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Machines in Motion Inc. Has added a new web page solely for
presenting our new series of CNC related video
presentations.
We currently have 3 short
videos
-
What
Machines in Motion can do for your
business.
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Installing the M-400 control onto a knee
mill.
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Centroid controls on specialized production
machinery.
More videos will be
added as time and
projects permit.
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Comming soon: MPU11/GPIO4 hardware set integrated onto a
120 inch
Cincinnati Hydrotel
And
The All-in one board integrated onto
a Sharnoa
mill |
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Contact Machines in
Motion regarding software updates for your
Centroid powered CNC control.
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Machines in Motion Inc. has moved to social
media.
The latest engineering breakthroughs
& company updates to Centroid CNC control products will
be sent directly to you via Face book and, very soon, on twiter
& google's +1 service.
This page will remain
available for you to review. Sign up for our social media
anouncments by friending
us on face book .
Last updated 2011 
Centroid E-Mail news is published randomly by
Centroid for their dealers. Machines in Motion Inc. is presenting
this information for your general knowledge. We do not expect
Centroid control users to implement any of these topics on your own.
We simply wish to make you aware of the latest possibilities for
your current Centroid powered machine.
February Email News
February 10th, 2011
Edition
Starting on Feb.
11th all CENTROID MPU11 based CNC control systems will be using
Windows 7 as the operating system, the Linux OS will no longer be
offered or supported for MPU11 based
systems.
Many of the good reasons
for using Linux as a CNC control operating system have now been
eliminated by Windows 7 and modern faster/better PC hardware.
It has now also reached the the point in which Windows 7 offers
advantages over the Linux as a CNC control OS. The menu structure
and the look and feel of the CENTROID CNC software remains the
same.
All previously shipped MPU11 system are
upgradeable to the new Windows 7 version. Please call or email Machines
in Motion Inc. for instructions on how to do so.
Note: All
CNC10 systems will still continue to use the current shipping
version of CENTROID CNC software which runs on the Linux OS.
v2.70. This version of CENTROID/Linux will continue to be
supported.
Some of the advantages of the Windows 7 OS are as
follows:
1.
Motherboard support (wide variety of MB's
work with Win7)
2. Touch Screen support
3. USB Drive Support
4. Accessory
driver support
5. Remote
Desktop Functionality
6. Easy
Networking
7. Windows
File Saving, user familiarity
8. Num Locks
turning off between screens
9. Nedit
problems, now use any editor that runs on
windows.
10. CENTROID
can concentrate on developing software for one operating
system.
11. Solid State drive health support improves HUD
reliability
12. Graphic driver support, (better g code
backplots)
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January Email News
Eight Axis CNC Control Systems Now
Available.
Up to 8 axis motor control is now
available with our MPU11 control systems. Control up to 8 axes with
independent motion or simultaneous interpolation. Click the
screenshot below to see an enlarged view of the 8 axis DRO and an
MDI command.
CENTROID and Yaskawa Sigma 5 Motors and
Drives
CENTROID now offers industry-leading Yaskawa
motors and drives for use with the MPU11 based CENTROID CNC
controls. Yaskawa products are known for their stability, ease of
tuning and ability to drive tall ball screw pitches. CENTROID is
offering domestic and international delivery with short, two week
lead times. In addition to typical machine tool servo motor sizes:
750 watt, 1KW, 2KW, 3KW and 4KW. Even larger motors are available
all the way up to 40Kw in size. Yaskawa is the leader in AC servo
motors and they come standard with Yaskawa's two year warranty. Now
you can control Yaskawa power with CENTROID CNC precision.
CNC10 2.70 Software
CENTROID
puts customer service first and continues to support its CNC10
product line with minor updates and fixes. The newest revision of
CNC10: 2.70, with vertical lathe setup, is available from
your CENTROID CENTROID reminds its customers that all major
new features will also be made available for CENTROID's MPU11
system.
CNC11 3.03 Rev.28 Beta Software Now
Available.
CNC11 features
tall ball screw pitch capabilities. CENTROID's CNC11 software,
coupled with the powerful MPU11 hardware, is breaking new barriers on
our test bed machining center, located at the shop. CNC11 is
capable of performing full 3D surfacing at 320 inch/minute using our
torture test program "the wave". To see CNC11 in action at 320
inches/minute, click the video link.
July Email News
New All-In-One DC Control Visual Price
Sheets
Centroid recently released the
new All-In-One DC -- featuring an MPU11 motion controller, 3-Axis DC
servo drive (expandable to 6 axes), and expandable PLC I/O all on
one affordable board. Introductory list price for the All-In-One
DC with CENTROID software is still only $1995 USD.
