DRIVE WARRANTY DOES NOT COVER DAMAGE BY FAULTY MOTORS OR WIRING.
The information provided by CENTROID relating to wiring, installation, and operation of CNC components is intended only
as a guide, and in all cases a qualified technician and all applicable local codes and laws must be consulted. CENTROID makes
no claims about the completeness or accuracy of the information provided, as it may apply to an infinite number of field conditions.
As CNC control products from CENTROID can be installed on a wide variety of machine tools NOT sold or support by
CENTROID, you MUST consult and follow all safety instructions provided by your machine tool manufacture regarding
the safe operation of your machine and unique application.
Servo Motor Handling
When working with servo motors:
· NEVER pick up or carry the motor by the cables or the shaft. (Always carry by the frame.) Use a crane or lift to move
the motor when necessary.
· NEVER drop or subject the motor to impact. The servo motor is a precision device.
· NEVER set heavy or sharp objects on the motor or cables. Do not step or sit on the motor or cables.
· NEVER use a metal hammer on any part of the motor. If it is absolutely necessary to use a hammer, use a plastic
hammer.
Keep the motor properly secured and away from the edge of the work area when servicing the motor, as a dropped motor could
cause personal injury or destroy the motor.
Page 2 of 138
Basic Safety Procedures and Best Practices
For Motors
Be safely dressed when handling a motor. Wear safety shoes and gloves. Avoid loose clothing which can get caught on the
motor. Be careful not to let hair get caught in the rotary section of the motor. Do not handle the motor with wet hands.
Shut off the power before working on a motor. Wait at least 5 minutes after the motor is shut off before touching any power
terminals.
Ensure that the motor and motor related components are mounted securely. Ensure that the base or frame to which the motor is
mounted to is strong enough.
Do not touch the rotary section of the motor when it is running unless instructed to.
When attaching a component having inertia to the motor, ensure any imbalance between the motor and component is minimized.
Be sure to attach a key to a motor with a keyed shaft.
Use the motor in appropriate environmental conditions. Do not store flammables in close proximity to the motor. When not in use,
store the motor in a dry location between 0° to 40° C.
Do not remove the nameplate from a motor.
For Circuit Boards
Minimize handling circuit boards as much as possible. If you must hold a circuit board, grab it by the edges as shown below in
figure 2. Avoid touching any of the circuits, components, or component leads. Improper handling lead to ESD (electrostatic
discharge) which can damage the PCB, and shorten the operational lifespan.
Figure 1.
Improper PCB Handling
Keep the work are free from static generating materials such as Styrofoam, vinyl, plastic, and fabrics.
2.2 Power Supply Configuration......................................................................................................................................... 12
2.3 Communication Configuration...................................................................................................................................... 14
2.6 Powering On and Verifying LED States........................................................................................................................ 21
4.2 Bench Testing the AC/DC............................................................................................................................................. 41
4.3 Bench Testing the GPIO4D and MPU11....................................................................................................................... 43
CHAPTER 5 ELECTRICAL CABINET INSTALLATION
5.1 Introduction to Electrical Cabinet Layout...................................................................................................................... 45
5.2 Electrically Configuring Inputs on the GPIO4D............................................................................................................. 48
6.4 AC Encoder Alignment.................................................................................................................................................. 62
6.5 Jogging and Motor Direction......................................................................................................................................... 67
6.6 Coarse Adjustment of DRO Position............................................................................................................................. 70
6.7 Homing the machine..................................................................................................................................................... 72
6.8 Calculating Maximum Feed Rate.................................................................................................................................. 74
6.9 Tuning your AC/DC
6.9.1 A Basic Introduction to Tuning and PID......................................................................................................... 75
6.10 Fine Adjustment of DRO Position............................................................................................................................... 81
6.13 Other Misc Tuning Information.................................................................................................................................... 86
6.14 Performing a System Test........................................................................................................................................... 86
APPENDICES
Appendix A – Windows 8 Preinstallation.............................................................................................................................. 87
Appendix B – Windows 7 Preinstallation............................................................................................................................. 99
Appendix C – General Troubleshooting............................................................................................................................. 114
Appendix D – AC/DC Troubleshooting............................................................................................................................... 123
Appendix E – Stock Centroid Encoders............................................................................................................................. 126
Appendix F – Manual Configuration of the AC/DC Motors Parameters.............................................................................128
Appendix G – Compatible Motors...................................................................................................................................... 136
Page 5 of 138
Introduction
This manual describes how to install the Centroid CNC (Computer Numerical Control) system with an AC/DC servo drive. The
PC based system provides up to eight axes of closed loop servo interpolated motion, controlled by industry standard G-Codes.
Ours can be used for the CNC control of milling machines, routers, lathes, flame cutters, plasma cutters, laser cutters, water
jet cutters, drill presses, grinders, and other specialized applications.
This installation manual covers the most common AC/DC hardware setups. Specifically, this manual will focus on the following
equipment:
This manual does not cover an AC/DC drive used with a Centroid RTK4 PLC or Centroid PLCADD1616 PLC, but users of those
products will benefit from the information in this manual.
Before You Begin
Before getting started, please take the time to familiarize yourself with the schematics, manuals, and installation instructions.
While doing the installation, it is very important that you follow the instructions in order and that you follow them exactly.
Doing the installation incrementally and testing as you go will allow you to immediately isolate the cause of any problems that you
may run into. Additional troubleshooting is included in the appendices.
Motor Compatibility
The AC/DC supports over 60 different motors. Including over 50 different Fanuc motors, 6 SEM motors, and 4 Mecapian motors.
The easiest way to install an AC/DC is with motors provided by Centroid. Users should only use motors on the list of motors found
in Appendix E. What if your motors not on the list? For an evaluation fee, Centroid can evaluate your motor and provide you with
the correct software parameters.
In the future, Centroid plans on bringing an advanced set of features to the Centroid CNC11 software allowing users to calculate
their own software parameters without the need to have Centroid evaluate their motors.
The First Steps
The first step is to visually inspect everything that came with your kit. Use the charts on the following pages to check for any
missing parts and to familiarize yourself with the hardware.
Page 6 of 138 Introduction
CHAPTER 1
WHAT'S INCLUDED
1.1 MPU11
The MPU11 stands for “motion processing unit (version) 11”. The MPU11 is a motion control card that will act as the “brain”
for your CNC system. The MPU11 provides the link connecting your computer to all of your drives, PLC, and accessories.
3
4
8
5
9
6
7
The following components are included with your MPU11:
1. MPU11 ........................................................................................................................... Part Number 11012
2. Power supply.................................................................................................................... Part Number 1331
3. Power supply AC input cable............................................................................................ Part Number 3952
4. Power supply DC output cable ........................................................................................Part Number 3951
5. Twenty four pin MPG connector....................................................................................... Part Number 5984
6. Ten Pin Probe connector.................................................................................................. Part Number 5918
7. Twelve Pin Jog panel Connector...................................................................................... Part Number 5919
8. Twenty six crimp pins for MPG connector ........................................................................ Part Number 5983
9. Twenty four crimp pins for jog panel connector and probe connector ..............................Part Number 5511
1
2
Page 7 of 138 1.1 MPU11
1.2 Crimpers
Crimp Pin Part Number 5511 (Used for making jog panel and probe cables)
The appropriate hand crimping tools are available from TE Connectivity as “PRO-CRIMPER III Hand Tool Assembly 91387-1 with
Die Assembly 91387-2 (26-22 AWG)” or “PRO-CRIMPER III Hand Tool Assembly 91388-1 with Die Assembly 91388-2 (22-18
AWG)”. These tools are sold separately and can be purchased from most major electronics components distributors such as Digi-
Key.
Fully assembled cables for jog panels and probes can be bought through Centroid.
Crimp Pin Part Number 5983 (Used for making MPG cables)
The appropriate hand crimping are available from JST as “YRS-245”. These tools are sold separately and can be purchased from
most major electronics components distributors such as Digi-Key.
Fully assembled cables MPG cables can bought through Centroid.
Page 8 of 138 1.2 Crimpers
1.3 GPIO4D
The GPIO4D stands for “General purpose input / output (for up to) four drives”. The GPIO4D is a PLC, meaning it is a
“programmable logic controller”.
Essentially the GPIO4D is a set of computer controlled inputs and outputs. On an AC/DC system, the GPIO4D will provide
I/O (“input / output”) for subsystems such as lubricant, coolant, and the spindle drive.
4
3
7
10
2
11
8
6
5
1
9
The following components are included with your GPIO4D:
1. GPIO4D.......................................................................................................................... Part Number 11018
2. Power supply.................................................................................................................... Part Number 1331
3. Power supply AC input cable............................................................................................ Part Number 3952
4. Power supply DC output cable.........................................................................................Part Number 3951
5. Optic fibers labeled “1” and “3”....................................................................................... Part Number 10018
6. 2 twenty position terminal blocks ..................................................................................... Part Number 3450
7. Twelve position terminal block ......................................................................................... Part Number 1551
8. 4 seven position terminal blocks ...................................................................................... Part Number 2611
9. 2 ten position terminal blocks...........................................................................................Part Number 3904
10. 5 five volt SIPS (color and appearance may vary)............................................................Part Number 3956
11. 5 twelve volt SIPS (color and appearance may vary).......................................................Part Number 4152
Page 9 of 138 1.3 GPIO4D
1.4 AC/DC
Your motors will be controlled by an AC/DC drive. AC/DC stand for “alternating current / direct current” because the drive
works with both AC and DC motors.
1
6
3
5
4
8
2
7
The following components are included with your AC/DC:
1. AC/DC Drive...........................................................Part Number 12854 (30A) or Part Number 12855 (60A)
2. Fibers labeled “4” and “5”............................................................................................... Part Number 12832
3. Jumper.............................................................................................................................. Part Number 1761
4. Seven position terminal block........................................................................................... Part Number 2611
5. Power Resistor(s) (2 per drive for a 60A drive, 1 per drive for a 30A drive)......................Part Number 7352
6. Power Supply (1 per every 3 drives).................................................................................Part Number 7384
7. Power supply DC output cable...............................................................................Drawing Number S13352
8. Each additional AC/DC will contain the same parts except instead of having a fiber optic cable, a drive wired
communication cable (Part Number 11146) will be included instead.
Page 10 of 138 1.4 AC/DC
CHAPTER 2
BENCH TEST
2.1 Introduction
The first step in installing your new system is performing a bench test. A “bench test” is connecting all of the electronics
together to test them before installing the system in a machine. This test is usually done on a work bench, hence the name. A
bench test allows you to:
•Troubleshoot hardware and software problems early on, before they can cause permanent damage to the system.
•Identify missing or defective hardware before installing the system
•Allows for greater visibility when troubleshooting than an electrical cabinet.
•Should a serious issue arise, it gives the user a knowledge base that allows Centroid Technical Support to more quickly
and efficiently solve problem.
The bench test ALWAYS needs to be performed BEFORE applying HIGH VOLTAGE to the drive. Applying high voltage to an
improperly configured system could cause permanent damage to the hardware and physical harm to the technician or operator.
Figure 2.1.1 below shows an example of an AC/DC system set up for a level test. In the following pages we will guide you stepby-step through the setup and execution of a bench test.
Tools and Equipment Needed
•Picking a good location - A bench test needs to be performed on a large table or desk with good lighting and easy
access to electrical outlets. The surface should NOT be made out of metal or contain metal scraps or shavings, as we will
be resting powered circuit boards on the surface. Do not use fabric covered surfaces because they put the PBC high risk
for ESD (electrostatic discharge) damage. Anti-static mats are normally conductive, and make a poor surface for powered
boards. Plastic is acceptable, but could put the board at risk for static damage. A wooden surface is an ideal test
bench location.
•Some method of powering multiple 120 VAC devices off and on simultaneously. An outlet strip with an “on/off” switch and
some 120VAC power cords is the easiest method. For the remainder of this document, I will assume an outlet strip with
power cords is being used.
•A PC with an internet connection, or a Centroid console unit (comes with CNC11 already installed). The PC must meet
the specifications listed in Technical Bulletin 273, which can be found here.
(http://www.centroidcnc.com/usersupport/support_files/tbs/tb273.pdf)
•Some method of splicing wires such as crimp terminals or a terminal block.
•Small screw driver set
•Wire strippers
Figure 2.1.1
Example of equipment set
up for a board level test.
Page 11 of 138 2.1 Introduction
2.2 Power Supply Configuration
1. Connect AC/DC to the power supply
1. Connect AC/DC logic power cable (Dwg No. S13352) to the power supply (PN 7384) as shown in below Figure 2.2.1.
Up to three AC/DC's can be powered with a PN 7384 supply.
1. Connect the shield (bare metal), 5V ground (black), and the 12V ground (green) to the common terminal as
shown in Figure 2.2.1.
2. Connect +5V to +V1 and +12V to +V2.
3. Connect your 120VAC line cord to the corresponding live, neutral, and chassis ground screw. Connect the other
end to your outlet strip (keep your outlet strip turned off until instructed to turn it on).
2. Plug the connector on the other end of the power cable to the “Logic Power” input of the AC/DC as shown in figure
2.2.2.
1. NOTICE: Do NOT construct a longer or lighter gauge cable. Do NOT daisy chain logic supply connections. This
can produce a voltage drop which can cause the AC/DC to operate incorrectly.
Figure 2.2.1
Power Supply Wiring Diagram For AC/DC
Power Supply Connected to AC/DC
2. Connect MPU11 to the power supply
1. Plug the power supply AC input cable (PN 3952) and DC output cable (PN 3951) to the power supply (PN 1331).
2. Splice your power cord to the power supply AC input cable. Connect the power cord to the outlet strip.
3. Connect the power supply input cable to rectangular plug labeled “power” in the MPU11 as shown in figure 2.2.3
Figure 2.2.3
Power Supply Connect to MPU11
Figure 2.2.2
Page 12 of 138 2.2 Power Supply Configuration
3. Connect GPIO4D to the power supply
1. Plug the power supply AC input cable (PN 3952) and DC output cable (PN 3951) to the power supply (PN 1331).
2. Splice your power cord to the power supply AC input cable. Connect the power cord to the outlet strip.
3. Connect the other end of the power supply DC output cable to the twelve pin terminal block connecting to header H6
as shown below in Figure 2.2.4. and in Figure 2.2.5
Figure 2.2.4
Power Supply Connected to GPIO4D
H6
Figure 2.2.5
Power Supply Wiring Diagram For GPIO4D
Page 13 of 138 2.2 Power Supply Configuration
2.3 Communication Configuration
4. Configure AC/DC communication
1. AC/DCs need to be chained together with wire or fiber optic cables to allow them to communicate. The AC/DC that is
furthest away from the MPU11 in the communication chain will be the first axis. The drive closest to the MPU11 willbe your last axis. An example set up is shown in Figure 2.3.8.
