If you’re an educator introducing CNC machining into your classroom, Tormach’s xsTECH is a powerful, user-friendly option to engage students in hands-on technical learning. Powered by PathPilot®, Tormach’s intuitive CNC control software, the xsTECH offers lifetime updates and a host of features designed to simplify classroom setup and machining operations. In this first installment of a three-part series, Domenic Giunta, Tormach EDU sales advisor, walks us through the initial steps to set up the xsTECH, providing tips to help educators get started with confidence.
Getting Familiar with PathPilot and the Interface
PathPilot is the heart of the xsTECH, and its user-friendly design is built to support both beginners and experienced CNC users. The software includes controls at the bottom of the screen and a notebook section at the top, offering educators and students a streamlined way to manage every aspect of the machining process.
Key Tabs in PathPilot
- Main Page: Displays the G-Code and a graphical representation of your part. This page helps visualize the origin, size, and layout of the project before machining begins.
- File Tab: Allows users to load files directly from the machine or a USB drive. You can also preview G-Code for each file before machining.
- Settings Tab: Provides information about limit switches, G-Code references, and machine-specific details.
- Offsets Tab: Lists tools currently loaded in the machine, allowing for easy setup of tool diameters and lengths.
- Conversational Tab: Enables basic programming for tasks like facing, profiling, pocketing, and drilling without CAD/CAM software.
- Status Tab: Alerts users to errors or warnings, making troubleshooting straightforward.
Referencing the Machine
Before running the xsTECH, the machine must be referenced to establish its spatial awareness. Referencing involves initializing the X, Y, and Z axes so the machine knows its starting points. Domenic recommends referencing the Z-axis first, followed by X and Y, to avoid potential collisions with work-holding fixtures.
Once the axes are referenced, the machine is ready to set origins for your project. This critical step ensures accurate machining by defining the starting position relative to the material.
Setting Up Tool Offsets
Properly setting up tool offsets is essential for accurate machining. Domenic outlines three ways to load tools into PathPilot:
- Manual Entry: Input tool information, such as diameter and length, directly into the offsets tab.
- Tormach Tool Catalog: Use preloaded tool information from Tormach’s catalog, which auto-populates details like diameter when you enter the tool number.
- Spreadsheet Import: Upload a complete list of tools using a spreadsheet file. This method is ideal for educators managing multiple tools and projects.
Safety First: Emergency Stops
Safety is a top priority in any machining environment, especially in classrooms and educational settings. The xsTECH is equipped with an emergency stop (E-stop) button, a critical feature for quickly halting all operations in case of an emergency. Whether it's to address a potential hazard, prevent damage to the machine, or simply pause the operation for a safety concern, the E-stop provides immediate control.
Pressing the E-stop immediately cuts power to the machine, ensuring that students, instructors, and operators can intervene safely. After using the E-stop, it’s important to re-reference the machine before resuming operations to ensure accuracy and alignment. This feature not only enhances safety but also teaches students the importance of safety protocols in CNC machining, preparing them for real-world manufacturing environments.
What’s Next?
This guide covered the basics of xsTECH setup, from referencing the machine to loading tools and managing PathPilot settings. Stay tuned for Part 2 of this series, where we’ll explore how to use the electronic tool setter, taking your classroom machining projects to the next level.
If you're interested in additional training on the xsTECH, you can sign up for our xsTECH training through NC3's (National Coalition of Certification Centers) Train the Trainer series. The 3-day session delivers valuable xsTECH training, curriculum, and certification opportunities to support career and technical education nationwide.