All-In-One DC Board Level:
Click the image above to view larger.
In the future we intend to
produce similar visual price sheets for all types of systems.
PC Requirements for MPU11-Based Controls When You
Provide the PC computer.
Dealer or customer supplied PCs for use with MPU11-based controls
must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Windows 7 Operating System - At this time MPU11 systems for
user-supplied PCs are Windows 7 ONLY (not Linux).
- 1 GHZ processor
- 1 GB RAM
Although the above specifications are the minimum
requirements, Centroid recommends:
Tuning Velocity Mode Drives For MPU11
New information is being added periodically
to regarding the tuning of third party drives, as testing is
completed and procedures are written. Currently there are three
drive-specific bulletins on this subject:
- Delta AB and A2 Drive Setup for CNC11 Systems
- Glentek Alpha Drive Setup for CNC11 Systems
- Baldor Series 23H Drive Setup for CNC11 Systems
...and three more in progress...
- Sanyo Denki Drive Setup for CNC11 Systems
- Maxsine EP100 Drive Setup for CNC11 Systems
- Fanuc Black and Yellow-cap Drive Setup for CNC11
Systems
Beta Software Releases
Available
Centroid has begun periodically
posting BETA development builds of Centroid software on the Dealer
Support Site. These versions may be provided for those who wish to
try the latest features prior to official version releases. Although
we make reasonable effort to ensure that these BETA versions will be
safe to use, they are provided for use COMPLETELY AT YOUR OWN RISK,
with absolutely no guarantee of reliability, or fitness for a
particular purpose.
If you have any questions or concerns
regarding beta software downloads, compatibility, and/or
upgrading, please contact Machines in Motion Inc.
New Advanced Acceleration/Deceleration (AD2)
Interface in Beta Releases
AD2 Acceleration and
Deceleration parameters can now be configured via its own menu
options in software versions greater than CNC11 3.01 or CNC10 2.69
rev22.
March 2010 Email News
CENTROID is pleased to announce a new All-In-One DC Control featuring
an MPU11 motion controller, 3-Axis DC servo drive (expandable to
6 axes), and expandable PLC I/O all in one affordable
unit. Introductory list price for the All-In-One DC with CENTROID
software will be $1995 USD. This represents a significant savings
when compared to the current equivalent price of a DC3IOB +
MPU11 + software for $2664.
See
the Quotation
form more information on pricing
and available options. or
Click
here for a graphic layout of the system you can build with these
components.
- CNC Software Package A
for New control sales NOW INCLUDES:
Cutter compensation
Drilling cycles
Compression Tapping
cycles
Intercon on the control
S function spindle speed
control
Multi range spindle
4th axis software
Spindle
Orientation
WCS G54-59
M98 G65 Subroutines and Macros with
user definable variables
4Mb G-code files size
Laser
compensation tables
- Price
Reductions on CNC software options.
Starting
March 1st, all new controls will ship with FREE Work Coordinate
Systems G54-59, Subroutines and Macros with user definable
variables, Compression Tapping cycles, Drilling cycles, Spindle
Orientation, Multi range spindle, 4th axis software, and larger
standard g code file size now increased to 4MB. All other software
options have had a significant price reduction as well.
Dealer discounts for software options have changed as well, since
we have reduced the prices so significantly, a
lower dealer discount will apply. If you have a control system with 2.60+ it is
a simple upgrade to get these new Free software
features.
- Software Upgrade
Path
Also interesting, any CNC10 based control software that
is updated to version (v2.68),
will not require receive now free options. new
"Free" options with that version of software. You
simply have to update Your current Centroid control to the latest
version (v2.68) and those options will automatically be activated.
This is a nice selling feature to encourage software upgrade sales,
the customer will not only be getting the latest version of CENTROID
CNC software but also free Work Coordinate Systems G54-59,
Subroutines and Macros with user definable variables, Compression
Tapping cycles, Drilling cycles, Spindle Orientation, Multi range
spindle, 4th axis software, and larger standard g code file size now
increased to 4MB is included with v2.68.
This
no-unlocks-required software version is scheduled to be released
within the next few weeks. For any
control running software versions below 2.60, a new flash card is
needed. You may also need an updated computer, flash card
reader, &/or larger RAM memory.
2.66 Release
January 1, 2010 Centroid has released it's latest
software update. Among the new features are:
New Backplot (tool path graphing) has been
implemented with Graphics Acceleration to improve speed and
usability. Additionally, mouse control has been implemented for view
rotation, panning, and zoom. This new backplot is only available for
Mill controls.
Several improvements to
the engine block features of our specialty control systems. Contact
Machines in Motion Inc. for specific details.
Changed the maximum length of the file name to
1024.