2. On the last axis, connect fibers 5 and 4 (PN 12832) from AC/DC to the MPU11. When connecting fibers match the
colors and numbers. (Ex. gray connector to gray socket, fiber 5 to socket 5) as shown below in Figures 2.3.6 and
Figure 2.3.7.
3. On the last axis remove or offset the wired input jumper (PN 1761) so that it does not connect both pins as shown in
Figure 2.3.8.The wired input jumper will not disable the wired output, only the wired input.
4. Connect the drive communication cable (PN 11146) from the “drive communication out” last axis to the “drive
communication in” of the next drive in the communication chain as shown in 2.3.8
Figure 2.3.6
Connect drive communication
fibers 4 and 5 to the AC/DC.
Figure 2.3.7
Connect drive communication
fibers 4 and 5 to the MPU11
Page 14 of 138 2.3 Communication Configuration
5. For rest of the drives in the communication chain, the wired input jumper needs to be connected to both pins as
shown. Connect the drive communication cable (PN 11146) from the output of one drive to the input of the next drive
as shown below.
Wired Input Jumper Disabled
Last Axis
Remove or offset the jumper so that it does not connect to
both pins to disable the wired communication inputs and
enable the fiber optic inputs labeled “4” and “5”.
Wired Input Jumper Enabled
First Axis
Jumper enabled. This will disable the fiber optic inputs
and enable the wired input.
Figure 2.3.8
AC/DC Communication diagram
Page 15 of 138 2.3 Communication Configuration
5. Configure MPU11 Communication
1. Connect a shielded Ethernet cable from your MPU11 device to the PC. A shielded Ethernet cable will have a metal
clip around the RJ-45 connector it as shown by the blue cable in Figure 2.3.9 Centroid recommends using snagless
patch cables from StarTech. StarTech ID# S45PATCH25BL. This information is outlined in Technical Bulletin #251,
the latest version can be found here. (http://www.centroidcnc.com/usersupport/support_files/tbs/tb251.pdf)
1. NOTICE: An unshielded cable can cause intermittent PC Data receive errors in the software due to electronic
noise and interference.
X
Figure 2.3.9
Unshielded Ethernet cable (gray) compared to Shielded Ethernet cable (blue)
6. GPIO4D Communication and setup
1. Connect PLC communication fibers labeled “3” and “1” (PN 10018) from the GPIO4D to the MPU11 as shown in
Figures 2.3.10 and 2.3.11.
Figure 2.3.10
Connect PLC communication
fibers to the GPIO4D.
Figure 2.3.11
Connect PLC communication
fibers to the MPU11.
Page 16 of 138 2.3 Communication Configuration
2.4 Encoder Set-up
7. Connect the motor encoders. A table of supported Centroid encoders with part numbers is provided in Appendix C,
Stock Centroid Encoders.
1. The encoder cables MUST be shielded cables. The shield wire of the encoder cable needs to be grounded to the
metal shield of the DB-15 connector as seen in figure 2.4.1. Centriod recommends using a twisted pair cable.
1. NOTE: Failure to do so can cause encoder differential errors in the software.
2. Connect the motor encoders to the AC/DC. Do not use the encoder connectors on the MPU11 (encoders 1-6) when
connecting a motor to a AC/DC. Use the encoder connection on the front of the AC/DC as shown in Figures 2.4.2 and
2.4.3.
3. AC/DC accepts incremental quadrature encoders and BiSS serial protocol encoders. The type of encoder will be
automatically detected when logic power is applied. The encoder must be connected before applying power, or the
AC/DC will report an encoder type of “none” and be unable to control a motor. Wiring diagrams for supported
encoders are shown below in 2.4.4
1. Incremental quadrature encoders Encoders must have RS422 type differential outputs to work with AC/DC.
The outputs have additional voltage level requirements described in the table below:
CharacteristicMin.Typ.Max.Unit
Encoder channel low level0.00.30.5V
Encoder channel high level3.03.55.0V
1. AC Incremental Quadrature Encoders Commutation encoders for use with AC brushless (PMSM) motors
have commutation channels (U, V, W) in addition to the position channels (A, B, Z) as shown on the next
page. These additional channels are used to indicate rotor position for smooth initial start up. Commutation
channels must be aligned using the “move sync” functions in CNC11 when mounting a new encoder. This is
detailed later in this document in section “6.4 AC Encoder Alignment”.
2. DC Incremental Quadrature Encoders These encoders for DC brush motors require only A, B, and Z
position channels as shown on the next page. Notice that the A and B channels are swapped for DC encoders
to reverse the count direction and maintain backward compatibility with older Centroid DC systems.
3. BiSS protocol encoders: These encoders communicate all needed information over only two differential
pairs. This type of encoder is available in single and multi-turn absolute versions. The more advanced
protocol allows for a very high number of counts per revolution, which enables very smooth motion and high
accuracy. For the purpose of a bench test, the encoders do not need to be connected to a motor. If you did
not purchase an encoder cable, wire the DB15 connector that connects your encoders to the AC/DC as
shown on the next page.
(while turning shaft clockwise, looking at mounting flange)
Encoder Count Direction
2.5 MPU11 Accessories
8. Connect additional accessories
1. If a jog panel/pendant or MPG was ordered, please connect it to the MPU11 as seen in Figures 2.5.1 and 2.5.2.
Figure 2.5.1
Jog Pendant
9. Connect any additional PLC I/O.
1. The use and operation of additional PLC I/O (Such as PLCADD1616) is beyond the scope if this document and will
not be covered in detail. If you have any additional PLC I/O, you should consult the appropriate documentation and
hook it up accordingly for the bench test.
Figure 2.5.2
MPG
Page 19 of 1382.5 MPU11 Accessories
Depending on the number drives and accessories, each customers bench test setup will look a little different. When you are
finished, it should look somewhat similar to the picture shown below.
Figures 2.5.3
AC/DC, MPU11, GPIO4D connect for a bench test.
Page 20 of 1382.5 MPU11 Accessories
2.6 Powering On & Verifying LED States
Before powering on, perform a visual inspection of what you have set up so far. Check to make sure no metal object can short
against the circuit boards. Check to make sure all wiring is firmly in place.
Switch the outlet strip on, powering on the AC/DCs, MPU11, GPIO4D, and any accessories if applicable.
GPIO4D LED States: Just like the MPU11, the LED's are next to the power connector as shown in Figure 2.6.1. After 15 to 30
seconds all LEDs should initialize to solid green. Make sure that all light are on, indicating the GIO4D has proper power and is
communicating with the MPU11.
Figure 2.6.1
LEDs on the GPIO4D
GPIO4D LED States
LED NameLED FunctionNominal State
PLC OKIndicates that the PLC is communicating with the MPU11Solid Green
3.3VThe PLC has 3.3 volt power.Solid Green
5VThe PLC has 5 volt power.Solid Green
+12VThe PLC has +12 volt power.Solid Green
-12VThe PLC has -12 volt power.Solid Green
Page 21 of 1382.6 Powering On & Verifying LED States
MPU11 LED states: While powering up, there are 4 LED's next to the power connector on the MPU11 that flicker while the
MPU11 is initializing as shown in Figure 2.6.2. After 15-30 seconds the LED's should initialize to the state shown in the table
below.
Figure 2.6.2
LEDs on the MPU11
MPU11 LED Nominal LED States
LED NameLED FunctionNominal State
FPGA-OKThe FPGA is working correctlySolid green
DSP-DEBUG Flashing indicates drive detected. Flashing ~1 per second
DSP-OKThe DSP is working correctlySolid Green
+5VThe board has 5 volt power.Solid Green
LED SymptiomPossible CauseCorrective Action
FPGA-OK not lit
DSP-OK not litMPU11 is booting upWait for the MPU11 to start and enter run mode
DSP-DEBUG LED
flashing twenty times per second
DSP-DEBUG and DSP-OK LED flashing
alternately eight times per second
DSP-DEBUG and DSP-OK LED both on
continuous
MPU11 LED LED Troubleshooting
MPU11 Not ReadyWait for the MPU11 to start and enter run mode
Internal hardware FaultReturn for repair
MPU11 is detecting hardware Wait for MPU11 to detect hardware and start run mode
FPGA memory test failedReturn for repair
DSP Failed to initializeReturn for repair
Page 22 of 1382.6 Powering On & Verifying LED States
1. AC/DC LED States: The AC/DC is different from the MPU11 and GPIO4D in the fact that it uses both a seven segment
display and LEDs to provide the user with information. Always wait 15 to 30 seconds for the drive to initialize for checking
the LED states.
The LEDs on the AC/DC are hidden on the side of the drive opposite of the fan as seen in Figure 2.6.3. You do not need
to remove the cover to view the LED's, but for your reference a picture of the logic board with the cover removed is
provided in Figure 2.6.4. Make sure the FPGA OK, +5V, and +12V LEDs are solid green. The DSP OK light should flash.
Encoder
Power
Board
Figure 2.6.3
LEDs on the side of the drive.
Logic
Board
Drive Fault
FPGA OK
DSP Debug
DSP OK
Drive Enable
+5V
+12V
Figure 2.6.4
LEDs on the Logic board
ACDC Logic LED States
LED NameLED FunctionNominal State
Drive FaultStatus of the drive fault relay.Turns on when communication is
established with the software and all drive
faults are cleared.
FPGA OKThe FPGA is working correctly. If this light is off, it indicates a
possible hardware failure.
DSP DebugShould never be on, not used.Off
DSP OKThe flashing once per seconds means the DSP is working
correctly. If this light is off, it indicates a possible hardware failure.
Enable AxisIndicated when the drive is enabled by the software.Turns on when the drive is enabled by the
+5VThe drive has 5 volt power.Solid Green
+12VThe drive has 12 volt power.Solid Green
Page 23 of 1382.6 Powering On & Verifying LED States
Solid Green
Flashing ~1 per second
software.
2. AC/DC LED1 (Seven Segment Display) States: Approximately 15-30 seconds after starting LED1 will display a number.
If the seven segment display is displaying a solid number without a decimal point it indicates the drive axis number as
seen in Figure 2.6.5. If LED1 is flashing with a decimal point it indicates an error as shown in Figure 2.6.6.
If you have a blinking 4, that means the AC/DC is not seeing the limit switches. Since we have not hooked up limit
switches, you can disable them by switch SW1 to the down position as shown in Figure 4.2.7. If done correctly, the drives
will all be displaying their drive axis number. A table of other drive errors and their definitions is provided below.
Limits Switches Enabled
Limit Switches Disabled
Figure 2.6.5
Drive Number
(Please note the decimal point)
Figure 2.6.6
Drive Error
Figure 2.6.7
Switch SW1
ACDC Seven Segment States
Error
Number
1Communication Error "Wired Input" Jumper set incorrectly or
4Limit Trippedany limit switch is trippedUse the limit defeat switches to disable hardware limits
5Drive ErrorA serious fault has caused the drive to
MeaningCauseCorrective Action
Set jumper properly and check communication cables.
fiber 4 or cable connection not working
properly
Check HSC Screen for error cause <F7>, <F9>, <F5>
shut down
Page 24 of 1382.6 Powering On & Verifying LED States
CHAPTER 3
SOFTWARE INSTALLATION
3.1 Preinstallation
1. If you have purchased a console unit or computer from Centriod, it already comes with Windows properly configured and the CNC11 software already installed. Please skip to section “3.3 AC/DC Setup Wizard”.
2. If you have a computer with the Microsoft Windows 8 operating system, please skip to Appendix A, Windows 8
preinstallation.
3. If you have a computer with the Microsoft Windows 7 operating system, please skip to Appendix B, Windows 7
preinstallation.
4. Microsoft Windows Xp, Vista, and older versions of Windows are not supported. Mac OS and Linuix are also not
supported.
5. Before installing CNC11, all anti-virus and 3rd party firewall software should be uninstalled (not disabled) and
your computer rebooted.
1. Nearly 100% of all communication problems between CNC11 and the MPU11 are caused by anti-virus and 3rd
party firewall software. Virus software works by stopping unusual or suspicious behavior in software, and will
almost always detect the interaction between the MPU11 and the PC as unusual/suspicious and interfere with
operation of CNC11. Firewalls work by blocking certain communication ports, and often these ports are needed for
operation of CNC11. The default firewall built into Microsoft Windows will work fine with CNC11 if you allow access as
specified in this manual.
2. If your corporate policy requires anti-virus software, a third party firewall, or that certain Windows security features be
enabled to connect to the network, then Centroid recommends that you keep any computers with CNC11 installed
disconnected from the network.
Page 25 of 1383.1 Preinstallation
3.2 CNC11 and PLC Installation
With your bench configuration completely connected and your PC running and powered up as described in section 3, install
the CNC11 Software as follows:
1. Download the latest CNC11 Software version. It is important that you download the latest version of the Centroid
CNC11 software before continuing. Click on the link below to download the latest version of CNC11 software: CNC11
2. Copy the downloaded file to your desktop. Depending on your Windows 7 settings, the file you downloaded will be
displayed as either cnc11_win7_current.zip or cnc11_win7_current. Copy this file to your desktop and then double click
on the file from your desktop.
3. Drag the installation folder from the compressed file to your desktop. The folder in this example is called centroidcnc11-v312-D, your version maybe newer but the name will be the same other than the “v312” which signifies the CNC11
version number as shown below in Figure 3.2.1.
Figure 3.2.1
Copy to desktop
4. Double click the install folder and double click setup to begin CNC11 install as seen in Figure 3.2.2
Figure 3.2.2
Double click “Setup”
5. On a Windows 7 or 8 computer if “User Account Control” is enabled, Windows will ask “Do you want to allow the
following program from an unknown publisher to make changes on this computer?”. Click “Yes”.
Page 26 of 1383.2 CNC11 and PLC Installation
6. Select CNC11 Mill and WinPcap for a Mill installation as shown in Figure 3.2.3. Select CNC11 Lathe and WinPcap for a
Lathe installation. For the remainder of this document we will assume the system is being installed on a mill. Click
“Next”, accept default installation drive and directory (c:\) and click “Install” as seen in Figure 3.2.4. The software will
extract as shown in Figure 3.2.5.
