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zapmaker / GrblHoming

QT-based gcode user interface for grbl on arduino
GNU General Public License v3.0
320 stars 190 forks source link

Laser cutter Z-axis gcode to spindle control #55

Open zapmaker opened 10 years ago

zapmaker commented 10 years ago

User request: Is it possible to add better lasercutter support? For example, instead of driving the Z-Axis, there could be an option to automatically change the command to turn the Spindle Off/On.

Solution? do you have something in mind like a downward motion in Z means spindle on and upward spindle off?

derFrickler commented 10 years ago

Why don't you do that in you CAM? For my Laser i just set the Z Travel to minimum (0,1mm or so) and added M8/M9 commands before z down and after z up to switch the coolant pin of grbl. I use ESTLCam where this can be easily configured.

That way i can use the same CAM for milling and lasering.

zapmaker commented 10 years ago

Good point. I am guessing the user has a CAM program with limited capabilities and wants Grbl Controller to do it. I think it is reasonable, but not highest priority.

derFrickler commented 10 years ago

Maybe an option to sent a custom GCode before Z Down and after Z Up would be an Optoin for grbl.