speed for generated toolpath. F-word g-code will be
generated. Each G01 move will be performed at this speed.
‘Feed Speed’ is usually the speed that is used for cutting or milling, and since there will be no
cutting involved in the drilling procedure, you can set this value the same as your ‘Traverse Speed’
in settings.
‘Feed speed’ is the speed at which machine will descend from ‘Safe height’ to ‘Start height’.

Sets feed speed of plunge moves for generated toolpath.
Each G01 move in Z- direction will be performed at this
speed.
2.4.8.3 Safe Height

With this option enabled, generated toolpath will include
traverse moves performed at safe height.
Safe height is a safety feature which helps with prevention of machine crashing into obstacles that
may interfere with machines toolpath. Obstacles could be screws, fixtures, vises etc..
When machine is finished with cutting toolpath A, it will ascend to safe height and move to next
cutting location of toolpath B.
2.4.8.4 Start Height

Start height is usually surface of workpiece material. Machine
will descend from 'Safe Height' to 'Start Height' at feed rate.
2.4.8.5 Cut Height

Cut height is depth of drilling.
Holes should be drilled in its entirety, meaning, hole should not be drilled half way. Cut Height
value is basically the thickness of your PCB with some added safe distance just to be sure that the
holes will be drilled “clean”.
2.4.8.6 Tool change

Enables tool change for drilling (Tn M6). Tool number used for
drilling should be set in NC drill file.
2.4.8.7 Offset
Tn M6 and G43 Hn g-codes will be generated for enabled milling options.
104
Software
2.4.8.8 Mirror
Mirrors program in XY.
2.4.8.9 Size X
X coordinate value is approximate dimension of PCB board. Make
sure that same value is used with Gerber import.
2.4.8.10 Size Y
Y coordinate is approximate dimension of PCB board. Make sure that same value is used with
Gerber import.
2.4.8.11 Units
Specify millimetre or inch units.
2.4.8.12 Format
Specify number decimal digit format.
2.4.8.13 Leading/Trailing Zeroes

Specify leading and trailing zeroes.
105
Software
2.4.9 Import CSV

Imports .CSV file.
2.4.10 Import Image

Imports image, and generates toolpath based on the import parameter configuration.
106
Software
2.4.11 Import Python Script

If Python is installed on your PC and script path is configured, you can import Python script.
2.4.12 Generate
All program files, script files that are located in UserGen folder of Profile folder will be listed here
and available for use.
107
Software
2.4.13 Export G-code

Export current tool-path as G-code file.
2.4.14 Export DXF

Export tool-path as DXF file.
2.4.15 Export CSV

Export tool-path as CSV file.
2.4.16 Run Python Script

Executes Python script.
108
Software
2.4.17 Settings
In 'Settings' are all main configurations of parameters that are crucial for proper functionality and
correct behaviour of machine and attached hardware. See chapter: 2.7 Settings.
2.4.18 Import Settings

Imports ‘Settings’ file to quickly restore a known working configuration or to re-configure
PlanetCNC TNG software to suit different machines types or applications.
2.4.19 Export Settings

Saves the active ‘Settings’ file as a backup of the software/machine configuration. Custom options
can be stored to quickly configure machines to user requirement.
109
Software
2.4.20 Import Profile

User can import previously exported/saved Profile of PlanetCNCTNG software.
All profile files and settings configuration will be restored.
110
Software
2.4.21 Export Profile

Some users can face an obstacle during their time learning and using PlanetCNC TNG software.
While PlanetCNC always tries to give fast and effective support, sometimes more info is needed
about the problem user is facing in order to come up with solution as fast as possible.
Backup Profile creates archive file that includes necessary files for PlanetCNC support to start
investigating an issue as quickly and effectively as possible.
Backup profile includes:

-Skins folder → Includes image files which can be used as skins
-Icons folder → Includes image files which can be used for button graphics
-Data folder:
Src folder: Last file imported into PlanetCNC TNG software
warp.txt:
trans.txt:
params.txt: File with all parameter values
log_usb.txt: List and specifications of all USB devices connected to PC
log_device.txt: Controllers USB information
gcode.txt: G-code program file that is loaded in TNG when you export backup profile
-Tool table file
-State files
-Settings file
-Parameters file
-Lic. File (license file)
-Keys file
-Coordinate system files
-Toolbar button files
111
Software
2.4.22 Language
Select language of application from list of supported languages. You can add language file into the
Lang folder located in the Profiles folder
2.4.23 Exit
Closes PlanetCNC TNG software. If the ‘E-Stop’ on exit feature is active, machine performs an E-
Stop. ‘Settings’ options allow E-Stop to deactivate spindles and interrupt all motor ‘ENABLE’
signals, disabling the machine if software is inactive.
112
Software
2.5 View menu

The view menu controls various aspects of the G-Code program visualization. Only
program visualization is affected by view menu options, there are no changes applied to active
program G-Code.
113
Software
2.5.1 Top view

Display G-Code / tool-path as viewed from top.
114
Software
2.5.2 Side View

Display G-Code / tool-path as viewed from side.
2.5.3 Front View

Display G-Code / tool-path as viewed from front.
115
Software
2.5.4 Perspective view

Display G-Code / tool-path using perspective view.
2.5.5 Zoom In
Zooms-in the display for close view of smaller details.
2.5.6 Zoom Out

Zooms-out the display for overview of a larger area.
2.5.7 Zoom Position

Zooms-in for a close view of the current tool position. If G-code line is selected or program is in
simulation, simulated tool position will be zoomed instead.
2.5.8 Zoom Part

Zooms-in for a closer view of displayed toolpath.
2.5.9 Follow Position

3D display follows tool over toolpath.
2.5.10 Center Zero

Sets absolute zero position of machine to center of 3D display.
116
Software
2.5.11 Show
‘Show’ item opens a sub-menu of elements that can be displayed as part of G-Code visualizations.
There are many helpful aids to provide useful feedback. Checked items are visible in
visualizations, unchecked items are not.
2.5.11.1 Show grid

Displays grid on screen.
2.5.11.2 Show Axes Lines

Displays coordinate system axes.
2.5.11.3 Show Axes Center

Displays centre of axes.
117
Software
2.5.11.4 Show Limits

Displays motion range limits of machine.
2.5.11.5 Show Extents

Display of toolpath extents. Toolpath is outlined from minimum to maximum edges for all axes.
2.5.11.6 Show Toolpath History

Display of toolpath history. Tool leaves a footprint displayed as line for every move it makes.
2.5.11.7 Show Gauges

Display of gauges for selected axis. Gauge is displayed in left side of 3D display. Gauge helps
with the sense of orientation within of axis minimum and maximum limit values.
2.5.11.8 Show Hover

This enables toolpath highlighting when mouse hovers over. Right mouse double click on
highlighted line selects corresponding g-code line.
2.5.11.9 Show Completed

Displays completed toolpath. Color of completed toolpath by default is green.
118
Software
2.5.11.10 Show Depthtest

When enabled, toolpath follows depth rules in 3D visualization. When disabled toolpath is drawn
over all other objects.
Disabled:
Enabled:
119
Software
2.5.11.11 Show Multisample

Enables high quality 3D display.
2.5.11.12 Show Objects

Enables display of 3D objects.
120
Software
2.5.12 Panel
Panel menu items will show/hide panels of PlanetCNC TNG main window interface. Checked
menu item indicates that panel is shown, unchecked menu item indicates that panel is hidden.
-Left (Position, Speed, State and Jog panels)

-3D (3D display)
-Right (G-code panel)
-Utilities panels.
2.5.13 Reset Windows

Resets the main window to preconfigured resolution.
121
Software
2.6 Program menu

The program menu provides G-Code processing functions to conform NC programs to user
requirements. In most cases only parameter entry is required to make desired adjustments.
Functions to navigate NC programs and ‘bookmark’ blocks of code are also available. NC
programs can be ‘sectioned’ by use of toolchange or pause codes.
Shift, Scale and Rotate can be applied to entire programs. These functions can assist with repeat
usage of the same NC program or defined program block, for corners, patterns and so forth.
122
Software
2.6.1 Redraw
Redraws currently imported g-code programs toolpath.
2.6.2 Edit
Opens currently imported g-code program in a separate window. User can now edit and verify
current g-code. With Update button user loads edited g-code program into g-code window.
This window can also be embedded into the utilities panel. You would need to enable this in
settings.
Upload button:
Uploads edited program to g-code window.
123
Software
Download button:
Downloads g-code program from g-code window.
Verify button:
Verifies edited g-code program for any errors.
124
Software
2.6.3 Lines
‘Lines’ menu features allow easy navigation trough current G-Code program.
2.6.3.1 Next
Selects next G-code line in G-code window.
2.6.3.2 Next Page

Next page in G-code window is displayed.
2.6.3.3 Previous
Selects previous G-code line in G-code window.
2.6.3.4 Previous Page

Previous page in G-code window is displayed.
2.6.3.5 Forward
Forwards toolpath position slider(see chapter 2.2.5.2).
Recommended use with keyboard shortcut (see chapter 2.7.3.23.2 Code) for easier navigation.
2.6.3.6 Reverse
Reverses toolpath position slider(see chapter 2.2.5.2).
Recommended use with keyboard shortcut (see chapter 2.7.3.23.2 Code) for easier navigation.
125
Software
2.6.3.7 Find
You can search for desired keyword trough entire g-code program. If keyword is found,
corresponding g-code line is selected.
2.6.3.8 Find Next

Selects next line that contains the last keyword used with the Find feature.
2.6.3.9 Find Comment

Selects next line that contains comment text.
2.6.3.10 Find Tool-change

Selects G-code line that contains 'M6' G-code.
2.6.3.11 Find Spindle

Selects G-code line that contains 'M3' G-code.
2.6.3.12 Optional Block Enabled

Optional block feature executes or skips lines of program that have character “/” at the beginning of
the program line.
This feature comes useful when you need to test proof your program or if you have two versions of
the same workpiece with minor changes etc…
In such case you can use “Optional Block Enabled” feature which allows you to skip or execute
marked lines of g-code of your program. When “Optional Block Enabled” is enabled, then marked
lines will be skipped.
126
Software
2.6.4 MDI
2.6.4.1 Select
Focuses MDI command window.
2.6.4.2 Show history

Displays list of MDI commands previously used.
2.6.4.3 Clear history

Clears list of MDI commands previously used.
127
Software
2.6.5 Bookmarks
G-code lines can be bookmarked. ‘Bookmarks’ are set by selection of the G-Code line where the
bookmark is required and use of the Toggle item or press of the shortcut key. Multiple lines can be
bookmarked. When a line has been bookmarked it highlights.
Selection of a ‘Bookmark’ and press of the Toogle item will clear it. Alternatively all ‘Bookmarks’ can
be cleared at once using Clear. When bookmarks are cleared highlight are removed.
2.6.5.1 Select Next

Selects next bookmarked G-code line.
2.6.5.2 Select previous

Selects previous bookmarked G-code line.
2.6.5.3 Select All

Selects all bookmarked G-code lines.
2.6.5.4 Toggle
Toggles bookmark on selected G-code line.
2.6.5.5 Clear
Clears all bookmarks from G-code lines.
128
Software
2.6.5.6 Set
Tool Block:
Highlights lines of code that are executed with same tool number.
Spindle Block:
Highlights lines of code that are executed under active M3 code.
2.6.6 Transformation
2.6.6.1 Disable
Disables transformation. Transformation coefficient values will not have any effect on the toolpath.
2.6.6.2 Clear
Clears all current transformation coefficient values to their default values.
2.6.6.3 Redraw
If user manually configures any new transformation coefficient values, this button will redraw
current toolpath.
129
Software
2.6.7 Shift
Shift translates or moves the tool-path in 3D space using one of many options.
2.6.7.1 X,Y,Z:
Shifts toolpath in any axis for inserted value.
2.6.7.2 Copy From

User can shift toolpath using available preset shift options.
130
Software
2.6.7.2.1 Zero
Sets shift value for all axes to zero.
2.6.7.2.2 Extents To Zero

Aligns the ‘minimum’ edges of the tool-path extents with machine zero position.
2.6.7.2.3 Extents To Position

Aligns the ‘minimum’ edges of the tool-path extents with current machine position.
2.6.7.2.4 Extents To Camera

Aligns the ‘minimum’ edges of the tool-path extents with camera cross-hair view.
2.6.7.2.5 Center To Zero

Aligns the center of the tool-path with machine zero position.
2.6.7.2.6 Center To Position

Aligns the center of the tool-path with current machine position.
2.6.7.2.7 Center To Camera

Aligns the center of the tool-path with camera cross-hair view.
2.6.7.2.8 G-Code Line To Zero

Aligns the toolpath segment of selected g-code line with machine zero position.
2.6.7.2.9 G-Code Line To Position

Aligns the toolpath segment of selected g-code line with current machine position.
2.6.7.2.10 G-Code Line To Camera

Aligns the toolpath segment of selected g-code line with with the camera cross-hair view.
131
Software
2.6.8 Scale
Scale adjusts dimensions of the tool-path using ‘factor’ based scaling. Default value of 1.00 is
equivalent to 100% scale or actual size. A scale factor setting of 2.00 increases tool-path
dimensions to 200% of the original size in the relevant axis.
2.6.8.1 X,Y,Z:
Scales toolpath of selected axis for inserted value.
2.6.9 Rotate
Rotates the tool-path in XY, YZ or ZX plane with origin as the centre of rotation. Positive values
rotate the tool-path in a clockwise direction. Negative values cause counter-clockwise rotation.
132
Software
2.6.10 Mirror
Mirror function mirrors tool-path over X, Y, Z axes. Axis of reflection is selected by enabling radio
button.
133
Software
2.6.11 Points
Calculates transformation from first group of points to second group of points.
134
Software
2.6.11.1 Source
Beside manual input, user can select option from drop down menu as source coordinates of
transformation point.
Choose among options: Zero, G-Code Line, Position, Camera:
Zero:
Sets zero coordinate values for source point.
G-code Line:
Sets coordinate values for source point obtained from selected line in g-code panel.
Position:
Sets coordinate values for source point obtained from machine position.
Camera:
Sets coordinate values for source point obtained from camera position.
135
Software
2.6.11.2 Destination
Beside manual input, user can select option from drop down menu for destination coordinates of
transformation point.
Choose among options: Zero, G-Code Line, Position, Camera:
Zero:
Sets zero coordinate values for destination point.
G-code Line:
Sets coordinate values for destination point obtained from selected line in g-code panel.
Position:
Sets coordinate values for destination point obtained from machine position.
Camera:
Sets coordinate values for destination point obtained from camera position.
136
Software
Add:
Adds new point row.
Update:
Updates highlighted point row with new values depending on 'Source' and/or 'Destination' option
selected.
Delete:
Deletes point row.
Redraw:
Redraws current gcode programs toolpath.
Load … :
Loads points configuration.
Save … :
Saves points configuration.
137
Software
2.6.12 Clear
Clears all parameters of Program menu features. Any applied changes from program menu will be
reset.
2.6.13 Undo
Cancels applied changes from program menu items: Shift, Scale, Rotate, Mirror, Points, Copy...,
Swap...
2.6.14 Warp
Applies Warp feature to current tool-path, based on measured points. If measured points are saved
into file, you can load them with Load points button.
138
Software
2.6.14.1 Resolution
Interpolation resolution value of warped toolpath.
2.6.14.2 Enable/Disable
This button toggles between Enabled and Disabled Warp.
When enabled, Warp is applied, when disabled, Warp is not applied.
2.6.14.3 Clear
Clears all imported points whether from From File or From Points.
2.6.14.4 From File

User can import measured surface points from previously saved file.
If you saved your measured surface points, you use this button.
Points can be saved using Machine/Points/Save.
2.6.14.5 From Points

Directly imports group of measured surface points obtained using Machine/Measure/Surface
feature.
Example: Points were measured using Machine/Measure/Surface.

Open Warp dialog window:
139
Software
Click From Points button:
Click Enable button:
140
Software
2.6.15 Copy XYZ → UVW

Translates XY coordinates to UV coordinates. This feature is useful for foam cutters, where second
tower uses UV coordinates for its motion.
2.6.16 Copy UVW → XYZ

Translates UVW coordinates to XYZ coordinates.
2.6.17 Swap XYZ ↔ UVW

Swaps UVW coordinates with XYZ coordinates and vice versa.
2.6.18 Copy to Clipboard

Copies entire content of the G-Code panel to the Windows clipboard.
2.6.19 Paste from Clipboard

Pastes Windows clipboard content to the G-Code panel.
141
Software
2.7 Machine Menu

Provides means to directly interact with controlled machine and attached hardware.
142
Software
2.7.1 Emergency stop

Sends an Emergency stop or E-Stop to the machine causing immediate ‘hard’ stop. Controller
stops sending control signals to motor driver.
Note: Using only E-Stop is not sufficient security solution when using servomotors. E-Stop doesn't
prevent machine from crashing if encoder starts to send faulty data to motor driver. Some sort of
double prevention system should be used for full-proof security solution, where e-Stop signal would
trigger relays that would disconnect the power supply to the motors and limit switches would only
serve as reference switches.
2.7.2 Start
Starts execution of the current G-Code program.
2.7.3 Stop
Stops program execution using a normal stop.
2.7.4 Pause
Pauses / Resumes execution of the current G-Code program.
143
Software
2.7.5 Start
144
Software
2.7.5.1 Start From Selected Line

Program will start at selected g-code line in g-code panel.
2.7.5.2 Start From Bookmark To Bookmark

Executes program from first bookmarked line to last bookmarked line. First and last
bookmarked lines are included in execution.
2.7.5.3 Beginning to Bookmark

Executes program from first G-code line to first bookmarked line. Bookmarked line is
included in execution.
2.7.5.4 Start From Bookmark to End

Executes program from first bookmark to last G-code line. Bookmarked line is included in
execution.
2.7.5.5 Start Loop

Starts looped execution of the current G-Code program.
Inserted value represents number of loops of the G-code program.
145
Software
2.7.6 Overrides
146
Software
2.7.6.1 Speed Override Enable
Enables traverse and feed speed override options. When this item is disabled (no check), override
controls trough either Override menu or Speed segment will have no affect on speed values.
When speed override is disabled, the speed dial icon is using red color:
2.7.6.2 Traverse
Overrides speed setting for Traverse speed. Default traverse speed value is set in settings:
File/Setting/Program Defaults/Traverse Speed.
Speed override controls are available also in Speed panel of main window.
Active: Current override speed value. 100% means there is no speed override used. 200% means
speed is overridden for 100%.
E.g.: If speed is set to 100mm/min and Current value is 200%, overridden traverse speed value is
200mm/min.
Reset: Resets any speed override.
Increase: Increases speed override setting for 10%.
Decrease: Decreases speed override setting for 10%.
147
Software
2.7.6.3 Feed
Overrides speed setting for Feed speed. Feed speed setting is set in in g-code program with F-
word or in settings: File/Setting/Program Defaults/Feed Speed. Speed override controls are
available also in Speed panel of main window.
E.g.: If speed is set to 100mm/min and Current value is 200%, overridden feed speed value is
200mm/min.
148
Software
2.7.6.4 Spindle Override Enable

Enables spindle speed override options. When this item is disabled (no check), override controls
trough either Override menu or speed segment will have no affect on spindle speed values.
When spindle speed override is disabled, the spindle icon is using red color:
2.7.6.5 Spindle
Overrides speed setting for Spindle speed. Spindle speed setting is set in in g-code program with
S-word or in settings: File/Setting/Program Defaults/Spindle Speed. Speed override controls are
available also in Speed panel of main window.
E.g.: If speed is set to 1000RPM and Current value is 200%, overridden spindle speed value is
2000RPM.
149
Software
2.7.6.6 Pause Enable

When Pause Enable is enabled, pause button from toolbar will activate pause. When this option is
disabled (unchecked), pause button will not activate pause. This is meant as a safety feature, for
scenarios where synchronised motion is crucial e.g. thread cutting.
Pause button is disabled:
2.7.6.7 Pause optional

When Pause Optional option is enabled, g-code M01 pauses program. If this option is disabled,
software continues with program execution and ignores M01 g-code line.
2.7.6.8 Single Step

Enables single step execution of g-code program.
Each program line is executed separately, for which user needs to release Pause for each new
program line to be executed.
150
Software
2.7.7 Mist
Toggles Mist output pin. When Mist output is active, there is check next to Mist menu item as also
corresponding output pin in Machine/Outputs menu. Toolbar button for Mist is also active.
M-code M07/M09 status is activated accordingly.
2.7.8 Flood
Toggles Flood output pin. When Flood output is active, there is check next to Flood menu item as
also corresponding output pin in Machine/Outputs menu. Toolbar button for Flood is also active.
2.7.9 Spindle
Toggles Spindle output pin. When Spindle output is active, there is check next to Spindle menu
item as also corresponding output pin in Machine/Outputs menu. Toolbar button for Spindle is also
active.
151
Software
2.7.10 Output
Controls digital outputs of controller via sub-menu.
152
Software
2.7.10.1 Output 1-8:

Selected digital output pin can be activated or deactivated. When output is active, there is check
next to Output pin menu item. Active output pin will also be indicated under IO tab on the main
screen.
153
Software
2.7.11 Motors, Limits, Probe
154
Software
2.7.11.1 Motors Enable
Enables/disables Enable signal on controller axis headers.