G2/G3: Huge arc radius crash (that
occurs only in a specific machine ) has been
corrected.
Added an online user manual
to the CAMS menu.
>>
Update to crash when exiting NEDIT
<<
NEDIT:
Added F8 Save key.
Other Changes and Minor Bug
Fixes |
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MPU 11 Hardware set available
While Centroid has not issued one of their dealer
newsletters Machines in Motion Inc. is to announce
that during the summer of 2009 Centroid completed
their latest CNC control hardware set. It is expected that by
early 2010 the MPU11 hardware will replace 's current
CPU10 based control hardware. This new board set provides faster
processing and update times than earlier system boards. It also resides
outside of the PC computer eliminating
related problems such as out ISA or PCI slots. Instead, the control
PC will communicate to the MPU11 control board via Ethernet Many
new features will be developed for this updated board such as
dual feedback, allowing the use of scales for precision.
Velocity loop servo control. More PLC inputs & outputs. A more
responsive MPG. Simpler connection to third party servo drivers and
more. It is expected that the MPU11 hardware set will be more user
friendly for the DIYS types. |
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January,
2009
CENTROID is pleased to announce the recent release of CNC10
v2.64. This maintenance release supersedes the 2.63 release and it
is recommended that all systems currently running 2.63 be upgraded
to 2.64.
In this release:
- The editor (NEDIT, which is accessed by pressing F6 from the
main screen) has been modified with added function key shortcuts
at the bottom of its user interface, in order to make it more
compatible with the look and feel of the rest of the CNC control
software. In addition, syntax highlighting has been added (to make
G/M code programs easier to scan, read, and edit).
- An issue regarding the Feed Hold and Tool
Check keys, which occurred on some manual tool change machines has
been fixed.
- Several other minor changes and fixes
have also been implemented.
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2.63 Software Release
December, 2008
Centroid is pleased to announce the recent
release of CNC10 v2.63. With this release Centroid has added several
new features, and made extensive software improvements.
Some highlights include:
* Added Remote Access and Diagnostics. This
feature allows technical support to remotely logon to a control via
the Internet for the purpose of remote diagnosis, viewing, and file
transfer. If you're Centroid technician is on-site and on the 'net,
Centroid Factory tech support can be right there to assist.
* An angle probing cycle has been added to
automatically calculate an angle from any two probed points.
* An Engine Block Interface has been added
under the CAM menu (F5). This is a specialized conversational
interface to support machining, probing, and inspection of
automotive engine blocks.
* Accel/Decel
module improvements and other changes to improve smoothness of
operation, particularly in metric mode.
*
CNC Linux now works with Active Directory Network without the need
for a bridge PC.
* Extensive improvements
in Metric handling.
* Improved Backlash
functionality to allow for use of both positive and negative
Backlash comp values while Laser comp is in use, in order to adjust
the laser-compensated backlash.
* Added
foreign language translations in German, Swedish, and Finnish.
An All-In-One USB Software Update is
available to update both CNC10 and CNC Linux from any earlier 2.6x
version to the current version in a single update. This allows you
to update your control software with one simple update, as long as
your existing version is 2.6x or newer.
Beginning with software version 2.60
Centroid has upgraded the core Linux operating system. This newer
operating system prevents us from providing a simple USB upgrade but
allows us to expand your control's features and functionality.
Systems running 2.36 and earlier require a
new flash card which is available from your local Centroid dealer
(and Machines in Motion Inc.). All of your G-code files, Intercon
files, and option unlocks will be transferred to the new flash
card/hard drive.
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2.36 Software Release
September, 2007
Some of the new features found in our latest
version software include:
Dig To Cad
Menu - A new button was added to the Digitize Menu that
will convert 3-axis and 5-axis digitized files to a CAD
compatible format. The user can still use the old 3-axis method for
converting digitized files found in the utility menu. However, this
method does not work for 5-axis digitized files.
Inverse Time
Parsing - CNC10 now converts inverse time feed rates
(1/time) into standard feed rates (units/time) while parsing G code.
G93 now turns on inverse time parsing and given feed rates will be
converted to standard feed rates while parsing. G94 disables inverse
time parsing and given feed rates will be interpreted as units/time.
An inverse time smoothing algorithm is incorporated with this
feature and is enabled by default. The smoothing algorithm can be
disabled by adding 8 to parameter 56.
Command Line History - Pressing up in MDI will bring up your last
entered command. Up and down scrolls through the history stored in
the file. |
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New 750 watt Motor
CENTROID is pleased to announce that a new SEM
750 watt servo motor replaces the old 750 watt motor. Our new motor
provides more torque and is physically smaller than the old, while
keeping the same price. |
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French Manuals & Control
Software
July, 2007
In order to answer the demand from our French
CENTROID control users, we are looking for Beta testers to test our
French software and manuals.
