Welcome to our simple guide on the M31 CNC code. Whether you are new to CNC programming or an experienced machinist, understanding the M31 code is essential.
This guide will explain everything you need to know about this unit mode command—what it is, when to use it, and why it matters.
(Step-by-step.)
Key Takeaways
- M31 macro provides an alternative to G31 function in Mach3 software for precise tool length measurement and edge detection.
- M31 retrieves “P”, “Q”, and “R” parameters from the MDI line or g-code and passes them to the macro for probing operations.
- The macro waits for the probing process to complete and displays “M31 START” information in the STATUS line of Mach3 software.
- M31 transfers parameters to the plugin through UserDRO 1511, 1512, and 1513, and issues a probing start command to the plugin.
- The M31 macro is used for tool change and probing operations, and is available since plugin version 2.200 (2014-02-13).
M31 CNC Gcode Overview
In terms of precise tool length measurement and determining the location of an edge of a workpiece on a work table, the M31 macro provides an alternative to the G31 function in Mach3 software.
You can use this macro for tool change and probing operations. The M31 macro has been available since plugin version 2.200 (2014-02-13) and can be freely extended and modified as needed.
When you use M31, it transfers “P”, “Q”, and “R” parameters to the plugin and waits for probing to finish, displaying “M31 START” information in the STATUS line of Mach3 software.
This macro operates by transmitting parameter values to the plugin and issuing a command for probing start.
Gcode Syntax and Structure
You’ll need to understand the basics of G code to effectively use the M31 macro in your CNC machining projects.
Gcode consists of a series of commands, each composed of several fields that define specific actions or parameters.
Gcode Basics
Gcode commands are built from a series of fields, each consisting of a letter followed by a number or standing alone as a flag.
You’ll notice that each field is separated by white spaces or line breaks, making it easy to read and understand.
When working with G-code, keep in mind the following key aspects:
- Command letters: These indicate the meaning of the field, such as G for movement or M for miscellaneous functions.
- Numbers: These can be integers or fractionals, and some parameters can be followed by multiple numbers separated by colons.
- Line endings: G-code files use Unix Line Endings, but Windows Line Endings are also accepted.
- Case sensitivity: Except for characters in comments, G-code interpreters are case-insensitive.
Understanding these basics will help you navigate and create G-code files with ease.
Gcode Fields Explained
The Gcode structure relies on a series of fields, each comprising a letter followed by a number or standing alone as a flag, which are separated by white spaces or line breaks to guarantee clarity.
As you work with your CNC machine, you’ll notice that these fields are vital for precise instructions. The letter in each field indicates its meaning, while the number can be an integer or fractional value.
You’ll encounter standard G-code commands, RepRap-defined commands, tool selection, command parameters, and coordinates like X, Y, and Z axes – think moving along the Y axis to a specific point.
Gcode Case Sensitivity
When working with Gcode, it’s vital to understand that case sensitivity can impact the execution of your commands.
You may encounter case sensitivity issues due to Firmware limitations and Standard compliance challenges.
- The original NIST G-code standard requires gcode interpreters to be case-insensitive, except for characters in comments.
- Some firmwares, such as RepRapFirmware, are case-sensitive, while others, like Druid Firmware, can be set to case-sensitive.
- RepRapFirmware version 1.19 and later are case-insensitive, except within quoted strings.
- Druid Firmware version 1.00 is case-insensitive by default.
Understanding these variations is essential to avoid errors and guarantee your Gcode commands are executed correctly.
M31 Macro Mechanism Operation
When you execute an M31 macro, you issue a probing start command to the plugin, which initiates the probing process.
Before that, you set the parameters using the “Param” function, which retrieves the “P”, “Q”, and “R” values from the MDI line or g-code and passes them to the macro.
The macro then transmits these parameter values to the plugin through UserDRO 1511, 1512, and 1513.
Probing Start Command
As you initiate the M31 macro mechanism operation, it begins by transferring “P”, “Q”, and “R” parameters to the plugin, subsequently waiting for the probing process to complete.
The “Param” function is used to retrieve these parameters from the MDI line or g-code and pass them to the macro.
- The macro displays “M31 START” information in the STATUS line of Mach3 software.
- The macro transmits the parameter values to the plugin through UserDRO 1511, 1512, and 1513.
- The macro issues a command for probing start to the plugin.
- This probing start command initiates the probing sequence, utilizing various probing techniques to gather data, while being mindful of probing limitations.
Understanding these aspects is vital for effective use of the M31 CNC Gcode.
Parameter Setting Process
Configuring the parameters is a crucial step in the M31 macro mechanism operation, as it directly impacts the probing process. You’ll need to set the “P”, “Q”, and “R” parameters, which define the probing limits for each axis, and “F”, which sets the probing feedrate. Using the “Param” function, you can retrieve these parameters from the MDI line or g-code and pass them to the macro.
| Parameter | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| P | Distance | X-axis probing limit |
| Q | Distance | Y-axis probing limit |
| R | Distance | Z-axis probing limit |
| F | Feedrate | Probing feedrate |
The macro transmits these parameter values to the plugin through UserDRO 1511, 1512, and 1513. Once set, the macro displays “M31 START” information in the STATUS line of Mach3 software, indicating that the probing process has begun.
VB Macro Operation Parameters
Your VB macro relies on a set of operation parameters to execute smoothly.
These parameters define the operation sequences that your macro commands will execute. To guarantee correct execution, you need to input the correct parameters.
The key operation parameters you need to weigh are:
- Macro timeout: The time your macro waits for a response from the CNC machine.
- Command retry count: The number of times your macro retries a command if it fails.
- Parameter input format: The format in which you input parameters to your macro commands.
- Operation sequence priority: The order in which your macro executes operation sequences.
Gcode Case Sensitivity Fields
You’ll need to ponder Gcode case sensitivity fields when creating your CNC machine commands, as some firmwares are picky about uppercase and lowercase letters.
Although the original NIST G-code standard requires interpreters to be case-insensitive, except for characters in comments, not all 3D printer firmwares conform to this standard.
Some recognize uppercase command letters and parameters only, affecting firmware compatibility. For instance, RepRapFirmware version 1.19 and later are case-insensitive, except within quoted strings, while Druid Firmware version 1.00 is case-insensitive by default, but can be set to case-sensitive.
Be mindful of these variations to guarantee seamless Gcode execution and to certify flawless performance.
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CNC Codes Similar to M31
|
Code
|
Mode
|
|---|---|
| M32 | Chip conveyor reverse |
| M33 | Chip auger stop |
| M34 | Increment coolant spigot position |
| M35 | Turns ON the C-axis (rotary-axis) |
| M36 | Pallet part ready |
| M37 | Part catcher OFF |
| M38 | Door Open |
| M39 | Rotate tool turret |
| M40 | Spindle gear at middle |
| M41 | Select low gear to decrease speed. |
| M42 | Select high gear to increase speed |
| M43 | Gear select – gear 3 |
| M44 | Gear selection, select gear 4 |
| M45 | Select gear stage 5 |
| M46 | C axis connection; MC specification cancel |
| M47 | Repeat program from first line |
| M48 | Enable speed and feed overrides |
| M49 | Disable speed and feed overrides |
| M50 | Feedrate Override On |
| M51 | Spindle speed override control |
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