NOTE: MT LED indicator will turn red when this option is disabled.
With Motors Enable enabled:
With Motors Enable disabled:
2.7.11.2 Soft Limits Enable

Enables/disables software limits of machine. Machine will be able to move outside of software
limits set with Motor Limits. Motor limit values are set in File/Settings/Motors/Limits
2.7.11.3 Hard Limits Enable

Enables/disables hardware limits (limit switches) and probe inputs of machine. Machine axes will
move despite corresponding axis limit switch or probe input being active. Limits switch parameters
are set in File/Settings/Motors/Limit Switches; Probe parameters are set: File/Settings/Program
Options/Probe&Measure
NOTE: LM LED indicator will turn red when this option is enabled
With Hard Limits enabled:
With Ignore Hard Limits disabled:
2.7.11.4 Probe Trigger

Simulates active probe input. You can use shortcut for this feature for easier use.
This feature comes very handy in case if you use PlanetCNC TNG in simulation mode where user
need to simulate hardware probe input.
155
Software
2.7.12 Tools
Provides means for changing and selecting tool as also editing a tool table.
156
Software
2.7.12.1 Current Active Tool

Displays current active tool.
2.7.12.2 Change
This program feature is script-able. For more info regarding Scripts, please read chapters
Scripts(3.0) and Settings/Scripts(2.9.8.10)
Initiates tool change procedure. Newly changed tool will be set as active tool. If tool table is
created, user can select tool from sub-menu. Equivalent to Change action is M6 g-code.
Newly active tool upon tool change to Tool 2:
157
Software
2.7.12.3 Select
Sets active tool without tool change procedure. If tool table is created, user can select tool from
sub-menu. Equivalent to Select action is M61 Qn g-code, where 'n' is tool number.
Newly active tool upon selecting Tool 3:
158
Software
2.7.12.4 Edit Tool Table

Creates tool table with predefined diameters and offsets.
159
Software
2.7.12.4.1 Tool
160
Software
No:
Sets number of tool. User can choose from numbers 1-255.
Number can be set directly by writing into insert bar or with '+' and '–' buttons.
If tool number entered is the same as one of the tools that is already populated in tool table, then
that tool will be highlighted in tool list:
Diameter:
Sets diameter of tool. User can choose from numbers 1-10000.
Number can be set directly by writing into insert bar or with '+' and '–' buttons.
Tools diameter value will be visible in Change and Select sub-menu:
This diameter value will be considered when G41 and G42. (Please note that these G-codes are
not currently supported.)
161
Software
Name:
Sets name of tool.
Tool name will be visible in tool table list as also in Change and Select sub-menu:
162
Software
2.7.12.4.2 Offset
X,Y,Z,A,B,C,U,V,W:
Sets tool offset of tool. Offset can be set in all 9 axes.
2.7.12.4.3 Tool Change Position

These are position values of selected tool. When manual or automatic tool change is initiated
machine will use these position values in order to mount or dismount requested tool.
These values are also available as parameters so you can use them in any way you want or need
when configuring tool change script file.
2.7.12.4.4 Sensor Offset

If measured tool uses e.g. cutting flutes that are eccentric to tools geometry and machine would
need to measure it with an eccentric offset value, then this value represents machine offset so that
tool can be successfully measured.
2.7.12.4.5 Custom Parameters

Custom parameters that can be used in tool change script configuration.
2.7.12.4.6 Skip Tool Measure

When enabled, then tool will not be measured with fixed tool sensor e.g. Probe.
2.7.12.4.7 Skip Tool Change

When enabled, then tool will not use tool change procedure e.g. Laser.
2.7.12.4.8 Add
This button creates and adds tool to tool table.
2.7.12.4.9 Update
This button updates any configuration changes of selected tool from tool table.
2.7.12.4.10 Delete
This button deletes selected tool from tool table.
2.7.12.4.11 Import...
With PlanetCNC TNG user can save tool table as tool table file.
Import button imports tool table file.
163
Software
2.7.12.4.12 Export...
With PlanetCNC TNG user can save tool table as tool table file.
Export button exports tool table file.
2.7.12.4.13 OK
This button confirms changes and closes Edit Tool Table dialog.
PLEASE NOTE:
To create and add new tool to tool table, user needs to use Add button.
If configuration changes were made to existing tools from tool table, user still needs to use Update
button.
2.7.12.4.14 Cancel
This button cancels changes and closes Edit Tool Table dialog.
164
Software
Example: Creating a new tool in the tool table

Click Machine/Tools/Edit Tool Table. Under Tool No.: insert number for new tool. Insert Diameter
value and its name. Insert tool offset (usually only in Z axis). Then click Add. Tool will appear in the
tool list.
To change parameters of already created tool select tool from tool list and change tools
parameters. Then click Update.
165
Software
2.7.13 Move
Provides means to move all machine axes or selected axis/axes to zero or predefined position
values.
166
Software
2.7.13.1 To Zero
Moves all machine axes to zero position value. If no Work Offset is set machine will move to
absolute zero. If Work Offset is set, machine will move to zero Work Position.
2.7.13.2 To...
Provides means to move selected axis/axes to desired position.
You can move all 9 axes: X,Y,Z,A,B,C,U,V,W. To confirm a move of selected axis to specified
position, enable axis radio button, insert axis position and click OK.
E.g.: Move machine axes X,Y and Z to positions 20,30,50:
167
Software
2.7.13.2.1 Copy From

With Copy From user can choose among options provided from drop
down menu for faster population of axis position values.
Zero:
Populates all position values of Move dialog with zero values.
Absolute Position:
Populates all position values of Move dialog with machines current absolute position values.
Work Position:
Populates all position values of Move dialog with machines current working position values.
Work Offset:
Populates all position values of Move dialog with current working offset values.
G-Code Extents:
Populates all position values of Move dialog with g-code program extent values.
s
G-Code Center:
Populates all position values of Move dialog with g-code program center values. G-code centre
position is a position in the centre of g-code toolpath.
G-Code Line:
Populates all position values of Move dialog with coordinate values of selected g-code line from g-
code window.
168
Software
2.7.13.3 Axis to Zero

Moves selected machine axis to zero position value. If no Work Offset is set for selected axis, axis
will move to absolute zero position value. If Work Offset is set for selected axis, axis will move to
axis zero Work Position.
User can select axis from sub menu:
2.7.13.4 To G28
Moves machine to G28 position (preset absolute machine position). To set G28 absolute position
value see chapter 2.5.13.6 As G28.
2.7.13.5 To G30
Moves machine to G30 position (preset absolute machine position). To set G30 absolute position
value see chapter 2.5.13.7 As G30.
2.7.13.6 To Selected Line

Moves machine to position of selected g-code line in g-code window.
169
Software
2.7.13.7 To Selected Line XY

Moves machine to XY position value of selected g-code line in g-code window.
2.7.13.8 Position to Camera

Moves machine to XY position of camera view.
2.7.13.9 Camera To Position

Camera view moves to current machine position.
2.7.13.10 Camera To Selected Line XY

Camera view moves to XY position value of selected g-code line from g-code window.
170
Software
2.7.14 Machine Position
171
Software
2.7.14.1 To Zero
Sets all machine position values to zero, none of the axes will move during this action.
2.7.14.2 To...
When dialogue is displayed, current machine position values are already populated.
You can set new machine position values for each of 9 axes: X,Y,Z,A,B,C,U,V,W.
To set new machine position for selected axis, enable axis radio button, insert new machine
position and click OK.
172
Software

With Copy From option, user can choose among options provided from drop down menu for faster
population of machine position values.
Zero:
Populates all machine position values of Machine position dialog with zero values.
Machine Position:
Populates all machine position values of Machine position dialog with current machine position
values.
Work Position:
Populates all machine position values of Machine position dialog with current work position values.
Work Offset:
Populates all machine position values of Machine position dialog with current work offset values.
G-Code Extents:
Populates all machine position values of Machine position dialog with g-code program extent
values.
G-Code Center:
Populates all machine position values of Machine position dialog with g-code program center
values.
173
Software
2.7.14.3 Axis To Zero

Sets machine position value of selected axis to zero. User can select axis or axes from drop down
menu:
2.7.14.4 As G28
Sets current machine position as G28 position.
2.7.14.5 As G30
Sets current machine position as G30 position.
174
Software
2.7.15 Work Position
175
Software
2.7.15.1 To Zero
Sets all work position values to zero, none of the axes will move during this action.
2.7.15.2 To...
When dialog is displayed, current working position values are already populated.
You can set new working position values for all 9 axes: X,Y,Z,A,B,C,U,V,W.
To set working position for selected axis, enable axis radio button, insert axis working position and
click OK.
176
Software
Zero:
Populates all working position values of Work Position dialog with zero values.
Machine Position:
Populates all working position values of Work Position dialog with current machine position values.
Work Position:
Populates all working position values of Work Position dialog with current work position values.
Work Offset:
Populates all working position values of Work Position dialog with current working offset values.
G-Code Extents:
Populates all working position values of Work Position dialog with g-code program extent values.
G-Code Center:
Populates all working position values of Work Position dialog with g-code program centre values.
177
Software

Sets working position value of selected axis to zero. User can select axis from sub menu:
178
Software
2.7.15.4 Measure Height

Initiates Work Position\Measure Height procedure.

Z axis will start descending at current machine position and when sensor/probe input is activated,
software sets work position of Z axis to zero.
Sensor configuration settings that respond to this program function are located:
File/Settings/Program Options/Offsets/Work Position/Measure Height
Please note: To avoid any damage, software safety feature will notify you if sensor/probe is not
configured in File/Settings/Program Options/Probe & Measure
179
Software
2.7.15.5 Offset
2.7.15.5.1 To Zero
Sets Offset value to zero for all machine axes.
180
Software
2.7.15.5.2 To...
When dialog is displayed, current work offset values are already populated.
You can set work offset values for all 9 axes: X,Y,Z,A,B,C,U,V,W.
To set work offset for selected axis, enable axis radio button, insert axis work offset and click OK.
Zero:
Populates all work offset values of Offset dialog with zero values.
Machine Position:
Populates all work offset values of Offset dialog with machines current machine position values.
Work Position:
Populates all work offset values of Offset dialog with machines current working position values.
Work Offset:
Populates all work offset values of Offset dialog with current working offset values.
181
Software
2.7.15.5.4 Axis To Zero

Sets selected machine axis work offset value to zero. User can select axis from sub menu:
2.7.15.6 Selected Line

Work position values of machine axes are set with position values of selected g-code line in g-code
window.
2.7.15.7 Selected Line XY

Work position values of machine XY axes are set with only XY position values of selected g-code
line in g-code window.
2.7.15.8 Camera XY
Work position values of machine XY axes are set with Camera view.
182
Software
2.7.16 Coordinate System
With this group of settings you can select, configure, measure and edit coordinate systems.
183
Software
2.7.16.1 Current Coordinate System

Displays current active coordinate system. You can select active coordinate system either using
the standard coordinate system g-codes G54,G55,G56.... or using Machine/Coordinate
System/Select feature.
2.7.16.2 Select
You can select active coordinate system number from drop down menu:
2.7.16.3 To Zero
Sets current work position to zero.
Coordinate system offset values of currently active coordinate system are set accordingly.
184
Software
2.7.16.4 To...
When dialog is displayed, current work position values are already populated.
You can set new position values for all 9 axes: X,Y,Z,A,B,C,U,V,W.
To set new postion value for selected axis, enable axis radio button, insert axis offset value and
click OK.
Coordinate system offset values of currently active coordinate system will be set accordingly.

Zero:
Populates all offset values of Coordinate System dialog with zero
values.
Absolute Position:
Populates all offset values of Coordinate System dialog with machines
current absolute position values.
Work Position:
Populates all offset values of Coordinate System dialog with machines current working position
values.
Work Offset:
Populates all work offset values of Coordinate System dialog with current working offset values.
185
Software
Sets work position value to zero for selected axis. User can select axis from sub menu:
Coordinate system offset values of currently active coordinate system will be set accordingly.
2.7.16.6 Measure Height

Measures Z axis offset value of active coordinate system.
Z axis will start descending at current position and when sensor/probe input is activated(e.g.
surface of material), software sets Z axis offset of active coordinate system.
File/Settings/Program Options/Offsets/Work Position/Measure Height
186
Software
2.7.16.7 Offset
2.7.16.7.1 To Zero
Sets coordinate system offset value to zero for all machine axes.
187
Software
2.7.16.7.2 To...
When dialog is displayed, current coordinate system offset values are already populated.
You can set coordinate system offset values for all 9 axes: X,Y,Z,A,B,C,U,V,W.
To set offset for selected axis, enable axis radio button, insert axis offset value and click OK.
Copy From:
Zero:
Populates all offset values of Offset dialog with zero values.
Machine Position:
Populates all offset values of Offset dialog with machines current machine position values.
Work Position:
Populates all offset values of Offset dialog with machines current working position values.
Work Offset:
Populates all offset values of Offset dialog with current working offset values.
188
Software
2.7.16.7.3 Axis To Zero
Sets selected machine axis coordinate system offset value to zero. User can select axis from sub
menu:
189
Software
2.7.17 Tool Offset
190
Software
2.7.17.1 Enabled
Enables/disables offset of currently active tool. This function responds to G43/G49 g-codes.
G43:
G49:
2.7.17.2 To Zero
Sets Tool Offset value to zero for all machine axes.
191
Software
2.7.17.3 To...
When dialog is displayed, current tool offset values are already populated.
You can set tool offset values for all 9 axes: X,Y,Z,A,B,C,U,V,W.
To set tool offset for selected axis, enable axis radio button, insert axis tool offset and click OK.
192
Software
Zero:
Populates all tool offset values of Tool Offset dialog with zero values.
Machine Position:
Populates all tool offset values of Tool Offset dialog with machine
position values.
Work Position:
Populates all tool offset values of Tool Offset dialog with machines current working position values.
Work Offset:
Populates all tool offset values of Tool Offset dialog with current working offset values.
2.7.17.4 Axis to Zero

Sets tool offset value of selected axis to zero. User can select axis from sub menu:
193
Software
2.7.17.5 Measure Length

Initiates Measure Length procedure.

Machine will move to fixed sensor position at safe height and proceed to measure tool length
offset. Measured tool offset will be set.
File/Settings/Program Options/Offsets/Tool Offset/Measure Length
2.7.17.6 From Tool Table

Sets Tool Offset value of current tool from tool table.
194
Software
2.7.18 Home
Initiates homing procedure. On how to configure homing procedure please refer to chapter 2.9.8.8.
Homing
195
Software
2.7.19 Measure
Provides means for machine measuring of various geometries. For such purpose user can use
measurement probing device.
Please note:
Probe configuration settings that respond to these program functions are located:
File/Settings/Program Options/Probe&Measure
196
Software
2.7.19.1 Inside Corner

This method is useful when user would like to measure the inner point of an inside corner
geometry. Displayed illustrations will help user select correct measurement option.
2.7.19.1.1 X+ Y+
• Measurement starts at current position in X+ direction. Once probe is tripped, machine will
retract in X- direction to start position.
• Machine will move in Y+ direction. Once probe is tripped, machine will retract in Y-
direction to start position.
• Machine Z axis will move to Safe Height and then travel to measured corner position.
2.7.19.1.2 X+ Y-
• Measurement starts at current position in X+ direction. Once probe is tripped, machine will
retract in X- direction to start position.
• Machine will move in Y- direction. Once probe is tripped, machine will retract in Y+ direction
to start position.
197
Software
2.7.19.1.3 X- Y-
• Measurement starts at current position in X- direction. Once probe is tripped, machine will
retract in X+ direction to start position.
to start position.
2.7.19.1.4 X- Y+
• Measurement starts at current position in X- direction. Once probe is tripped, machine will
retract in X+ direction to start position.
• Machine will move in Y+ direction. Once probe is tripped, machine will retract in Y- direction
to start position.
198
Software
2.7.19.2 Outside Corner

This method is useful when user would like to measure the inner point of an outside corner
geometry. Displayed illustrations will help user select correct measurement option.
2.7.19.2.1 Distance from X edge

This parameter is distance from the first X axis edge to next Y axis measurement point.
2.7.19.2.2 X+ Y+
• Measurement starts in X+ direction at current machine position. Once probe is tripped,
machine will retract in X- direction back to start position.
• Machine Z axis will move to Safe Height
• Machine will move along X+ axis for distance of first measured point + Distance from X
edge value
• Machine will move along Y- axis for same distance as for X axis (at Safe Height)
• Z axis will travel from Safe Height back to start Z height
to start Y axis position.
• Machine Z axis will move to Safe Height and then travel to measured corner initial position.
199
Software
2.7.19.2.3 X+ Y-
• Machine will move along X+ axis for distance of first measured point + Distance from X
edge value
• Machine will move along Y+ axis for same distance as for X axis (at Safe Height)
2.7.19.2.4 X- Y-
• Measurement starts in X- direction at current machine position. Once probe is tripped,
machine will retract in X+ direction back to start position.Machine Z axis will move to Safe
Height
• Machine will move along X- axis for distance of first measured point + Distance from X
edge value
• Machine will move along Y+ axis for same distance as for X axis (at Safe Height)
2.7.19.2.5 X- Y+
machine will retract in X+ direction back to start position.
• Machine will move along X- axis for distance of first measured point + Distance from X
edge value
• Machine will move along Y- axis for same distance as for X axis (at Safe Height)
200
Software
2.7.19.3 Hole
This method is useful when user would like to measure the centre point of symmetrical hole
geometry.
• Position machine to approximate centre of a hole

• Measurement starts in X+ direction at current machine
position. Once probe is tripped, machine will retract in X-
direction back to start position.
• Measurement continues in X- direction. Once probe is tripped,
• Measurement continues in Y+ direction. Once probe is
tripped, machine will retract in Y- direction back to start
position.
• Measurement continues in Y- direction. Once probe is tripped, machine will retract in Y+
• Machine will move to measured centre point of hole
201
Software
2.7.19.4 Protrusion
This method is useful when user would like to measure the centre point of symmetrical protrusion
geometry.
2.7.19.4.1 Protrusion size