Please contact Machines in Motion Inc.
for more information.
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CENTROID Opens Additional
Location
CENTROID has opened an additional location to
provide more space for machines, training, and system integration.
With this extra space, high demand items will be kept in stock and
ready-to-ship. This will allow CENTROID to shorten lead times while
providing better customer service.
The new location is located in Curwensville,
Pennsylvania. |
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Create Copies of a CENTROID
CNC Linux Flash Card
March, 2007
Make copies of a CENTROID CNC Linux based flash
card with your Windows PC. A tech rep "must have" WinImage.
WinImage is a shareware program that will allow you to copy Linux
flash cards with your Windows PC. This useful tool is great for
building multiple flash card hard drives with default
configurations, upgrading the customer to a larger Flash card, or
even keeping a backup flash card for the customer. With WinImage
you'll create an image of the FC and then copy/burn to any source
such as a new larger FC or CD or HD for
archiving.
Check out the (dealer)
Tech Bulletin for complete instructions.
View and Copy
Files From a CENTROID Linux based Flash Card
View and Copy Linux based files from a CENTROID
CNC Flash card on your Windows PC using Explore2FS. tool allows you to view
and copy/paste any file from a Linux based CENTROID CNC flash
card. is useful for retrieving system configuration files and
part program files. you'll need is the explore2fs.exe program
and a compact flash card reader.
Check out the (dealer)
Tech Bulletin for complete instructions.
A note to Machines
in Motion customer's. It can be tempting to do this with your
own control's flash card (hard drive).
FIRST: Make a
report file and store it in a safe place. This will back up the
machine specific files running on your control.
SECOND: Be
aware, if you do something to corrupt your flash drive, the cost of
our providing a replacement flash card, with all the required
formatting, operating system, & control software is $295.00.
These are available to ship the same day.
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New Sentinel Key
Dealer's will soon be receiving a new upgraded
sentinel USB keylock with Offline Intercon orders. The new key has
improved construction and features a LED lit tip that can be viewed
at any angle.
The new housing is more durable than ever
before:
- Case is constructed from a single piece of
molded plastic
- The metal connector continues into the
housing for a more secure attachment
- All keys will be shipped with a protective
cap to keep the USB connections clean
The new USB keylock works with Offline Intercon
v1.51+ and DEMO Offline v2.32+.
Machines in Motion can send you a copy of the
Version 2.32 off-line Intercon program to run on your desk top or
lap top computer. As noted, this software will work without the
unlock key for practice or learning what conversational programming
is all about. The Sentinel key is required to post out your program
in G-code. If you would like a copy Just ask
us.
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Free Educational Software Package Policy
CENTROID is pleased to offer educational
institutions “Free” CNC software options in addition to standard
control software, when used in a classroom setting. In order to
qualify, please provide your Centroid Dealer the following
information on your School’s letterhead.
- Overview of the Schools CNC program
- s name, mail stop, email address and
phone number
- Copy of the course syllabus, with comments on
how the CENTROID equipped machine will be utilized
- Number of students currently enrolled per
semester for the current year, next year and past years
- Number of PC CNC/CAD workstations in the
classroom
After completion of the sale and receipt of the
information requested, CENTROID will issue to the Dealer a full
compliment of our software options, a $10,900.00 value if purchased
separately. The Dealer will issue the software to the school
instructor.
The donated software options will
include:
- Subprograms and Macros,
- Compression Tapping,
- Rigid Tapping,
- Multiple Work Coordinates,
- Coordinate System Rotation,
- Scaling and Mirroring,
- Unlimited File Size,
- Mold Magic™,
- Digitizing & Probing, (Requires purchase
of CENTROID's DP-4 Probe)
- Engraving,
- Autocad® DXF Import.
Offline Demo CD CENTROID control and
conversational programming software for all your student work
stations are included.
If you have any
questions feel free to contact our Sales Office at
714 528-7061 or via email sales@cncmachinesinmotion.com
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Dealer School Photos
The
Advanced Dealer Training was a great success! Thanks to all the
dealers who attended in 2007.
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Linear package
includes the DX-1 programming box with servo driver, servo motor,
and cabling.
Some of the uses
found for this package are:
- Upgrading an existing back
gage.
- Building your own material stop for
sawing or other applications.
- Couple
this servo system to a rotary table you already own.
- Be
creative. Any application where you need to program motion,
repeat or adjust position, or feed at a programmed rate of
speed.
