HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 User Manual

User’s Manual
HEIDENHAIN
Conversational
Programming

TNC 128

NC Software
771841-01
771844-01

English (en)
4/2013

Controls of the TNC

1

50

0

50

100

F %

1

50

0

50

100

S %

Keys on visual display unit

Key Function

Split screen layout

Toggle the display between machining
and programming modes

Soft keys for selecting functions on
screen

Shift between soft-key rows

Machine operating modes

Key Function

Manual Operation

Electronic Handwheel

Positioning with Manual Data Input

Program Run, Single Block

Program/file management, TNC functions

Key Function

Select or delete programs and files,
external data transfer

Define program call, select datum and
point tables

Select MOD functions

Display help text for NC error messages,
call TNCguide

Display all current error messages

Show calculator

Navigation keys

Key Function

Move highlight

Go directly to blocks, cycles and
parameter functions

Programming modes

Key Function

Program Run, Full Sequence

Programming and Editing

Test Run

Potentiometer for feed rate and spindle speed

Feed rate Spindle speed

Cycles, subprograms and program section repeats

Key Function

Define and call cycles

Enter and call labels for subprogramming
and program section repeats

Enter program stop in a program

Tool functions

Key Function

Define tool data in the program

Coordinate axes and numbers: Entering and editing

Key Function

Select coordinate axes or
enter them into the program

Call tool data

Special functions

Key Function

Show special functions

Select the next tab in forms

Up/down one dialog box or button

Numbers

Decimal point / Reverse algebraic sign

Enter incremental dimensions

Q parameter programming /
Q parameter status

Save actual position or values from
calculator

Skip dialog questions, delete words

Confirm entry and resume dialog

Conclude block and exit entry

Clear numerical entry or TNC error
message

Abort dialog, delete program section

About this manual

The symbols used in this manual are described below.

This symbol indicates that important notes about the
function described must be regarded.

This symbol indicates that there is one or more of the
following risks when using the described function:

 Danger to workpiece
 Danger to fixtures
 Danger to tool
 Danger to machine
 Danger to operator

This symbol indicates that the described function must be
adapted by the machine tool builder. The function
described may therefore vary depending on the machine.

This symbol indicates that you can find detailed
information about a function in another manual.

About this manual

Would you like any changes, or have you found any errors?

We are continuously striving to improve our documentation for you.
Please help us by sending your requests to the following e-mail
address: [e-mail].

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 5

TNC model, software and features

This manual describes functions and features provided by TNCs as of
the following NC software numbers.

TNC model NC software number

TNC 128 771841-01

TNC 128 Programming Station 771844-01

The machine tool builder adapts the usable features of the TNC to his
machine by setting machine parameters. Some of the functions
described in this manual may therefore not be among the features
provided by the TNC on your machine tool.

TNC functions that may not be available on your machine include:

 Probing functions for the 3-D touch probe

Please contact your machine tool builder to become familiar with the
features of your machine.

Many machine manufacturers, as well as HEIDENHAIN, offer
programming courses for the TNCs. We recommend these courses as
an effective way of improving your programming skill and sharing
information and ideas with other TNC users.

TNC model, software and features

6

Software options

The TNC 128 features various software options that can be enabled by
your machine tool builder. Each option is to be enabled separately and
contains the following respective functions:

Touch probe function (option number 17)
Touch probe cycles

 Datum setting
 Workpiece measurement

HEIDENHAIN DNC (option number 18)
Communication with external PC applications over COM

component

Additional conversational language (option number 41)
Function for enabling the conversational languages Slovenian,

Slovak, Norwegian, Latvian, Estonian, Korean, Turkish, Romanian,
Lithuanian.

TNC model, software and features

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 7

Feature content level (upgrade functions)

Along with software options, significant further improvements of the
TNC software are managed via the Feature Content Level (FCL)
upgrade functions. Functions subject to the FCL are not available
simply by updating the software on your TNC.

All upgrade functions are available to you without
surcharge when you receive a new machine.

Upgrade functions are identified in the manual with FCL n, where n
indicates the sequential number of the feature content level.

You can purchase a code number in order to permanently enable the
FCL functions. For more information, contact your machine tool
builder or HEIDENHAIN.

Intended place of operation

The TNC complies with the limits for a Class A device in accordance with the specifications in EN 55022, and is intended for use primarily in industrially-zoned areas.

TNC model, software and features

Legal information

This product uses open source software. Further information is
available on the control under