This parameter is diameter value of the measured geometry.
202
Software
2.7.19.4.2 X+
• Machine will travel in X+ direction at Safe Height for distance of first measured X point and
Protrusion Size distance value.
• Machine will move in X- direction. Once probe is tripped, machine will retract in X+ direction
to X axis start position.
• Machine will move to measured centre X axis point and then in Y+ direction for Protrusion
size distance value.
to Y axis start position.
• Machine will move travel in Y- direction for distance of first measured Y point and
• Machine Z axis will move to Safe Height and then travel to measured centre position of
protrusion.
203
Software
2.7.19.4.3 X-
• Machine will travel in X- direction at Safe Height for distance of first measured X point and
• Machine will move in X+ direction. Once probe is tripped, machine will retract in X- direction
• Machine will move to measured centre X axis point and then in Y- direction for Protrusion
• Machine will move travel in Y+ direction for distance of first measured Y point and
protrusion.
204
Software
2.7.19.4.4 Y+
• Measurement starts in Y+ direction at current machine position. Once probe is tripped,
machine will retract in Y- direction back to start position.
• Machine will travel in Y+ direction at Safe Height for distance of first measured Y point and
• Machine will move to measured centre Y axis point and then in X+ direction for Protrusion
• Machine will move travel in X- direction for distance of first measured X point and
protrusion.
205
Software
2.7.19.4.5 Y-
• Measurement starts in Y- direction at current machine position. Once probe is tripped,
machine will retract in Y+ direction back to start position.
• Machine will travel in Y- direction at Safe Height for distance of first measured Y point and
• Machine will move to measured centre Y axis point and then in X- direction for Protrusion
• Machine will move travel in X+ direction for distance of first measured X point and
protrusion.
206
Software
2.7.19.5 Slot
This method is useful when user would like to measure the centre point of slot geometry.
2.7.19.5.1 X
to X axis start position
• Machine will travel to measured centre position of slot.
2.7.19.5.2 Y
to Y axis start position
• Machine will travel to measured centre position of slot.
207
Software
2.7.19.6 Tab
This method is useful when user would like to measure the centre point of tab geometry.
2.7.19.6.1 X+
• Machine will travel in X+ direction at Safe Height for distance of first measured X point and
Tab Size distance value.
• Machine will move to measured centre of tab
208
Software
2.7.19.6.2 X-
• Machine will travel in X- direction at Safe Height for distance of first measured X point and
2.7.19.6.3 Y+
• Machine will travel in Y+ direction at Safe Height for distance of first measured Y point and
2.7.19.6.4 Y-
• Machine will travel in Y- direction at Safe Height for distance of first measured Y point and
209
Software
2.7.19.7 Axis
This method is useful when user would like to measure the edge geometry and e.g. set zero work
position.
2.7.19.7.1 X+
• Machine will travel in X+ direction at Safe Height to measured edge position.
2.7.19.7.2 X-
• Machine will travel in X- direction at Safe Height to measured edge position.
2.7.19.7.3 Y+
• Machine will travel in Y+ direction at Safe Height to measured edge position.
210
Software
2.7.19.7.4 Y-
• Machine will travel in Y- direction at Safe Height to measured edge position.
211
Software
2.7.19.8 Angle
This method is useful when user would like to measure the angle of edge geometry.
2.7.19.8.1 X+
machine will retract in X- direction back to start position and move in the Y+ direction for
Distance to next probe distance value
• Machine will move in X+ direction at current machine position. Once probe is tripped,
machine will retract in X- direction back to start position
• Z axis will move to Safe Height
• Machine will move to position of first measured point of X axis edge geometry. Print
command will display value of measured axis edge position and angle value.
212
Software
2.7.19.8.2 X-
machine will retract in X+ direction back to start position and move in the Y- direction for
• Machine will move in X- direction at current machine position. Once probe is tripped,
machine will retract in X+ direction back to start position
• Machine will move to position of first measured point of X axis edge geometry. Print
2.7.19.8.3 Y+
machine will retract in Y- direction back to start position and move in the X+ direction for
• Machine will move in Y+ direction at current machine position. Once probe is tripped,
machine will retract in Y- direction back to start position
• Machine will move to position of first measured point of Y axis edge geometry. Print
2.7.19.8.4 Y-
machine will retract in Y+ direction back to start position and move in the X- direction for
• Machine will move in Y- direction at current machine position. Once probe is tripped,
machine will retract in Y+ direction back to start position
• Machine will move to position of first measured point of Y axis edge geometry. Print
213
Software
2.7.19.9 Surface Height

This method is useful when user would like to measure surface height of workpiece.
User can set Z axis zero or Z axis coordinate system zero position values.
• Measurement starts in Z- direction at current machine position. Once probe is tripped,

machine will retract in Z+ direction back to start position. Based on the option selected,
software will either do nothing(values will still be printed in the output window), set Z axis
work position zero value or set Z axis zero position value of coordinate system.
214
Software
2.7.19.10 Surface Angle
This method is useful when user would like to measure surface angle of workpiece.
With Distance parameter you set distance value between three neighbouring measurement points.
• Measurement starts in Z- direction at current

machine position. Once probe is tripped, machine
will retract in Z+ direction back to start position.
• Machine will move in X+ direction for Distance
distance value. Machine will move in Z- direction.
Once probe is tripped, machine will retract in Z+
• Machine will move at angle of 120 degrees to last
measurement point. At last measurement position,
machine will move in Z- direction. Once probe is
tripped, machine will retract in Z+ direction back to
start position.
215
Software
2.7.19.11 Surface
This method is useful when user would like to measure surface points. Measurement points are
saved and can be used for later use, e.g. Warp, Transformation etc...
2.7.19.11.1 Size
X: Size of X axis measurement area.
Y: Size of Y axis measurement area.
2.7.19.11.2 Step
X: Step distance between two neighbouring
measurement points for X axis.
Y: Distance increment between two neighbouring
measuring points for Y axis.
2.7.19.11.3 Return Distance

This is distance value for which machine retracts once
probe has been tripped.
2.7.19.12 Gantry Square

Initiates Gantry Square procedure.
216
Software
2.7.20 Points
User can save, load or export measured points.
217
Software
2.7.20.1 Count
Displays current count of measured points.
2.7.20.2 Load
Loads previously saved file of measured points.
2.7.20.3 Save
User can save measured points as file.
2.7.20.4 Save STL

Saves measured points as STL file. Points will be saved as toolpath.
2.7.20.5 Save DXF

Saves measured points as DXL file. Points will be saved as toolpath.
2.7.20.6 To Output
Point coordinates from point count are displayed in the output window.
218
Software
2.7.20.7 Clear
Clears all currently measured points.
2.7.20.8 Add
Adds new point to current point count. Point coordinate values are current machine position
coordinate values.
219
Software
2.7.21 Camera
220
Software
2.7.21.1 Show
Camera Show displays the view visible to a USB web-cam, mounted alongside the spindle, looking
down on the workpiece. The large cross-hair marker in the center of the view is used for precise
‘targeting’ of points on the stock, for measurement or capture purposes.
Available USB web-cams are listed in a drop-down in the center of the panel. Depending on
attached hardware, options to use camera filters may also be shown. PlanetCNC TNG software
provides adjustment, so the basic web-cam option is selected. Basic web-cam hardware is
suitable. It is much less costly to replace in event of failure or damage.
Camera hardware mounted close to spindle experiences much vibration. Robust construction and
the ability to mount hardware securely are the most important considerations when choosing web-
cam tool sensors. Camera and camera cable might also be source of electrical interference.
221
Software
This button opens up a menu displaying all connected and available cameras:
222
Software
This button opens up a zoom factor menu:
223
Software
This button opens up a colour palette menu. User
224
Software
Using the colour settings user can change the colour of crosshair of camera view:
225
Software
This slider is used for circle diameter adjustment:
226
Software
Set Offset
Camera Offset is set here.
2.7.21.1.1 Mark
Marks camera reference point on machine table which will be used for setting camera offset.
2.7.21.1.2 Read 1
Saves camera reference point position coordinates (X,Y,Z) captured at the lowest Z axis height
possible, using camera view. Saved coordinates refer to Point 1 of Set Offset dialog.
2.7.21.1.3 Read 2
Saves camera reference point coordinates (X,Y,Z) captured at the highest Z axis height possible
using, camera view. Saved coordinates refer to Point 2 of Set Offset dialog.
2.7.21.1.4 Calibrate Scale

Calibrates camera viewfinder scale/grid for measuring purposes.
227
Software
2.7.21.1.5 Set Offset

Opens dialog with current Point 1 and Point 2 values already populated (if Read1 and Read 2
actions were performed prior). Click OK to set Camera Offset.
How to set Camera two point offset:

1. Open camera window with Machine/Camera/Show...
2. Mark camera reference point on machine table. You can use marker, small drill or tool, ...
Whatever you find useful.
3. Position tool exactly over this reference point and click: "Machine/Camera/Set Offset/Mark"
4. Move machine and locate reference point with camera view. Use lowest Z level possible.
5. When reference point is in centre of camera cross-hair marker click: "Machine/Camera/Set
Offset/Read 1"
6. Now move Z to highest possible level where marker is still visible on camera view and
center it.
7. When camera reference point is in centre of camera cross-hair marker click:
"Machine/Camera/Set Offset/Read 2"
8. To set camera offset click: Machine/Camera/Set Offset → OK
228
Software
2.7.22 User Commands

User can write and configure his own programs which are available trough User Commands sub-
menu.
229
Software
User command programs should be located in user profile folder in UserCmd folder.
230
Software
2.7.23 Controller
231
Software
2.7.23.1 Reconnect
Reconnects communication between controller and software. This comes handy when
communication is terminated due to e.g. EM interference.
2.7.23.2 Reset
Resets controller.
2.7.23.3 Firmware Update

Updates controller firmware with version embedded in software. It is not possible to destroy or
damage controller with firmware update. If firmware update fails it is always possible to update it
again.
2.7.23.4 Advanced
2.7.23.4.1 Controller Parameters
DHCP:
DHCP status of controller
IP:
IP address of controller
Mask:
Mask of controller
Port:
MAC:
MAC address of controller
232
Software
2.7.23.4.2 Revert to V1
Controller can be used with both motion software's from PlanetCNC, PlanetCNC TNG software
and CNC USB controller software.
Controller's firmware needs to be updated with software version that will be used with: PlanetCNC
TNG software or CNC USB controller software.
Controller updated with TNG firmware cannot be used with CNC USB sw and controller updated
with CNC USB sw firmware cannot be used with TNG software.
If user wants to use controller with CNC USB software once controllers firmware is updated with
TNG software, Revert to V1 reverts controller firmware so that it can be used with CNC USB
software.
233
Software
2.8 Help
2.8.1 User Manual...

Opens PlanetCNC user manual file.
2.8.2 G-code Manual...

Opens PlanetCNC g-code reference file.
234
Software
2.8.3 License management
2.8.3.1 Licenses
Opens up a dialog where user can import license activation code and imports/exports license files.
2.8.3.1.1 License list:

Displays license file(s) imported in PlanetCNC TNG software. License files have .lic file extension.
They are located in main installation folder of PlanetCNC TNG software.
235
Software
2.8.3.1.2 Import...
Opens up dialog where user can enter license activation code. User can paste license activation
code using c/p keyboard keys or Paste From Clipboard button. Clicking OK button confirms license
code.
2.8.3.1.3 Import File

Imports license .lic file.
2.8.3.1.4 Export File

Exports license .lic file.
236
Software
2.8.3.2 Activation Code Generator

Activation code generator displays controllers unique activation code. In order that code is
displayed, controller needs to be selected under Device List so that becomes highlighted:
With Copy To Clipboard button, code is copied to clipboard and can be directly pasted to e.g. e-
mail body text.
237
Software
2.8.4 Check For Updates

Checks for software updates at PlanetCNC download page: http://planet-cnc.com/software
2.8.5 Show Log
2.8.6 About
Displays software version and firmware version of connected controller.
238
Software
2.9 Settings
Settings panel allows setup and configuration of all software options and features. Settings allow
automation and integration of many features to provide advanced functions and simplify or speed-
up many common tasks. Required options are dependent on user machinery, ancillary hardware
and application.
It’s MOST IMPORTANT that software is appropriately configured before any attempt is made to
control CNC machinery. Failure to do so, may result in serious injury or damage to machinery. With
unknown or untested machinery, it’s safer to keep initial motion rates below anticipated maximums.
Emergency stop and limit switch hardware should be configured and tested before higher traverse
or ‘rapid’ move rates are performed.
Settings shown in this section are examples. It’s the users responsibility to ensure that safe and
appropriate settings are applied to suit the controlled machine. Mk3 controller settings are used in
examples. Most settings are applicable to other controllers. If specific settings for certain model of
controller are required, this is noted in the text.
Some settings relate to hardware. These might be items like tool sensors, jog keyboards, MPG
Pendants, tool-changers and so forth. If hardware is not available when software is configured, it
can be installed and configured separately. It may be helpful to have hardware in place and
operational before configuring related options. This allows testing or adjustment to determine safe
and suitable parameters. Again, for reasons of safety, this is particularly the case with emergency
stop and limit switch hardware.
239
Software
2.9.1 General
Under ‘General’ tab you can insert settings description, measurement units, machine type, notes
and settings password.
240
Software
2.9.1.1 Description
Anything written in the description bar will be displayed at the top right corner of PlanetCNC TNG
software window. This way you can easily indicate machine profile currently in use.
Description text is displayed at top right corner of PlanetCNC TNG window:
2.9.1.2 Units
Selected option sets measurement units which will be used in software. Metric (millimeters-mm) or
Imperial (inches-in) units can be used. Depending on measurement unit set, all values in settings
will be recalculated to measurement unit selected here.
2.9.1.3 Machine type

Select type of your machine. Option selected does not have an affect on any other setting(only for
description purposes).
241
Software
2.9.1.4 Notes
Here you can write notes describing your machine setup, setting configuration and any info that
might be relevant to machine operator.
2.9.1.5 Password
If you wish to protect your settings configuration from being changed by another person, you can
use password and protect settings from being modified.
Next time you open settings, software will require password:
2.9.1.6 Check For Updates

With this option selected, software will automatically look for newer available software version.
242
Software
2.9.2 Connection
Under 'Connection' tab you can set type of connection used for controller communication,
computers network adapter IP number, primary controller selection and other motion controller
based information.
243
Software
2.9.2.1 Connection
PlanetCNC motion controllers can use USB or Ethernet type of communication, depending on
controller.
Mk3 supports both USB and Ethernet, while Mk3/4, Mk3DRV and Mk3ECO controllers support
only USB communication.
2.9.2.1.1 USB:
When USB option is enabled, device list will be populated only with controller(s) that are connected
to PC via USB port.
244
Software
Device list provides user with basic controller info: USB, PlanetCNC Mk3, Serial: 155
USB: Type of connection
PlanetCNC MkXX: Version of PlanetCNC controller
Serial: Serial number of controller
If you highlight controller, you will be able to see additional info of controller (Info and Path bars will
appear):
Info: Controllers firmware version(Version:).
Path: VID(Vendor ID) and PID(Product ID) number.
Path numbers 2.1.3.4 represent USB connection port hierarchy.
245
Software
2.9.2.1.2 Network:
When Network option is enabled, controller list will be populated only with controller(s) that are
connected with PC via network cable or are connected to network.
Device list provides user with basic controller info: NET, PlanetCNC MK3, Serial: 1300
NET: Type of connection
PlanetCNC Mk3, Mk34: Version of PlanetCNC controller
Serial: Serial number of controller
246
Software
When you highlight controller, you will be able to see additional info of controller (Info, IP, Mask,
MAC and DHCP bars will appear):
Info: Controllers firmware version(Version: 20170406).
IP: IP number of motion controller.
Mask: Network mask
MAC: MAC address of controller
DHCP option: Enables DHCP
247
Software
2.9.2.1.3 USB & Network:

If both, USB and Network options are enabled, controller list will be populated with controllers that
are connected with PC via USB and Ethernet.
248
Software
2.9.2.2 Adapter IP
Your computer is able to use numerous network adapters, which means your controller can be
connected with computer trough any of them. Here you can insert your computers dedicted
network adapter IP number.
2.9.2.3 Primary Controller:

Primary controller is controller which we select and assign as our main controller device. Primary
controller is controller that will control CNC machine.
To assign controller as your primary controller you need to double click on it from the controller list.
You will notice that Primary Controller bar now displays your selected controller.
IMPORTANT: Selecting primary controller is necessary in order to control your CNC machine.
249
Software
2.9.3 User Interface:

User interface is divided into separate segments:
Menu segment
Toolbar segment
Position segment
Speed segment
State segment
Jog segment
3D display segment
G-code segment
Utilities segment.
User can configure parameters of each segment, independently.
250
Software
2.9.3.1 Colors
Each segment of user interface has multiple color parameters (for Text, Button, Label etc...). These
color parameters can be set for each segment independently or by using “smart” color generator.
Color generator uses algorithm which calculates suitable color shades based on the main color. In
such case user does not need to waste any time configuring suitable color combinations that would
give him desired and useful color scheme.
2.9.3.1.1 Main
Based on Main color, color generator will generate and adjust suitable color shades of all color
parameters of all segments.
In order to confirm new color scheme for all segments, user needs to click Match Other button.
Star shaped button will open color palette, from which user selects main color:
Color palette dialog offers user to select main color using color picker or RGB parameter sliders.
251
Software
2.9.3.1.2 Background
Background color of user interface. This color can be set automatically using color generator or
using color palette.
2.9.3.1.3 Outline
Outline color of segments. This color can be set automatically using color generator or using color
palette.
2.9.3.1.4 Text
Text color of segments. This color can be set automatically using color generator or using color
palette.
2.9.3.1.5 Skin
User interface can use skins. Skin is an image which will be used as a main pattern/theme for all
segments.
You can load desired skin using browse button. Skin files are located in Skin folder of PlanetCNC
TNG profile folder.
2.9.3.1.6 Reset All

Resets all color parameter values to default.
2.9.3.1.7 Match Other

Confirms new proposed color scheme for all segments. All segment colors will be automatically
generated and set.
252
Software
2.9.3.2 Properties
2.9.3.2.1 Gap:
These values define distance between neighbouring panels and between limiters within the panels.
Example:
Gap value set to 4: Gap value set to 16:
253
Software
Gap limiter value set to 1:
Gap limiter value set to 12:
254
Software
2.9.3.2.2 Outline Radius

This value defines corner radius of panels.
Example:
Outline Radius set to 6: Outline Radius set to 18:
2.9.3.2.3 Outline Thickness

This value defines panel outline thickness.
Example:
Outline Thickness set to 1.2: Outline Thickness set to 3.5:
255
Software
2.9.3.2.4 Refresh Rate

This parameter sets user interface display refresh time. Value inserted is time in milliseconds, time
after displayed PlanetCNC TNG interface will refresh.
2.9.3.2.5 Line Limit

This parameter sets max number of program g-code lines that can be loaded into PlanetCNC TNG
software. Toolpath will be displayed only to the point of last g-code line loaded.
Note that even if g-code program is not loaded and tool path is not displayed completely, software
will still execute program in its entirety.
2.9.3.2.6 Time Limit:

Value inserted is time in seconds after which PlanetCNC TNG software stops loading of g-code
program.
2.9.3.2.7 Loop Limit