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Check Out These Great DX1 Prices
CENTROID has the lowest prices on Single Axis
CNC control packages. All packages include pre-wire, motor cable and
motor or rotary table. Check out these great prices on the DX1
control and DX1 control packages:
DX1 Single axis
control................................................$2,995
Rotary packages:
DX1 with
RT-100..........................................................$
8,025
DX1 with
RT-150..........................................................$
8,995
DX1 with
RT-200..........................................................$
9,990
DX1 with
RT-250..........................................................$11,295
DX1 with
RT-320..........................................................$11,995
Linear
packages:
DX1 with
7inlb motor.....................................................$
3,735
DX1 with
10inlb motor...................................................$
3,886
DX1 with
17inlb motor...................................................$
3,925
DX1 with
29inlb motor...................................................$
4,055
DX1 with
40inlb motor...................................................$
4,195
DX1 with 750W
motor...................................................$
4,345
DX1 with
1KW motor.....................................................$
4,425
DX1 with
2KW motor.....................................................$
4,945
DX1 with
3KW motor.....................................................$
5,352 | Highlights from earlier
| of Centroid News |
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Choose F2 if the
desired file is not on your control's hard drive.
Select the location of
the desired file.
Advanced file search
features can filter out unwanted file types making it easier to find
the file you want.
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Current Software v2.32
The current software v2.32 is available for
download.
Software version 2.32
features a return to
a "Function key driven, file loading menu system" to answer the need
for an easy way to load a program into the control. With the
simplified system, no knowledge of computer location paths is needed
to load a file from common sources to the control. Users now can
select the source to load a file from, with labeled Function Keys.
Function keys for Floppy, USB, Hard drive, and LAN have been added.
This new Loading system is called the "Simplified File Load" system.
The new Simplified file load system is now the default system used
by CNC10 to load G code and Intercon files onto the control from any
source.
Additional helpful features have also been
added such as:
- Load an Intercon file (.ICN) from any source
and Intercon will start automatically.
- View and load any recently loaded files (both
Intercon and G-code).
- Sort by chronological or alphabetical
order.
- View on-screen help.
- Toggle on/off the details about files your
files.
Other 2.32 Improvements
include: radial
digitizing, axis pairing, home to "alignment marks" homing routine,
G76 fine boring cycle, CSR and WCS decimal places increased, probing
retract rates and more. |
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Pendant One Shot Buttons Did you know that you
can setup One Shot Buttons to take care of tedious tasks? With the
One Shot overlay these buttons are easily
located
in the auxiliary buttons section of the CENTROID jog pendant.
Review
Tech Bulletin 194 for
directions on how to setup one shot
buttons.
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Z-Axis MPG
Z-Axis
MPG makes it possible to move the Z- axis while a job is in
progress. This is a much used
feature on Water Jet cutting machines. You will also find this a
popular option for routers and other specialty types of
machinery.
Review
Tech Bulletin
186 for
directions on how to set up "on -the fly" Z-Axis MPG Mode.
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DX1 Improved Incremental Jogging
We have improved
incremental jogging by adding 3 programmable
increments. the new changes, once the increments set
in the parameters for the first time, they can be selected on the
fly! push and hold down the 1, 2, or 3 button on the
number pad to display and set the jog increment all the same
time.
See above section for more info including
prices and specifications.
Click here to download the brochure in
PDF |
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Stock Controls are ready to ship
Need it fast? Two
standard types of control systems are now in stock ready to ship!
In stock:
M-400S with S-Function fully wired
M-400S with M-Function fully wired.
The controls are ready
for immediate delivery.
Call sales @ 714
528-7061 for more details.
Click here for further details on the
S-Function version
Click here for further details on the
M-Function version
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Mill Training Video Now Available
The all new CENTROID CNC Mill control
training video is now shipping. One training DVD is included with
every CNC Mill control purchased. This new 2 hour training video
covers everything from powering up the machine, homing out, setting
tool offsets, programming parts with Intercon, setting part zeros
and using tool check and program restart features. A special section
is included just for setting tool heights while using a CNC knee
mill. This great training aid is only available on DVD. We are
sending you two copies of the new DVD today, extra copies are
available upon request.
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5-Axis Innovations & Customer Success
Through the evolution of CENTROID’s 5-Axis
Cylinder Head Porting program, customers are experiencing some great
results. The introduction of our 5-Axis digitizing routines has
allowed customers to complete heads in hours when they would
normally take days to finish.
Time efficiency and quality have been our
driving force for the latest version of our 5-Axis porting program.
The tolerance and finished surface quality, is better than the best
machines on the market today. What makes CENTROID’s 5-Axis program
such a superior value? We offer a proven system - not just a
machine.