 Programming and Editing operating mode
 MOD function
 LICENSE INFO soft key

8

Contents

First steps with the TNC 128

1

Introduction

2

Programming: Fundamentals,
file management

3

Programming: Programming aids

4

Programming: Tools

5

Programming: Tool movements

6

Programming: Subprograms and program
section repeats

7

Programming: Q parameters

8

Programming: Miscellaneous functions

9

Programming: Special functions

10

Manual operation and setup

11

Positioning with manual data input

12

Test run and program run

13

MOD functions

14

Fundamentals of cycles

15

Drilling, boring and thread cycles

16

Fixed cycles: Pocket milling / stud milling
/ slot milling

17

Cycles: Coordinate transformations

18

Cycles: Special functions

19

Touch probe cycles

20

Tables and overviews

21

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 9

1 First steps with the TNC 128 ..... 35

1.1 Overview ..... 36

1.2 Machine switch-on ..... 37

Acknowledging the power interruption and moving to the reference points ..... 37

1.3 Programming the first part ..... 38

Selecting the correct operating mode ..... 38

The most important TNC keys ..... 38

Creating a new program/file management ..... 39

Defining a workpiece blank ..... 40

Program layout ..... 41

Programming a simple contour ..... 42

Creating a cycle program ..... 45

1.4 Graphically testing the first part ..... 48

Selecting the correct operating mode ..... 48

Selecting the tool table for the test run ..... 48

Choosing the program you want to test ..... 49

Selecting the screen layout and the view ..... 49

Starting the test run ..... 50

1.5 Tool setup ..... 51

Selecting the correct operating mode ..... 51

Preparing and measuring tools ..... 51

The tool table TOOL.T ..... 51

1.6 Workpiece setup ..... 52

Selecting the correct operating mode ..... 52

Clamp the workpiece ..... 52

Datum setting with a 3-D touch probe ..... 53

1.7 Running the first program ..... 54

Selecting the correct operating mode ..... 54

Choosing the program you want to run ..... 54

Starting the program ..... 54

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 11

2 Introduction ..... 55

2.1 The TNC 128 ..... 56

Programming: HEIDENHAIN conversational format ..... 56

Compatibility ..... 56

2.2 Visual display unit and keyboard ..... 57

Visual display unit ..... 57

Setting the screen layout ..... 58

Operating panel ..... 59

2.3 Operating modes ..... 60

Manual Operation and El. Handwheel ..... 60

Positioning with Manual Data Input ..... 60

Programming and Editing ..... 61

Test Run ..... 61

Program Run, Full Sequence and Program Run, Single Block ..... 62

2.4 Status displays ..... 63

"General" status display ..... 63

Additional status displays ..... 64

2.5 Window manager ..... 71

Task bar ..... 72

2.6 Accessories: HEIDENHAIN 3-D touch probes and electronic handwheels ..... 73

3-D touch probes ..... 73

HR electronic handwheels ..... 73

12

3 Programming: Fundamentals, file management ..... 75

3.1 Fundamentals ..... 76

Position encoders and reference marks ..... 76

Reference system ..... 76

Reference system on milling machines ..... 77

Designation of the axes on milling machines ..... 77

Absolute and incremental workpiece positions ..... 78

Setting the datum ..... 79

3.2 Creating and writing programs ..... 80

Organization of an NC program in HEIDENHAIN conversational format ..... 80

Defining the workpiece blank: BLK FORM ..... 80

Creating a new part program ..... 81

Programming tool movements in conversational format ..... 83

Actual position capture ..... 85

Editing a program ..... 86

The TNC search function ..... 90

3.3 File management: Fundamentals ..... 92

Files ..... 92

Showing externally created files on the TNC ..... 94

Data backup ..... 94

3.4 Working with the file manager ..... 95

Directories ..... 95

Paths ..... 95

Overview: Functions of the file manager ..... 96

Calling the file manager ..... 97

Selecting drives, directories and files ..... 98

Creating a new directory ..... 100

Creating a new file ..... 100

Copying a single file ..... 101

Copying files into another directory ..... 102

Copying a table ..... 103

Copying a directory ..... 103

Choosing one of the last files selected ..... 104

Deleting a file ..... 104

Deleting a directory ..... 105

Tagging files ..... 106

Renaming a file ..... 107

File sorting ..... 107

Additional functions ..... 108

Additional tools for management of external file types ..... 109

Data transfer to or from an external data medium ..... 114

The TNC in a network ..... 116

USB devices on the TNC ..... 117

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 13

4 Programming: Programming aids ..... 119

4.1 Screen keyboard ..... 120

Entering text with the screen keyboard ..... 120

4.2 Adding comments ..... 121

Application ..... 121

Adding comments ..... 121

Functions for editing of the comment ..... 121

4.3 Structuring programs ..... 122

Definition and applications ..... 122

Displaying the program structure window / Changing the active window ..... 122

Inserting a structuring block in the (left) program window ..... 122

Selecting blocks in the program structure window ..... 122

4.4 Integrated calculator ..... 123

Operation ..... 123

4.5 Programming graphics ..... 125

Generating / not generating graphics during programming ..... 125

Generating a graphic for an existing program ..... 125

Block number display ON/OFF ..... 126

Erasing the graphic ..... 126

Showing grid lines ..... 126

Magnifying or reducing a detail ..... 126

4.6 Error messages ..... 127

Display of errors ..... 127

Opening the error window ..... 127

Closing the error window ..... 127

Detailed error messages ..... 128

INTERNAL INFO soft key ..... 128

Clearing errors ..... 129

Error log ..... 129

Keystroke log ..... 130

Informational texts ..... 131

Saving service files ..... 131

Calling the TNCguide help system ..... 131

4.7 Context-sensitive help system ..... 132

Application ..... 132

Working with the TNCguide ..... 133

Downloading current help files ..... 137

14

5 Programming: Tools ..... 139

5.1 Entering tool-related data ..... 140

Feed rate F ..... 140

Spindle speed S ..... 141

5.2 Tool data ..... 142

Requirements for tool compensation ..... 142

Tool numbers and tool names ..... 142

Tool length L ..... 142

Tool radius R ..... 142

Delta values for lengths and radii ..... 143

Entering tool data into the program ..... 143

Entering tool data in the table ..... 144

Calling tool data ..... 151

Tool change ..... 152

5.3 Tool compensation ..... 155

Introduction ..... 155

Tool length compensation ..... 155

Tool radius compensation for paraxial positioning blocks ..... 156

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 15

6 Programming: Tool movements ..... 159

6.1 Fundamentals ..... 160

Tool movements in the program ..... 160

Radius compensation ..... 160

Miscellaneous functions M ..... 160

Subprograms and program section repeats ..... 161

Programming with Q parameters ..... 161

6.2 Programming tool movements ..... 162

Programming tool movements for workpiece machining ..... 162

16

7 Programming: Subprograms and program section repeats ..... 165

7.1 Labeling subprograms and program section repeats ..... 166

Labels ..... 166

7.2 Subprograms ..... 167

Operating sequence ..... 167

Programming notes ..... 167

Programming a subprogram ..... 167

Calling a subprogram ..... 167

7.3 Program section repeats ..... 168

Label LBL ..... 168

Operating sequence ..... 168

Programming notes ..... 168

Programming a program section repeat ..... 168

Calling a program section repeat ..... 168

7.4 Separate program as subprogram ..... 169

Operating sequence ..... 169

Programming notes ..... 169

Calling any program as a subprogram ..... 170

7.5 Nesting ..... 171

Types of nesting ..... 171

Nesting depth ..... 171

Subprogram within a subprogram ..... 172

Repeating program section repeats ..... 173

Repeating a subprogram ..... 174

7.6 Programming examples ..... 175

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 17

8 Programming: Q parameters ..... 179

8.1 Principle and overview ..... 180

Programming notes ..... 181

Calling Q-parameter functions ..... 182

8.2 Part families—Q parameters in place of numerical values ..... 183

Application ..... 183

8.3 Describing contours through mathematical operations ..... 184

Application ..... 184

Overview ..... 184

Programming fundamental operations ..... 185

8.4 Trigonometric functions ..... 186

Definitions ..... 186

Programming trigonometric functions ..... 187

8.5 Circle calculations ..... 188

Application ..... 188

8.6 If-then decisions with Q parameters ..... 189

Application ..... 189

Unconditional jumps ..... 189

Programming if-then decisions ..... 190

Abbreviations used: ..... 190

8.7 Checking and changing Q parameters ..... 191

Procedure ..... 191

8.8 Additional functions ..... 192

Overview ..... 192

FN 14: ERROR: Display error messages ..... 193

FN 16: F-PRINT: Formatted output of text and Q-parameter values ..... 198

FN 18: SYS-DATUM READ ..... 202

FN 19: PLC: Transfer values to the PLC ..... 211

FN 20: WAIT FOR: NC and PLC synchronization ..... 211

FN 29: PLC: Transfer values to the PLC ..... 213

FN 37: EXPORT ..... 214

8.9 Accessing tables with SQL commands ..... 215

Introduction ..... 215

A transaction ..... 216

Programming SQL commands ..... 218

Overview of the soft keys ..... 218

SQL BIND ..... 219

SQL SELECT ..... 220

SQL FETCH ..... 223

SQL UPDATE ..... 224

SQL INSERT ..... 224

SQL COMMIT ..... 225

SQL ROLLBACK ..... 225

18

8.10 Entering formulas directly ..... 226

Entering formulas ..... 226

Rules for formulas ..... 228

Programming example ..... 229

8.11 String parameters ..... 230

String processing functions ..... 230

Assigning string parameters ..... 231

Chain-linking string parameters ..... 232

Converting a numerical value to a string parameter ..... 233

Copying a substring from a string parameter ..... 234

Converting a string parameter to a numerical value ..... 235

Checking a string parameter ..... 236

Finding the length of a string parameter ..... 237

Comparing alphabetic priority ..... 238

Reading machine parameters ..... 239

8.12 Preassigned Q parameters ..... 242

Values from the PLC: Q100 to Q107 ..... 242

Active tool radius: Q108 ..... 242

Tool axis: Q109 ..... 243

Spindle status: Q110 ..... 243

Coolant on/off: Q111 ..... 243

Overlap factor: Q112 ..... 243

Unit of measurement for dimensions in the program: Q113 ..... 244

Tool length: Q114 ..... 244

Coordinates after probing during program run ..... 244

Deviation between actual value and nominal value during automatic tool measurement with the TT 130 ..... 245