Value inserted is number of loops (used as o-word subroutines e.g.: While/Endwhile, Repeat) after
which PlanetCNC TNG software stops loading of g-code program.
2.9.3.2.8 Run Time Correction

Value inserted is factor which helps with approximation of job run-time evaluation that is displayed
at the bottom right corner of PlanetCNC TNG main window.
256
Software
2.9.3.3 Dialogs
2.9.3.3.1 Native File Dialogs

Menu items located under 'File' menu can be displayed in your computers native OS form or in
PlanetCNC TNG software form.
Click Enable button to enable use of Native File Dialogs.
Native File Dialogs enabled:
257
Software
Native File Dialogs disabled:
258
Software
2.9.3.3.2 Dialog Options
OK/Cancel:
Program feature dialog will use OK and Cancel buttons. OK button confirms parameter
configuration and closes the dialog. Changes to the program will be made after you click Redraw
from Program menu.
Cancel button closes dialog. No changes will be made.
Example:
Apply/Close:
Program feature dialog will use Apply and Close buttons. Apply button confirms parameter
configuration. Changes to the program will be made after you close the dialog and click Redraw
from Program menu. If Auto Redraw is enabled, changes to the program will be made instantly
after Apply button clicked.
Close button closes dialog. No changes will be made.
Example:
259
Software
2.9.3.4 Commands
2.9.3.4.1 Spindle Command

Native:
When Spindle On/Off button from toolbar is used, software uses default M3 g-code behaviour.
Uses M-code:
When Spindle On/Off button from toolbar is used, software uses M3 g-code script behaviour.
2.9.3.4.2 Coolant Command

Native:
When Coolant On/Off buttons from toolbar are used, software uses default M7,M8 g-code
behaviour.
Uses M-code:
When Coolant On/Off buttons from toolbar are used, software uses M7,M8 g-code script
behaviour.
2.9.3.4.3 Auto Redraw
On Program Cmd:
If any program changes were made using Program menu dialogs, this parameter, when enabled,
will automatically reload changes after Program dialog is closed.
On Machine Cmd:
If any program changes were made using Machine menu dialogs, this parameter, when enabled,
will automatically reload changes after Machine dialog is closed.
260
Software
2.9.4 Menu
Menu bar is located horizontally at the top of the user interface. It populates menus: File, View,
Program, Machine, Help.
2.9.4.1 Colors
Find Match:
Based on selected Main color, color generator will generate and adjust suitable color shade for all
Menu segment color parameters.
Title Background:
Background color of menu's Title bar. This color can be set automatically using color generator or
Title Text:
Menu's Title text color. This color can be set automatically using color generator or using color
palette.
Background:
Menu background color. This color can be set automatically using color generator or using color
palette.
Text:
Menu items text color. This color can be set automatically using color generator or using color
palette.
Example:
261
Software
Title Background set to red, and Background set to yellow color:
2.9.4.2 Properties
Title Size:
With this parameter you set the size of the titlebar items as also menu items.
Example: Title size set to 52
262
Software
2.9.5 Toolbars
Toolbars are located vertically left and right of the user interface and horizontally at the top and
bottom of the user interface.
2.9.5.1 Colors
Find Match:
Toolbars segment color parameters.
Background:
Background color of Toolbar segment. This color can be set automatically using color generator or
Button:
Button icon color. This color can be set automatically using color generator or using color palette.
263
Software
Example:
Background color of toolbars set to blue:
264
Software
Button Down:
Toolbar button active state color. Button will change its color when it is used either directly from
toolbar or when its modal state is active (e.g. M3, M7, M8).
Idle button example:
Active (down) button example:
Button Alert:
Button alert color. Button will change its color when it is in alert mode.
Idle pause button example (pause enabled):
Alert pause button example (pause disabled):
265
Software
2.9.5.2 Properties:
Size:
With this parameter you set the size of the toolbars.
Example:
Toolbar size set to 60.
266
Software
Buttons:
This option allows user to hide or show buttons.
Hide: Hides all buttons.
Show: Displays all buttons.
Example:
Toolbar buttons are hidden.
Hints:
Toolbar hints are pop-up clouds with names of toolbar buttons. Toolbar hints appear whenever you
hover with your mouse over specific toolbar button.
Hide: Toolbar hints will not appear.
Show: Toolbar hints will appear.
Example:
Toolbar hints enabled:
267
Software
2.9.6 Position
Under Position tab you can set color parameters, number of displayed axis rows, number of
decimals displayed, set axis name to desired row and position display button behaviour.
268
Software
2.9.6.1 Colors
Find Match:
Toolbars segment color parameters.
Background:
Background color of Position segment. This color can be set automatically using color generator or
Example:
Background color set to green.
Work:
Color of Work position values. This color can be set automatically using color generator or using
color palette.
Machine:
Color of Machine position values. This color can be set automatically using color generator or
Motors:
Color of Motors position values. This color can be set automatically using color generator or using
color palette.
GCode:
Color of GCode position values. This color can be set automatically using color generator or using
color palette.
269
Software
Example:
Work position values color set to purple.
Button:
Color of axis button of position display. This color can be set automatically using color generator or
Button Lim-:
Color of axis button when machine reaches negative limit value of machine area. This color can be
set automatically using color generator or using color palette.
Button Lim+:
Color of axis button when machine reaches positive limit value of machine area. This color can be
set automatically using color generator or using color palette.
Example:
Button color set to blue and button Lim- color set to orange.
270
Software
2.9.6.2 Properties
Size:
Inserted value sets size of axis position values for Work, Machine, Motors and Gcode position
values.
Example:
Size of axis position values set to 70.
Number of Rows:
Sets number of displayed axis rows under Work, Machine, Motors and Gcode tabs.
Number of Decimals:
Sets number of displayed decimals for Work, Machine, Motors and Gcode position values.
Row 1-9:
Assigns axis letter to desired row. Configured axis letter layout will be displayed for Work,
Machine, Motors and Gcode position display.
271
Software
Example:
Number of rows set to 9, Number of decimals set to 3 and mixed axis letters assigned to
different rows.
Final result of position display as per configuration above:
272
Software
2.9.6.3 Commands
Work:
Button:
Disable:
Use of buttons for zeroing Work position value is disabled.
Work Position:
Use of buttons for zeroing Work position value is enabled.
Coordinate System
Use of buttons for zeroing active Coordinate System position value is enabled.
Machine:
Button:
Disable:
Use of buttons for zeroing Machine position value is disabled.
Machine Position:
Use of buttons for zeroing Machine position value is enabled.
273
Software
2.9.7 Speed
274
Software
2.9.7.1 Colors
2.9.7.1.1 Find Match:

Speed segment color parameters.
2.9.7.1.2 Background:
Background color of Speed segment. This color can be set automatically using color generator or
Example:
Background color set to pink.
2.9.7.1.3 Value:
Color of override buttons, slider and displayed value.
Example:
Color override buttons, slider and displayed value set to light blue.
275
Software
2.9.7.1.4 Button:
Override button icon color. This color can be set automatically using color generator or using color
palette.
Example:
Override button icon color set to green.
2.9.7.1.5 Button Active:

Button override active state color. Button icon will change its color when speed override is set
either directly from Speed segment or when it is used from Machine/Options/Override.
Example:
Button Active color as per default setting – color orange
276
Software
2.9.7.1.6 Button Alert:

Override button alert color. Button will change its color when it is in alert mode. For instance, when
Homing procedure is initiated, software will automatically disable override option for safety
reasons- button will turn red.
Example:
Feed Override button in idle mode (override enabled):
Feed Override button in alert mode (override disabled):
277
Software
2.9.7.2 Speed
Group of settings that configure display of feed and rapid speed parameters.
2.9.7.2.1 Hide:
When enabled, feed speed parameters will not be displayed.
2.9.7.2.2 Show:
When enabled, feed speed parameters will be displayed.
Example:
Feed speed display will be hidden (Show disabled).
2.9.7.2.3 Size:
Size of feed speed value display.
Example:
Size of feed speed value set to 60.
278
Software
2.9.7.2.4 Override
Min Feed:
Min percentage value of feed speed set with override. 100% being original feed speed value set
with F value (no override set).
Max Feed:
Max percentage value of feed speed set with override. 100% being original feed speed value set
with F value (no override set).
Step Feed:
Step increment/decrement of feed speed override value.
Min Traverse:
Min percentage value of traverse speed set with override. 100% being original traverse speed
value set with F value (no override set).
Max Traverse:
Max percentage value of traverse speed set with override. 100% being original traverse speed
value set with F value (no override set).
Step Traverse:
Step increment/decrement of traverse speed override value.
279
Software
2.9.7.2.5 Slider
Feed:
When option is enabled, only feed speed override controls will be available.
Traverse:
When option is enabled, only traverse speed override controls will be available.
Both:
When option is enabled, both, feed and traverse speed override controls will be available.
Example:
Both option enabled.
280
Software
2.9.7.3 Spindle
Group of settings that configure display of spindle speed parameters.
2.9.7.3.1 Hide:
When enabled, spindle speed parameters will not be displayed.
2.9.7.3.2 Show:
When enabled, spindle speed parameters will be displayed.
Example:
Spindle speed display will be hidden (Show disabled).
2.9.7.3.3 Size:
Size of feed speed value display.
2.9.7.3.4 Override
Min:
Min percentage value of spindle speed set with override. 100% being original spindle speed value
set with S value (no override set).
Max:
Max percentage value of spindle speed set with override. 100% being original spindle speed value
set with S value (no override set).
281
Software
Step:
Step increment/decrement of spindle speed override value.
2.9.7.3.5 Spindle RPM:
As Set:
Value of spindle speed (RPM) displayed will be the one set in program using the S value, or from
Settings/Program Defaults.
From Index:
Value of spindle speed (RPM) displayed will be the one that is calculated using Index signal from
spindle.
From Encoder:
Value of spindle speed (RPM) displayed will be the one that is calculated using Encoder signals for
spindle.
282
Software
2.9.8 State
2.9.8.1 Colors
2.9.8.1.1 Find Match

Based on selected Main color, color generator will generate and adjust suitable color shade for
State segment color parameters.
Background color of State segment. All state segment tabs will use this color. This color can be set
automatically using color generator or using color palette.
2.9.8.1.3 Value
Color of state segment values. Values are basically parameters that are displayed in multiple state
segment tabs. This color can be set automatically using color generator or using color palette.
2.9.8.1.4 Label
Color of State segment labels. This color can be set automatically using color generator or using
color palette.
283
Software
Example:
Background color set to blue, value colors set to yellow and label colors set to white.
2.9.8.1.5 GCode
Hide:
Disables display of GCode tab.
Show:
Enables display of GCode tab.
2.9.8.1.6 IO
Hide:
Disables display of IO tab.
Show:
Enables display of IO tab.
284
Software
2.9.8.1.7 Status LEDs
User can add LED indication to bottom toolbar of PlanetCNC TNG main user interface.
You can add LED indicators for Estop, Soft Limits, Hard Limits, Motor Enable, Axis Lock, Error pin,
Output header, Input header, Limit input header, Jogging input header, CTRL header.
To create and add a specific LED indicator to toolbar user writes its dedicated short code into
Status LEDs input bar.
ES: Creates Estop LED indicator.

SL: Creates Soft Limit LED indicator.
LM: Creates Hard Limits LED indicator.
MT: Creates Motor Enable LED indicator.
AL: Creates Axis Lock LED indicator.
ER: Creates Error pin LED indicator.
On: Creates Output header pin LED indicator. O3 would create indicator for output pin 3.
In: Creates Input header pin LED indicator. I3 would create indicator for input pin 3.
Ln: Creates Limit header pin LED indicator. L3 would create indicator for limit input pin 3.
Jn: Creates Jog header pin LED indicator. J3 would create indicator for jogging input pin 3.
Cn: Creates CTRL header pin LED indicator. C3 would create indicator for CTRL pin 3.
Example:
We would like to create LED indicator for Input pin 1 and Output pin 3.
In such case we write O3 and I1 into input bar:
Indicators are created in the bottom left corner:
285
Software
2.9.9 Jog
2.9.9.1 Colors

Based on selected Main color, color generator will generate and adjust suitable color shade for Jog
segment color parameters.
Background color of Jog segment. This color can be set automatically using color generator or
2.9.9.1.3 Value
Color of Jog segment value. Value is jog speed. This color can be set automatically using color
generator or using color palette.
2.9.9.1.4 Button
Color of jog segment button. This color can be set automatically using color generator or using
color palette.
286
Software
2.9.9.1.5 Arrows
Color of jog segment jogging arrow keys. This color can be set automatically using color generator
or using color palette.
2.9.9.2 Properties
Hide:
Disables display of Jog segment.
Example:
Jog segment set to Hidden
Show:
Enables display of Jog segment. Jogging keys panel will appear when user clicks Jog button.
When user clicks on any other part than jogging panel, jogging panel will disappear.
Example:
Jog segment set to Show, however, Fixed or XY/UV Cross options are not enabled
287
Software
Fixed:
Jog arrow keys panel is fixed and it will be permanently displayed.
Size:
Inserted value sets size of jog speed display.
XY Cross:
Cross formation of XY axis jogging keys.
UV Cross:
Cross formation of UV axis jogging keys.
Example:
Jog segment set to Fixed, neither of the XY or UV Cross options is enabled
Example:
Background set to yellow, value set to black, button set to blue, arrows set to green.
Jogging keys are set to Fixed and using XY Cross layout.
288
Software
2.9.10 3D
2.9.10.1 Colors

Based on selected Main color, color generator will generate and adjust suitable color shades for
3D segment color parameters.
289
Software
Background
Axes
Grid
Limits
Extents
Extents Feed
Gauges
Traverse
Line
Arc
Sync
Probe
Selected
Hover
Completed
History
Position
Simulation
G28
G30
Wire
Wire Skin
290
Software
2.9.10.2 Properties
2.9.10.2.1 Alpha
This parameter will affect displayed toolpath in such way, that toolpath at highest Z level will be
less transparent than the one at the lowest Z level. This way user gets better sense of depth of
displayed toolpath. This also helps with better overall presentation of toolpath.
Example:
Displayed toolpath with Alpha parameter set at 1:
291
Software
Displayed toolpath with Alpha parameter set at 0.1:
2.9.10.2.2 Thickness
With this parameter you can set thickness of displayed toolpath.
Example:
Displayed toolpath with Thickness parameter set at 1:
292
Software
Displayed toolpath with Thickness parameter set at 5:
293
Software
2.9.10.2.3 Resolution:
This parameter sets tolerance for which displayed toolpath is allowed to deviate from actual
toolpath. Units for this parameters are millimeters.
Please note that this parameter will only affect the displayed toolpath.
Example:
Display resolution set to: 0.01mm
Display resolution set to: 0.8mm
294
Software
2.9.10.2.4 Refresh
This parameter sets 3D display refresh time. Value inserted is time in milliseconds, after which 3D
display of PlanetCNC TNG will refresh.
2.9.10.2.5 Hide Sub Level

Gcode programs can include sub-procedures, external sub-procedure files as also g-codes using
scripted behaviour. With this setting parameter user can enable/disable display of sub-procedure,
external sub-procedure or scripted g-code toolpaths.
Hide Sub Level value represents the sub level of sub-routine from which on toolpath will not be
displayed. So if we use a 4 sub level g-code program and inserted value is 2, this means that
toolpath for levels 3-5 will not be displayed.
295
Software
Example:
Gcode program below uses o-word sub-procedures. If we look closer at the g-code we can
see that this is a 4 level sub procedure g-code program, with main program being level 0.
296
Software
Toolpath for program above, displayed in its entirety (each sub level is represented with
circle):
If we set Hide Sub Level value to 3, then toolpath for sub levels 3 and further, will not be
displayed (only sub procedures levels 1 and 2 are displayed):
297
Software
2.9.10.2.6 Subs
Sub procedures can also be standalone gcode files which are called from main program.
This option disables display of external file sub-procedure toolpath.
Example:
Gcode program below calls external standalone sub-procedures:
Toolpath for program above, displayed in its entirety (each sub procedure is represented
with a number:
298
Software
If we enable Subs option, then toolpath for standalone sub procedures will not be
displayed:
2.9.10.2.7 Mcode
This option will enable/disable display of M gcode script code.
Example:
If your machine uses automatic tool change, your M6 script uses script code for correct
motion behaviour, output pin manipulation etc.... with Mcode option enabled you can hide
all toolpath related to tool change procedure (M6 script code).
299
Software
2.9.10.2.8 Handle Size:

Handle (yellow cone) represents the tool position. You can change its size with Handle Size
parameter.
Example:
Handle size at value 10:
Handle size at value 15:
300
Software
2.9.10.2.9 Tool Size

When this option is enabled, displayed tool will mimic the length and diameter of active tool from
tool table.
Example:
Selected active tool from tool change has offset Z set to 50mm and diameter of 2mm.
2.9.10.2.10 History Size

Value inserted is length of tool trace which software will still display as Toolpath History.
301
Software
2.9.10.3 User Interface/Geometry

Parameters under 'Geometry' tab allow customization of 3D axis and tool display to fit most types
of machines.
Presets for most common machine types are available for your convenience.
NOTE: These parameters do not have any effect on axis motion itself, only on axis 3D display.
302
Software
You can choose between 4 presets: Normal, Mirror, Lathe and Foam Cutter.
Each preset automatically adjusts Rotate&Mirror, Axis and Orientation parameters so that 3D axis
and tool display suit to corresponded machine type(E.g.: Lathe and Foam Cutter).
2.9.10.3.1 Rotate & Mirror:

Rotate:
Rotate parameter will rotate 3D display of coordinate system. Rotate parameter units are degrees.
Rotation will be applied over selected axis in clockwise direction.
Rotation in all axes is set to 0: Rotation over Z axis set to 90 degrees:
303
Software
Mirror:
Enabled radio button enables mirror option for selected axis. Displayed axis of 3D coordinate
system will be mirrored.
Mirror options for all axes are disabled: Mirror options for X and Y axes enabled:
2.9.10.3.2 Axis System:

When enabled, axis system tools will be “connected” with displayed line (E.g.: hot wire of foam
cutter machine XY → UV).
304
Software
2.9.10.3.3 XYZ:
Display settings for XYZ axes of 3D coordinate system. You can enable or disable 3D display of
selected axis. Set origin of axes and tool orientation.
Axis:
Radio button enables or disables display of selected axis of 3D coordinate system.
All axes display is enabled: X axis display is disabled:
2.9.10.3.4 Origin
Sets offset of displayed axis origin for selected axis.
Origin parameter set to 0,0: Origin parameter set to -20,-20:
305
Software
2.9.10.3.5 Orientation
Sets orientation of 3D tool. Orientation parameter unit are degrees. Orientation of 3D tool display
will be applied for selected axis in counter clockwise direction.
You can change the 3D tool orientation so that it suits your machine, E.g.: Lathe, where tool is
mounted in horizontal direction.
Orientation X set to: 0,0,0 Orientation X set to: 90,0,0
2.9.10.3.6 Rotation
These settings are used to assist visualization of A,B,C rotational axes.
By enabling it for specific rotational axis, displayed toolpath and tool position will include rotations.
A: Displayed toolpath and tool position will include rotations for A axis.
B: Displayed toolpath and tool position will include rotations for B axis.
C: Displayed toolpath and tool position will include rotations for C axis.
306
Software
Example:
Displayed toolpath of Gcode program using A axis, with Rotation option disabled for A axis:
307
Software
Displayed toolpath of Gcode program using A axis, with Rotation option enabled for A axis:
308
Software
2.9.10.3.7 Rotation Offset

In case that working zero is not in the centre of rotation of rotational axis, you can set rotation
offset.
2.9.10.3.8 Rotation Interpolation

To increase level of displayed details of rotation toolpath you enable this option.
309
Software
2.9.10.4 ABC:
Display settings for ABC axes of 3D coordinate system. You can enable or disable 3D display of
2.9.10.4.1 Axis
2.9.10.4.2 Origin
Sets display orientation of 3D tool. Orientation parameter units are degrees. Orientation of 3D tool
display will be applied for selected axis in counter clockwise direction.
2.9.10.5 UVW:
Display settings for UVW axes of 3D coordinate system. You can enable or disable 3D display of
2.9.10.5.1 Axis
2.9.10.5.2 Origin
Sets display orientation of 3D tool. Orientation parameter units are degrees. Orientation of 3D tool
display will be applied for selected axis in counter clockwise direction.
310
Software
2.9.11 Gcode
311
Software
2.9.11.1 Colors
You can customize colors of G-Code program lines displayed in G-Code window.
You can set colors of g-code words such as G words, M words, MDI etc...