Figure 3.2.3
Selecting CNC11 and WinPcap
Figure 3.2.4
Select the C drive
7. Install WinPcap Click “Next” in the WinPcap Setup Wizard window as circled in Figure 3.2.6. Check the “Automatically
start the WinPcap at boot” box when prompted.
Figure 3.2.5
Software installation
Figure 3.2.6
Installation complete
8. Click “Next” to continue. After the WinPcap installation has finished, click “Next” in the “Installation Complete” window
to continue.
Page 27 of 1383.2 CNC11 and PLC Installation
9. Network Adapter Setup: Click the down arrow to display the network adapters that are currently installed and select the
network adapter that is connected to the MPU11 as circled in Figure 3.2.7. Click “Next” to continue. When asked if you
would like to change the IP address for the adapter selected, click “yes”.
1. NOTE: Centroid recommends using a computer with two Ethernet ports. That way one Ethernet port is used for the
MPU11, and the second Ethernet port can be used to access the internet.
2. NOTE: Your IP address will differ from those shown in the picture. If you only have the MPU11 hooked up (and are
disconnect the internet/network), only the MPU11 will be detected.
Figure 3.2.6
Select the network adapter that is connected to the MPU11
10. Installing a PLC program: After the CNC11 software has been installed, the installer will prompt you to install a PLC
program, select “Yes”. Click on the “+” signs next to Mill and GPIO4D. Click on “acdc-basic”, then click “Install” as
shown in Figure 3.2.7.
Figure 3.2.7
Install the PLC program
Page 28 of 1383.2 CNC11 and PLC Installation
11. Click “Finish” to complete CNC11 software installation. After the PLC program installation has completed, click
“Finish” to complete the installation.
12. Power off the computer, MPU11 and GPIO4D and restart.
13. Configuring Windows Firewall To Allow CNC11 to Communicate with The MPU11: The first time you run CNC11
under Windows 7, you will see a pop up window asking you if you wish to allow CNC11 to communicate with the MPU11.
Check both the “Private” and “Public” check boxes, in the “Allow cncm to communicate on these networks” section and
then click “Allow access” to continue. If CNC11 timed out while trying to initialize the MPU11, see Appendix A for
troubleshooting.
Figure 3.2.8
Make a firewall exception
14. Confirm that CNC11 start up correctly. Close CNC11 and continue on to the next step.
1. NOTE On wide screen monitors, CNC11 will only take up 2/3rds of the monitor screen while running in “full screen”.
Page 29 of 1383.2 CNC11 and PLC Installation
3.3 AC/DC Setup Wizard
Centroid has a motor configuration tool to simplify setting up an AC/DC. This same information is found in Technical Bulletin
TB277. The latest version can be found here. (http://www.centroidcnc.com/usersupport/support_files/tbs/tb277.pdf)
The Centroid AC/DC Setup Wizard simplifies setting up an AC/DC. Alternatively, an AC/DC can be setup without using the tool by
referring to the tables listed in Appendix B
1. Download the latest version of the AC/DC Motor Setup Wizard. Click on the link below to download the latest version
of CNC11 software: AC/DC Motor Configuration Tool
(www.centroidcnc.com/usersupport/support_files/acdc/acdc_setup_wizard.zip).
2. Extract/Decompress the downloaded file. Double click on the downloaded file. Extract the compressed file. On
Windows 8 extraction is done by clicking on the “Extract all” button as shown below in Figure 3.3.1.
Figure 3.3.1
Extracting the AC/DC setup wizard
3. Copy and Paste into the CNCM / CNCT directory.
1. Select the extracted files “ACDC Setup Wizard (.exe)” and “pwm_parameters (.xml)”
2. Copy both files as demonstrated in Figure 3.3.2.
3. Right click on your CNC11 desktop shortcut.
4. Select properties as seen in Figure 3.3.3
5. In the shortcut tab, click on “Open File Location” as shown in Figure 3.3.4.
6. Windows explorer will open up in a new window showing the contents of your CNC11 directory (The directory will be
called “CNCM” or “CNCT” depending on weather you have a mill or a lathe). Paste both files into your CNC11
directory.
Figure 3.3.2
Steps 1 & 2. Select and copy the extracted files.
Figure 3.3.3
Step 3 & 4. Right click on
your CNC11 software
selecting properties
Page 30 of 1383.3 AC/DC Setup Wizard
Figure 3.3.4
Step 5. Click “open file
location”
4. Create a desktop shortcut.
1. Highlight just the ACDC Setup Wizard (.exe) inside your CNC11 directory.
2. Right click on the application. A drop down menu will come up.
3. Select “Send To” on the drop down menu
4. Select “Desktop (Create Shortcut)” as shown in Figure 3.3.5
5. Exit Windows File Explorer. On your desktop you should now have a shortcut to CNC11 and to the ACDC Setup
Wizard.
Figure 3.3.5
Creating a desktop shortcut for an application
Page 31 of 1383.3 AC/DC Setup Wizard
5. Using the Centroid AC/DC Setup Wizard
1. On your desktop, double click on the ACDC Setup Wizard. The tool should looks like the figure 3.3.6 shown below. If
Windows Smart Screen tries to block this program, click “more info”, then “run anyways”.
1. NOTE: Some of the information provided in the wizard is used for calculating values for unknown/unapproved
motors. In this manual we will not be covering these advanced uses of the tool and can ignore the extra
information.
2. Motor Configuration
1. Click the large “select motor” button in the center of the screen circled in Figure 3.3.6
2. A new window will pop up. Click on the motor you are using for this axis.
3. With your motor highlighted, click “select motor” at the bottom of the screen to finalize your selection as shown in
Figure 3.3.7.
Figure 3.3.7
Figure 3.3.6
Motor selection menu
Selecting a motor
Step 1
Step 2
Page 32 of 1383.3 AC/DC Setup Wizard
3. Drive parameters
1. Under “Drive Parameters” use the “Drive Type” dropdown box to select your model of AC/DC as circled below in
Figure 3.3.8.
2. Under “Drive Parameters” set the “Drivebus Number (LED1)” and the “Axis Number” as circled below. For the
first axis, set the Drivebus Number to 1 and the Axis Number to 1. If you have multiple AC/DCs connected
together, the first axis is defined as the AC/DC that is farthest away from the MPU11. For most applications you
want the drive bus number to be the same as the axis number.
3. Under “Drive Parameters” enter the motor voltage supply value in the “Bus Voltage (Vm) (VDC)” field as circled
below. This is set by the output of your DC rectifier.
4. Under “CNC11 Parameters” enter your brake resistor wattage into “p284 Brake Resistor Wattage” as circled
below. In most systems an AC/DC 30 will use 300 watts, and an AC/DC 60 will use 600 watts. The brake wattage
is usually printed directly on the resistor.
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Step 4
Figure 3.3.8
Entering the parameters into the AC/DC Wizard
Page 33 of 1383.3 AC/DC Setup Wizard
4. Motor Parameters and General Information
1. Under “Motor Parameters” enter your encoder counts in the “Encoder Counts/Rev” box as circled in Figure
3.3.9.
2. Under “General Information” enter your brake resistor resistance in “Brake Resistor (ohms)” as circled below..
For most systems an AC/DC 30 is 15 Ω and an AC/DC60 is 7.5 Ω.
3. Click “Calculate Parameters” as circled below.
Step 1
Step 3
Step 2
Figure 3.3.9
Final parameters
5. Take a few seconds to review what the tool calculated. Look over all the boxes to make sure all values seem
reasonable. Check for errors in any of the boxes.
1. Troubleshooting and Tips
1. If the box labeled “ACDC Current Setting (%)” says “Over 100%” the drive will still work with the AC/DC.
Your motor will not run at maximum performance due to the AC/DC not being able to provide maximum power
to the drive.
2. In the unlikely event that the Wizard does encounters a “Data Missing” error, there is a box with missing
information. If you get this error, contact technical support.
3. If you click on the “Window” button on the top left of the screen a menu will come up with some additional
motor related tools. These tools are provided by Centroid for your convenience and are intended for
advanced users.
1. “Estimate Motor Performance” will graph your motor's estimated performance using the data provided.
The tool will create a graph of motor power and torque. This estimate may not be accurate on all motor
types.
2. “Conversions” will convert from one unit to another
Page 34 of 1383.3 AC/DC Setup Wizard
6. With CNC11 closed, click “Write change to CNC11 Setup Files” and as shown circled below in Figure 3.3.10.
Figure 3.3.10
Writing parameters to CNC11
7. If multiple drives are being used, repeat this procedure.
1. For the second drive, select 2 for the Drivebus number and axis number. For the third drive, use 3 and so forth.
2. If all the axes are the same drive model / motor model keep the other parameters the same and continue to the
next step. Otherwise, update any other parameters that need changing (such as a different motor for the second
axis.)
3. Recalculate parameters again.
4. Write changes again to CNC11 setup files.
5. Repeat until all drives axes have been set up.
8. After all drives have been setup close the AC/DC setup wizard.
Congratulations! Your AC/DC(s) have been configured to work with your motors.
Page 35 of 1383.3 AC/DC Setup Wizard
CHAPTER 4
BENCH TEST
4.1 Software Configuration
Start the CNC11 Software
Troubleshooting
If you clicked on the CNC11 icon to start the software and you are getting “Timeout: MPU11 not responding” errors, you most
likely didn't have the MPU11 connected to the PC when you installed the software. Check your Ethernet card to make sure it is
configured properly.
Go to “Control Panel”, select “Network and Internet”, and then “Network and Sharing Center”. Click on “change adapter
settings” on the upper left corner of the window, right click on the network icon, select “Properties”. Highlight “Internet Protocol
Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)”, then click “Properties” again.
Select “Use the following IP address” then set the IP address and Subnet mask to:
IP address: 10.168. 41.1
Subnet mask: 255.255.255.0
Click Ok and then try to start the CNC11 software again.
For more in troubleshooting see Appendices C and D.
If your software has been configured correctly, you should see the screen below. Press F10 to continue to the main screen. If
CNC11 does not start because it timed out waiting for the MPU11, see Appendix A – Troubleshooting Communication Errors”.
1. Enter your Software Unlock Demo Code To enter a software unlock press F1-Unlock Option. In “Enter Unlock #:”
enter 297 for demos or 298 for permanent unlocks as shown on your unlock sheet. This will display the Unlock Value
window as shown in Figure 4.1.1. Look at the value in the “Software Unlocks” sheet that shipped with control. Enter the
value next to the unlock number.
2. Repeat the process to unlock other options, such as Intercon or DXF import. To get back to the Software Add-Ons menu
screen from the main menu press F7 – Utility → F8-Option → F1-Unlock Option.
Figure 4.1.1
Unlocking Options
Page 36 of 1384.1 Software Configuration
From now on when using CNC11, you can always go up one menu level by pressing the escape key (ESC). Tapping
escape multiple times from any menu will eventually take you back to the main menu.
To do the bench testing temporarily disable the fault protection logic built into CNC11 and the PLC program as specified in
the following pages. CNC11 monitors the signal levels of hardware as jog panels and encoder inputs, and will generate a
fault if any hardware does not respond as expected. In addition, the ACDC-basic PLC program contains default logic that
monitors the inputs for Limit Switches (inputs 1-8), Lube Fault (input 9), Spindle Fault (input 10), Estop (input 11), and Axis
Drive Faults (inputs 17-20). If ANY of these inputs are open a fault will be issued.
3. Change Machine Home Type To navigate to the “Control Configuration” screen. From the main screen press press
F1-Setup → F3 -Config. The password is 137. Then press F1 Contrl. Using the keyboard spacebar change “Machine
home at power up” to “Jog”.
1. TIP If you can not save any of your changes in CNC11, close CNC11. Right click on CNC11 desktop shortcut. Select
properties. Click on the Compatibility tab. Check the box labeled “Run this program as an administrator”. Click
“Apply”. Click “OK”. Start CNC11 again.
Figure 4.2.2
Changing machine home at powerup to disable limit switches
4. Disable Jog Panel Communication Faults(If you have a jog panel or pendant connected, skip this step.) If the
optional Jog Pendant is not connected for bench testing, disable Jog Panel communication faults. Use the arrow keys to
select “Jog Panel Required” in the Control Configuration and press the space bar to toggle to “No”.
Figure 4.1.3
Disabling jog panel
Press F10-SAVE to save. After Saving, Press escape to go back to the Main Screen. Press F10-Shutdown, → F2 Power Off, and then power off the MPU11 and GPIO4D via switching of your outlet strip. Wait 30 seconds and power
everything back up.
Page 37 of 1384.1 Software Configuration
5. Disable PLC faults for Limit Switches, Lube, Spindle, Estop and Axis Faults. At the main screen press the alt and i
keys to bring up the real-time I/O display as shown in Figure 4.1.4. Using the arrow keys, move the selection box to the
top left of the inputs. The screen should read “INP1 Ax1_MinusLimitOk” as circled below. Press the ctrlalt and i keys
simultaneously to invert this input.
You will notice that the LED will turn from red to green and a line will be drawn over the top to indicate that it the state of
the input has been programmatically inverted. Repeat the process until inputs 1-11 and inputs 17-20 are green as shown
below.
1. NOTE: Using alt + I to disable I/O only works for those using the default Centroid provided PLC programs. On a
custom PLC program, this feature may need to be added to the PLC code.
Figure 4.1.4
Disabling inputs using alt + i
6. Label the Axes: From the main menu, press F1-Setup → F3 -Config. The password is 137. Press F2 Mach. → F2
Motor. Under “Label” configure the software for the correct number of axes and label them appropriately. Any unused
axes should be set to “N” to disable the axis as seen in Figure 4.1.5.
Figure 4.1.5
Labeling the axses and verifying the spindle axis.
Page 38 of 1384.1 Software Configuration
7. Verify Spindle Axis: Your spindle axis will have an “S” next to it in the motor parameters as shown in Figure 4.1.5. The
default is axis 6.
1. Reassigning Spindle Axis: If the spindle axis is set incorrectly, it will have to be fixed by changing parameter 35 in
the machine parameters menu as shown in Figure 4.1.6. The machine parameter menu can be reached by pressing
F1-Setup → F3 -Config from the main menu. The password is 137. Press F3-Parms. Use the arrow keys to
navigate to the field labeled “35”. Click enter to edit the field. Type in a whole number for the axis that corresponds to
yours spindle. Typing in a zero will disable the spindle. Press enter, then F-10 save. Verify the spindle is set up by
going back into the Motor Parameter menu and looking for the S as shown in Figure 4.1.5.