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 19

9 Programming: Miscellaneous functions ..... 247

9.1 Entering miscellaneous functions M and STOP ..... 248

Fundamentals ..... 248

9.2 Miscellaneous functions for program run control, spindle and coolant ..... 249

Overview ..... 249

9.3 Miscellaneous functions for coordinate data ..... 250

Programming machine-referenced coordinates: M91/M92 ..... 250

Reducing display of a rotary axis to a value less than 360°: M94 ..... 252

9.4 Miscellaneous functions for contouring behavior ..... 253

Feed rate factor for plunging movements: M103 ..... 253

Feed rate in millimeters per spindle revolution: M136 ..... 254

Retraction from the contour in the tool-axis direction: M140 ..... 255

Suppressing touch probe monitoring: M141 ..... 256

20

10 Programming: Special functions ..... 257

10.1 Overview of special functions ..... 258

Main menu for SPEC FCT special functions ..... 258

Program defaults menu ..... 259

Functions for contour and point machining menu ..... 259

Menu for defining various plain-language functions ..... 260

10.2 Freely definable tables ..... 261

Fundamentals ..... 261

Creating a freely definable table ..... 261

Editing the table format ..... 262

Switching between table and form view ..... 264

FN26: TABOPEN: Opening a freely definable table ..... 265

FN 27: TABWRITE: Writing to a freely definable table ..... 266

FN28: TABREAD: Reading a freely definable table ..... 267

10.3 File functions ..... 268

Application ..... 268

Defining file functions ..... 268

10.4 Defining coordinate transformations ..... 269

Overview ..... 269

TRANS DATUM AXIS ..... 269

TRANS DATUM TABLE ..... 270

TRANS DATUM RESET ..... 270

10.5 Creating text files ..... 271

Application ..... 271

Opening and exiting text files ..... 271

Editing texts ..... 272

Deleting and re-inserting characters, words and lines ..... 272

Editing text blocks ..... 273

Finding text sections ..... 274

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 21

11 Manual operation and setup ..... 275

11.1 Switch-on, switch-off ..... 276

Switch-on ..... 276

Switch-off ..... 277

11.2 Moving the machine axes ..... 278

Note ..... 278

Moving the axis using the machine axis direction buttons ..... 278

Incremental jog positioning ..... 279

Traversing with the HR 410 electronic handwheel ..... 280

11.3 Spindle speed S, feed rate F and miscellaneous functions M ..... 281

Function ..... 281

Entering values ..... 281

Changing the spindle speed and feed rate ..... 282

Activating feed-rate limitation ..... 283

11.4 Datum setting without a 3-D touch probe ..... 284

Note ..... 284

Preparation ..... 284

Workpiece presetting with axis keys ..... 285

Datum management with the preset table ..... 286

11.5 Using the 3-D touch probe ..... 291

Overview ..... 291

Functions in touch probe cycles ..... 292

Selecting touch probe cycles ..... 293

Recording measured values from the touch-probe cycles ..... 294

Writing the measured values from touch probe cycles to datum tables ..... 295

Writing the measured values from touch probe cycles to the preset table ..... 296