Gcode segment color parameters.
You can set colors for:

Background
Line No
G Word
M word
Axis Words
IJKR Words
N Word
O Word
S Word
T Word
F Word
Numbers
Param
Expression
Comment
Script
Other
312
Software
2.9.11.2 Properties
2.9.11.2.1 Text Size

Size of Gcode text.
Example:
Text size set to 18:
313
Software
Text size set to 30:
2.9.11.3 MDI
2.9.11.3.1 MDI Text Size

Size of MDI text.
Example:
MDI text size set to 25:
MDI text size set to 45:
314
Software
2.9.11.3.2 MDI Background

Background color of MDI window when in idle mode. This color can be set automatically using
color generator or using color palette.
Example:
Color of MDI background set to orange:
2.9.11.3.3 MDI Focus

Background color of MDI window when in focused mode. This color can be set automatically using
color generator or using color palette.
Example:
Color of MDI background set to green:
2.9.11.3.4 MDI Text

Color of MDI text. This color can be set automatically using color generator or using color palette.
Example:
Color of MDI test set to blue
315
Software
2.9.11.3.5 History
When enabled, software tracks history of previously used Menu (File, Program, Machine etc...)
items such as Open, Close, Shift, Scale, EStop etc...
You can see list of commands used in chronological order if you focus MDI bar and then press Up
keyboard arrow key.
You are able to navigate through the command history list with Up or Down keyboard arrow keys.
With Enter keyboard key you select command from the history list and again with Enter keyboard
key you execute it.
Example:
With History option disabled:
With History option enabled:
316
Software
2.9.12 Utilities
2.9.12.1 Colors

Utilities segment color parameters.
Background color of Utilities segment. This color will be used for all Utilities panels. This color can
be set automatically using color generator or using color palette.
317
Software
Example:
Background color of Output panel set to rose color.
2.9.12.1.3 Text
Color of Utilities text. This color will be used for all Utilities panels. This color can be set
Example:
Background color of Output panel set to white color.
318
Software
2.9.12.1.4 Button
Utilities button colors. This color will be used for all Utilities panels. These colors can be set
Example:
Button color set to yellow color.
319
Software
2.9.12.2 Panels
2.9.12.2.1 Edit
When enabled, Edit panel will be permanently embedded under Utilities segment.
2.9.12.2.2 Camera
When enabled, Camera panel will be permanently embedded under Utilities segment.
2.9.12.2.3 Log
When enabled, Log panel will be permanently embedded under Utilities segment.
Example:
All utilities panels permanently embedded. User can use tabs in order to select desired
panel.
320
Software
2.9.13 Shortcuts
Use of shortcuts can greatly reduce time when configuring machine for certain job and overall
helps with more fluent work with PlanetCNC TNG.
You can set keyboard shortcuts for program features included in File, View, Program, Machine and
Help menus. Jogging set of shortcuts is also available.
With PlanetCNC TNG you can map your controller digital inputs to manipulate desired features,
such as work positions etc..
321
Software
You can set Code, MDI and Pin shortcuts for specific Action.
2.9.13.1 Action
Here are listed all features that are included in File, View, Program, Machine and Help menus.
Actions are organized in chapters: File, View, Program, Machine and Help
2.9.13.2 Code
Here you can set unique code for each selected Action.
This can be either one single code (for example keyboard key for letter S as shortcut code for
Action: Settings; settings dialogue will open when we press keyboard key S) or combination of
multiple keyboard keys (for example combinations of keyboard keys Shift +T).
Example:
Let say we want to create code for showing Machine/Tools/Edit Tool Table dialog.
Find Edit Tool Table in Machine section of Action chapter and enter desired MDI shortcode:
E.g.: Shift + T
322
Software
2.9.13.3 MDI
Sets unique MDI code for specific Action.
Example:
Let say we want to create MDI shortcode for showing Log panel. Find Show Log in Help
section of Action chapter and enter desired MDI shortcode: E.g.: Log
When you try to execute desired MDI code from MDI window you need to insert symbol “/”
before MDI code and click enter:
2.9.13.4 Pin
You can map your controllers digital input to activate specific Action.
Example:
Let say we want to map digital input 1 of controller to action Start.
Find Start in Machine section of Action chapter and under pin select Input 1 from the drop
down menu.
When digital input is active, action mapped to that input will execute.
323
Software
Controllers digital input 1 is set to execute Start action:
324
Software
2.9.14 Motors
Under this group of settings you can configure settings important for compatibility with
stepper/servo drives, enable signal configuration, controller axis output configuration, motor
speeds and accelerations, axis backlash value, limitations of motors as also hardware limit switch
configuration.
325
Software
2.9.14.1 Step Width

Width of STEP pulse. Units of parameter are micro seconds.
If step frequency is too high for inserted Step Width value, Step Width will be set to 50% of duty
cycle.
2.9.14.2 Enable Pin

PlanetCNC controllers support Enable signal via enable pin located on controller axis output
header.
Enable:
Enables use of Enable signal.
Invert:
Inverts enable signal(pulse) from 0V to 5V or from 5V to 0V to match your stepper driver
requirements.
On E-Stop:
Enable signal is disabled when E-stop is active.
Dynamic:
Enable signal is enabled only when motion is applied to motors.
326
Software
2.9.14.3 Motor
PlanetCNC controllers support up to 9* interpolated axis outputs, depending on controller used.
Each axis output can generate steps for any of 9 linear or rotational axes.
Axis Output 1-9*:

For each of 1-9* axis outputs you can select axis motor of your CNC.
If you need two axis outputs to generate synchronized steps (two axis outputs used for same
machine axis -> slave axes) you just set same axis motor for both axis outputs:
327
Software
Reverse:
Reverses direction of motor rotation.
Invert:
Inverts step signal (pulse) from 0V to 5V or from 5V to 0V
*4 for Mk3/4 and Mk3ECO controllers
328
Software
2.9.14.4 Steps Per Unit

Steps 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.
Motor settings for linear axes X,Y,Z, U ,V, W use steps per millimeter units (st/mm) or steps per
inch (st/in), while motor settings for rotational axes A, B, C use steps per degree units (st/).
329
Software
2.9.14.5 Speed
You can set maximum speed of each axis motor. Motors will not exceed speed values set with
these parameters.
330
Software
2.9.14.6 Acceleration
You can set maximum acceleration and deceleration values of each axis motor.
Motors will not exceed acceleration and deceleration values set with these parameters.
331
Software
2.9.14.7 Backlash
Set backlash compensation value if you machine has backlash.
Units of backlash compensation values for linear axes are in mm or inch, for rotational axes are in
degrees.
332
Software
2.9.14.7.1 Backlash
Disable: Disables backlash compensation.
External: Controller receives external command for backlash compensation. Currently not
supported.
Internal: Enables backlash compensation. Software will generate additional steps necessary for
backlash compensation.
2.9.14.7.2 Simulation
If Simulation is enabled in settings under chapter Connection (Chapter 2.7.2), you can enable or
disable the backlash compensation in simulation mode.
Disable: Disables the backlash compensation in simulation mode.
Enable: Enable the backlash compensation in simulation mode.
333
Software
2.9.14.8 Motor Limits

You can set movement limitations for each axis motor.
Limit- value sets limitation of motor movement in negative direction.

Limit+ value sets limitation of motor movement in positive direction.
If we want motors to stop when these limit values are reached, we must enable motor limitation.
To enable Motor limits for specified axis, enable the radio button.
334
Software
2.9.14.9 Limit Switches

Using these parameters we can dedicate each axis motor its limit switch input.
We can assign limit switch input for each direction of motor movement.
335
Software
There are many methods of limit switch connection, and their corresponding limit setting
configuration. Here are few examples.:
-One limit switch per axis motor, e.g. for axis X motor (positive direction), connected to controllers
limit input 1:
-Two limit switches for axis, e.g. for X motor (negative and positive direction), connected to same
limit input of controller.
336
Software
-Two limit switches for axis, e.g. X motor (negative and positive direction), connected to separate
limit inputs of controller, 1 and 2:
Same principles that were shown above for X axis can be used for all other axes!
337
Software
2.9.14.10 Invert and Estop

You can invert limit input located at Limit header and enable its Estop functionality.
Click the radio button to invert desired input.
In order that Estop is activated and machine stops during machine operation or jogging when limit
switch is activated, you need to enable Estop radio button.
338
Software
2.9.15 Motion
This settings tab deals with machine motion in 3D space (from effector (tool) point of view).
Short explanation:
With use of combined motors per axis and special mechanics you can achieve movement which
doesn’t follow the same kinematic rules as linear motion CNC’s. At that moment we do not
perceive each motor as independent axis but as a system, which movement is result of
simultaneous motion of multiple motors. Examples of such machines are H-bot, Delta printer or
multiple axis machines.
You can configure motion related parameters such as maximum machine/effector speeds,
acceleration, deceleration. Machine motion range, blend and advanced settings.
2.9.15.1 Maximum Speed:

Sets maximum speed of tool/effector. Tool/effector will not exceed speed value set with this
parameter.
2.9.15.2 Max Acceleration:

Sets maximum acceleration of tool/effector. Tool/effector will not exceed acceleration value set with
this parameter.
2.9.15.3 Max Deceleration:

Sets maximum deceleration of your tool/effector. Tool/effector will not exceed deceleration value
set with this parameter.
339
Software
2.9.15.4 Blend
This group of settings helps with tool-path optimization.
2.9.15.4.1 Blend Backlash/Disable

When selected, blending of Backlash compensation moves is disabled.
2.9.15.4.2 Blend Backlash/Precise

When selected, blending of backlash moves is enabled, motion is well inside the CAM tolerance
values.
2.9.15.4.3 Blend Backlash/Loose

When selected, blending of backlash moves is enabled, motion is not restricted by CAM tolerance
values.
2.9.15.4.4 Enforce
If imported gcode program uses internal blend tolerance values, this option, when enabled, will
enforce the use of blend tolerance value set here in settings.
340
Software
2.9.15.4.5 XYZ/Blend Tolerance

XYZ axis tolerance(maximum distance) that blended toolpath can deviate from toolpath.
2.9.15.4.6 XYZ/Join Angle

Angle value of changed direction between machines current and next move. If angle is greater
than this value, motion between these two moves will be blended.
Set at 0 by default.
2.9.15.4.7 XYZ/Break Angle

than this value, motion between these two moves will not be blended.
2.9.15.4.8 ABC/Blend Tolerance

ABC axes tolerance (maximum distance) that blended toolpath can deviate from toolpath.
2.9.15.4.9 ABC/Join Angle

2.9.15.4.10 ABC/Break Angle

2.9.15.4.11 UVW/Blend Tolerance

UVW axes tolerance (maximum distance) that blended toolpath can deviate from toolpath.
2.9.15.4.12 UVW/Join Angle

2.9.15.4.13 UVW/Break Angle

341
Software
More about path blending:

Blending is technique used to maximize cutting speed and minimizing machine stress. Machine
stress that is discussed here is caused by forces that are result of accelerations.
Most are probably familiar with linear acceleration and deceleration limits that are set for each
motor on machine. Settings “Motors/Acceleration”. These settings prevent stress to machine
motors. On machine with stepper motors this is known as “lost steps”. But this is not only stress on
machine.
When direction is changed, forces act on machine which cause stress and can ruin your
workpiece. To prevent this it is possible to set maximum allowable acceleration that machine can
handle.
Any sudden direction change at speed causes huge acceleration spike, therefore creating huge
forces. That is why machine must slow down or even stop before such change. This causes longer
machining time. Lower speed is also not good for tools which can overheat.
To deal with this issues we use path blending. Small arc is added to sharp corners and as a result,
toolpath is much smoother and machine can run faster. We call this arcs “blends” because that is
what they do. They blend toolpath segments to single smooth toolpath.
Here are 3 examples of direction change.

For first one, direction is changed for 5°, for second one for 45° and third one for 135°.
342
Software
It is not beneficial to add blends to all direction changes. So it is possible to specify range of
direction changes where blends are added by setting “Join angle” and “Break Angle”. Only
direction changes that are between these values are blended. By default “Join Angle” is 0 and
“Break Angle” is 165.
Because blends alter toolpath, it is important to set allowable toolpath deviation from programmed
toolpath. This is called “Blend Tolerance”. Tolerance is maximal allowable deviation from
programmed toolpath.
Here are three examples.
343
Software
You can see that greater tolerance and/or smaller angle generates larger blend arcs. Moving on
those arcs generates forces because of radial accelerations. Maximum radial acceleration is
limited with settings “Motion/Max Acceleration” and “Motion/Max Deceleration”.
In most cases, specially with smaller angles, machine speed is not high enough that such big
blends are needed. In these cases blends are smaller. Just big enough to allow maximum possible
speed. This means that deviance from programmed toolpath is much smaller.
Blends are enabled by default and can be controlled with g-codes G61 and G64. For roughing
operation blends are usually enabled with G64. For finishing operations blends can be disabled
with G61 or tolerance can be set tighter with G64.
344
Software
Here are two examples showing deviance with red color. Programmed toolpath is black, blend arc
is green:
345
Software
2.9.15.5 Advanced
2.9.15.5.1 Cycle Time

Motion interpolator cycle time.
Leave this at default value, otherwise controller will not function correctly.
2.9.15.5.2 Motion Engine buffer

Motion interpolator buffer size.
Leave this value at default value, otherwise controller will not work correctly.
2.9.15.5.3 Device Buffer

Controller buffer size. Lowering this value increases controller response time but also reduces fault
tolerance. Using default value 128 is highly recommended.
2.9.15.5.4 Device Max Packets

Max size of data packets sent to controller.
Lowering this value reduces response time but also reduces fault tolerance.
Default value 5 is optimal balance between the response time and fault tolerance.
2.9.15.5.5 Curve tolerance

Motion interpolator curve interpolation parameter.
346
Software
2.9.16 Jogging
With PlanetCNC TNG software you can use PC keyboard, jogging keyboard and MPG pendant to
jog your machine. Under this group of settings your can configure jogging parameters.
347
Software
2.9.16.1 Default Speed

Default value of jogging speed. This speed value is used when jogging PC keyboard is used.
The same value will be considered and displayed in jog segment.
When PlanetCNC TNG is launched this value will be used.
Example:
Default speed set to 720 mm/min in settings.
2.9.16.2 Default Step

Distance of step when you jog your machine in “Step” mode. Units are millimeters/inch.
When PlanetCNC TNG is launched this value will be used.
Example:
Step jogging comes very useful when you need short distance increments of motion.
Usually when you need to move tool tip towards the material surface to set working position
Z=0.
Jog inputs of controller are configured in Settings/User Interface/Shortcuts/Jogging -> Pin.
348
Software
2.9.16.3 Default Round

Position rounding value. When jog motion stops, machine position value will be rounded value
divisible with entered value.
Example:
Default round set to 0.5 mm. Bottom position values are final position values after jog
motion. Position values are either rounded at 0.5 or 0.
2.9.16.4 Probe Lock

When jogging, corresponding axis movement is locked if probe is activated. As soon as probe input
is inactive, axis lock of dedicated axis is disabled.
When Probe Lock is enabled, in order to release the axis lock state, user needs to jog the axis in
the opposite direction for short distance.
349
Software
You can invert input pins of controllers Jog header.

Click the radio button to invert desired input.
350
Software
2.9.16.5 Jogging Keyboard
2.9.16.5.1 Speed
Default value of jogging speed when jogging keyboard is used. When PlanetCNC TNG is
launched, this value will be used.
2.9.16.5.2 PotCenter
This parameter sets logarithmic/exponential behaviour of potentiometer response.
NOTE:To obtain this value, connect jogging keyboard to PlanetCNC controller and rotate jogging
potentiometer. You can observe this value with JogPot parameter.
2.9.16.5.3 Timeout
Keyboard timeout if no keyboard change event is detected. After this time jogging stops.
351
Software
2.9.16.6 Handwheel
PlanetCNC TNG software supports two types of Handwheel:

-PlanetCNC Handwheel, wireless
-PlanetCNC Handwheel, connected with PlanetCNC controller using CTRL header.
With this group of settings your configure jogging modes for both types of Handwheel.
352
Software
2.9.16.6.1 Mode 1-5:

You can configure and use five jogging modes when using MPG pendant with PlanetCNC TNG.
To select between modes you use Handwheel hardware switch (see handwheel user manual).
Each mode can be configured either as Normal or Step.