- You will receive a custom built 5 axis
machining center engineered from the outset for the porting of
cylinder heads.
- You will receive 2 weeks of intensive
training covering each phase of operation to capture your existing
port geometry, then turn it into a tool path that will be
identical on each and every head.
Our new advances
became very evident during the recent digitizing and cutting of a
complex Volkswagen head. The unique challenges faced on this project
have pushed CENTROID to new limits. We (and you) can now take a 20
valve Volkswagen head and completely re-port it in less than 3
hours. This same process used to take as much as 3 weeks or more!
With constant communication and support to our customers, every time
Centroid makes a technological breakthrough you benefit
too.
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Floppy Drives Discontinued
Starting September 1st, 2005, Centroid will
no longer offer the Floppy Disk Drive on our controls. Our customers
report, using our USB port to be a much superior method of
transferring files.
While Centroid is no longer offering an
internal floppy solution, if needed, you have the ability to use a
USB based Floppy Drive - pictured here.
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New Dual Handwheel Control for Lathes
Add that natural, manual control feel, to
your CNC Lathe with CENTROID's Dual Handwheels for Lathes. Order
these with your next Lathe control and mount the magnetic case to
your lathe. Our handwheels provide a familiar way to set up tools
and touch off part zero positions for the operator. A rapid position
joy stick is included. The new handwheels work with both AC and DC
servo CENTROID Lathe CNC systems and offers improved control for
both types by providing smoother more natural feel when jogging the
machine. |
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New Sealed Keyboard Available at a lower
price
With any CENTROID CNC control you can
use a regular PC keyboard or our fully sealed unit. We found that
about half our customers prefer a regular open style PC keyboard and
the other half prefer a sealed unit. The CENTROID sealed PC keyboard
is liquid proof and provides reliable and durable keyboard operation
in a shop environment. Our keyboard is: fully sealed, coolant proof,
long lasting in shop environment, and has tactile feedback (raised
buttons with distinct action). Only $485.00 |
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CNC10 v1.11 Release
Centroid's new CNC10 hardware board requires
the Linux
operating system. Expanded
features and control abilities are now
available with this innovative combination.
Current DOS based
controls can also use the
Linux operating system for staying up to
date and to provide easier networking with
other computers. |
Added
Features
include: Aug. 2004
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- DXF Import:
A new software feature that allows users import Autocad DXF
files into Intercon. converts points, lines, arcs and circles
from Autocad DXF files to Intercon operations. The Intercon
operations include: linear, arc, irregular pocket, rectangular
pocket, circular pocket, frame, drill, tap, bore and thread. DXF
Import is a software unlock. This is an Optional control
feature.
- System Test: A G-code file that provides
a thorough system test to prove the integration has been
successfully completed. If the test has not been completed
successfully, a warning message is displayed at startup (for
systems with IDs after July 15, 2004)
- Improved Keyboard Jogging: All previously
known problems with Keyboard jogging and control have been
eliminated. There is no longer any need for a special PLC program
to work the spindle and coolant functions from the keyboard
- Joystick jogging support: Machine
parameters 124-127 can be used to specify PLC inputs to perform
axis jogging for the first two axes. Intended for lathe
applications but can be used in Mill software
- Probe detection while jogging: Added
probe protection while jogging. If the probe input is detected
while jogging, jogging is stopped and only slow jogging is
permitted until the probe input is cleared
- Dwell time added to groove and turning
cycles: Additional field in lathe Intercon groove and turning
cycles to specify the amount of time to dwell before X axis
retraction of the tool
- Drag plot improvements: Now you can see
and compare drag plots. Date of drag run is inserted into file,
new runs are prepended to the old runs, old runs are displayed in
red on graph, and the latest run appears in yellow
- 5th axis pairing: Can pair 5th axis with
1st, 2nd, 3rd or 4th axis. Useful when one axis is driven by 2
servo motors.
- Background editing: With Background
Editing, the user has the ability to edit a G-Code file while
CNC10 is running. This allows users to edit or write a G-Code
program while cutting parts
- G22/G23 work envelope soft limits:
Programmable software travel limits enabled with G22 and disabled
with G23
- 90 day reminder to clean air filter:
Every 90 days a reminder to clean the controls air filter is
displayed on the screen
- User Maintenance menu: <F6> User
Maint. option added to utility menu. This menu provides user
access to drag plot and lash compensation menus without requiring
a password
- Linux based: We are now shipping all
normal orders with Linux.
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The last DOS version of Centroid control
software is v8.23 issued
July,
2004
October 26, 2003 news
* New M-400 Brochure
now available. Download from our web site in PDF.
* Current CNC7 software is
Version 8.21. Improvements and additions.