11.6 Calibrating a 3-D touch probe ..... 297

Introduction ..... 297

Calibrating the effective length ..... 298

Calibrating the effective radius and compensating center offset ..... 299

Displaying calibration values ..... 302

11.7 Datum setting with a 3-D touch probe ..... 303

Overview ..... 303

Datum setting in any axis ..... 303

Circle center as datum ..... 304

Center line as datum ..... 307

Measuring workpieces with a 3-D touch probe ..... 308

Using touch probe functions with mechanical probes or dial gauges ..... 310

22

12 Positioning with manual data input ..... 311

12.1 Programming and executing simple machining operations ..... 312

Positioning with manual data input (MDI) ..... 312

Protecting and erasing programs in $MDI ..... 314

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 23

13 Test run and program run ..... 315

13.1 Graphics ..... 316

Application ..... 316

Setting the speed of the test run ..... 317

Overview of display modes ..... 318

Plan view ..... 318

Projection in 3 planes ..... 319

3-D view ..... 320

Magnifying details ..... 322

Repeating graphic simulation ..... 323

Displaying the tool ..... 323

Measuring the machining time ..... 324

13.2 Showing the workpiece blank in the working space ..... 325

Application ..... 325

13.3 Functions for program display ..... 326

Overview ..... 326

13.4 Test Run ..... 327

Application ..... 327

13.5 Program run ..... 330

Application ..... 330

Running a part program ..... 331

Interrupting machining ..... 332

Moving the machine axes during an interruption ..... 333

Resuming program run after an interruption ..... 334

Mid-program startup (block scan) ..... 335

Returning to the contour ..... 337

13.6 Optional block skip ..... 338

Application ..... 338

Inserting the "/" character ..... 338

Erasing the "/" character ..... 338

13.7 Optional program-run interruption ..... 339

Application ..... 339

24

14 MOD functions ..... 341

14.1 Selecting MOD functions ..... 342

Selecting the MOD functions ..... 342

Changing the settings ..... 342

Exiting the MOD functions ..... 342

Overview of MOD functions ..... 343

14.2 Software numbers ..... 344

Application ..... 344

14.3 Entering code numbers ..... 345

Application ..... 345

14.4 Setting the data interfaces ..... 346

Serial interfaces on the TNC 128 ..... 346

Application ..... 346

Setting the RS-232 interface ..... 346

Setting the baud rate (baudRate) ..... 346

Setting the protocol (protocol) ..... 346

Setting the data bits (dataBits) ..... 347

Parity check (parity) ..... 347

Setting the stop bits (stopBits) ..... 347

Setting the handshake (flowControl) ..... 347

Settings for data transfer with the TNCserver PC software ..... 348

Setting the operating mode of the external device (fileSystem) ..... 348

Software for data transfer ..... 349

14.5 Ethernet interface ..... 351

Introduction ..... 351

Connection possibilities ..... 351

Connecting the control to the network ..... 352

14.6 Position display types ..... 357

Application ..... 357

14.7 Unit of measurement ..... 358

Application ..... 358

14.8 Displaying operating times ..... 359

Application ..... 359

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 25

15 Fundamentals of cycles ..... 361

15.1 Introduction ..... 362

15.2 Available cycle groups ..... 363

Overview of fixed cycles ..... 363

15.3 Working with fixed cycles ..... 364

Machine-specific cycles ..... 364

Defining a cycle using soft keys ..... 365

Defining a cycle using the GOTO function ..... 365

Calling cycles ..... 366

15.4 PATTERN DEF pattern definition ..... 368

Application ..... 368

Entering PATTERN DEF ..... 369

Using PATTERN DEF ..... 369

Defining individual machining positions ..... 370

Defining a single row ..... 371

Defining a single pattern ..... 372

Defining individual frames ..... 373

Defining a full circle ..... 374

Defining a pitch circle ..... 375

15.5 POLAR PATTERN (Cycle 220) ..... 376

Cycle run ..... 376

Please note while programming: ..... 376

Cycle parameters ..... 377

15.6 CARTESIAN PATTERN (Cycle 221) ..... 379

Cycle run ..... 379

Please note while programming: ..... 379

Cycle parameters ..... 380

15.7 Point tables ..... 381

Application ..... 381

Creating a point table ..... 381

Hiding single points from the machining process ..... 382

Selecting a point table in the program ..... 382

Calling a cycle in connection with point tables ..... 383

26

16 Drilling, boring and thread cycles ..... 385

16.1 Fundamentals ..... 386

Overview ..... 386

16.2 CENTERING (Cycle 240) ..... 387

Cycle run ..... 387

Please note while programming: ..... 387

Cycle parameters ..... 388

16.3 DRILLING (Cycle 200) ..... 389

Cycle run ..... 389

Please note while programming: ..... 389

Cycle parameters ..... 390

16.4 REAMING (Cycle 201) ..... 391

Cycle run ..... 391

Please note while programming: ..... 391

Cycle parameters ..... 392

16.5 BORING (Cycle 202) ..... 393

Cycle run ..... 393

Please note while programming: ..... 394

Cycle parameters ..... 395

16.6 UNIVERSAL DRILLING (Cycle 203) ..... 397

Cycle run ..... 397

Please note while programming: ..... 398

Cycle parameters ..... 399

16.7 BACK BORING (Cycle 204) ..... 401

Cycle run ..... 401

Please note while programming: ..... 402

Cycle parameters ..... 403

16.8 UNIVERSAL PECKING (Cycle 205) ..... 405