Figure 4.1.6
Setting the spindle axis
8. Zero out any unused axes Axis can be turned off in the motor menu, but still be assigned axis numbers in the
parameters menu. Go into the parameters menu. The machine parameter menu can be reached by pressing F1-Setup → F3 -Config from the main menu. The password is 137. Press F3-Parms. Pres F8-Next Table repeatedly until
parameters 300-307 are displayed. Set any unused axes to zero. If you need to zero out any axis, the machine will need
to be restarted before you can continue.
9. Clear Software Ready Faults Anytime the CNC11 software has been exited and restarted without the hardware also
being powered off and restarted, the CNC11 software will report a “Software Ready Fault” as demonstrated below in
Figure 4.1.7. A “Software Ready Fault”, like spindle, lube, encoder and position fault is a “stop fault”. A “stop fault”
removes power from all motors, prevents program or MDI operation, turns off all drive and spindle enables and requires
that the Estop input MUST be cycled in order to clear the fault. During the bench test we will trick the software into thinking
we cycled the E-stop (not connected yet), by toggling the input 11 using alt + I.
Figure 4.1.7
Software Ready Fault
Page 39 of 1384.1 Software Configuration
To clear a stop fault, press the alt-i keys to bring up the real-time I/O screen, use the arrow keys to select the “EstopOk input(11)” as shown below in Figure 4.1.8. Press the ctrl-alt-i keys simultaneously to toggle the EstopOK input to red, and
press the crtl-alt-i keys again to toggle it back to green.
Figure 4.1.8
Toggling E-stop
Status window showing the emergency
Figure 4.1.9
stop clearing faults.
Notice that as you toggle the EstopOk input to red “406 Emergency Stop Detected” is displayed in the status window as
shown above in Figure 4.1.9. When the emergency stop is pressed notice how “2099 Message Cleared” is displayed,
referring to clearing the “9039 stop fault”. Toggling EStopOK back to green displays “335 Emergency Stop Released”.
10. Clear Any Existing Faults Before Beginning Bench Testing. To confirm that all faults have been cleared before
continuing, press F3 MDI from the main menu. If all faults have been cleared correctly, the screen should look like Figure
4.1.10.
If the screen shown in Figure 4.1.10 is not displayed, there is an existing fault. Please check the status window to
determine the cause of the fault and then clear it as shown in Figure 4.1.8. Confirm that all parameters are set as
required and that all inputs (1-11 & 17-20 green) are in the correct state.
All faults shown in Figure 4.1.11 (as well as other faults) are “Stop Faults”. Stop faults cancel existing jobs, prevent new
jobs from being started, stop the spindle, prevent motion, and require that the E stop PLC input be cycled (opened and
closed) in order to clear the fault before continuing.
If you have any stop faults, they will have to be removed then E-stop will have to be toggled as shown in the previous
step.
Figure 4.1.10
MDI Command Mode
Figure 4.1.11
Faults detected
Page 40 of 1384.1 Software Configuration
4.2 Bench Testing the AC/DC
Since the AC/DC is a drive, there is not a lot of I/O testing we can do. Primarily we want to test drive communication with the
MPU11 and encoder communication with the drive.
1. From the main menu press F7 Utility → F9 Logs → F5 HSC. The HSC menu is the most powerful software tool for
troubleshooting an AC/DC. More details about how to use this menu and what each box means is contained in Appendix
B. This screen is organized by DriveBus channels, therefore the channel number at the top of a column matches LED1
on the AC/DC. The columns are not reorganized by axis according to the drive mapping done in the parameters.
If everything is connected correctly:
1. the “Debug counter” should be counting in hexadecimal for each drive connected to the system as circled below in
Figure 4.2.1. This indicates that the drive is talking to the MPU11.
2. Make sure the “Encoder OK” as circled below is set to a one as shown below.
3. Turn each of the motor shafts clockwise by hand. If using an AC motor, ErrorUVWInvalid, ErrorUVWBadTransition,
and ErrorUVWBadSize should all be zero. CommutationZone should count 1-6. If not using a BiSS encoder,
ignore BissRecptionErrors. If using a DC motor, ErrorUVWInvalid, ErrorUVWBadTransition, ErrorUVWBadSize,
and CommutationZone have no meaning and should be ignored.
1. NOTE: A value of “0” for the debug counter means communication was not correctly established between the
MPU11 and the AC/DC. Go back and double check your wiring and jumper settings. Give the system a reboot
and see if the problems still occurs. If it still is not communicating, consult Appendix A and B for troubleshooting.
2. NOTE: The menu is labeled “AC1 Status” on the top left. AC1 was the original code name of the AC/DC drive.
AC/DC and AC1 are the same thing.
Figure 4.2.1
The HSC screen
Page 41 of 1384.2 Bench Testing the AC/DC
2. Press the Estop button in keep it depressed. Go back to the main menu. From the main menu press F1 -Setup → F3
Config. The password is 137. Press enter → F4 PID. This will display the PID menu screen below and allow you to
monitor the encoder counts by watching the values in “Abs Pos” field (circled below in Figure 4.2.2) for each axis.
Figure 4.2.2
Watching absolute position of the PID menu
7.5 To confirm that each encoder is wired correctly, rotate the motor shaft Clockwise (as seen while looking at the face of
the motor as shown below) and confirm that the counts displayed in the ABS Pos column of the PID menu change. For a
DC brushed motor the absolute position value should decrease. For a brushless motor the absolute position should
increase.
Record how much the motor counts during one revolution. Go into the motor parameters menu. From the main menu,
press F1-Setup → F3 -Config. The password is 137. Press F2 Mach. → F2 Motor. The encoder counts/rev field
(circled below in Figure 4.2.4) should approximately match how much the encoder counted when it was turned one
revolution.
Figure 4.2.4
Encoder counts per revolution
Figure 4.2.3
Rotate the motor clockwise
Page 42 of 1384.2 Bench Testing the AC/DC
4.3 Bench Testing the MPU11 and GPIO4D
Bench testing the MPU11 and GPIO4D will confirm that the MPU11 and GPIO4D are operational and that the software has been
properly configured to begin the installation process. Bench Testing is required as it provides a known base configuration that our
support engineers can refer to when trying to diagnose any issues that may have arisen. To complete Bench Testing, a USB
thumb drive and DVM (Digital Volt Meter) is required.
1. Set Home and load spindlebenchtest.cnc: From the main menu press F2-Load. Use the arrow keys to select the file
spindlebenchtest.cnc
1. If spindlebenchtest.cnc is not present in the c:\cncm\ncfiles directory it can be downloaded here:
2. Download spindlebenchtest.cnc. If your web browser does not provide an option to download spindlebenchtest.cnc
and instead displays a bunch of code, copy the code from your web browser into your default text editor (such as
notepad++). Save the file as spindlebenchtest.cnc.
3. Copy spindlebenchtest.cnc to your CNC11 root directory.
1. Right click on your CNC11 shortcut
2. Click properties as shown in figure 4.3.1.
3. A window will pop up, go to the “shortcut” tab and click “open file location” as shown in Figure 4.3.2.
4. Open the folder labeled “ncfiles”. Paste spindlebenchtest.cnc into the ncfiles directoy.
5. In the load menu of CNC11 press F8-refresh.
2. With spindlebenchtest.cnc highlighted, press F10 Accept. If the DRO does not display when you press alt-s, you likely
encountered a fault. See clearing faults is covered in section 4.3.3
Figure 4.3.1
Right click on
CNC11 and click
“properties”
Figure 4.3.2
Select the “shortcut”
tab and click “Open
File Location”
Figure 4.3.3
Selecting
Benchtest.cnc
Page 43 of 1384.3 Bench Testing the MPU11 and GPIO4D
Testing the analog output for the spindle: The GPIO4D provides a 0 to +10VDC analog output to provide programmable
spindle speed control using a VFD (variable frequency drive). The default maximum spindle speed specified in the Control
Configuration is 3000rpm. This configures the control to scale the 0 to +10VDC from 0-3000rpm. A spindle speed command of
S1500 will therefore output +5VDC, a command of S1000 will output +3.33VDC and so on.
1. Set a digital voltage meter to VDC as shown in Figure 4.4.4.
Probe Terminals Here
2. Insert the digital voltage meter leads into H6 as shown in Figure
3.9.4. Tighten down the screw terminals to firmly grip the probes.
3. With benchtest.cnc loaded, press Cycle start (alt-s) to begin. The
following screen will be displayed: (You may have to press Cycle start
twice)
4. Enter the voltage readings as pictured, and press Cycle start to
continue.
Figure 4.3.4
Selecting
Benchtest.cnc
Page 44 of 1384.3 Bench Testing the MPU11 and GPIO4D
CHAPTER 5
ELECTRICAL CABINET INSTALLATION
5.1 Introduction to Electrical Cabinet Layout
Now that you are finished with the board level test it is time to think about electrical cabinet installation. In this chapter of the
manual we will go into detail about how to wire the various systems into your cabinet. Below is a sample AC/DC electrical cabinet
from Centroid in the final stages of wiring. (Note: some of the wiring in the picture below is in the process of being added). During
cabinet wiring it is important that you follow the schematic provided by Centroid. The following page and the picture below outline
some basic best practices.
Leave two
inches of space
Label all wires,
devices, relays,
etc.
Single grounding bar
High voltage AC power
lines kept away from
low voltage signal
lines.
Figure 5.1.1
Sample Electrical Cabinet
Page 45 of 1385.1 Introduction to Electrical Cabinet Layout
•Minimize Noise and Interference
◦ Keep sensitive electronics away from noisy equipment. Install high voltage drives, rectifiers, transformers,
contactors, and other electrically noisy equipment as far away from low voltage circuit boards (such as the MPU11 or
GPIO4D) as practical.
◦ Keep high voltage power lines far away from low voltage signal lines. Keep the high-voltage AC power lines and
motor power lines as far away from low voltage logic signals as practical.
◦ Grounding Principle. Wire the incoming chassis ground lug directly to a single ground bus bar as shown in the
picture on the previous page. Wire all cabinet doors, AC/DC chassis grounds, power supply chassis ground, and
other equipment chassis ground to one single ground bus bar. What you should NOT do is have several different
grounding points throughout the cabinet, as this could increase electrical noise and interference.
◦ Leave plenty of space between wire ducts and components. Keep wire ducts at least 2” away from components
when practical.
◦ Use Snubbers on Contactors. Contactor blocks and relays need a snubber across the coil. Centroid recommends
using Quencharc snubber networks (Centroid PART# 1819). This reduces electrical noise. If you are new to using
snubbers more information can be found in Technical Bulletin #206, the latest version can be found here.
(http://www.centroidcnc.com/usersupport/support_files/tbs/tb206.pdf)
•Keep the cabinet maintainable and easily serviceable. Centriod can provide electrical cabinet materials such as
contactors blocks, time delay contactor blocks, relays, fuse blocks, din rails, overload relay with fuses, din rail end stops,
terminal blocks, etc. Call Centroid for details.
◦ Wire management Use PVC wire ducts (such as Panduit Panduct) to keep your wires neat and organized.
◦ Use DIN Rails Use DIN rails for mounting relays, contactors, terminal blocks, circuit protection blocks, disconnects,
etc.
◦ Leave a little bit of slack in the wire. Take all corners in the wiring ducts as wide as possible. Always leave a little
bit of slack in the wires.
◦ Keep all the wiring in neat horizontal and vertical lines.
◦ Label EVERYTHING. Label everything so that it matches the labels on your schematic. This includes labeling each
individual wire at both ends, circuit boards, relays, contactors, etc.
◦ Don't lose the schematic. Keep the schematic attached to the cabinet somewhere so it doesn't get lost.
•Use the correct AWG Below is the minimum AWG for the AC/DC.
Minimum Wire Gauge (AWG)
Motor Power CableVm+, Vm-Brake+, Brake-Logic Power
AC/DC-3016141616
AC/DC-6012101216
1. Recommendations for typical applications – cable lengths, drive current setting, and motor loads may change requirements. Always follow the electrical code.
[1]
Page 46 of 1385.1 Introduction to Electrical Cabinet Layout
Common Wiring Problems
The following information is also covered in Technical Bulletin #78 which can be found here.
(http://www.centroidcnc.com/usersupport/support_files/tbs/tb078.pdf)
Figure 5.1.2
Common Wiring Problems
Page 47 of 1385.1 Introduction to Electrical Cabinet Layout
5.2 Electrically Configuring Inputs on the GPIO4D
The inputs of the GPIO4D can be configured for either 5, 12, or 24 volts DC. The input voltage is changed by changing the
resistance of the SIP (single inline package) resistor. By default the GIO4Ds come with SIPs for 24VDC installed. If you are using
a voltage other than 24VDC, the SIPs need to be changed.
The SIP resistance is the defined by the last three numbers of the manufacturers part number as shown in Figure 5.2.1. Of
the last three numbers, the first two digits signify the value of the resistance. The last digit signifies the number of zeros after the
value. For example if the manufacturers part number is “4308R-102 LF – 222”, the values 222 define the resistance. The
resistance is 22 plus two zeros, so the final value is 2200 Ohms. The chart next to Figure 5.2.1 defines which resistors are
needed for which voltages.
Voltage LevelCentriond SIP
Part #
5VDC3950470 Ohm(471)
12VDC41521K Ohm(102)
24VDC
(default)
Looking closely at the GPIO4D, the silkscreen is labeled “SIP1, SIP2, SIP3, and SIP4” as shown in Figure 5.2.2. Each SIP
controls a group of I/O as demonstrated by the table below.
15482.2K Ohm(222)
SIP Value
Figure 5.2.1
Reading SIPs
Input Group SIP Number
Inputs 1-44
Inputs 5-83
Inputs 9-122
Inputs 13-161
Figure 5.2.2
Location of SIPs
Page 48 of 1385.2 Electrically Configuring Inputs on the GPIO4D
All inputs on the GPIO4D can be configured for sourcing or sinking operation using either 5VDC, 12 or 24 VDC. The inputs
are arranged in groups of four with a common shared by each input in a group.
There are two ways to wire I/O on the GPIO4D:
•Sourcing Connecting the inputs to power is sourcing. The netagive lead of the power supply must be connected to
common. This is demonstrated on inputs 1-4 in Figure 5.2.3.