* New 5C Collet Rotary table
at a great price!
* Now shipping! New
SD3 and SD1 servo drives, faster, better, more
power.
* New DC single axis
Servo drive makes 4th axis add on easy.
* Mastercam no longer
available.
* New dual hand wheel
support for simultaneous axis movement.
* Now shipping! New PLC the
RTK3 faster and simpler.
* New 5 Axis CNC controls are
shipping!
* New Two axis
intercon now available.
* New on site Service
contracts available. |
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CNC7 Version 8.21 is
shipping with all new systems.
Below is a
list of the new added features and options that you will want to
know about.
* 5th Axis Support: 8.21 can
control 5 axes with a 6th axis spindle encoder input.
* Dual Handwheels: Two
handwheels can be used simultaneously.
Uses a free motor
encoder input port for each handwheel.
* 2 Axis Intercon: INTERCON
MILL can post two axis programs.
* New Aux key functions and
One Shots: Aux keys can be programmed to execute CNC7
functions such as
Set ABS/INC Zero, Manual Mode, Power feed and INTERCON
MILL
One
Shots.
* Enhanced Keyboard Jogging:
Keyboard Jogging now supports spindle, coolant and Aux
keys.
Keyboard jogging
is now available in CNC7 LATHE AND MILL.
* Distance to go DRO: A
second DRO can be displayed showing the distance to go for each
axis.
* INTERCON Mill Help: Help
pictures for most operations are now available.
It really makes
intercon even easier to learn.
* Lathe Tool ICONS Screen –
In version 8.21 we have improved the tool library by changing
the
“Tool Library”
screen to a “Tool Details” screen. This screen recommends a nose
vector based
on graphical ICON
selection of front/back approach, spindle direction, left/right
spindle
location,
vertical/horizontal mounting, normal/reversed mounts, and hand of
tool. Other
graphical
selection ICONS are tool type, ID/OD operation, and coolant. Offsets
and references
can be set from
this screen.
* Smart Load Menu now Loads
INTERCON Files – version 8.21: The CNC7 load menu (F2)
now
loads INTERCON
files directly. F5 in the load menu switches to the INTERCON
directory. |
New PLC
designed specifically for automatic tool changer
machines. Centroid's new "Squid
I/O module" reduces machine to control wiring
time.
* New "cabling
concept", all cables are labeled and dedicated.
* All cables are included and
pre-made with labels attached.
* Will be used in all future
ATC control systems.
* Compatible with
both AC brushless and DC brush control systems.
* Eliminates intermediate
barrier terminal strips
* Reduces # of connections
and reduces chance of loose connections.
* Built in relays for atc
motor, carousel in/out, tool in/out, index sensors, flood and
more.
* Designed for both
swing arm and carousel tool changers.
* 35 inputs/38 outputs and 12
bit (smooth) spindle analog output.
* Compatible with previous
Centroid PLCIO2 communication protocol.
* Looks like a giant
squid. |
DOS Software Version
8.11
READ ABOUT PREVIOUSLY ADDED
CENTROID CONTROL FEATURES or for more information please
contact Machines in Motion inc. (714)
528-7061
February 2003
Keyboard Jogging: - This allows you to run
and jog the machine from the designated keys on the keyboard,
eliminating the need for a Jog Panel.
Live PLC Debug: Now while your control is
operating you can press ALT-I to display the PLC inputs, outputs,
memory, and program stages.
Grid Digitizing Speed Improvements:
Digitizing a part will now run about 25% faster. Imagine the
time you will save for those large complex parts.
File Caching: This allows the control to
load the file being cut from a remote location to the Flash card
while the program is being cut. Once the program is cut the file
will be stored in its original location.
User Specified Paths: User definable
program storage using the following files Pathhm.ini(mill) and
pathl.ini(lathe).
Input Macro: Gcode programs can now prompt
the operator for input. The versatility and flexibility is endless.
For example, if you have 10 parts that are all the same except for
hole depth or diameter, you now only need one file instead of 10.
You can cut different parts without having to download new files or
change the set up.
Random Access Tool
Changer - Enhanced tool changer support for random access tool
changers, including first ever tool bin numbers, memory of ATC
tool positions even at power down.
Coordinate System Rotation: This optional
feature allows the entry of rotation angles between -90.0 and
+90.0 degrees. Contact Doug at (714)528-7061 to purchase the
unlock for this feature, which retails for
$350.
Irregular pocket cleanout: Clean out
non-rectangular and non-circular shapes with a closed contour
right on your control using Centroid's exclusive "Intercon"
conversational part programming software. (included with every
control)
Automated Part Counter: Users can enter
the number of copies of a part they wish to cut, and have CNC7
automatically repeat the part until the desired number of copies
is met. Use this feature with barfeeders on a lathe or on your
mill.
