Acu-Rite CNC 3500i user manual Parameters and Variable Registers, Contents of Variables Print, 399

Parameters and Variable Registers

A macro is a series of instructions designed to achieve a specific result for a given set of constraints. For example, a rectangular pocket of any size always has four sides, four corner radii and a depth. Therefore, you can cut many pockets of different sizes using a similar tool path with longer or shorter moves for the tool path. If a suitable program processes the constraints of the pocket, the 3500i calculates a tool path to cut a particular pocket. Such a program is called a macro. The G78 rectangular pocket cycle is an example of a macro that cannot be edited.

The constraints of the pocket, or the feature required, are its parameters. Parameters for any feature vary as dimensions change; therefore, the parameters are often called variables. The data for each parameter must be stored as an entity, known as a variable register, also called variables.

Parameters passed to a macro are called parameters in this manual.

Contents of Variables (PRINT)

Format: PRINT xxx(variable)

Format: N (Block number) PRINT xxx(variable)

You can verify the contents of a variable. This is useful when you are debugging a program. Use the PRINT command to display the contents of a variable on the screen in Manual, Single-Step and Auto Modes.

Example 1: PRINT 200

Displays the contents of the variable (#200). Example 2: N180 PRINT 110

To display variable contents during program execution, use the PRINT command as part of the program. Example 2 prints the contents of variables #110 to the screen.

To display variable contents during program execution, use the PRINT command as part of the program. Example 2 prints the contents of variables #110 to the screen.

In Manual Data Input Mode, type PRINT 110 then touch Start to display the contents on the screen.

The PRINT variable can be abbreviated, as follows: ]P

11.4 Advanced Programming

ACU-RITE 3500i 399