•Sinking By connecting the inputs to ground is sinking. The positive lead of the power supply must be connected to
common. This is demonstrated on inputs 5-8 in Figure 5.2.3
+12VDC
+12VDC
Figure 5.2.3
Wiring Limit
Switches
GPIO4D Board
IN1
IN2
IN3
IN4
COM 1-4
IN5
IN6
IN7
IN8
COM 5-8
12VCOM
12VCOM
+12VDC
Page 49 of 1385.2 Electrically Configuring Inputs on the GPIO4D
5.3 Wiring Motors
The AC/DC supports over 60 different motors. Including over 50 different Fanuc motors, 6 SEM motors, and 4 Mecapian motors.
The easiest way to install an AC/DC is with motors provided by Centroid. Users should only use motors on the list of motors found
in Appendix G. What if your motors not on the list? For an evaluation fee, Centroid can evaluate your motor and provide you with
the correct software parameters.
In the future, Centroid plans on bringing an advanced set of features to the Centroid CNC11 software, allowing users to calculate
their own software parameters without the need to have Centroid evaluate their motors.
Motor Installation Procedure
1. On the motor, check for >100 MΩ between the motor chassis, and the motor power terminals.
2. On the AC/DC drive, check for >100 MΩ between the motor chassis and the power terminals.
3. Wire the motors to the drive.
1. 16 AWG minimum is required for the AC/DC 30. 12 AWG minimum is required for the AC/DC 60.
2. For AC motors connect the U, V, and W to the corresponding terminals of the AC/DC. For DC motors connect the
negative wire to the V terminal and the positive wire to the W terminal as shown below in Figure 5.3.1.
3. Ground the motor power cable to the AC/DC Chassis as shown below in Figure 5.3.1.
Figure 5.3.1
AC and DC motor Wiring
4. With the motors connected, confirm continuity between motor chassis and the AC/DC chassis using a DVM/multimeter.
1. DANGER An ungrounded motor is an electrocution hazard. Always confirm continuity with a multimeter!
Page 50 of 1385.3 Wiring Motors
5.4 Wiring AC/DC Brake Resistor
A motor acts like a generator when it is trying to slow down. The AC/DC slows the motor by converting unwanted electricity into
heat using a brake resistor. Therefore, the brake resistor gets extremely hot and can run over 65C or 150F.
Centroid recommends installing the brake resistor outside the electrical cabinet, but always consult with your local electrical
code first and be sure to follow any safety requirements. Care must be taken to ensure that the brake resistor gets adequate air
flow, and does not overheat the electrical cabinet or pose a burn hazard. Always keep the electrical cabinet below 40°C (104°F).
A guard can be fabricated around the brake resistor if needed to prevent accidental burns.
Brake resistors are NOT polarity sensitive.
Centroid recommends using two 300 watt 15 ohm brake resistors (Part Number 7352) in parallel for an AC/DC60, and one 300
watt 15 ohm brake resistor (Part Number 7352) for an AC/DC 30. 12 AWG minimum is required for an AC/DC60, and 16 AWG
minimum is required for an AC/DC-30.
Page 51 of 1385.4 Wiring AC/DC Brake Resistor
5.5 Wiring E-Stop
(refer to the picture on the next page)
1. E-Stop Wiring The E-stop is a safety mechanism used to shut off the machine during an emergency. The switch should
be closed when the machine is in it's operational state. Wiring E-stop in a normally open configuration is dangerous as it
will not stop the machine in the event that a wire breaks. It also prevents noise from causing spurious faults because the
signal is being electrically held at the operational level.
1. E-Stop Switch – Use a double pole single throw (DPST), normal closed, twist to release, emergency stop switch.
Such as Centroid part number #1009 used with #5934.
2. GPIO4D E-Stop - Input 11 needs to be routed through your E-stop switch so the PLC knows if the E-stop is engaged.
The coil voltage that controls the Estop contactor is routed through two sets of fault relays on the GPIO4D. The Estop
switch and fault relays are wired in series so that, if any of the circuits is opened the Estop contactor is dropped out.
1. The first relay, Output1, is controlled by the PLC program. It can be used to drop the Estop contractor based on
any PLC event.
2. The second relay, Output17, is used to drop the Estop contractor in the event that a fault occurs that the PLC is
not be able to recognize – such as a hardware communication error between the GPIO4D and the MPU11.
3. AC/DC E-Stop - Wire the AC/DC E-stop relay in series with the GPIO4D E-stop relay as shown on the next page.
Treat CN1 (pin 2) as your E-Stop input for the AC/DC, and CN2 (pin1) as your E-stop output for the AC/DC. This
allows the AC/DC to cut the power to the motors in the event of a fault, even if they have lost communication with the
MPU11 and GPIO4D.
4. Contactor – A snubber needs to be placed across the contactor(s). Centroid recommends using Quencharc snubber
networks (Centroid PART# 1819). This reduces electrical noise when the motor power is cycled on and off.
5. Voltages
1. GPIO4D Inputs – The example on the next page uses +12VDC for input 9. This voltage can be 5 to 24 VDC
depending on the SIPs used in the GPIO4D as demonstrated in section 4.2
2. GPIO4D and AC/DC Relay Outputs – In the example on the next page 24VAC is used for the relays. The relay
outputs on the AC/DC and GPIO4D are rated for up to 30 VDC @ 5 amps OR up to 125 VAC @ 10 Amps. It is
best practice to use lowest practical voltage with your relays, as higher voltages create more electrical noise and
interference.
2. Testing E-Stop Wiring
1. Power up your system.
2. Start CNC11 and press F10 to continue to the main screen
3. Enable the E-stop (which was inverted during board level testing). In the main menu press alt + I to bring up the real
time I/O display.
4. Click on input 11.
5. Press the ctrl-alt-i keys simultaneously to remove the bar over the input in the display, enabling your E-stop.
6. Toggle the E-stop. Confirm that input 11 is green when the E-stop is released (not tripped).
Page 52 of 1385.5 Wiring E-Stop
Example E-Stop Wiring
Figure 5.5.1
E-Stop Wiring
Page 53 of 1385.5 Wiring E-Stop
5.6 Wiring Limit Switches
All inputs used for Limit switches must be wired in normally closed configuration. The switch should be closed when the machine
is in its operational state. Wiring any of these inputs in a Normally Open configuration is dangerous as the machine will not stop in
the event that a wire breaks. It also prevents noise from causing spurious faults because the signal is being electrically held at the
operational level.
The I/O configuration on every machine is different. While the examples below assume dry contact type switches and utilize
12VDC, your machine may utilize different voltage levels and different type devices devices such NPN, or PNP proximity sensors.
If your devices are proximity sensors, they MUST be 3-wire sensors, 2-wire sensors will not work reliably. Make sure the SIPS
you installed in section 4.2 match the voltage levels for your devices.
Failure to install the proper SIPS to match the voltage levels being used will damage the GPIO4D.
Do not use the limit switch I/O on the AC/DC. At the time of this writing, they are not supported.
Connect your limit switches as shown below in Figure 5.6.2.
+12VDC
GPIO4D Board
IN1
IN2
IN3
IN4
COM 1-4
IN5
IN6
IN7
IN8
COM 5-8
IN9
IN10
IN11
IN12
COM 9-12
IN13
IN14
IN15
IN16
COM13-16
Figure 5.6.2
AC/DC limit switches.
X- Limit
X+ Limit
Y- Limit
Y+ Limit
Z- Limit
Z+ Limit
W- Limit
W+ Limit
12COM
12VCOM
12COM
12VCOM
+12VDC
Figure 5.6.1
Do not use AC/DC limit switches.
Testing Limit Switch Wiring
1. Power up your system.
2. Start CNC11 and press F10 to continue to the main screen
3. Invert the limit switches (which were inverted during board level testing). In the main menu press alt + I to bring up the
real time I/O display.
4. Click on limit switch inputs (input 1 - 8), and press the ctrl-alt-i keys simultaneously to remove the bar over the input in
the display. This will enable your limit switches.
5. Confirm that all limit switches are are green when nothing is tripped. Confirm that the correct input turns red when the
switch is tripped.
Page 54 of 1385.6 Wiring Limit Switches
5.7 Wiring Lube Pump
(refer to the picture on the next page)
The typical lube pump circuit consists of two parts: The first part is the control of the lube pump itself which is controlled by output
2 sending 110VAC to the lube pump. The second part is the low lube alarm signal which gets wired to input 9. The low lube
signal tells the control to produce a “405 Low lube” alarm which inhibits the control from starting a new job until the lube pump is
refilled and the alarm is cleared.
Keep in mind that the GPIO4D output relay is rated for up to 5 amps DC or 10 Amps AC. If your lube pump draws more current
you will need to install a contactor.
When wiring your lube pump it is important to know which type of lube pump you have so that you configure it correctly. Typically
lube pumps come in one of 3 types:
•Mechanical Cam Actuated Lube Pump: This pump is based on a simple mechanical plunger riding on a clock motor
driven cam. The advantage of this type of lube pump is that it is reliable and it remembers where it was and how much run
time has been accumulated even between power cycles. So that you actually get lube every 10 minutes for 5 seconds of
machine use.
•Electronic Lube Pumps: These pumps try to imitate the mechanical cam pumps but often forget where in sequence
they were when powered off. There are two types of Electronic lube pumps, “lube first” which pumps lube immediately
after power on. Which typically results in too much lube. The second type is “lube last”, this type waits a set amount of
time before lubing the machine. The problem with this type is on small jobs your machine may never get any lube,
therefore possibly damaging the machine. To avoid this some people wire the lube last type to get power all the time
which then results in too much lube.
•Direct controlled lube pumps: These pumps are controlled by the control via the PLC program and the software. With
this type the lube pump is not responsible for the timing of the pump actuation. This method is the best for reliable, even
lubing of your machine. Centroid Users see Tech Bulletin #171 and Parameter 179 in the operators manual for further
explanation.
Enabling Lube Inputs
1. Power up your system.
2. Start CNC11 and press F10 to continue to the main screen
3. Invert the lube fault input (which was inverted during board level testing). In the main menu press alt + I to bring up
the real time I/O display.
4. Click on input 9, and press the ctrl-alt-i keys simultaneously to remove the bar over the input in the display. This will
enable your lube fault input.
5. Confirm that lube fault is green when nothing is tripped. Confirm that the correct input turns red when the switch is
tripped.
Page 55 of 1385.7 Wiring Lube Pump
Figure 5.7.1
Sample Lube Pump Circuit
Page 56 of 1385.7 Wiring Lube Pump
5.8 Wiring Coolant Pump
By default GPIO4D output 3 is the coolant flood pump output and output 4 is the default output for a coolant mist pump. If you
have a custom PLC program your I/O may be different.
This sub-circuit shows how to hook up a 3 phase Flood Pump. Because the pump in this example draws more power than the
GPIO4D is rated for, a Flood Contactor (Centroid PART# 3959) is needed.
All contactors need a snubbers. Centriod recommends using the Quencharc snubber network (Centroid PART# 1819) on the coil
of the contactor. This reduces electrical noise when flood coolant is cycled on and off. A thermal overload is also shown, this part
protects the motor by opening the circuit if it stalls for any reason, such as metal chips in the pump.
Centroid recommends a thermal overload protector. The example below diagram depicts the 24VAC wired through the NC
contacts on the overload section of the contactor. The overload protection circuit on your existing contactor may be labeled
differently or there may be no overload protection.
Figure 5.8.1
Sample Coolant Pump Circuit
Page 57 of 1385.8 Wiring Coolant Pump
5.9 Wiring Spindle
More information on spindle can be found in Technical Bulletin #152, which can be found here.
(http://www.centroidcnc.com/usersupport/support_files/tbs/tb152.pdf)
STOP: Before wiring up the spindle make sure that you already tested the spindle as directed during the board level tests.
There are two methods of wiring a spindle:
1. Connect three phase directly to an induction motor (shown on the next page). Hooking the three phase directly saves
costs, but prevents the Centriod CNC software from being able to control the speed of the spindle. The spindle speed will
have to be controlled by mechanical methods such as pulleys.
2. Use a spindle controller (not shown). The terms “inverter” (short for power inverter), “AC Drive”, and “VFD” (Variable
Frequency Drive) can all refer to the spindle controller. Centroid does not provide spindle controllers and recommends
using Delta Products VFDs, Automation Direct GS2 and GS3 AC drives, as well as Yaskawa VS (Varispeed) Inverters. It
is the responsibility technician installing to consult their spindle controller manufacturer for support. However, Centroid
does provide Technical Bulletins with detailed installation instructions and troubleshooting for a few select models of
spindle controllers.
With the default PLC program, several of the I/O are decided for use with a spindle. Input 10 is the spindle fault input. Output 7
is the spindle fault output. Output 5 is the inverter fault reset. Output 8 is the inverter direction. Output 10 is for a spindle
cooling fan. Always refer to your schematic.
In the example below the thermal overload protector is wired directly to the spindle fault. If your spindle controller has a fault
condition it should be wired in series with the thermal overload protector.
All contactors need snubbers. Centriod recommends using the Quencharc snubber network (Centroid PART# 1819) on the coil of
the contactor. This reduces electrical noise when the spindle is turned off and on.
Enabling Spindle Fault Inputs
1. Power up your system.
2. Start CNC11 and press F10 to continue to the main screen
3. Invert the spindle fault input (which was inverted during board level testing). In the main menu press alt + I to bring up
the real time I/O display.
4. Press the ctrl-alt-i keys simultaneously to remove any bars over the input in the display. This will enable the spindle
inputs.
Page 58 of 1385.9 Wiring Spindle
Figure 5.9.1
Sample Spindle Wiring
Page 59 of 1385.9 Wiring Spindle
CHAPTER 6
FINAL SOFTWARE CONFIGURATION
6.1 Introduction
This chapter assumes that you have completed the board level test, and have built up a level of confidence with the hardware and
software. PID settings and parameters for the AC/DC need to be entered into the software as described during the board level
test before continuing with chapter 6.
6.2 Confirm AC/DC Communication
The very first time the AC/DC is switched on after being wired up, check to see if the AC/DC is detecting any errors or problems
with your system.
Use the HSC screen to check for any AC/DC communication problems exactly as you did during the board level test. From the
main menu press F7 Utility → F9 Logs → F5 HSC. More details about how to use this menu is contained in Appendix B.
If everything is connected correctly:
1. The “Debug counter” should be counting in hexadecimal for each drive connected to the system. This indicates that
the drive is talking to the MPU11.