Cycle run ..... 405

Please note while programming: ..... 406

Cycle parameters ..... 407

16.9 SINGLE-LIP DEEP-HOLE DRILLING (Cycle 241) ..... 409

Cycle run ..... 409

Please note while programming: ..... 409

Cycle parameters ..... 410

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 27

16.10 Programming examples ..... 412

16.11 TAPPING NEW with floating tap holder (Cycle 206) ..... 416

Cycle run ..... 416

Please note while programming: ..... 416

Cycle parameters ..... 417

16.12 RIGID TAPPING without a floating tap holder NEW (Cycle 207) ..... 418

Cycle run ..... 418

Please note while programming: ..... 419

Cycle parameters ..... 420

16.13 Programming example ..... 421

28

17 Fixed cycles: Pocket milling / stud milling / slot milling ..... 425

17.1 Fundamentals ..... 426

Overview ..... 426

17.2 RECTANGULAR POCKET (Cycle 251) ..... 427

Cycle run ..... 427

Please note while programming: ..... 428

Cycle parameters ..... 429

17.3 RECTANGULAR STUD (Cycle 256) ..... 432

Cycle run ..... 432

Please note while programming: ..... 433

Cycle parameters ..... 434

17.4 Programming examples ..... 437

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 29

18 Cycles: Coordinate transformations ..... 441

18.1 Fundamentals ..... 442

Overview ..... 442

Effect of coordinate transformations ..... 442

18.2 DATUM SHIFT (Cycle 7, DIN/ISO: G54) ..... 443

Effect ..... 443

Cycle parameters ..... 443

18.3 DATUM SHIFT with datum tables (Cycle 7) ..... 444

Effect ..... 444

Please note while programming: ..... 445

Cycle parameters ..... 446

Selecting a datum table in the part program ..... 446

Editing the datum table in the Programming and Editing mode of operation ..... 447

Configuring the datum table ..... 448

Exiting a datum table ..... 448

Status displays ..... 448

18.4 DATUM SETTING (Cycle 247) ..... 449

Effect ..... 449

Please note before programming: ..... 449

Cycle parameters ..... 449

Status displays ..... 449

18.5 MIRROR IMAGE (Cycle 8) ..... 450

Effect ..... 450

Please note while programming: ..... 450

Cycle parameters ..... 451

18.6 SCALING FACTOR (Cycle 11) ..... 452

Effect ..... 452

Cycle parameters ..... 452

18.7 AXIS-SPECIFIC SCALING (Cycle 26) ..... 453

Effect ..... 453

Please note while programming: ..... 453

Cycle parameters ..... 454

18.8 Programming examples ..... 455

30

19 Cycles: Special functions ..... 457

19.1 Fundamentals ..... 458

Overview ..... 458

19.2 DWELL TIME (Cycle 9) ..... 459

Function ..... 459

Cycle parameters ..... 459

19.3 PROGRAM CALL (Cycle 12) ..... 460

Cycle function ..... 460

Please note while programming: ..... 460

Cycle parameters ..... 461

19.4 ORIENTED SPINDLE STOP (Cycle 13) ..... 462

Cycle function ..... 462

Please note while programming: ..... 462

Cycle parameters ..... 462

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 31

20 Touch probe cycles ..... 463

20.1 General information about touch probe cycles ..... 464

Method of function ..... 464

Touch probe cycles in the Manual Operation and El. Handwheel modes ..... 464

20.2 Before you start working with touch probe cycles ..... 465

Maximum traverse to touch point: DIST in touch probe table ..... 465

Set-up clearance to touch point: SET_UP in touch probe table ..... 465

Orient the infrared touch probe to the programmed probe direction: TRACK in touch probe table ..... 465

Touch trigger probe, probing feed rate: F in touch probe table ..... 466

Touch trigger probe, rapid traverse for positioning: FMAX ..... 466

Touch trigger probe, rapid traverse for positioning: F_PREPOS in touch probe table ..... 466

Executing touch probe cycles ..... 466

20.3 Touch probe table ..... 467

General information ..... 467

Editing touch probe tables ..... 467

Touch probe data ..... 468

20.4 Fundamentals of tool measurement ..... 469

Overview ..... 469

Setting the machine parameters ..... 471

Entries in the tool table TOOL.T ..... 472

20.5 Calibrating the TT (Cycle 480) ..... 474

Cycle run ..... 474

Please note while programming: ..... 474

Cycle parameters ..... 474

20.6 Calibrating the wireless TT 449 (Cycle 484) ..... 475

Fundamentals ..... 475

Cycle run ..... 475

Please note while programming: ..... 475

Cycle parameters ..... 475

20.7 Measuring the tool length (Cycle 481) ..... 476

Cycle run ..... 476

Please note while programming: ..... 476

Cycle parameters ..... 477

20.8 Measuring the tool radius (Cycle 482) ..... 478

Cycle run ..... 478

Please note while programming: ..... 478

Cycle parameters ..... 479

20.9 Measuring the tool length and radius (Cycle 483) ..... 480

Cycle run ..... 480

Please note while programming: ..... 480

Cycle parameters ..... 481

32

21 Tables and overviews ..... 483

21.1 Machine-specific user parameters ..... 484

Application ..... 484

21.2 Pin layouts and connecting cables for the data interfaces ..... 492

RS-232-C/V.24 interface for HEIDENHAIN devices ..... 492

Non-HEIDENHAIN devices ..... 493

Ethernet interface RJ45 socket ..... 493

21.3 Technical information ..... 494

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 33

34

First steps with the

TNC 128

1.1 Overview

This chapter is intended to help TNC beginners quickly learn to handle
the most important procedures. For more information on a respective
topic, see the section referred to in the text.