If radio button is left unchecked, Speed mode will be used, if you enable the radio button, Step
mode will be used.
353
Software
Step Mode:
If you enable the Step radio button, corresponding jogging mode will be configured as Step mode.
Rotation of encoder will jog machine in discrete short distance increments that are set with “Step”
value.
Speed:
Speed of step jog moves.
Step:
In Step mode this value is interpreted as step distance increment.
Normal Mode:
If radio button is left unchecked, corresponding jogging mode will be configured as Normal mode.
Rotation of encoder wheel will be translated into motion.
Speed:
Speed of jogging motion.
Round:
Position rounding value. When jog motion stops, machine position value will be
rounded value divisible with entered value.
2.9.16.6.2 Reverse
Radio buttons represent reverse options for all 9 axes. From left to right: x,y,z,a....v,w.
When reverse option enabled, its corresponding axis will have reverse direction of jogging travel.
354
Software
2.9.16.6.3 Wireless Handwheel
Enable:
Enables use of wireless Handwheel.
Radio button will be checked/unchecked automatically, depending if connection* between
PlanetCNC TNG software and wireless MPG is established.
*USB driver needs to be installed, USB dongle transceiver must be connected with computer and
Handwheel needs to be turned ON.
2.9.16.6.4 Ctrl Handwheel
Enable:
Enables use of Handwheel connected to controller CTRL header.
PPR:
Enter PPR value (parts per revolution) of Handwheel encoder. Usually around 100PPR.
Reverse:
Reverses direction of jogging when Handwheel is used for jogging.
Note: These settings apply to encoder connected to CTRL pins: EN1A and EN1B
355
Software
2.9.17 Input/Output
356
Software
2.9.17.1 E-Stop Pin
2.9.17.1.1 Enable
Enables E-stop input pin of controller.
2.9.17.1.2 Invert
Inverts E-stop input pin of controller.
2.9.17.2 Error Pin
2.9.17.2.1 Enable
Enables Error input pin of controller(supported only with Mk3).
2.9.17.2.2 Invert
Inverts Error input pin of controller.
For more info on Error pin, please read Mk3 controller user manual.
2.9.17.3 Input Pin 1-8

Click the radio button to invert desired input pin of controller.
2.9.17.4 Output Pin 1-8

Click the radio button to invert desired output pin controller.
357
Software
2.9.18 Spindle
This group of settings configures output pins for Spindle and Coolant control and input pins for
encoder used for spindle synchronization.
NOTE: If you use Planet CNC Output board, you can follow this link to help you properly set output
pins and connect output board to your controller.
358
Software
2.9.18.1 Output Pin – CW

Assigns output pin for spindle ON/OFF clockwise control (g-code commands M3/M5) .
Digital output pin is selected trough drop down menu.
2.9.18.2 Output Pin – CCW

Assigns output pin for spindle ON/OFF counter clockwise control (g-code commands M4/M5).
2.9.18.3 Output Pin – Speed

Some controller output pins can generate Frequency, PWM and RC servo signal.
If neither of the latter two is selected, spindle speed pin will generate frequency modulated signal.
2.9.18.3.1 Min
Inserted value is min value of spindle RPM. Meaning, when g-code e.g. S1200 will be executed in
program, controller speed pin will be generating min value of either output frequency, PWM
modulated signal or RC Servo signal.
2.9.18.3.2 Max
Inserted value is max value of spindle RPM. Meaning, when g-code e.g. S24000 will be executed
in program, controller speed pin will be generating max value of either output frequency, PWM
modulated signal or RC Servo signal.
2.9.18.4 Start Delay

Delay period allowing the spindle to ramp up to its RPM value. This value is in seconds.
2.9.18.5 Stop Delay

Delay period allowing the spindle to stop rotating. This value is in seconds.
359
Software
2.9.18.6 Frequency
2.9.18.6.1 Use Frequency

When enabled, Speed Pin will generate frequency signal.
Freq. Min, Freq. Max and Step Width parameters will be considered.
2.9.18.6.2 Freq Min

Frequency value of generated speed signal when S gcode Min. value of Speed signal is used in
program.
2.9.18.6.3 Freq Max

Frequency value of generated speed signal when S gcode Max. value of Speed signal is used in
program.
2.9.18.6.4 Step Width

Entered value is pulse width of generated speed signal.
When set at 0, duty cycle of generated speed signal is at 50%.
360
Software
2.9.18.7 PWM
When enabled, Speed Pin will generate PWM signal.
PWM frequency will be considered.
2.9.18.7.1 Frequency
Value of PWM base frequency.
2.9.18.8 RC
2.9.18.8.1 Use RC Servo

When enabled, Speed Pin will generate RC Servo signal.
RC Servo Lo-HI parameters will be considered.
2.9.18.8.2 RC Servo Lo
Minimum value of RC servo speed range.
2.9.18.8.3 RC Servo Hi
Maximum value of RC servo speed range
361
Software
2.9.18.9 Encoder
These settings apply to encoder connected to CTRL pins: EN4A and EN4B for Mk3 controller and
ENC A and ENC B for Mk3/4 controller.
2.9.18.9.1 PPR
PPR value of your encoder. We recommend 100 PPR encoder for best results.
Reverse: Enables reverse direction of encoder.
2.9.18.9.2 Index PPR

Number of index signals per one revolution of encoder.
Invert: Inverts Index signal.
2.9.18.9.3 Debounce
Debounce time value for encoder signals.
2.9.18.10 Synchronisation
2.9.18.10.1 Spindle RPM
As Set:
Value of spindle speed (RPM) used for synchronisation move speed will be the one using current
spindle speed value.
From Index:
Value of spindle speed (RPM) used for synchronisation move speed will be calculated using Index
signal.
From Encoder:
Value of spindle speed (RPM) used for synchronisation move speed will be calculated using
Encoder signals.
362
Software
2.9.18.10.2 Sync Signal
Sync Signal:
If None is enabled, then machine does not use neither, index signal or encoder signals for spindle
synchronisation. Sync signal is not used.
From Index:
Index signal will be used for determining starting point of first synchronisation move, e.g. threading
cycle.
From encoder:
Encoder signals will be used for determining starting point of first synchronisation move, e.g.
threading cycle.
363
Software
2.9.19 Coolant
Here you can set digital output pins of controller for coolant control such as Mist and Flood.
2.9.19.1 Mist
Assigns output pin for coolant 'Mist' ON/OFF control. (g-code commands M7/M9).
2.9.19.2 Flood
Assigns output pin for coolant 'Flood' ON/OFF control. (g-code commands M8/M9).
364
Software
2.9.20 I2C, TX, Ext

You can connect and control external devices with PlanetCNC TNG software and hardware. I2C,
serial or SPI communication protocols are supported.
2.9.20.1 I2C
Base frequency value of I2C communication protocol.
2.9.20.2 TX
2.9.20.2.1 Baudrate
Baudrate value of serial communication.
365
Software
2.9.20.3 Encoder
2.9.20.3.1 PPR
PPR value of encoder.
Note: These settings apply to encoder connected to Mk3 controller CTRL pins: EN2A and EN2B
2.9.20.3.2 Reverse
Enables reverse direction of encoder.
2.9.20.4 Ext
Frequency value of SPI communication protocol.
2.9.20.4.2 SEL1 Pin

Invert: Polarity of SSEL pin. Unchecked = active high, checked = active low
In Size:
Size of received data (number of bytes) from external SPI device that uses SEL1 pin.
Out size:
Size of sent data (number of bytes) to external SPI device that uses SEL1 pin.
Timer:
Time period of data re-sending and/or re-reading.
2.9.20.4.3 SEL2 Pin

Invert: Polarity of SSEL pin. Unchecked = active high, checked = active low
In Size:
Size of received data (number of bytes) from external SPI device that uses SEL2 pin.
Out size:
Size of sent data (number of bytes) to external SPI device that uses SEL2 pin.
366
Software
Timer:
Time period of data re-sending and/or re-reading.
2.9.21 THC
Options available for THC device control.
2.9.21.1 Axis
User selects machine axis from drop down menu. Selected axis will be height compensated.
367
Software
2.9.21.2 Dec Pin

Dec input pin number, located at INPUT header of controller.
When this input pin is active, machine move/compensate in negative direction.
2.9.21.3 Inc Pin

Inc input pin number, located at INPUT header of controller.
When this input pin is active, machine move/compensate in positive direction.
2.9.21.4 OK Pin
OK input pin number, located at INPUT header of controller.
If set, machine waits until this input is active.
2.9.21.5 Range Min

Low limit compensation travel.
2.9.21.6 Range Max

High limit compensation travel.
2.9.21.7 Speed
Speed of compensation moves. Units are mm/s or inch/s.
368
Software
2.9.22 Program Options

Program options values are meant for initialization of main interpreter states/values in order to
prevent any unpredicted machine behaviour on software start.
369
Software
2.9.22.1 Mode
2.9.22.1.1 Units
Measurement unit mode.
User can choose between G20 or G21.
2.9.22.1.2 Plane
Plane mode.
User can choose between G17,G18 or G19.
2.9.22.1.3 Distance Mode

Distance mode.
User can choose between G90 or G91
2.9.22.1.4 Distance Mode IJK

Distance mode IJK.
User can choose between G90.1 or G91.1.
2.9.22.1.5 Distance Mode ABC

Distance mode ABC.
User can choose between G90.2 or G91.2.
2.9.22.1.6 Cycle Return Mode

Cycle Return Mode.
2.9.22.1.7 Lathe Mode

Lathe mode.
370
Software
2.9.22.2 Speed
2.9.22.2.1 Traverse Speed

G-code programs include traverse(aka rapid) machine moves. During these moves, machine is not
cutting the material, instead it is moving above the material usually moving to next cutting position.
These moves are executed with G00 g-code command.
You cannot set speed value of traverse moves with corresponding g-code command (unlike feed
speed with F-word).
With this parameter you can set default speed value of traverse machine moves when G00
command is executed in program.
2.9.22.2.2 Traverse Speed ABC

G-code programs include traverse(aka rapid) machine moves. During these moves, machine is not
cutting the material, instead it is moving above the material usually moving to next cutting position.
These moves are executed with G00 g-code command.
You cannot set speed value of traverse moves with corresponding g-code command (unlike feed
speed with F-word).
With this parameter you can set default speed value of traverse machine moves when G00
command is executed in program.
2.9.22.2.3 Feed Speed

G-code programs include feed machine moves. These moves are executed with G01 g-code
command. During these moves machine is cutting the material.
Speed of feed moves is set with F-word g-code command. If g-code program does not include F-
word g-code, then value of this parameter will be used in program.
2.9.22.2.4 Spindle Speed

Spindle speed is value of RPM(Rotations Per Minute) of Spindle. In g-code program, this is set by
S-word g-code command. If your g-code program does not include S-word command, then value of
this parameter will be taken into the account.
2.9.22.3 Transformation
Transformation coefficient values.
371
Software
2.9.23 Paths
2.9.23.1 G-Code folders

Path to folders that contain sub procedure files.
2.9.23.2 Python
2.9.23.2.1 Python Library

Path to Python library.
372
Software
2.9.24 Scripts
PlanetCNC TNG software supports use of scripts. Scripts are essentially g-code programs that run
in the background of PlanetCNC TNG procedures(such as homing, tool change etc...).
You select procedure script file from drop down menu. To open script file in text editor click button
Edit Script.
373
Software
You can edit scripts for:
2.9.24.1.1 Tools:
Tools/Change
Tools/Select
374
Software
2.9.24.1.2 Move:
Move/To Zero
Move/To...
Move/Axis to Zero/X
Move/Axis to Zero/Y
Move/Axis to Zero/Z
Move/Axis to Zero/A
Move/Axis to Zero/B
Move/Axis to Zero/C
Move/Axis to Zero/U
Move/Axis to Zero/V
Move/Axis to Zero/W
Move/Axis to Zero/XY
Move/Axis to Zero/UV
375
Software
Move/To G28
Move/To G30
Move/To Selected Line
Move/To Selected Line XY
Move/Position to Camera
Move/Camera To Position
2.9.24.1.3 Machine Position
Machine Position/To Zero

Machine Position/To...
Machine Position/Axis To Zero/X
Machine Position/Axis To Zero/Y
Machine Position/Axis To Zero/Z
Machine Position/Axis To Zero/A
Machine Position/Axis To Zero/B
Machine Position/Axis To Zero/C
Machine Position/Axis To Zero/U
Machine Position/Axis To Zero/V
Machine Position/Axis To Zero/W
376
Software
Machine Position/Axis To Zero/W

Machine Position/Axis To Zero/XY
Machine Position/Axis To Zero/UV
Machine Position/To G28
Machine Position/To G30
Machine Position/As G28
Machine Position/As G30
2.9.24.1.4 Work Position
Work Position/To Zero

Work Position/To...
Work Position/Axis to Zero/X
Work Position/Axis to Zero/Y
Work Position/Axis to Zero/Z
Work Position/Axis to Zero/A
377
Software
Work Position/Axis to Zero/B

Work Position/Axis to Zero/C
Work Position/Axis to Zero/U
Work Position/Axis to Zero/V
Work Position/Axis to Zero/W
Work Position/Axis to Zero/XY
Work Position/Axis to Zero/UV
Work Position/Measure
Work Position/Selected Line
Work Position/Selected Line XY
Work Position/Camera XY
2.9.24.1.5 Work Position - Offset
Work Position/Offset/To Zero

Work Position/Offset/To
Work Position/Offset/Axis To Zero/X
Work Position/Offset/Axis To Zero/Y
Work Position/Offset/Axis To Zero/Z
Work Position/Offset/Axis To Zero/A
Work Position/Offset/Axis To Zero/B
378
Software
Work Position/Offset/Axis To Zero/C

Work Position/Offset/Axis To Zero/U
Work Position/Offset/Axis To Zero/V
Work Position/Offset/Axis To Zero/W
Work Position/Offset/Axis To Zero/XY
Work Position/Offset/Axis To Zero/UW
2.9.24.1.6 Tool Offset
Tool Offset/To Zero

Tool Offset/To...
Tool Offset/Axis To Zero/X
Tool Offset/Axis To Zero/Y
Tool Offset/Axis To Zero/Z
Tool Offset/Axis To Zero/A
Tool Offset/Axis To Zero/B
Tool Offset/Axis To Zero/C
Tool Offset/Axis To Zero/U
Tool Offset/Axis To Zero/V
Tool Offset/Axis To Zero/W
379
Software
Tool Offset/Axis To Zero/XY

Tool Offset/Axis To Zero/UV
Tool Offset/Measure Tool Length
Tool Offset/From Tool Table
2.9.24.1.7 Coordinate System
Coordinate System/Select/1
380
Software
Coordinate System/To Zero
Coordinate System/To...
Coordinate System/Axis To Zero/X
Coordinate System/Axis To Zero/Y
Coordinate System/Axis To Zero/Z
Coordinate System/Axis To Zero/A
Coordinate System/Axis To Zero/B
Coordinate System/Axis To Zero/C
Coordinate System/Axis To Zero/U
Coordinate System/Axis To Zero/V
Coordinate System/Axis To Zero/W
Coordinate System/Axis To Zero/W
Coordinate System/Axis To Zero/XY
Coordinate System/Axis To Zero/UV
381
Software
2.9.24.1.8 Home & Measure
Home
Measure/Inside Corner
Measure/Outside Corner
Measure/Hole
Measure/Protrusion
Measure/Slot
Measure/Tab
Measure/Axis
Measure/Angle
Measure/Surface Height
Measure/Surface Angle
Measure/Surface
382
Software
2.9.24.1.9 M-Code
M3
M4
M5
M6
M7
M8
M9
383
Software
2.9.25 Events
384
Software
2.9.25.1 Start From Line

User can define if Spindle, Flood and Mist outputs are restored when using program feature Start
From Selected Line.
2.9.25.1.1 Restore State

When enabled, complete state will be restored. Software will consider last state to the point of
selected program line.
2.9.25.1.2 Restore Mist

When enabled, Mist output will be restored. Software will consider last Mist output state (M7/M9)
to the point of selected program line.
2.9.25.1.3 Restore Flood

When enabled, Flood output will be restored. Software will consider last Flood output state
(M8/M9) to the point of selected program line.
2.9.25.1.4 Restore Spindle

When enabled, Spindle output will be restored. Software will consider last Spindle output state
(M3/M5) to the point of selected program line.
2.9.25.2 Estop
User can define if controller outputs and Spindle, Flood and Mist outputs are turned off when using
Estop is activated.
2.9.25.2.1 Outputs Off

When enabled, all controller outputs will be turned off.
2.9.25.2.2 Stop Mist

When enabled, Mist output will be turned off when Estop is activated.
2.9.25.2.3 Stop Flood

When enabled, Flood output will be turned off when Estop is activated.
2.9.25.2.4 Stop Spindle

When enabled, Spindle output will be turned off when Estop is activated.
385
Software
2.9.25.3 On Start
User can edit script code which will execute on Start event.
2.9.25.4 On End
User can edit script code which will execute on program end event.
2.9.25.5 On Stop
User can edit script code which will execute on Stop event.
386
Software
2.9.26 Probe & Measure

Here you can set probe parameters regarding Measure procedures under Machine/Measure.
2.9.26.1 Probe 1 Pin

Assigns digital input pin as Probe 1. Input pin is selected from drop down menu.
2.9.26.2 Probe 2 Pin

Assigns digital input pin as Probe 2. Input pin is selected from drop down menu.
2.9.26.3 Probe speed

Probe speed is speed at which machine measures different geometries under Machine/Measure
menu.
2.9.26.4 Low
After initial first probe activation, machine will repeat measurement again, but this time at Low
speed.
387
Software
2.9.26.5 Probe Size Z

Length of probe.
2.9.26.6 Probe Size XY

Radius of the stylus ball of touching probe.
2.9.26.7 Safe Height

Height value to which machine ascends in-between measurement procedure.
388
Software
2.9.27 Home
Under this tab user can configure parameters for Homing procedure.
389
Software
2.9.27.1 Speed
With this parameter you can set at which speed machine will reference its axes when homing
procedure will be executed.
E.g.: We set Speed at 1000mm/min

Homing of each axis will be performed at 1000mm/min.
2.9.27.2 Low
After initial reference sensor(limit switch) activation, machine will repeat measurement again, but
this time at Low speed.
2.9.27.3 Order
User can set homing order of machine axes. Select homing order number for each axis from drop
down menu.
E.g. If number is 1 for desired axis, then that axis will be homed first.
2.9.27.3.1 Direction
User can set reference direction of desired axis.
Radio button “-” references machine axis in negative direction.
Radio button “+” references machine axis in positive direction.
2.9.27.4 Switch Position

Value inserted for each axis reference switch is machine position when reference switch is
activated during homing procedure.
2.9.27.4.1 Position
User can set home position of axes after homing procedure is completed. These are machine
position coordinates.
E.g.: Position values are X=0 ; Y=0 and Z=50
After homing procedure of each axis is completed , X and Y axes will be positioned at 0 and Z axis
at height 50mm.
390
Software
2.9.28 Offsets
Here you can set sensor parameters regarding Measure procedures under Machine/Work
Position/Measure Height and Machine/Tool Offset/Measure Length.
2.9.28.1 Work Position/Measure Height

Here you can set sensor parameters regarding Measure procedures under Machine/Work
Position/Measure Height
2.9.28.1.1 Speed Z
Speed Z is speed at which machine will measure height.
2.9.28.1.2 Low
After initial first sensor activation, machine will repeat measurement again, but this time at Low
speed.
2.9.28.1.3 Size Z
Thickness of sensor. If the tool sensor is a simple piece of copper board of thickness 1.6mm, then
this value = 1.6mm
2.9.28.1.4 Switch Click Distance

Distance between the moment when limit switch is activated and when limit switch is released.
Value is usually around 2-5mm.
User tests switch hysteresis value on his machine prior setting it here.
391
Software
2.9.28.2 Tool Offset /Measure Length

Here you can set sensor parameters regarding Measure procedures under Machine/Tool
Offset/Measure Length.
2.9.28.2.1 Speed
Speed at which machine will measure tool length.
2.9.28.2.2 Low
After initial first tool length measurement, machine will repeat measurement again, but this time at
Low speed.
2.9.28.2.3 Safe Height

Distance to which machine Z axis ascends after tool length measurement.
2.9.28.2.4 Copy Motor Limits

Copies value of Z axis motor limit.
2.9.28.2.5 Sensor Position

Machine X,Y and Z coordinates of the fixed sensor position.
2.9.28.2.6 Switch Click Distance

Distance between the moment when limit switch is activated and when limit switch is released.
Value is usually around 2-5mm.
User tests switch hysteresis value on his machine prior setting it here.
392
Software
2.9.29 Tool Change

Here you can set tool change related parameters.
2.9.29.1 Tool Change

Enable:
Enables tool change.
2.9.29.2 Skip Same Tool:

Enable:
If current tool number is the same as selected tool number, tool change will be ignored.
2.9.29.3 Spindle Check

Enable:
At the beginning of tool change procedure, spindle will be turned OFF (if it was ON prior)and when
tool change procedure is completed, spindle will be turned ON.
393
Software
2.9.29.4 Safe Height

Height to which machine Z axis ascends when tool change occurs.
2.9.29.4.1 Copy Motor Limits

Copies value of Z axis motor limit.
2.9.29.5 Position
Enable:
Enables user defined X,Y,Z position values at which manual tool change will take place.
X,Y,Z:
Machine X,Y, and Z axis position values of manual tool change.
2.9.29.6 Action
Message:
When tool change occurs, tool change message will be displayed, informing user of current and
new tool number. Until user confirms with OK button, motion will be paused.
Pause:
When tool change occurs, pause will be activated.
Machine travels to tool change position and motion is paused. This way user can safely change the
tool and resumes program execution.
Both enabled:
When tool change occurs, message will be displayed first, after message is confirmed, pause will
be activated.
394
Software
2.9.29.7 Tool Offset

Here you set tool change tool offset related parameters.
2.9.29.7.1 Measure Tool Offset
None:
After tool change, tool offset value will not be measured.
Set Tool Offset:

Tool offset value of current tool will be measured using fixed tool sensor and stored as current tool
offset value.
Set Tooltable:
Tool offset value of current tool will be measured using fixed tool sensor and stored into tool table
as also as current tool offset value.
2.9.29.7.2 Enable
If option Measure Tool Offset/Set Tool Offset or Measure Tool Offset/Set ToolTable is enabled,
then this option need to be enabled, so that current tool offset value is set.
2.9.29.7.3 AutoReturn
When enabled, machine will automatically return to machine position at which the initial tool
change command was executed.
395
Software
2.9.29.8 ATC
396
Software
2.9.29.8.1 ATC
Enable:
Enables ATC options.
Speed For Move 1:

Speed value of Move In/Out 1 moves.
Speed For Move 2:

Speed value of Move In/Out 2 moves.
2.9.29.8.2 Unload
Bottom group of settings helps user to set machine motion when tool will be unloaded from
spindle.
With Move In 2,1 values, user can determine two step motion sequence which will be executed
before tool is unloaded at its designated tool position. Final position where tool will be unloaded is
taken from tool
table.
With Move Out 1,2 values, user can determine two step motion sequence which will be executed
after tool is unloaded at its tool position.
With Out Pin values, user can define controllers output pin activity during ATC procedure.
Intended for external ATC equipment control (solenoid pneumatic valve control etc...).
397
Software
Move In 2 (two steps before unload tool position):

Under this option you set move-in axis delta moves.
Machine axes will move for the distance of inserted value.
X: Delta move of X axis.