Block Skip: Users can choose to skip
lines in a CNC file that begin with a forward slash
('/').
Axis load meters: Monitor the load on
your axis motors with this new graphical meter. The horizontal
bars shown underneath the axis DRO reflect the current PID output
for that axis.
Intercon integration: Intercon is now a
part of CNC7M and CNC7T instead of being a separate executable as
in previous versions. Works even faster.
"C" axis indexing control for lathes: This
feature greatly increases the usefulness of lathes by making it
possible to do live tooling on lathes to do side-drilling, or
create pockets or flat surfaces. Initially, the index and hold
method will be supported. Index position is controlled from a
G-code in degrees -- much like a rotary table. The spindle can
then be held firmly in place by a brake. The "C" axis feature
requires a spindle drive (inverter motor combination) which will
accept Centroid's torque mode commands. For smaller (table
top) lathes under 1hp, Centroid can adapt our DC brush drive to
control a DC brush spindle motor in both velocity and position "C'
axis modes. For higher horsepower, a third party inverter
with torque mode such as the Control Techniques drive must be
used. Interpolated "C" axis is also available under G-code
control. However, it must be remembered that "C" axis is not
as accurate or as powerful as a rotary table. Applications
are limited to light duty engraving where accuracy is not a
concern.
Rapid override on F9 key: A rapid
override button has been added. The F9 function key now appears
during MDI, while running a job, and on the Run menu. It works in
conjunction with the PLC/jog panel controlled rapid
override.
Spindle speed display: This feature
measures the spindle speed and displays an averaged value in the
status window. The spindle speed display is activated by machine
parameter 78, with a value of 1.0 turning it on. The measured
speed is calculated from machine parameter 34 (Spindle Encoder
Counts/Revolution) of the encoder that is connected to the axis
specified by parameter 35 (Spindle Encoder Input).
New Digitizing Cycle, "Cam Copy": This
new digitizing function will copy a 2D contour such as a Cam
(commonly found in textile, newspaper and plastic bag machines) OR
around the perimeter edge of an irregular shape. This new feature
makes reproducing complex Cams or pockets fast and easy. Cam Copy
takes the work out of reproducing complex 2D shapes. A G-code
program to cut the part is instantly created by Cam
Copy. Repeat-to-Depth is included for multi pass
machining. Adding cutter comp for any size cutter is made
simple. See instant graphics of the digitized part.
This feature received a lot of attention recently at the Southtec
show. Note: for our existing Digitizing customers -- Any
control that currently has the Digitize option will automatically
have this new feature once it has been updated to 7.54.
Centroid User
Bonus!
Error Message Log: Message logging allows
technicians to display a file of past error messages. See the
Message log section in the Version 7.50 (or newer)
manual.
Data recording macros (M120, M121, M122,
M123): Allows the recording of machine positions into a file.
This is best used with the new Custom Probing Feature to do custom
CMM (coordinate Measuring) and custom Digitizing operations.
See the Version 7.50 manual (or newer) "M" function
section.
Custom Probing macros (M115, M116, M125,
M126): Allows the Probing of positions from a user's G-code
program. Example uses are automatic Probing and setting a
part zero, automatic probing and setting a scale factor depending
on the size of the part on the table. See Version 7.50 (or
newer) operator's manual "M" function section.
Z-axis scale summing: Scale summing
allows a quill scale to be summed with the A-axis of a bed-type
mill. This is a handy feature for those cases where a Z-axis
quill has a (glass) scale installed. See CNC Tech Bulletin
#131.
Bi-directional laser compensation: The
bi-directional laser compensation feature uses two tables (one for
each direction) to compensate for pitch error. As an extra
benefit, "Lash" (backlash) is automatically compensated
continuously over the entire length of travel. Also included
is a manual input table feature that allows technicians to had key
in adjustments to the compensation tables without having to
re-laser the system.
Arithmetic functions in G-codes and user
variables: Allows calculations within G-code programs. Useful
for advanced G-code programming applications. For example: a taper
or "draft" could be put into a part program by repeatedly calling
a 2D contour while computing a new smaller scale factor and depth
for each pass.
Important notice regarding Mastercam:
Systems shipping with software version 8.01 will no longer include
Mastercam (Level 1, V3.21) as a standard feature. If you require
Mastercam (Level 1, V3.21) to be included in your systems, please
contact your Centroid representative to make arrangements. Please
note that effective Sept. 1st, 2002, Mastercam will be a software
accessory. Contact Machines in Motion for more
information.
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Presented by Machines in Motion Inc. last updated
November 12, 2007
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