The following topics are included in this chapter:

 Machine switch-on

1.1 Overview

 Programming the first part
 Graphically testing the first part
 Tool setup
 Workpiece setup
 Running the first program

36 First steps with the TNC 128

1.2 Machine switch-on

Acknowledging the power interruption and moving to the reference points

Switch-on and crossing the reference points can vary
depending on the machine tool. Your machine manual
provides more detailed information.

 Switch on the power supply for control and machine. The TNC

starts the operating system. This process may take several
minutes. Then the TNC will display the message "Power
interrupted" in the screen header

 Press the CE key: The TNC compiles the PLC

program

 Switch on the control voltage: The TNC checks

operation of the emergency stop circuit and goes into
the reference run mode

 Cross the reference points manually in the displayed

sequence: For each axis press the machine START
button. If you have absolute linear and angle encoders
on your machine there is no need for a reference run

The TNC is now ready for operation in the Manual Operation mode.

Further information on this topic

 Traversing the reference marks: See "Switch-on" on page 276
 Operating modes: See "Programming and Editing" on page 61

1.2 Machine switch-on

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 37

1.3 Programming the first part

Selecting the correct operating mode

You can write programs only in the Programming and Editing mode:

 Press the operating modes key: The TNC goes into

the Programming and Editing mode

Further information on this topic

 Operating modes: See "Programming and Editing" on page 61

The most important TNC keys

Functions for conversational guidance Key

Confirm entry and activate the next dialog
prompt

Ignore the dialog question

1.3 Programming the first part

End the dialog immediately

Abort dialog, discard entries

Soft keys on the screen with which you select
functions appropriate to the active state

Further information on this topic

 Writing and editing programs: See "Editing a program" on page 86
 Overview of keys: See "Controls of the TNC" on page 2

38 First steps with the TNC 128

Creating a new program/file management

 Press the PGM MGT key: The TNC opens the file

manager. The file management of the TNC is
arranged much like the file management on a PC with
the Windows Explorer. The file management enables
you to manipulate data on the TNC hard disk

 Use the arrow keys to select the folder in which you

want to open the new file

 Enter a file name with the extension .H: The TNC then

automatically opens a program and asks for the unit
of measure for the new program

 To select the unit of measure, press the MM or INCH

soft key: The TNC automatically starts the workpiece
blank definition (see "Defining a workpiece blank" on
page 40)

The TNC automatically generates the first and last blocks of the
program. Afterwards you can no longer change these blocks.

Further information on this topic

 File management: See "Working with the file manager" on page 95
 Creating a new program: See "Creating and writing programs" on

page 80

1.3 Programming the first part

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 39

Defining a workpiece blank

Y

X

Z

MAX

MIN

-40

100

100

0

0

Immediately after you have created a new program, the TNC starts the
dialog for entering the workpiece blank definition. Always define the
workpiece blank as a cuboid by entering the MIN and MAX points,
each with reference to the selected reference point.

After you have created a new program, the TNC automatically initiates
the workpiece blank definition and asks for the required data:

 Working plane in graphic: XY?: Enter the active spindle axis. Z is

saved as default setting. Accept with the ENT key

 Workpiece blank def.: minimum X: Enter the smallest X coordinate

of the workpiece blank with respect to the reference point, e.g. 0.
Confirm with the ENT key

 Workpiece blank def.: minimum Y: Smallest Y coordinate of the

workpiece blank with respect to the reference point, e.g. 0. Confirm
with the ENT key

 Workpiece blank def.: minimum Z: Smallest Z coordinate of the

workpiece blank with respect to the reference point, e.g. –40.
Confirm with the ENT key

 Workpiece blank def.: maximum X: Largest X coordinate of the

1.3 Programming the first part

workpiece blank with respect to the reference point, e.g. 100.
Confirm with the ENT key

 Workpiece blank def.: maximum Y: Largest Y coordinate of the

workpiece blank with respect to the reference point, e.g. 100.
Confirm with the ENT key

 Workpiece blank def.: maximum Z: Largest Z coordinate of the

workpiece blank with respect to the reference point, e.g. 0. Confirm
with the ENT key. The TNC concludes the dialog

Example NC blocks

0 BEGIN PGM NEW MM
1 BLK FORM 0.1 Z X+0 Y+0 Z-40
2 BLK FORM 0.2 X+100 Y+100 Z+0
3 END PGM NEW MM

Further information on this topic

 Defining the workpiece blank: (see page 81)

40 First steps with the TNC 128

Program layout

NC programs should be arranged consistently in a similar manner. This
makes it easier to find your place, accelerates programming and
reduces errors.

Recommended program layout for simple, conventional contour
machining

1 Call tool, define tool axis
2 Retract the tool
3 Pre-position the first axis in the working plane in front of the

contour starting point

4 Pre-position the second axis in the working plane next to the

contour starting point

5 In the tool axis, position the tool above the workpiece, or

preposition immediately to workpiece depth. If required, switch on
the spindle/coolant

6 Approach the contour
7 Machine the contour
8 Depart the contour
9 Retract the tool, end the program

Further information on this topic:

 Contour programming: See "Fundamentals" on page 160

Recommended program layout for simple cycle programs
1 Call the tool, define the tool axis
2 Retract the tool
3 Define the machining positions
4 Define the fixed cycle
5 Call the cycle, switch on the spindle/coolant
6 Retract the tool, end the program

Further information on this topic:

 Cycle programming: See "Working with fixed cycles" on page 364.