Y: Delta move of Y axis.
Z: Delta move of Z axis.
Move In 1(one step before unload tool position):


After Move In 1 step is completed, machine is located at tool position and tool is ready to be
unloaded!
Out Pin:
Out Pin: User can select controller output pin from drop down menu.
Not Set: No controller output pin will be used.
On: Selected output pin will be turned on.
Off: Selected output pin will be turned off.
Delay: Value of delay after pin is turned on/off.
398
Software
Move Out 1 (first step after unload tool position):

Under this option you set move-out axis delta moves.

Move Out 2 (second step after unload tool position):


399
Software
2.9.29.8.3 Load
Bottom group of settings helps user to set machine motion when tool is being loaded to the
spindle.
With Move In 2,1 values user can determine two step motion sequence which will be executed
before tool is loaded to spindle. Final position where tool will be loaded is taken from tool table.
With Move Out 1,2 values user can determine two step motion sequence which will be executed
after tool is loaded to spindle.
With Out Pin values, user can define controllers output pin activity during ATC procedure.
Intended for external ATC equipment control (solenoid pneumatic valve control etc...).
400
Software
Move In 2 (two steps before load tool position):


Move In 1 (one step before load tool position):


After Move In 1 step is completed, machine is located at tool position and tool is ready to be
loaded!
Out Pin:
Out Pin: User can select controller output pin from drop down menu.
Not Set: No controller output pin will be used.
On: Selected output pin will be turned on.
Off: Selected output pin will be turned off.
Delay: Value of delay after pin is turned on/off.
401
Software
Move Out 1 (first step after load tool position):


Move Out 2 (second step after load tool position):


402
Software
Simple ATC configuration example:

This example will demonstrate how to configure ATC parameters for automatic tool change
procedure as described below.
Initial ATC overview:
-Two tool holders are positioned in tool rack using tool clamps.
-Both tools exist in tool table: Machine/Tools/Edit Tool Table
-Tool 1 position: X=0, Y=-30, Z=5
-Tool 2 position: X=30, Y=-30, Z=5
-Loading of tool is performed in such way that tool holder is picked up by empty spindle from safe
height. Spindle locks the tool holder and then machine slides out of the tool clamps in Y axis
positive direction at tool position Z axis height.
-Unloading of tool is performed in such way that machine slides the tool holder into clamps in Y
axis negative direction at tool position Z axis height. Machine then unlocks the tool holder and
moves to safe height in order to pick up new tool.
-To lock and unlock tool holders, we will use controller output pin 1. Usually this pin controls
external solenoid pneumatic valve.
-When ATC will be at the stage of locking or unlocking the tool holders, short delay will be added
for safety reasons.
403
Software
404
Software
2.9.30 Gantry Square

Here you set parameters related to gantry squaring procedure.
PLEASE NOTE: Prior using gantry square procedure, user needs to configure master and slave
motor outputs and their corresponding limit switch inputs.
2.9.30.1 Speed
Speed value of gantry squaring procedure.
2.9.30.2 Axis
Axis name that will be squared. This is the axis that uses master and slave motors.
2.9.30.3 Direction
Motor direction of master and slave motors during the gantry squaring procedure.
2.9.30.4 Move U
Retract distance for which axis will move once its corresponding switch is activated.
2.9.30.5 Move V
Retract distance for which axis will move once its corresponding switch is activated.
405
Software
2.9.31 Motor Drivers

Group of settings for integrated motor drivers of Mk3DRV motion controller.
Please note that these settings are enabled only when Mk3DRV controller is connected and
selected as Primary controller under Settings/Connection
2.9.31.1 Microstepping
User can choose between 1/1 step mode (full step) and 1/32 step mode (32 micro steps).
2.9.31.2 Current
User can set motor drivers current value using “+” or “-” buttons or typing current value directly into
“Current” window.
Minimal recommended value is 0.5A, maximal value is 2.5A.
406
G-code
3 G-code
G-code is a programming language that is used by CNC machines. Motion controller interprets the
g-code commands and arranges series of appropriate actions that result in coordinated machine
motion.
G-code commands can be divided into multiple groups which differ from one another based on
functionality and intended use.
Single G-code line, aka block, can include commands for machine motion, program and data
manipulation, or peripheral control.
G-code will be described much more in detail in g-code reference manual.
3.1 Obtaining G-code

Simple g-code programs (i.e. simple toolpaths) can be easily written manually. For this purpose we
recommend that users get at least familiar with g-code. Get to know groups of g-code commands,
syntax, format and programming guidelines. Even if user does not have an intention of manually
writing his g-code programs, it can be in great help when debugging and understanding program
and machine behaviour.
It is also possible to use one of TNG Import program features such as Import DXF and Import
Gerber . Meaning, user can directly import his DXF (CAD file) or Gerber(PCB CAD file) files into
PlanetCNC TNG sw. PlanetCNC TNG will auto-generate g-code for imported file.
For more info on these program features please read chapters 2.4.5. and 2.4.7.
Another option would be to use third party CAM software. In this case part is designed in
CAD(Computer-aided design) software. CAD file is imported into CAM (Computer-aided
manufacturing) software. In CAM sw you consider tool radius offsets, tool change, feed speeds,
pocket milling, cutouts etc... CAM software then generates toolpath based on the CAD drawing.
Using post-processor, CAM software then generates g-code program.
407
Parameters
4 Parameters
PlanetCNC TNG G-code language supports parameters. Trough parameters we can query
machine state and behaviour. Parameters are divided into groups based on their intended use,
scope, mode and persistence.
Intended use:
Settings parameters carry information on how our machine is configured. This includes motion
and motor limits, motor step per unit values, output pin configuration etc...
Interpreter parameters reflect machine state as per executed g-code program. So all commands
from g-code program will influence interpreter parameters values, such as Spindle on/off state,
spindle RPM, motion mode, position values etc...
It is important not to confuse these parameters with hardware parameters which reflect actual real-
time machine status.
Hardware parameters give machine values in real time. They reflect actual values of motor
position, output and input pin status etc...
User parameters are parameters that are created by user. Usually for the needs of script
programs.
Scope:
Parameters can be numbered or named. Named parameters are further divided into Named local
and Named global parameters.
Mode:
Some parameters are read-only while others can be assigned to new value(read/write).
Persistence:
Volatile parameters loose their values once you exit PlanetCNC TNG software, Persistent
parameters will keep their values even when you close TNG software.
Persistent parameters are located in Parameters.txt file in PlanetCNC TNG profile folder.
Parameters will be described much more in detail in PlanetCNC G-code reference manual.
408
Scripts
5 Scripts
PlanetCNC TNG software supports use of scripts. Scripts are basically g-code programs that are
executed when called. For example, some program features, such as homing, tool change are
implemented as scripts. All M g-codes, such as M3, M7, M8 are also implemented as scripts.
The main purpose of scripts is to offer user an option of changing the default behaviour of program
features or g-code. In most cases this comes very useful when user needs to obtain custom
machine motion sequence or special program/parameter manipulation.
Script files (using suffix .gcode) are located in Scripts folder of corresponding profile in PlanetCNC
TNG installation folder.
5.1 Accessing script files
There are multiple ways on how to access specific script file:

1. Via Settings: In PlanetCNC TNG software click: File/Settings/Program Options/Scripts
Select command from drop down menu of corresponding program feature or M-code and
click Edit Script button.
Script file of selected command will open in your default text editor.
2. Probably the fastest way of accessing script files is using combination of PC keyboard keys
and Left mouse button.
All you need to do is press combination of Ctrl + Alt keyboard keys and then using left
mouse button to click on desired program feature (this can be Machine menu item or
toolbar button).
3. Script file of selected feature will open in your default text editor.
4. Locate PlanetCNC TNG software installation folder and open Profiles folder.
Locate Scripts folder and open desired script file. If script file is not present in the Scripts
folder of your PlanetCNC TNG profile, then perform procedure described in point 1. of this
chapter. Also note, some program features and g-code are not script-able.
409
Scripts
5.2 Example of script file customization
Scripts can be short programs that add short delay on spindle ramp up or they can be longer more
complex programs such as automatic tool change procedure.
Customization is in other words editing scripts g-code.
5.2.1 Customization of “Move/To Zero” program feature script code

Default script g-code for Move/To Zero program feature initiates motion for all machine axes from
their current position to absolute zero position of machine.
Because moving all axes simultaneously towards zero position is somewhat dangerous, we would
like to move our Z axis first, before we start to move X and Y axis.
Safest height for Z axis would be its max position value. We can “borrow” this value from
Settings/Motion/Range → Range+ value for Axis Z. This value is saved in parameter
_motionrange_zp.
So new motion sequence would be: Move Z axis to its safe height first, then move axes X and Y to
its zero position and last move Z axis to zero.
1. We access “Move/To Zero” script file using one of listed options described in chapter 3.1
2. Once script file is opened in our default text editor we can add/remove lines of g-code that
will change its original default behavior.
3. Original script code looks like this:
M70
G90 G15
G00 X0 Y0 Z0 A0 B0 C0 U0 V0 W0
M72
We edit this g-code in such way, so that axis Z is moved first to its safe height, then all
other axes move to zero, and finally Z axis is moved to zero:
M70
G90 G15
G00 Z[#<_motionrange_zp>]
G00 X0 Y0 A0 B0 C0 U0 V0 W0
G00 Z0
M72
410
Scripts
5.2.2 Customization of “M8” g-code script code
Default script g-code for M8(flood) g-code activates its corresponding output pin in order to turn on
the coolant.
Let's say we would like to add a short delay after we turn ON coolant pump. This is useful when we
need to provide a steady stream of coolant fluid before we begin with milling.
So new script behaviour will activate corresponding output of controller, wait for 5 seconds and
then continue with main program execution.
1. We access “M8” script file using one of listed options described in chapter 3.1
2. Once script file is opened in our default text editor we can add/remove lines of g-code that
will change its original default behavior.
3. Original script code looks like this:
M8
We will add a G4 g-code for Dwell which will delay main program execution for 5 seconds.
M8
G04 P5
411
Scripts
Table of Contents
Disclaimer...............................................................................................................................2
1 Introduction........................................................................................................................3
1.1 Overview.....................................................................................................................3
1.2 Features and specifications:.......................................................................................4
1.3 System Requirements................................................................................................5
2 Software.............................................................................................................................6
2.1 Overview.....................................................................................................................6
2.2 Installation...................................................................................................................7
2.2.1 Software installation on Windows.......................................................................8
2.2.3 Software installation on Linux............................................................................11
2.3 Main Window............................................................................................................27
2.3.1 Menu bar...........................................................................................................28
2.3.1.1 Buttons for panel display manipulation......................................................28
2.3.2 Toolbars.............................................................................................................32
2.3.2.1 Top toolbar:
.................................................................................................................................32
2.3.2.2 Left toolbar:................................................................................................33
2.3.2.3 Toolbar additional features ........................................................................34
2.3.3 Position panel....................................................................................................36
2.3.3.1 Work...........................................................................................................36
2.3.3.2 Machine......................................................................................................38
2.3.3.3 Motors........................................................................................................40
2.3.3.4 GCode........................................................................................................40
2.3.4 Speed Panel .....................................................................................................41
2.3.4.1 Feed speed display: ..................................................................................41
2.3.4.2 Spindle speed display:...............................................................................43
2.3.5 State panel........................................................................................................44
2.3.5.1 Gcode state tab..........................................................................................44
2.3.5.2 IO state tab.................................................................................................45
2.3.5.3 User state tabs...........................................................................................49
2.3.6 Jogging Panel....................................................................................................50
2.3.7 3D program visualization display......................................................................52
2.3.8 G-Code panel....................................................................................................53
2.3.8.1 Vertical Slider.............................................................................................53
2.3.8.2 Position Slider............................................................................................53
2.3.8.3 Additional G-code panel options................................................................54
2.3.9 Utilities panel.....................................................................................................55
2.3.9.1 Output tab...................................................................................................55
2.3.9.2 Edit tab.......................................................................................................57
2.3.9.3 Log tab.......................................................................................................60
2.3.9.4 Camera tab................................................................................................62
2.3.10 Manual data input (MDI) window.....................................................................66
2.3.11 Indication Light.................................................................................................68
2.3.11.1 Indication light colour description:............................................................68
2.4 File menu..................................................................................................................69
412
Scripts
2.4.1 Close..................................................................................................................70
2.4.2 Open..................................................................................................................70
2.4.3 Recent files........................................................................................................70
2.4.4 Import G-code....................................................................................................71
2.4.5 Import DXF.........................................................................................................72
2.4.6 Import PLT, HPGL..............................................................................................72
2.4.6.1 Units...........................................................................................................73
2.4.6.2 Scale..........................................................................................................73
2.4.6.3 Origin..........................................................................................................74
2.4.6.4 Loops..........................................................................................................78
2.4.6.5 Interpolate..................................................................................................78
2.4.6.6 Sort.............................................................................................................78
2.4.6.7 Feed Speed................................................................................................78
2.4.6.8 Plunge Speed.............................................................................................78
2.4.6.9 Tool change and Offset..............................................................................78
2.4.6.10 Outputs.....................................................................................................79
2.4.6.11 Import DXF function library:.....................................................................79
2.4.6.12 Mode........................................................................................................81
2.4.6.13 Height.......................................................................................................82
2.4.6.14 Tabs..........................................................................................................85
2.4.6.15 Tangent Knife...........................................................................................85
2.4.6.16 Bottom - Off..............................................................................................86
2.4.6.17 Top Off......................................................................................................86
2.4.6.18 Top On......................................................................................................87
2.4.6.19 Bottom On................................................................................................87
2.4.7 Import Gerber....................................................................................................88
2.4.7.1 Feed Speed ...............................................................................................89
2.4.7.2 Plunge Speed.............................................................................................89
2.4.7.3 Safe Height................................................................................................89
2.4.7.4 Start Height................................................................................................89
2.4.7.5 Tool change................................................................................................89
2.4.7.6 Offset..........................................................................................................89
2.4.7.7 Mirror..........................................................................................................90
2.4.7.8 Size X.........................................................................................................91
2.4.7.9 Size Y.........................................................................................................91
2.4.7.10 Outputs.....................................................................................................92
2.4.7.11 Use ..........................................................................................................93
2.4.7.12 Mark Pads................................................................................................94
2.4.7.13 Cutting Path.............................................................................................95
2.4.7.14 Drill Pads..................................................................................................96
2.4.7.15 Clear Copper............................................................................................97
2.4.7.16 Enable......................................................................................................97
2.4.7.17 Outline......................................................................................................99
2.4.7.18 Border.....................................................................................................100
2.4.7.19 Cute Height............................................................................................102
2.4.7.20 Pause.....................................................................................................102
2.4.7.21 Tool.........................................................................................................102
2.4.7.22 Diameter.................................................................................................102
2.4.8 Import NC drill..................................................................................................103
413
Scripts
2.4.8.1 Feed Speed..............................................................................................104

2.4.8.2 Plunge Speed...........................................................................................104
2.4.8.3 Safe Height .............................................................................................104
2.4.8.4 Start Height..............................................................................................104
2.4.8.5 Cut Height................................................................................................104
2.4.8.6 Tool change .............................................................................................104
2.4.8.7 Offset........................................................................................................104
2.4.8.8 Mirror........................................................................................................105
2.4.8.9 Size X.......................................................................................................105
2.4.8.10 Size Y.....................................................................................................105
2.4.8.11 Units.......................................................................................................105
2.4.8.12 Format....................................................................................................105
2.4.8.13 Leading/Trailing Zeroes.........................................................................105
2.4.9 Import CSV......................................................................................................106
2.4.10 Import Image.................................................................................................106
2.4.11 Import Python Script......................................................................................107
2.4.12 Generate........................................................................................................107
2.4.13 Export G-code...............................................................................................108
2.4.14 Export DXF....................................................................................................108
2.4.15 Export CSV....................................................................................................108
2.4.16 Run Python Script.........................................................................................108
2.4.17 Settings..........................................................................................................109
2.4.18 Import Settings..............................................................................................109
2.4.19 Export Settings..............................................................................................109
2.4.20 Import Profile.................................................................................................110
2.4.21 Export Profile.................................................................................................111
2.4.22 Language.......................................................................................................112
2.4.23 Exit.................................................................................................................112
2.5 View menu..............................................................................................................113
2.5.1 Top view...........................................................................................................114
2.5.2 Side View.........................................................................................................115
2.5.3 Front View........................................................................................................115
2.5.4 Perspective view..............................................................................................116
2.5.5 Zoom In............................................................................................................116
2.5.6 Zoom Out.........................................................................................................116
2.5.7 Zoom Position..................................................................................................116
2.5.8 Zoom Part........................................................................................................116
2.5.9 Follow Position.................................................................................................116
2.5.10 Center Zero....................................................................................................116
2.5.11 Show..............................................................................................................117
2.5.11.1 Show grid................................................................................................117
2.5.11.2 Show Axes Lines....................................................................................117
2.5.11.3 Show Axes Center..................................................................................117
2.5.11.4 Show Limits............................................................................................118
2.5.11.5 Show Extents..........................................................................................118
2.5.11.6 Show Toolpath History............................................................................118
2.5.11.7 Show Gauges.........................................................................................118
2.5.11.8 Show Hover............................................................................................118
2.5.11.9 Show Completed....................................................................................118
414
Scripts
2.5.11.10 Show Depthtest....................................................................................119