2. The “Encoder OK” is set to a one.
3. Fatal Error and Warning should be zero. If the AC/DC has any errors, use Appendix B to troubleshoot the drive.
Figure 6.2.1
AC/DC HSC menu
Page 60 of 1386.2 Confirm AC/DC Communication
6.3 Confirm Encoder Communication
1. DANGER: DISCONNECT THE MOTORS FROM THE MACHINE. The motors need be able to move freely. Failure to
disconnect the motors from the machine could result in personal injury or damage to the machine.
2. Confirm Encoder Feedback on all axes
1. From the main menu, press F1-Setup → F3-Config. Password is 137. Press F4 PID
2. With the Estop pushed in, manually rotate each motor while watching the abs pos field (circled below) for that axis as
seen in Figure 6.3.1. Confirm that you have smooth feedback on all axes and that X updates the X DRO, Y updates Y
DRO etc.
3. Confirm that the absolute position increases for an AC motor (decreases for a DC motor) while rotating the shaft
clockwise.
1. NOTICE: The AC/DC servo drive needs the encoder correctly connected/wired before attempting a move. If the
encoder is not detected upon start up, you will need to restart both the AC/DC drive and the CNC11 software
before trying to test the encoder again. Users can troubleshoot drive errors through the HSC bit screen definitions
in Appendix B.
Figure 6.3.1
Confirm encoder rotation
Users with AC Motors Continue to Section 6.4 AC Encoder Alignment
Users with DC Motors Skip to Section 6.5 Jogging and Motor Direction
Page 61 of 1386.3 Confirm Encoder Communication
6.4 AC Encoder Alignment
Introduction
This same information can be found in Technical Bulletin #166, the latest version can be found here.
(http://www.centroidcnc.com/usersupport/support_files/tbs/tb166.pdf)
AC drives rely on knowing the motor position in order to stay synchronized while driving the motor. Before the motor is mounted
on a machine, the motor's encoder commutation tracks are aligned with the motor phases. During the “Move Sync” procedure,
the drive applies sinusoidal voltages to rotate the motor shaft to a starting position. Typically, four “Move Sync” cycles will rotate
the motor shaft one revolution.
The drive looks at the commutation lines from the encoder to give it a coarse position of the shaft for smooth movement on
power up. These commutation signals are interpreted by the drive as zones 1 through 6. As the motor turns clockwise looking at
the output shaft the commutation zone count should increase. Centroid AC motors use a differential, 8 pole, 5V, quadrature
encoder with an index pulse. The encoder resolution depends on the motor and the drive (see below).
This procedure can also be repeated if you suspect the encoder alignment is incorrect. An incorrect alignment will
show the following symptoms:
1. Axis is jumping.
2. Motor is running roughly.
3. Motor runs better in one direction than the other.
4. Motor has an uneven amount of current draw in one direction than the other.
5. Large current draw with a light load.
Prerequisites
•If connecting a motor to a drive for the first time, please complete the following steps:
◦ Check for >100 MΩ between the motor chassis and power terminals.
◦ With the motor connected to drive, confirm continuity between the drive chassis and motor chassis.
◦ On the drive terminal, check for >100 MΩ between your power and shield terminals.
◦ Check VM wiring for correct polarity
◦ Additional information on motor testing can be found in Technical Bulletin 155.
Tools and Equipment for Encoder Alignment
◦A set of metric and SAE hex keys.
◦A small Philips head screw driver set.
◦Loctite Blue 242 (Optional)
◦If removing the motor from the machine, a set of clamps such as Irwin Quick Grips.
◦If there is any contamination or debris inside the end cap, basic cleaning supplies such as a paper towel and all-
purpose cleaner.
◦ If there is not a rubber O-ring or gasket between the end cap and motor, a non-corrosive RTV sealant (such as Dow
Corning 3165) is needed.
◦If changing the encoder, the correct replacement encoder and pigtail (see chart on next page).
Page 62 of 1386.4 AC Encoder Alignment
The motor must be disconnected from the machine or have the machine drive belt removed for the alignment process. This
procedure is best performed on a sturdy bench where you have good lighting and easy access to the encoder. If the motor is
removed from the machine, the motor frame must be firmly secured to the bench using clamps or some other attachment method.
The motor may try to jump around during the procedure (especially if something goes wrong during the alignment). Before
starting the alignment procedure, the drive software must be configured correctly.
Alignment Procedure
DANGER: Do not jog the axis until instructed!
1. Remove the motor end cap.
1. NOTICE: Any dust, dirt, coolant, or other contamination inside the motor end cap can get inside the sensitive internal
components of the optical encoder and cause a premature failure. Make sure the inside of the motor end cap and
encoder mounting plate are clean before continuing with encoder alignment.
If there is a large amount of contamination inside the end cap, there is a high probability that the existing encoder will
work unreliably and need to be replaced. If there is liquid inside the end cap, there may also be liquid inside the
motor. A motor with liquid inside is a serious safety hazard, and will have to be replaced.
2. If installing a new encoder, remove the old encoder. Attach the new encoder. Snug the encoder set screws and encoder
ears so that the encoder counts when the motor spins.
1. TIP: Nylon washers between the encoder ears and the mounting bolts makes the motor much easier to align as
shown below.
Figure 6.4.1
Parts of an encoder
3. Connect power cable and encoder cable from the drive to the motor.
4. Power up your drive and control system running Centroid CNC software
5. Go to the drive configuration menu. From the main menu press F1-Setup → F3-Config. Password is 137. F4 PID →
F8-Drive as shown below in on the next page. Do not home the motor.
Page 63 of 1386.4 AC Encoder Alignment
Figure 6.4.2
Drive Configuration Menu
Figure 6.4.3
Toggle Axis
6. Press F2-Move Sync as circled in Figure 6.4.2. The axis selected is shown underneath PWM Kp as circled in Figure
6.4.3. If you are not on the correct axis, press F1-Toggle Axis until the correct axis label is on the screen. Finally press F10-GO. The shaft should rotate. The first move sync rotation may cause the motor to jerk or move roughly. Move sync a
few more times by pressing F2-Move Sync then F10-GO repeatedly. All move syncs after the first sync should cause the
shaft to rotate smoothly. If the motor oscillates wildly, moves erratically, or makes loud unusual noises, kill the
motor power immediately!
1. DANGER: An incorrectly wired or configured motor may move violently or unpredictably when attempting move sync.
Keep your body (and others) away from the motor when move syncing for the first time, and be prepared to hit the
emergency stop.
2. DANGER: Large motors may have a tendency to oscillate during a move sync due to nature of the current feedback
loop. It is recommended for 3KW and larger motors that you adjust the motor current to half of the recommended
value in the current feedback menu while move syncing. After the encoder alignment process is complete, set the
current back to the recommended setting.
3. NOTICE: If no motor movement occurs, an error was encountered. AC/DC users can troubleshoot drive errors
through the HSC bit screen definitions as described in Appendix D.
4. TIP: If the motor slightly oscillates after move syncing or continues to move a little rough while move syncing, grab the
motor on the shaft carefully with your hand while wearing a leather glove. Move sync the motor while gently
squeezing the motor shaft. If the oscillations and/or jerky movements go away after manually applying a small
amount of load to the shaft, this is normal. This problem is caused by not enough load on the motor shaft during
alignment and will not occur during normal motor operation. Do not fight with the motor! If a small amount of
pressure on the shaft does not stop the oscillations, stop the motor. Double check your PID values. If PID values are
correct try reducing the current to the motor and trying again.
5. TIP: If the motor moves out of control, double check your PID settings and encoder counts per revolution. Make sure
the encoder is not wired backwards.
Page 64 of 1386.4 AC Encoder Alignment
Figure 6.4.4
Encoder Alignment
Figure 6.4.5
Encoder Alignment
7. Keep running the move sync operation until the point where the encoder reading is closest to 0 or its maximum encoder
count. The “Encoder Reading” is circled in above in Figure 6.4.4.
8. Loosen the encoder collar set screws as shown in Figure 6.4.5.
9. Move the encoder until the encoder reading is as close to zero as reasonably possible.
10. Tighten the encoder collar set screws. The encoder collar usually has two set screws on most encoders; make sure both
are tight if applicable.
11. Loosen up the encoder ears and use them to fine tune the adjustment. When the encoder is within specifications, a red
message will appear on the control saying “*** Tighten Encoder Now ***” as circled in Figure 6.4.4. For a 40,000 count
encoder, it needs to be aligned with +/- 25 counts of zero. Tighten the encoder ears. The encoder mounting plate is
usually made out of aluminum, so DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN! Loctite blue (242) or similar may be used to prevent
loosening without over-torquing the screws.
12. Press F2-Move Sync and F10 - Go to rotate the motor shaft several full revolutions. Verify that the software still displays
“*** Tighten Encoder Now ***” when closest to the zero position. Some encoder re-adjustment may be needed. Observe
the commutation count goes 1 through 6 consecutively. The commutation count is displayed below the encoder reading as
circled in Figure 6.4.4. At rest position the commutation zone should be either a 1 or a 6 only. A 0 or a 7 commutation
value indicates a bad encoder or wiring problem. If the motor is stopping on a commutation zone other than 1 or 6 your
phases are in the wrong order or the encoder is wired incorrectly.
13. Tighten the end cap onto the motor. Be careful placing the encoder cable in the end cap. If the cable is causing any
strain or pushing on the encoder, it will twist the encoder out of alignment.
14. Reboot the drive and control system.
Page 65 of 1386.4 AC Encoder Alignment
15. After a reboot, jog the motor in each direction to verify correct operation.
1. Disable increment mode, by making sure the “incr cont” button on your jog panel is NOT lit up.
16. In the drive configuration menu, do a final move-sync check to verify that the motor is still aligned correctly. Look for the red message saying “*** Tighten Encoder Now ***” when the motor is closest to zero.
17. If there is not a rubber O-ring or gasket between the motor and the end cap, remove the end cap again. Apply a bead of
non-corrosive RTV sealant (such as Dow Corning 3165) onto the end cap mounting surface as shown below in Figure
6.4.6. Reinstall the end cap. This step is necessary for any motor bought from Centroid, but may be needed when
performing retrofits to older systems.
Figure 6.4.6
Sealing the motor endcap
The motor is ready for normal operation after the system has been rebooted again.
You are done aligning the encoder!
Page 66 of 1386.4 AC Encoder Alignment
6.5 Jogging and Motor Direction
1. Release E-stop to clear all errors and provide power to the motors.
2. Set the feedrate to around 10%
3. Jog each motor while it is disconnected from the machine if you have not already done so. Disable increment mode while
jogging by making sure the button on your jog panel labeled 'Incr Cont” is not lit up.
1. DANGER: The first time jogging the motor it must be disconnected from the machine! (Either by physically removing
the motor, or disconnecting a gear or drive belt.) This way if something goes wrong these is a minimal risk of damage
to the machine.
2. NOTE: It is normal if the motor is a little noisy or does not move smoothly. This will be fixed during tuning later in this
chapter.
4. Power down the machine
5. Manually move all axes to the center of their travel to provide safe clearance when the motors are tested under power.
6. Reconnect the motors to the machine
7. Power up the machine. Release E-stop to provide power to the motors.
8. Check home configuration During the board level test in Section 4.2 we changed the machine home at power up to jog.
Double check to make sure it is still set to jog as demonstrated in figure 6.5.1.
1. DANGER: Since your limit switches have not been configured correctly yet, homing to limit switches right now could
cause physical damage to your machine.
Figure 6.5.1
Checking home configuration
9. Make sure the feedrate is turned down to around 10%
10. Press the Start button on the jog panel, or Alt+S from the keyboard. This will cause the machine to set home right where
it is.
Page 67 of 1386.5 Jogging and Motor Direction
11. Configure motors to move in the correct direction It is important to understand that correct motor direction is
determined by the motion of the tool relative to the part, this is not necessarily the same as the motion of the table. This
procedure is also covered in Technical Bulletin #137, which can be found here.
(http://www.centroidcnc.com/usersupport/support_files/tbs/tb137.pdf)
For axes that move the table while the tool remains stationary such as the X & Y axes on a typical Bridgeport type knee
mill, the table motion is the opposite of the “tool motion”. For axes that move the tool, such as the quill on a knee mill, axis
motion is the same as the tool motion. The Figures 6.5.2 and 6.5.3 below describe this concept.
Figure 6.5.2
Difference between table motion and tool on a knee mill.
Figure 6.5.3
Table verses tool movement
In the above illustration 5.5.3, the tool is moving in the X+ direction relative to the part while the table moves to the left.
Page 68 of 1386.5 Jogging and Motor Direction
Configuring motors to move in the correct direction (continued)
Use MDI to move each axis and determine if the axis is moving in the correct direction. To determine this, observe that
the DRO counts more positive while moving an axis in the positive direction and that it counts more negative while moving
in the negative direction. To correct for an axis that is moving in the wrong direction, from the main menu press F1 -Setup
→ F3 Config. The password is 137, Press enter. Press F2Mach → F2Motor. Use the arrow keys to select the “Dir Rev” field for the axis that needs to be corrected and press the space bar to toggle it's current state as seen in Figure
6.5.4.
Figure 6.5.4
Direction reversal
Page 69 of 1386.5 Jogging and Motor Direction
6.6 Coarse Adjustment of DRO Position
NOTE: An alternative method is to use math to get a course estimation. This is described in the first part of Technical Bulletin #36,
which can be found here. (http://www.centroidcnc.com/usersupport/support_files/tbs/tb036.pdf)
The value being displayed the DRO screen is calculated from knowing how much the motor moved, and the motor revolutions per
inch/mm (usually controlled by the ball screw). Before we can continue to tuning, we need an estimated number.
Later in this chapter after tuning the motor, we will perform a fine adjustment on the motor revs/in (mm/rev for metric systems) to
calculate an exact value.
1. Jog the machine Jog the machine so that the spindle is in the center of the table.
2. Zero the software From the main menu, press F1 – Setup → F1 Part → F10 Set Zero as shown below in Figure 6.6.1.
Figure 6.6.1
Setting Part Zero
3. Set Up a Tape Measure on the Table Set up a tape measure on the table so that 0” is lined up under the center of the
spindle.
4. Command the machine to move. The longer the move the more accurate your final calculation will be. It is
recommended that you move the machine at least 1 foot. Use the MDI command. From the main menu, press F3 MDI.
If we were testing the X axis for example we could type “X 12”.
1. WARNING: Turn the feed rate down and be prepared to hit E-stop. Since your limit switches have not been
completely configured it is possible to crash the machine if it moves too far.