Example: Layout of contour machining programs

0 BEGIN PGM BSPCONT MM
1 BLK FORM 0.1 Z X... Y... Z...
2 BLK FORM 0.2 X... Y... Z...
3 TOOL CALL 5 Z S5000
4 Z+250 R0 FMAX
5 X... R0 FMAX
6 Y... R0 FMAX
7 Z+10 R0 F3000 M13
...
16 X... R0 FMAX
17 Z+250 R0 FMAX M2
18 END PGM BSPCONT MM

Example: Cycle program layout

0 BEGIN PGM BSBCYC MM
1 BLK FORM 0.1 Z X... Y... Z...
2 BLK FORM 0.2 X... Y... Z...
3 TOOL CALL 5 Z S5000
4 Z+250 R0 FMAX
5 PATTERN DEF POS1( X... Y... Z... ) ...
6 CYCL DEF...
7 CYCL CALL PAT FMAX M13
8 Z+250 R0 FMAX M2
9 END PGM BSBCYC MM

1.3 Programming the first part

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 41

Programming a simple contour

X

Y

95

5

95

5

1

4

2

3

The contour shown to the right is to be milled once to a depth of 5 mm.
You have already defined the workpiece blank. After you have initiated
a dialog through a function key, enter all the data requested by the
TNC in the screen header.

 Call the tool: Enter the tool data. Confirm each of your

entries with the ENT key. Do not forget the tool axis

 Retract the tool: Press the orange Z axis key in order

to retract in the tool axis, and enter the value for the
position to be approached, e.g. 250. Confirm with the
ENT key

 Confirm Radius comp.: R+/R–/no comp? by pressing

the ENT key: Do not activate the radius compensation

 Confirm Feed rate F=? with the ENT key: Move at

rapid traverse (FMAX)

 Confirm the Miscellaneous function M? with the

END key: The TNC saves the entered positioning

1.3 Programming the first part

block

 Preposition the tool in the working plane: Press the

orange X axis key and enter the value for the position
to be approached, e.g. –20

 Confirm Radius comp.: R+/R–/no comp? by pressing

the ENT key: Do not activate the radius compensation

 Confirm Feed rate F=? with the ENT key: Move at

rapid traverse (FMAX)

 Confirm the Miscellaneous function M? with the

END key: The TNC saves the entered positioning
block

 Press the orange Y axis key and enter the value for the

position to be approached, e.g. –20. Confirm with the
ENT key

 Confirm Radius comp.: R+/R–/no comp? by pressing

the ENT key: Do not activate the radius compensation

 Confirm Feed rate F=? with the ENT key: Move at

rapid traverse (FMAX)

 Confirm the Miscellaneous function M? with the

END key: The TNC saves the entered positioning
block

42 First steps with the TNC 128

 Move the tool to workpiece depth: Press the orange Z

axis key and enter the value for the position to be
approached, e.g. –5. Confirm with the ENT key

 Confirm Radius comp.: R+/R–/no comp? by pressing

the ENT key: Do not activate the radius compensation

 Feed rate F=? Enter the positioning feed rate, e.g.

3000 mm/min and confirm with the ENT key

 Miscellaneous function M? Switch on the spindle and

coolant, e.g. M13. Confirm with the END key: The TNC
saves the entered positioning block

 Approach contour point 1: Press the orange X axis key

and enter the value 5 for the position to be
approached

 Tool radius comp: R+/R–/no comp? Select the R– soft

key: The traverse path is decreased by the tool radius

 Feed rate F=? Enter the machining feed rate, e.g. 700

mm/min, and confirm your entry with the END key

 Approach contour point 2: Press the orange Y axis key

and enter the value 95 for the position to be
approached

 Tool radius comp: R+/R–/no comp? Select the R+ soft

key: The traverse path is increased by the tool radius.
Confirm your entry with the END soft key

 Approach contour point 3: Press the orange X axis key

and enter the value 95 for the position to be
approached

 Tool radius comp: R+/R-/no comp? Select the R+ soft

key: The traverse path is increased by the tool radius.
Confirm your entry with the END soft key

 Approach contour point 4: Press the orange Y axis key

and enter the value 5 for the position to be
approached

 Tool radius comp: R+/R-/no comp? Select the R+ soft

key: The traverse path is increased by the tool radius.
Confirm your entry with the END soft key

1.3 Programming the first part

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 43

 Approach contour point 1 and retract the tool: Press

the orange X axis key and enter the value 0 for the
position to be approached

 Tool radius comp: R+/R-/no comp? Select the R+ soft

key: The traverse path is increased by the tool radius.
Confirm your entry with the END soft key

 Retract the tool: Press the orange Z axis key in order

to retract in the tool axis, and enter the value for the
position to be approached, e.g. 250. Confirm with the
ENT key

 Confirm Radius comp.: R+/R–/no comp? by pressing

the ENT key: Do not activate the radius compensation

 Confirm Feed rate F=? with the ENT key: Move at

rapid traverse (FMAX)

 Miscellaneous function M? Enter M2 to end the

program and confirm with the END key: The TNC
saves the entered positioning block

Further information on this topic

 Creating a new program: See "Creating and writing programs" on

1.3 Programming the first part

page 80

 Programmable feed rates: See "Possible feed rate input" on page 84
 Tool radius compensation: See "Tool radius compensation for

paraxial positioning blocks" on page 156

 Miscellaneous functions (M): See "Miscellaneous functions for

program run control, spindle and coolant" on page 249

44 First steps with the TNC 128

Creating a cycle program

X

Y

20

10

100

100

10

90

9080

The holes (depth of 20 mm) shown in the figure at right are to be drilled
with a standard drilling cycle. You have already defined the workpiece
blank.