2.5.11.11 Show Multisample................................................................................120
2.5.11.12 Show Objects.......................................................................................120
2.5.12 Panel.............................................................................................................121
2.5.13 Reset Windows.............................................................................................121
2.6 Program menu........................................................................................................122
2.6.1 Redraw............................................................................................................123
2.6.2 Edit...................................................................................................................123
2.6.3 Lines................................................................................................................125
2.6.3.1 Next..........................................................................................................125
2.6.3.2 Next Page................................................................................................125
2.6.3.3 Previous...................................................................................................125
2.6.3.4 Previous Page..........................................................................................125
2.6.3.5 Forward....................................................................................................125
2.6.3.6 Reverse....................................................................................................125
2.6.3.7 Find .........................................................................................................126
2.6.3.8 Find Next..................................................................................................126
2.6.3.9 Find Comment..........................................................................................126
2.6.3.10 Find Tool-change....................................................................................126
2.6.3.11 Find Spindle...........................................................................................126
2.6.3.12 Optional Block Enabled..........................................................................126
2.6.4 MDI..................................................................................................................127
2.6.4.1 Select.......................................................................................................127
2.6.4.2 Show history.............................................................................................127
2.6.4.3 Clear history.............................................................................................127
2.6.5 Bookmarks.......................................................................................................128
2.6.5.1 Select Next...............................................................................................128
2.6.5.2 Select previous.........................................................................................128
2.6.5.3 Select All..................................................................................................128
2.6.5.4 Toggle.......................................................................................................128
2.6.5.5 Clear.........................................................................................................128
2.6.5.6 Set............................................................................................................129
2.6.6 Transformation.................................................................................................129
2.6.6.1 Disable.....................................................................................................129
2.6.6.2 Clear.........................................................................................................129
2.6.6.3 Redraw.....................................................................................................129
2.6.7 Shift..................................................................................................................130
2.6.7.1 X,Y,Z:........................................................................................................130
2.6.7.2 Copy From...............................................................................................130
2.6.8 Scale................................................................................................................132
2.6.8.1 X,Y,Z:........................................................................................................132
2.6.9 Rotate..............................................................................................................132
2.6.10 Mirror.............................................................................................................133
2.6.11 Points.............................................................................................................134
2.6.11.1 Source....................................................................................................135
2.6.11.2 Destination..............................................................................................136
2.6.12 Clear..............................................................................................................138
2.6.13 Undo..............................................................................................................138
2.6.14 Warp..............................................................................................................138
415
Scripts
2.6.14.1 Resolution..............................................................................................139
2.6.14.2 Enable/Disable.......................................................................................139
2.6.14.3 Clear.......................................................................................................139
2.6.14.4 From File................................................................................................139
2.6.14.5 From Points............................................................................................139
2.6.15 Copy XYZ → UVW........................................................................................141
2.6.16 Copy UVW → XYZ........................................................................................141
2.6.17 Swap XYZ ↔ UVW.......................................................................................141
2.6.18 Copy to Clipboard..........................................................................................141
2.6.19 Paste from Clipboard.....................................................................................141
2.7 Machine Menu........................................................................................................142
2.7.1 Emergency stop..............................................................................................143
2.7.2 Start.................................................................................................................143
2.7.3 Stop.................................................................................................................143
2.7.4 Pause..............................................................................................................143
2.7.5 Start.................................................................................................................144
2.7.5.1 Start From Selected Line.........................................................................145
2.7.5.2 Start From Bookmark To Bookmark.........................................................145
2.7.5.3 Beginning to Bookmark............................................................................145
2.7.5.4 Start From Bookmark to End...................................................................145
2.7.5.5 Start Loop.................................................................................................145
2.7.6 Overrides.........................................................................................................146
2.7.6.1 Speed Override Enable............................................................................147
2.7.6.2 Traverse...................................................................................................147
2.7.6.3 Feed.........................................................................................................148
2.7.6.4 Spindle Override Enable..........................................................................149
2.7.6.5 Spindle.....................................................................................................149
2.7.6.6 Pause Enable...........................................................................................150
2.7.6.7 Pause optional........................................................................................150
2.7.6.8 Single Step...............................................................................................150
2.7.7 Mist..................................................................................................................151
2.7.8 Flood................................................................................................................151
2.7.9 Spindle.............................................................................................................151
2.7.10 Output............................................................................................................152
2.7.10.1 Output 1-8:.............................................................................................153
2.7.11 Motors, Limits, Probe.....................................................................................154
2.7.11.1 Motors Enable.......................................................................................155
2.7.11.2 Soft Limits Enable..................................................................................155
2.7.11.3 Hard Limits Enable.................................................................................155
2.7.11.4 Probe Trigger..........................................................................................155
2.7.12 Tools..............................................................................................................156
2.7.12.1 Current Active Tool.................................................................................157
2.7.12.2 Change...................................................................................................157
2.7.12.3 Select.....................................................................................................158
2.7.12.4 Edit Tool Table........................................................................................159
2.7.13 Move..............................................................................................................166
2.7.13.1 To Zero...................................................................................................167
2.7.13.2 To............................................................................................................167
2.7.13.3 Axis to Zero............................................................................................169
416
Scripts
2.7.13.4 To G28....................................................................................................169
2.7.13.5 To G30....................................................................................................169
2.7.13.6 To Selected Line.....................................................................................169
2.7.13.7 To Selected Line XY...............................................................................170
2.7.13.8 Position to Camera.................................................................................170
2.7.13.9 Camera To Position................................................................................170
2.7.13.10 Camera To Selected Line XY...............................................................170
2.7.14 Machine Position...........................................................................................171
2.7.14.1 To Zero...................................................................................................172
2.7.14.2 To............................................................................................................172
2.7.14.3 Axis To Zero...........................................................................................174
2.7.14.4 As G28....................................................................................................174
2.7.14.5 As G30....................................................................................................174
2.7.15 Work Position................................................................................................175
2.7.15.1 To Zero...................................................................................................176
2.7.15.2 To............................................................................................................176
2.7.15.3 Axis To Zero...........................................................................................178
2.7.15.4 Measure Height......................................................................................179
2.7.15.5 Offset......................................................................................................180
2.7.15.6 Selected Line.........................................................................................182
2.7.15.7 Selected Line XY....................................................................................182
2.7.15.8 Camera XY ............................................................................................182
2.7.16 Coordinate System........................................................................................183
2.7.16.1 Current Coordinate System...................................................................184
2.7.16.2 Select.....................................................................................................184
2.7.16.3 To Zero...................................................................................................184
2.7.16.4 To............................................................................................................185
2.7.16.5 Axis To Zero...........................................................................................186
2.7.16.6 Measure Height......................................................................................186
2.7.16.7 Offset......................................................................................................187
2.7.17 Tool Offset......................................................................................................190
2.7.17.1 Enabled..................................................................................................191
2.7.17.2 To Zero...................................................................................................191
2.7.17.3 To............................................................................................................192
2.7.17.4 Axis to Zero............................................................................................193
2.7.17.5 Measure Length....................................................................................194
2.7.17.6 From Tool Table......................................................................................194
2.7.18 Home.............................................................................................................195
2.7.19 Measure.........................................................................................................196
2.7.19.1 Inside Corner..........................................................................................197
2.7.19.2 Outside Corner.......................................................................................199
2.7.19.3 Hole........................................................................................................201
2.7.19.4 Protrusion...............................................................................................202
2.7.19.5 Slot.........................................................................................................207
2.7.19.6 Tab..........................................................................................................208
2.7.19.7 Axis.........................................................................................................210
2.7.19.8 Angle......................................................................................................212
2.7.19.9 Surface Height.......................................................................................214
2.7.19.10 Surface Angle.......................................................................................215
417
Scripts
2.7.19.11 Surface.................................................................................................216
2.7.19.12 Gantry Square......................................................................................216
2.7.20 Points.............................................................................................................217
2.7.20.1 Count......................................................................................................218
2.7.20.2 Load.......................................................................................................218
2.7.20.3 Save.......................................................................................................218
2.7.20.4 Save STL...............................................................................................218
2.7.20.5 Save DXF...............................................................................................218
2.7.20.6 To Output................................................................................................218
2.7.20.7 Clear.......................................................................................................219
2.7.20.8 Add.........................................................................................................219
2.7.21 Camera..........................................................................................................220
2.7.21.1 Show......................................................................................................221
Set Offset..............................................................................................................227
2.7.22 User Commands...........................................................................................229
2.7.23 Controller.......................................................................................................231
2.7.23.1 Reconnect..............................................................................................232
2.7.23.2 Reset......................................................................................................232
2.7.23.3 Firmware Update....................................................................................232
2.7.23.4 Advanced...............................................................................................232
2.8 Help.........................................................................................................................234
2.8.1 User Manual....................................................................................................234
2.8.2 G-code Manual................................................................................................234
2.8.3 License management......................................................................................235
2.8.3.1 Licenses...................................................................................................235
2.8.3.2 Activation Code Generator.......................................................................237
2.8.4 Check For Updates.........................................................................................238
2.8.5 Show Log.........................................................................................................238
2.8.6 About...............................................................................................................238
2.9 Settings...................................................................................................................239
2.9.1 General............................................................................................................240
2.9.1.1 Description...............................................................................................241
2.9.1.2 Units.........................................................................................................241
2.9.1.3 Machine type............................................................................................241
2.9.1.4 Notes........................................................................................................242
2.9.1.5 Password.................................................................................................242
2.9.1.6 Check For Updates..................................................................................242
2.9.2 Connection......................................................................................................243
2.9.2.1 Connection...............................................................................................244
2.9.2.2 Adapter IP................................................................................................249
2.9.2.3 Primary Controller:...................................................................................249
2.9.3 User Interface:.................................................................................................250
2.9.3.1 Colors.......................................................................................................251
2.9.3.2 Properties.................................................................................................253
2.9.3.3 Dialogs.....................................................................................................257
2.9.3.4 Commands...............................................................................................260
2.9.4 Menu................................................................................................................261
2.9.4.1 Colors.......................................................................................................261
2.9.4.2 Properties................................................................................................262
418
Scripts
2.9.5 Toolbars...........................................................................................................263
2.9.5.1 Colors.......................................................................................................263
2.9.5.2 Properties:................................................................................................266
2.9.6 Position............................................................................................................268
2.9.6.1 Colors.......................................................................................................269
2.9.6.2 Properties.................................................................................................271
2.9.6.3 Commands...............................................................................................273
2.9.7 Speed..............................................................................................................274
2.9.7.1 Colors.......................................................................................................275
2.9.7.2 Speed.......................................................................................................278
2.9.7.3 Spindle.....................................................................................................281
2.9.8 State................................................................................................................283
2.9.8.1 Colors.......................................................................................................283
2.9.9 Jog...................................................................................................................286
2.9.9.1 Colors.......................................................................................................286
2.9.9.2 Properties.................................................................................................287
2.9.10 3D..................................................................................................................289
2.9.10.1 Colors.....................................................................................................289
2.9.10.2 Properties...............................................................................................291
2.9.10.3 User Interface/Geometry........................................................................302
2.9.10.4 ABC:.......................................................................................................310
2.9.10.5 UVW:......................................................................................................310
2.9.11 Gcode.............................................................................................................311
2.9.11.1 Colors.....................................................................................................312
2.9.11.2 Properties...............................................................................................313
2.9.11.3 MDI.........................................................................................................314
2.9.12 Utilities...........................................................................................................317
2.9.12.1 Colors.....................................................................................................317
2.9.12.2 Panels ...................................................................................................320
2.9.13 Shortcuts.......................................................................................................321
2.9.13.1 Action......................................................................................................322
2.9.13.2 Code.......................................................................................................322
2.9.13.3 MDI.........................................................................................................323
2.9.13.4 Pin..........................................................................................................323
2.9.14 Motors............................................................................................................325
2.9.14.1 Step Width..............................................................................................326
2.9.14.2 Enable Pin..............................................................................................326
2.9.14.3 Motor......................................................................................................327
2.9.14.4 Steps Per Unit........................................................................................329
2.9.14.5 Speed.....................................................................................................330
2.9.14.6 Acceleration............................................................................................331
2.9.14.7 Backlash................................................................................................332
2.9.14.8 Motor Limits............................................................................................334
2.9.14.9 Limit Switches........................................................................................335
2.9.14.10 Invert and Estop...................................................................................338
2.9.15 Motion ...........................................................................................................339
2.9.15.1 Maximum Speed:...................................................................................339
2.9.15.2 Max Acceleration:...................................................................................339
2.9.15.3 Max Deceleration:..................................................................................339
419
Scripts
2.9.15.4 Blend......................................................................................................340
2.9.15.5 Advanced...............................................................................................346
2.9.16 Jogging..........................................................................................................347
2.9.16.1 Default Speed........................................................................................348
2.9.16.2 Default Step...........................................................................................348
2.9.16.3 Default Round........................................................................................349
2.9.16.4 Probe Lock.............................................................................................349
2.9.16.5 Jogging Keyboard..................................................................................351
2.9.16.6 Handwheel.............................................................................................352
2.9.17 Input/Output...................................................................................................356
2.9.17.1 E-Stop Pin..............................................................................................357
2.9.17.2 Error Pin.................................................................................................357
2.9.17.3 Input Pin 1-8...........................................................................................357
2.9.17.4 Output Pin 1-8........................................................................................357
2.9.18 Spindle...........................................................................................................358
2.9.18.1 Output Pin – CW....................................................................................359
2.9.18.2 Output Pin – CCW..................................................................................359
2.9.18.3 Output Pin – Speed................................................................................359
2.9.18.4 Start Delay.............................................................................................359
2.9.18.5 Stop Delay..............................................................................................359
2.9.18.6 Frequency..............................................................................................360
2.9.18.7 PWM.......................................................................................................361
2.9.18.8 RC ........................................................................................................361
2.9.18.9 Encoder..................................................................................................362
2.9.18.10 Synchronisation....................................................................................362
2.9.19 Coolant..........................................................................................................364
2.9.19.1 Mist.........................................................................................................364
2.9.19.2 Flood......................................................................................................364
2.9.20 I2C, TX, Ext...................................................................................................365
2.9.20.1 I2C..........................................................................................................365
2.9.20.2 TX...........................................................................................................365
2.9.20.3 Encoder..................................................................................................366
2.9.20.4 Ext..........................................................................................................366
2.9.21 THC...............................................................................................................367
2.9.21.1 Axis.........................................................................................................367
2.9.21.2 Dec Pin...................................................................................................368
2.9.21.3 Inc Pin....................................................................................................368
2.9.21.4 OK Pin....................................................................................................368
2.9.21.5 Range Min..............................................................................................368
2.9.21.6 Range Max.............................................................................................368
2.9.21.7 Speed ....................................................................................................368
2.9.22 Program Options ..........................................................................................369
2.9.22.1 Mode......................................................................................................370
2.9.22.2 Speed.....................................................................................................371
2.9.22.3 Transformation.......................................................................................371
2.9.23 Paths.............................................................................................................372
2.9.23.1 G-Code folders ......................................................................................372
2.9.23.2 Python....................................................................................................372
2.9.24 Scripts............................................................................................................373
420
Scripts
2.9.25 Events............................................................................................................384
2.9.25.1 Start From Line......................................................................................385
2.9.25.2 Estop......................................................................................................385
2.9.25.3 On Start..................................................................................................386
2.9.25.4 On End...................................................................................................386
2.9.25.5 On Stop..................................................................................................386
2.9.26 Probe & Measure..........................................................................................387
2.9.26.1 Probe 1 Pin............................................................................................387
2.9.26.2 Probe 2 Pin............................................................................................387
2.9.26.3 Probe speed...........................................................................................387
2.9.26.4 Low.........................................................................................................387
2.9.26.5 Probe Size Z..........................................................................................388
2.9.26.6 Probe Size XY........................................................................................388
2.9.26.7 Safe Height............................................................................................388
2.9.27 Home.............................................................................................................389
2.9.27.1 Speed ....................................................................................................390
2.9.27.2 Low.........................................................................................................390
2.9.27.3 Order......................................................................................................390
2.9.27.4 Switch Position.......................................................................................390
2.9.28 Offsets...........................................................................................................391
2.9.28.1 Work Position/Measure Height..............................................................391
2.9.28.2 Tool Offset /Measure Length..................................................................392
2.9.29 Tool Change..................................................................................................393
2.9.29.1 Tool Change ..........................................................................................393
2.9.29.2 Skip Same Tool:.....................................................................................393
2.9.29.3 Spindle Check........................................................................................393
2.9.29.4 Safe Height............................................................................................394
2.9.29.5 Position..................................................................................................394
2.9.29.6 Action......................................................................................................394
2.9.29.7 Tool Offset..............................................................................................395
2.9.29.8 ATC.........................................................................................................396
2.9.30 Gantry Square...............................................................................................405
2.9.30.1 Speed.....................................................................................................405
2.9.30.2 Axis.........................................................................................................405
2.9.30.3 Direction.................................................................................................405
2.9.30.4 Move U ..................................................................................................405
2.9.30.5 Move V...................................................................................................405
2.9.31 Motor Drivers.................................................................................................406
2.9.31.1 Microstepping.........................................................................................406
2.9.31.2 Current...................................................................................................406
3 G-code ..........................................................................................................................407
3.1 Obtaining G-code....................................................................................................407
4 Parameters.....................................................................................................................408
5 Scripts............................................................................................................................409
5.1 Accessing script files...............................................................................................409
5.2 Example of script file customization.......................................................................410
5.2.1 Customization of “Move/To Zero” program feature script code.......................410
5.2.2 Customization of “M8” g-code script code.......................................................411
421

PlanetCNC TNG

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

PlanetCNC TNG

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

PlanetCNC TNG

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

User manual

1.2 Features and specifications:

1.3 System Requirements

Configuration options allow for maximum flexibility, integration and customization.

2.2.1 Software installation on Windows

Setup-PlanetCNC dialogue will be displayed:

Complete PlanetCNC Setup wizard by clicking Finish:

2.2.3 Software installation on Linux

Start your Ubuntu MATE system:

Under download options choose PlanetCNC TNG preview-Linux and click

When download is complete, click Open folder button:

Extract dialogue will appear, click: Create Folder button:

Type in the name of new folder: PlanetCNC

Open PlanetCNC folder and click Extract button:

Extracted files will now populate PlanetCNC folder:

Right mouse click on blank space and click: Open in Terminal

Terminal window will appear:

Type in your root password and hit enter.

PlanetCNC TNG software will automatically launch:

2.3 Main Window

On launch of PlanetCNC TNG software, Main Window will display.

2.3.1 Menu bar

2.3.1.1 Buttons for panel display manipulation

All three buttons disabled:

All three buttons enabled:

You can hide/show G-code panel with right button:

You can hide/show utilities panel with centre button:

2.3.2.1 Top toolbar:

Emergency stop: Executes immediate Emergency Stop (E-Stop)

Top View: Display G-Code program view from the top

Mist: Activate / Deactivate Coolant Mist

2.3.2.2 Left toolbar:

Work Offset/To Zero:

Work Position/Axis To Zero/XY:

Work Position/Axis To Zero/Z:

2.3.2.3 Toolbar additional features

2.3.2.3.1 Pop-up clouds

2.3.2.3.2 Spindle and coolant buttons

Spindle and coolant OFF:

Spindle and coolant ON:

2.3.2.3.3 Adding toolbars

2.3.2.3.4 Adding user toolbar buttons

2.3.3 Position panel

2.3.4 Speed Panel

2.3.4.1 Feed speed display:

Reset button: Resets any speed override

Decrease button: Decreases speed override value for10%

Increase button: Increases speed override value for 10%

2.3.4.2 Spindle speed display:

Reset button: Resets any speed override

Decrease button: Decreases speed override value for10%

Increase button: Increases speed override value for 10%

2.3.5 State panel

2.3.5.1 Gcode state tab

2.3.5.2 IO state tab

2.3.5.2.10 Ext1 Out

2.3.5.2.11 Ext2 Out

2.3.5.3 User state tabs