Page 70 of 1386.6 Coarse Adjustment of DRO Position
5. Calculate the value Enter into the motor parameters menu. From the main menu press F1 -Setup → F3 Config. The
password is 137, Press enter. Press F2Mach → F2Motor.
Figure 6.6.2
Adjusting motor revs/in or mm/rev
1. Imperial Units To calculate the value to be entered in the revs/inch field. Divide the distance moved (DRO value) by
the distance that the axis actually moved (measuring tape). Multiply this result by the current value in the rev/inch field
as circled in Figure 6.6.2.. This the new value that you will enter in the revs/inch field. If the axis traveled 6”, but the
command was 7.5” 7.5/6 = 1.25, if the current revs/inch is 5.000 * 1.25 = 6.25 is the new value to enter in the
revs/inch field.
2. Metric Units To calculate the value to be entered in the mm's/revs field. Divide the distance that the axis actually
moved (measuring tape) by the distance commanded (DRO value). Multiply this result by the current value in the
mm's/rev field as circled in Figure 6.6.2. This the new value that you will enter in the mm's/rev field. If the axis
traveled 150mm”, but the command was 175mm, 150/175 = .85714, if the current mm's/rev is 5.08 * .85714 =
4.35428 is the new value to enter in the mm's/rev field.
6. Repeat the test as needed until the DRO matches the measuring tape.
7. Repeat the test for each axis.
Page 71 of 1386.6 Coarse Adjustment of DRO Position
6.7 Homing the Machine
This same procedure is outline in Technical Bulletin #22, the latest version can be found here.
(http://www.centroidcnc.com/usersupport/support_files/tbs/tb022.pdf)
1. Creating and Editing the Homing File
Your software comes with a default homing file that will work for most cases. If you have a machine with an
unusual number of axes (such as a rotary table, CNC controlled grinder, CNC controlled drill press, extra lathe axes, etc..)
or an unconventional limit switch configuration editing the home file will be necessary.
1. Exit CNC11.
2. Right click on your CNC11 desktop shortcut.
3. Select properties as shown in Figure 6.7.1.
4. In the shortcut tab, click on “Open File Location” as shown in Figure 6.7.2.
5. Windows explorer will open up in a new window showing the contents of your CNC11 directory (The directory will be
called “CNCM” or “CNCT” depending on weather you have a mill or a lathe).
6. If “cncm.hom” (“cnct.hom” for lathes) is present, double click on it. If not the file present, it will have to be created.
To create this file,.right click on cncm folder in the Windows File Explorer. (cnct for lathes). Select “new”, then select
“textdocument”. A file will be created named “New Text Document.txt”. Rename this file “cncm.hom” (“cnct.hom”
for lathes).
1. TIP Centroid recommends using Notepad++ as your default text editor. Notepad++ can be downloaded here.
(http://notepad-plus-plus.org/)
7. Edit the file as needed as seen in Figure 6.7.3. There should be the correct number of axes defined in this file, and
they should be listed in the correct order.
1. Centroid recommends that the Z positive axis is always homed first to prevent damage to the machine!
8. Make sure to save any changes that you make.
Figure 6.7.1
Steps 2 and 3
Figure 6.7.2
Step 4
Figure 6.7.3
Steps 5, 6, and 7
Page 72 of 1386.7 Homing the Machine
2. Start CNC11
3. Configure Limit Switches
1. NOTE: More information on Limit switches can be found in Technical Bulletin #127, which can be found here.
2. Prerequisite: The motor movement direction mentioned must be configured correctly before testing the limit
switches!
3. Enter the motor parameters menu. From the main menu press F1 -Setup → F3 Config. The password is 137,
Press enter. Press F2Mach → F2Motor.
4. Move the machine so that the spindle is in the center of the table.
5. Manually trip the minus limit switch for the X axis. Try to jog the machine. It should only move in the plus direction. If
it does not, change the limit switch in software as shown below in Figure 6.7.4.
Figure 6.7.4
Reversing limit switches in software
4. Change the home type From the main screen presspress F1-Setup → F3 -Config. The password is 137. Then press
F3 Parms. Using the keyboard spacebar change “Machine home at power up” to “Limit Switch”.
Figure 6.7.5
Enabling homing off limit switches
5. Restart the Machine
6. Home the Machine: From the main menu press “start” on the jog panel or “Alt+S” to home the machine. The machine
should move slowly towards each jog switch.
1. DANGER: Adjust the feedrate as needed so that the machine moves slowly. Be prepared to press E-stop if anything
unexpected occurs.
2. NOTE: If the machine stops homing and the main menu says “Warning: Machine not homed” a limit switch was
pressed in the wrong order and the machine faulted out. Please check the order of your limit switches as shown
above.
Page 73 of 1386.7 Homing the Machine
6.8 Calculating Maximum Feed Rate
In past Centroid products the maximum feed rate and acceleration was determined by autotune. At the time of this writing, the
AC/DC does not support auto tune. Maximum feed rate will have to be found manually.
Use the following equation to get a estimation: (maximum motor rpm / motor revolutions per inch) * 0.85 = maximum feed rate.
Enter the maximum feed rate in the Jog Parameters menu (F1 - Setup, F3 - Config, F2 – Mach., and then F1-Jog.).
The calculated maximum feedrate may be too high due to variations in supply voltage and load. Use MDI commands to test the
calculated machine maximum feed rate. Gradually issue faster feed commands until the maximum is determined. If the machine
is displaying the following symptoms the maximum feed rate is too fast and should be decreased:
•The load bar graph in the DRO display of the main menu is red, indicating excessive load on the motors
•The software is giving errors such as position errors.
•Motors are overheating.
Figure 6.8.1
Adjusting maximum feed rate
Page 74 of 1386.8 Calculating Maximum Feed Rate
6.9 Tuning Your AC/DC
6.9.1 A Basic Introduction to Tuning and PID
AC/DC uses a PID loop to control motor movement. PID stands for Proportional, Integral, and Derivative. A PID
controller calculates an error value as the difference between a measured process variable (motor position) and a desired set
point (expected motor position). The controller attempts to minimize the error by adjusting the power to the motor. The PID
controller’s calculation algorithm involves three separate parameters: the proportional, the integral and derivative values, denoted
in the software as Kp, Ki, and Kd. Additionally, the motors inertia constant plays a large role in how the PID loop behaves.
The general idea of the tuning process is to minimize the Absolute Error (ErrAbs), which is measured in encoder counts.
The inertia of the system varies from machine to machine, and the ideal PID values vary from motor to motor. To achieve optimal
performance out of your motor, the inertia, position Kp, and position Kd values will have to be manually adjusted. Under most
circumstances, the position Ki values do not need any adjustment. The current feedback Kp, Ki, and Kd (different from the
position feedback Kp, Ki and Kd) should be left alone unless otherwise instructed.
Altering the PID values incorrectly could cause DRAMATIC changes in the way the servo system operates, leading to
possible machine damage. Be cautious when adjusting the PID values, and be prepared to hit the E-stop as the motor may
become unstable or move unpredictably if adjusted incorrectly.
Finally, PID tuning is not a black and white process. What is “good enough” of a value will depend on your accuracy
needs and the capabilities of your system. Some experimentation is always required to find the ideal settings.
Centroid recommends using 40,000 counts per revolution encoders. Having lower resolution encoders is allowed, but
might make the machine more difficult to tune.
Page 75 of 1386.9.1 A Basic Introduction to Tuning and PID
6.9.2 Tuning Software Setup
Tuning should be done last once everything else is set up and the motor is connected to the machine. Before tuning,
configure the software (and align the encoder if necessary) as discussed in the earlier sections of this manual.
First, home the machine. Move the machine so that the axes are in the middle of their travel. Make sure the real time I/O display is not showing in the main menu (press alt + I to toggle the real time I/O display). Go to the PID configuration menu
by pressing F1 - Setup, F3 - Config, F4 – PID, and then F1 – PID Config from the main menu (as shown below). Press F1-Edit Program to bring up PID_Collection_Moves.txt in the default .txt editor. Edit the G-code so that the motor axis matches the axis
of the motor to be tuned. For example, changing the line “G1 w0.0” to “G1 x0.0” will change the program to move the X-axis
instead of the W-axis. Now you should be looking at the PID configuration menu as shown in Figure 6.9.2.1.
Figure 6.9.2.2
Figure 6.9.2.1
The PID Configuration menu
The colors of the text on the top left match the colors of the graphs on the right. For example, if you have a V abs value
written in blue in the top left, the graph for V abs will be displayed on blue in the top right. For the rest of the tuning procedure
when referring to motor velocity, we are referring to the V Abs value and the corresponding graph. When referring to position
error, we are referring to the Err Abs value and the corresponding graph. The colors used in the graphs in this manual may be
different from the colors shown on your screen.
The graph can be manipulated with a mouse by clicking, dragging, and scrolling. The graph can be manipulated with the
keyboard by using the F3, F4, F5, F6, and F7 keys. Start by pressing F7-Zoom All, this will adjust the graph. This menu and these
settings are covered in more detail in the CNC11 manual. Pressing F8 – Change Axis will toggle the axis being graphed and will
change the error information displayed in the top left of the screen. If necessary, press F8 until the selected axis matches the
motor to be tuned.
Press F2-Run Program to start the tuning process. The motor should run in a continuous loop and not stop until
manually stopped. Values are adjust with the keyboard. If “finished running program” is immediately displayed, an error was
encountered. Go back to the main menu, and check the message window for errors. Advanced AC/DC users can troubleshoot
drive errors through the HSC bit screen definitions as described in the Appendix D.
NOTE In upcoming sections 6.9.4 Acceleration Tuning, 6.9.5 Kp Tuning, and 6.9.6 Kd Tuning only movement in one
direction will be shown in the examples to make it easier to interpret the graphs. Proper tuning involves movement in both
directions. In sections 6.9.4 – 6.9.6 compare the positive half of graph to example as shown in Figure 6.9.2.2.
TIP When viewing the live tuning scope (graphs) be mindful of the scale. You can adjust the scale of the graphic. The
encoder counts and the overall turns ratio of the machine will determine the counts per inch. Adjust the scale of the graph to a
reasonable encoder count amount for the given encoder counts per inch of that axis. In other words, on a high count per inch
system you may have errors as high as 100 counts, but 100 counts might only be representing 0.00005” on the machine.
Page 76 of 1386.9.2 Tuning Software Setup
6.9.3 Acceleration Tuning
Accel is the time for the axis to reach maximum velocity. An accel rate of 0.1 second is very fast, where an accel rate of
1.0 will be considered very slow.
Record the acceleration rate suggested by the software when the maximum feed rate was saved in the jog parameters
menu (In Section 5.6). Entered this acceleration rate into the position PID menu (Press F1 - Setup, F3 - Config, F4 – PID, and then F1 – PID Config.) The rate provided is not the ideal acceleration rate, but a baseline number.
Press F1-Edit Program; adjust PID_Collection_Moves.txt so that it runs at the maximum feed rate as calculated in
section 5.8 Save changes. Press F2-Run Program. Slowly decrease the acceleration time in 0.05 increments, testing the value
in-between each change (Circled in 6.9.3.1). If you see any of the following symptoms the acceleration rate is too fast and needs
to be slowed down:
The acceleration rate is causing shock or vibration as the machine moves.
The machine movement becomes bumpy, rough, or jerky.
The machine creates unusual or loud noises such as thunks or rapping noises.
The software is giving errors such as position errors.
Figure 6.9.3.1
Acceleration tuning
Page 77 of 1386.9.3 Acceleration Tuning
6.9.4 Inertia Tuning
For Inertia tuning adjust the feed rate in PID_Collection_Moves.txt to the average rate during a typical machine operation.
The parameters in the F8 – Drive menu, with the exception of inertia, do not change based on machine type, and can
therefore be set once from the provided charts. Inertia is set to the motor inertia as a starting point. Once the motor is mounted to
a machine, the inertia value will need to be increased to compensate for the additional inertia of the mechanical drive components.
Inertia is adjusted in the drive configuration menu. From the PID configuration menu press F10 – Save and exit, F8 – Drive, and then F1 – PID. Throughout the tuning process make changes in the Drive configuration menu, and then go back to the
PID configuration menu and run the collection moves program to see how those changes affect the graph. Repeat this process
until results are acceptable.
The following plots demonstrate the effect of the inertia setting. The dark blue line is the motor velocity (V abs) and the red
line is position error (Err Abs). In the first example, inertia is set to the motor inertia, but a load has been added, so the setting is
too low. The error plot shows that the motor is behind the expected position on acceleration. In the second example, the inertia
value has been increased too much. The motor moves ahead of its expected position during acceleration. In the third example,
inertia has been set to a reasonably accurate value. The motor follows closely at the beginning of the move.
It is best practice to focus on the error around the rising edge of the motor velocity graph. Start adjusting the inertia in
increments of 0.05 at a time, later switching to smaller increments as you approach your final value. Your graph will look slightly
different than the graphs displayed below due to factors such as motor velocity, encoder count, other PID values being off, etc.
The final inertia value should fall in the range of 0.5 to 0.005.
Figure 6.9.4.1
Low Inertia
Figure 6.9.4.2
High Inertia
Figure 6.9.4.3
Inertia set correctly
Page 78 of 1386.9.4 Inertia Tuning
6.9.5 KP Tuning
The PID Config menu (F1 - Setup, F3 - Config, F4 – PID, then F1 – PID Config) is used to tune the remainder of the
motor control parameters. To adjust, either type in a new value, or use the “Page Up” and “Page Down” keys of your keyboard to
increment or decrement the existing value. Increase Kp until some oscillation is heard or seen on the PID tuning graph. Reduce
the setting below the oscillation point to give some headroom for stability.
The following examples show the effect of Kp. The dark blue line is the motor velocity (V abs) and the red line is position
error (Err Abs). In the first example, Kp is set too low. Large error peaks show where the motor is not following the requested
path. Increasing Kp leads to the second example, where error is low throughout the move. However, there is an increasing
oscillation in the error plot, indicating that the motor will soon become unstable. The third example demonstrates a Kp reduction
to improve stability. The error plot has nearly minimal error achieved during tuning and does not have signs of instability.
Start adjusting the Kp in increments of 1.0 at a time, later switching to smaller increments as you approach your final
value. Your graph will look slightly different than the graphs displayed below due to factors such as motor velocity, encoder count,
motor performance, etc. The final Kp value should fall in the range of 1 to 20.
Figure 6.9.5.1
Low Kp
Figure 6.9.5.2
High Kp (unstable)
Figure 5.9.5.3
Kp set correctly
Page 79 of 1386.9.5 KP Tuning
6.9.6 KD Tuning
After Kp has been adjusted, continue to tuning Kd. The Kd term adds stability to the effects of Kp. If Kp or Kd have been
adjusted far from the default values, a second iteration of the tuning procedure is recommended. Because the two terms are
dependent on each other, a better Kd setting may allow Kp to be adjusted for higher performance.
Incorrect Kd settings create oscillations. A low Kd setting creates low frequency oscillations. As Kd is increased, a high
frequency oscillation will become noticeable. Often the high frequency oscillation will be audible before it is noticeable on the error
plot. The example shows an extreme case of oscillation due to Kd set too high. When Kd is set properly, it will dampen the Kp
contribution, giving a smooth error plot.
Start adjusting the Kd in increments of 1.0 at a time, later switching to smaller increments as you approach your final
value. Your graph will look slightly different than the graphs displayed below due to factors such as motor velocity, encoder count,
motor performance, etc. The final Kd value should fall in the range of 1 to 20.
Figure 6.9.6.2
High Kd
(unstable)
Figure 6.9.6.1
Low Kd
Figure 6.9.6.3
Kd set correctly
Page 80 of 1386.9.6 KD Tuning
6.10 Fine Adjust of DRO Position
This method is also described in Method 2 of Technical Bulletin #36, the latest version can be found here.
(http://www.centroidcnc.com/usersupport/support_files/tbs/tb036.pdf)
For imperial machine configurations the number of motor revolutions required to move 1” must be calculated.
For metric machine configurations the number of mm's travelled during one revolution of the motor must be calculated.
3. Attach a dial indicator: Attach a dial test indicator (also known as a lever arm test indicator or a finger indicator) to
the spindle.
1. NOTE: If you purchased a probe from Centroid, there is an easier method of doing this. Use of the probe will not
be covered in this document.
4. Create a Test Fixture: Create an “L” shaped block of material to act as a reference for measurement as seen in
Figure 6.10.1. The material should be appropriately 6 inches to 12 inches in length. A longer material will give you
better accuracy. The exact length of the “long” part of the “L” needs to be known. A gauge block attached to another
gauge block is recommended. An example test fixture is shown below.
The long part of the “L” is from is guage block measuring 12.000”
Figure 6.10.1
Example test fixture
5. Secure the test fixture Attach the test fixture to your machine so that it runs parallel to the axis being tested.
6. Move the dial indicator into position: Start from away from the block and jog towards the top of the “L”. Set jog
panel mode to incremental when you get close. Move the spindle so that the dial indicator is reading as close to “0”
as possible as demonstrated in Figure 6.10.2.
1. NOTE: Only jog towards the block. If you jog too close and have to back up slightly, backlash will be introduced
into your measurement. In that case you will have to back way up and start again.
Figure 6.10.2
Zeroing the dial indicator
Page81of1386.10 Fine Adjust of DRO Position
7. Zero the software From the main menu, press F1 – Setup → F1 Part → F10 Set Zero as shown below in Figure
6.10.3.
Figure 6.10.3
Setting part zero
8. Raise the spindle: Move the spindle so that it is away from the text fixture. If we are configuring the X or Y axes we
need to the raise the Z-axis.
9. Move to the base of the “L”: Jog towards the base of the “L”. Set jog panel mode to incremental when you get
close. Move the spindle so that the dial indicator is reading as close to “0” as possible as shown in Figure 6.10.4.
1. NOTE: Only jog towards the block. If you jog too close and have to back up slightly, backlash will be introduced
into your measurement. In that case you will have to start the test again.
Figure 6.10.4
Zeroing the dial indicator again
Page82of1386.10 Fine Adjust of DRO Position
10. Calculate Values: Go into the motor parameters menu. From the main menu press F1 -Setup → F3 Config. The
password is 137, Press enter. Press F2Mach → F2Motor.
Figure 6.10.5
Fine adjustment of motor res/in or mm/rev
1. Imperial Units: To calculate the value to be entered in the revs/inch field. Divide the distance moved (DRO
value) by the distance that the axis actually moved. Multiply this result by the current value in the rev/inch field.
This the new value that you will enter in the revs/inch field. If the axis traveled 6”, but the command was 7.5” 7.5/6
= 1.25, if the current revs/inch is 5.000 * 1.25 = 6.25 is the new value to enter in the revs/inch field.
2. Metric Units: To calculate the value to be entered in the mm's/revs field. Divide the distance that the axis actually
moved by the distance commanded (DRO value). Multiply this result by the current value in the mm's/rev field.
This the new value that you will enter in the mm's/rev field. If the axis traveled 150mm”, but the command was
175mm, 150/175 = .85714285, if the current mm's/rev is 5.08 * 0.85714 = 4.35428 is the new value to enter in
the mm's/rev field.
11. Repeat the test as needed until the DRO measures the same as the gauge block.
12. Repeat the test for each axis.
Page 83 of 1386.10 Fine Adjust of DRO Position
6.11 Removing Backlash
This same procedure is outlined in Technical Bulletin #37, the latest version can be found here.
(http://www.centroidcnc.com/usersupport/support_files/tbs/tb037.pdf)
1. Adjust Mechanical Lash: Before configuring the backlash compensation in the control, every effort should be made to
reduce the mechanical lash in your machine to less than 0.001”. The “electronic” backlash compensation provided by the
control will help, especially in point to point moves, but the overall accuracy of your machine is determined purely by the
amount mechanical lash in the machine.
2. Attach a dial indicator: Attach a dial test indicator (also known as a lever arm test indicator or a finger indicator) to the
spindle.
1. NOTE: If you purchased a probe from Centroid, there is an easier method of doing this. Use of the probe will not
be covered in this document.
3. Zero Previous Backlash Values: Enter into the motor parameters menu. ( From the main menu press F1 -Setup → F3
Config. The password is 137, Press enter. Press F2 Mach → F2 Motor. ) Zero out any backlash that was previously
entered into the control.
4. Secure a Test Fixture: Mount a piece of metal to the machine to act as a reference. A gauge block recommended. You
may re-use the test fixture you created for configuring your motors to move the correct distance.
5. Move the dial indicator into position: Start from away from the block and jog towards it. Set jog panel mode to
incremental when you get close. Move the spindle so that the dial indicator is reading as close to “0” as possible as
demonstrated in Figure 6.11.1.
1. NOTE: Only jog towards the block. If you jog too close and have to back up slightly, backlash will be introduced into
your measurement. In that case you will have to back way up and start again.
Figure 6.11.1
Zeroing the dial indicator
Page 84 of 1386.11 Removing Backlash
6. Zero the software From the main menu, press F1 – Setup → F1 Part → F10 Set Zero as shown below in Figure 6.11.2.
Figure 6.11.2
Setting part zero
7. Back the spindle 0.025 away from the gauge block at a feedrate of 0.5 inches per minute. This can be done by using the
MDI menu (F3 from the main menu) and typing “G1 X- 0.025 F0.5” for the X axis.
1. NOTE: Is is important that you use extremely slow feedrates. Faster feedrates will introduce inconsistencies due to
the inertia of the table.
8. Move the axis back to the zero position. Type “G1 X0 F.5” in the MDI screen.
9. Enter the value shown into the “Lash Compensation” section of the motor parameters menu.
Figure 6.11.3
Adjusting backlash compensation
Page 85 of 1386.11 Removing Backlash
6.12 Deadstart
Deadstart is located in the jog parameters menu and has to do with direction reversal of an axis. The deadstart usually
doesn't have to be changed from the default value on a Milling machine. Sometimes very light wood routing tables with very low
friction and low inertia can benefit from a deadstart change along with other "hand tuning." Call in if you have this case.
6.13 Other Misc Tuning Information
Kg, Kv, and Ka in the PID position menu are not used and do not need adjusted. Ki does not need to be adjusted under
most circumstances. After tuning the other values of the PID loop, experimentation with Ki values may sometimes help to reduce
error. Adjust Ki in increments of 0.005, with the final value falling in the range of 0.001 to 0.25.
6.14 Performing a System Test
In some versions of CNC11 software, when finished, the main menu will display a message saying “Machine Setup Not
Completed. Machine Is Not Ready To Run. Contact Your Dealer” as shown below.
At this point you will need to run the System Test to clear this message. Documentation on how to perform a system test is
located here. (http://www.ajaxcnc.com/tech/downloads/manuals/install/Systemtest.pdf)
If the instructions outlined in system test do not apply to your system, contact technical support.
Figure 6.14.1
Machine Requiring a System Test
Page 86 of 1386.12 Deadstart
Appendix A - Windows 8 Preinstallation
The information contained in this procedure is also contained in Technical Bulletin #283, which can be downloaded here
(placeholder)
Required Materials
•Samsung 120GB SSD
•USB or SATA DVD player
•USB mouse
•copy of Windows 8 Home Premium 64-bit
•copy of the latest version of CNC11 software
Instructions for Configuring Windows 8
1.) Install SSD and DVD player into servo PC/console. Make sure to plug the SATA cable from the SSD into SATA0 on the
motherboard. Software MUST be loaded on the system that you are working on. It CANNOT be loaded onto an SSD remotely and
then installed onto the control. Windows does not allow that.
2.) Connect a SHIELDED CAT5/CAT6 Ethernet cable to the on-board Ethernet port and the MPU11.
3.) Power on the MPU11 and servo PC/console.
4.) Insert the Windows 8 DVD and install the Windows software.
5.) Start at the desktop view.
6.) Move your mouse to the right corner of the screen to bring out the side tab and click on the "Settings" button.
Page 87 of 138Appendix A - Windows 8 Preinstallation
7.) Next click on the "ControlPanel"
8.) Go to "Uninstall a Program" directly underneath "Programs”.
9.) Next uninstall any un-necessary programs that might have come from your computer manufacture. Some of these may include
McCaffey Antivirus, various trial offers, etc.
Page 88 of 138Appendix A - Windows 8 Preinstallation
10.) Go back to the main "Control Panel" page and click on "System and Security".
11.) Click on "Windows Update".
12.) Install the Updates. You may need to restart the computer several times.
Page 89 of 138Appendix A - Windows 8 Preinstallation
13.)Keep going until you see the below screen, stating that no more updates are available. Then click on the "Change settings" on
the left side.
14.) From the dropdown under "Important updates" select "Never check for updates" and click OK at the bottom after.
15.) Go back to the Control Panel view and click on "System and Security".
Page 90 of 138Appendix A - Windows 8 Preinstallation
16.) Click on the "Action Center".
17.) Click on "Change User Account Control Settings" and then drag the bar to the "Never notify" at the bottom and click OK.
18.) Next click on "Change Action Center Settings".
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19.) Un-select every checkbox and click OK.
20.) Go back to the main Control Panel page and click on "System and Security".
21.) Click on "Windows Firewall".
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22.) Click on "Turn Windows Firewall on or off" on the left hand side.
23.) Click on the "Turn off Windows Firewall" buttons on both the Private and Public network settings. Click OK at the bottom.
24.) Go back to the Control Panel Main page and click on "System and Security".
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25.) Click on the "System" option.
26.) Click on "DeviceManager" on the left hand side.
27.) Find the "Networkadapters" and click to expand them.
28.) Double-click on any Ethernet cards and the below should be displayed.
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29.)Click on the "PowerManagement" tab and the uncheck all the boxes. Click OK and do the same for any other Ethernet
Cards available.
30.) Go back to the "SystemandSecurity" screen and click on "PowerOptions”.
31.) Click on the circle with and arrow to bring up the "additionalplans" then select "Highperformance" and click "Changeplansettings".
32.) Click on the "Changeadvancedpowersettings".
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33.) Click on the "Change settings that are currently unavailable".
34.) Under "Hard disk" set "Turn off hard disk after" to "Never"
35.) Under the "USB settings" , for "USB selective suspend setting" select "Disabled"
36.) Under "Display" set "Turn off display after" to "Never". Then click "Apply". Than close the open window.
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37.) Press "Ctrl" + "Alt" + "Delete" all at the same time. Select "TaskManager", then click on the more details button.
38.) Next click on the "Startup" tab and click on each Item and then click "Disable" at the bottom. Then close the window.
39.) Click on the "DateandTime" section of the taskbar on the lower right hand corner. Click “Change Date and Time Settings”.
40.) Select the "InternetTime" tab and click on "Changesettings..."
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41.) Uncheck the "Synchronize with an Internet time server" box and click OK.
TIP: If you want to eliminate the scan & fix pop up and autoplay pop up when you plug in your USB stick, you will need to do the
following. To suppress the scan & fix click on the Windows icon and type: msconfig and click on the "Services Tab" then scroll
down and uncheck "Shell Hardware Detection". Click "Apply" then "Ok" and then you will need to power cycle the PC.
TIP: To suppress the autoplay, click on Windows start icon and type: autoplay then uncheck "use AutoPlay for all media and devices" and click "Save".
You may now continue to Section 3.2, CNC11 and PLC Installation.
Page 98 of 138Appendix A - Windows 8 Preinstallation
Appendix B - Windows 7 Preinstallation
This procedure is outlined in Technical Bulletin 244, the latest version can be found here.
(http://www.centroidcnc.com/usersupport/support_files/tbs/tb244.pdf)
Required Materials
•OCZ Vertex Series 30Gb SATA II SSD
•USB or SATA DVD player
•USB mouse
•copy of Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit
•copy of the latest version of CNC11 software
Instructions for Configuring Windows 7
1. Install SSD and DVD player into servo PC/console. Make sure to plug the SATA cable from the SSD into SATA0 on the
motherboard. Software MUST be loaded on the system that you are working on. It CANNOT be loaded onto an SSD
remotely and then installed onto the control. Windows does not allow that.
2. Connect a SHIELDED CAT5/CAT6 Ethernet cable to the on-board Ethernet port and the MPU11 as shown in Section 2.3.
3. Power on the MPU11 and servo PC/console.
4. Insert the Windows 7 DVD and install the Windows software.
5. Using the mouse, right click on the task bar, which is located on the bottom of the screen, and select
“Properties” as shown below.
6. Check the “Auto Hide” option under the “taskbar” tab.
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7. Right click on the “Action Center” icon, which is the green flag that is located on the right side on the task bar.
8. Select “Open Action Center”.
9. Click on “Change Settings”.
Page 100 of 138Appendix B - Windows 7 Preinstallation
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