 Call the tool: Enter the tool data. Confirm each of your

entries with the ENT key. Do not forget the tool axis

 Retract the tool: Press the orange Z axis key in order

to retract in the tool axis, and enter the value for the
position to be approached, e.g. 250. Confirm with the
ENT key

 Confirm Radius comp.: R+/R–/no comp? by pressing

the ENT key: Do not activate the radius compensation

 Confirm Feed rate F=? with the ENT key: Move at

rapid traverse (FMAX)

 Confirm the Miscellaneous function M? with the

END key: The TNC saves the entered positioning
block

 Call the cycle menu

 Display the drilling cycles

 Select the standard drilling cycle 200: The TNC starts

the dialog for cycle definition. Enter all parameters
requested by the TNC step by step and conclude each
entry with the ENT key. In the screen to the right, the
TNC also displays a graphic showing the respective
cycle parameter

1.3 Programming the first part

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 45

 Call the menu for special functions

 Display the functions for point machining

 Select the pattern definition

 Select point entry: Enter the coordinates of the 4

points and confirm each with the ENT key. After
entering the fourth point, save the block with the END
key

 Display the menu for defining the cycle call

 Run the drilling cycle on the defined pattern:
 Confirm Feed rate F=? with the ENT key: Move at

rapid traverse (FMAX)

 Miscellaneous function M? Switch on the spindle and

coolant, e.g. M13. Confirm with the END key: The TNC
saves the entered positioning block

 Retract the tool: Press the orange Z axis key in order

1.3 Programming the first part

to retract in the tool axis, and enter the value for the
position to be approached, e.g. 250. Confirm with the
ENT key

 Confirm Radius comp.: RL/RR/no comp? by pressing

the ENT key: Do not activate the radius compensation

 Confirm Feed rate F=? with the ENT key: Move at

rapid traverse (FMAX)

 Miscellaneous function M? Enter M2 to end the

program and confirm with the END key: The TNC
saves the entered positioning block

46 First steps with the TNC 128

Example NC blocks

0 BEGIN PGM C200 MM
1 BLK FORM 0.1 Z X+0 Y+0 Z-40
2 BLK FORM 0.2 X+100 Y+100 Z+0
3 TOOL CALL 5 Z S4500
4 Z+250 R0 FMAX
5 PATTERN DEF

POS1 (X+10 Y+10 Z+0)
POS2 (X+10 Y+90 Z+0)
POS3 (X+90 Y+90 Z+0)
POS4 (X+90 Y+10 Z+0)

6 CYCL DEF 200 DRILLING

Q200=2 ;SET-UP CLEARANCE
Q201=–20 ;DEPTH
Q206=250 ;FEED RATE FOR PLNGNG
Q202=5 ;PLUNGING DEPTH
Q210=0 ;DWELL TIME AT TOP
Q203=–10 ;SURFACE COORDINATE
Q204=20 ;2ND SET-UP CLEARANCE

Q211=0.2 ;DWELL TIME AT DEPTH
7 CYCL CALL PAT FMAX M13
8 Z+250 R0 FMAX M2
9 END PGM C200 MM

Definition of workpiece blank

Tool call
Retract the tool
Define the machining positions

Define the cycle

1.3 Programming the first part

Spindle and coolant on, call the cycle
Retract the tool, end program

Further information on this topic

 Creating a new program: See "Creating and writing programs" on

page 80

 Cycle programming: See User’s Manual for Cycles

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 47

1.4 Graphically testing the first part

Selecting the correct operating mode

You can test programs only in the Test Run mode:

 Press the Test Run operating mode key: the TNC

switches to that mode

Further information on this topic

 Operating modes of the TNC: See "Operating modes" on page 60
 Testing programs: See "Test Run" on page 327

Selecting the tool table for the test run

You only need to execute this step if you have not activated a tool
table in the Test Run mode.

 Press the PGM MGT key: The TNC opens the file

manager

 Press the SELECT TYPE soft key: The TNC shows a

soft-key menu for selection of the file type to be
displayed

1.4 Graphically testing the first part

 Press the SHOW ALL soft key: The TNC shows all

saved files in the right window

 Move the highlight to the left onto the directories

 Move the highlight to the TNC:\table directory

 Move the highlight to the right onto the files

 Move the highlight to the file TOOL.T (active tool

table) and load with the ENT key: TOOL.T receives
the status S and is therefore active for the test run

 Press the END key: Exit the file manager

Further information on this topic

 Tool management: See "Entering tool data in the table" on page 144
 Testing programs: See "Test Run" on page 327

48 First steps with the TNC 128

Choosing the program you want to test

 Press the PGM MGT key: The TNC opens the file

manager

 Press the LAST FILES soft key: The TNC opens a

pop-up window with the most recently selected files

 Use the arrow keys to select the program that you

want to test. Load with the ENT key

Further information on this topic

 Selecting a program: See "Working with the file manager" on page

95

Selecting the screen layout and the view

 Press the key for selecting the screen layout. The TNC

shows all available alternatives in the soft-key row

 Press the PROGRAM + GRAPHICS soft key: In the

left half of the screen the TNC shows the program; in
the right half it shows the workpiece blank

 Select the desired view via soft key
 Plan view

 Projection in three planes

1.4 Graphically testing the first part

 3-D view

Further information on this topic

 Graphic functions: See "Graphics" on page 316
 Running a test run: See "Test Run" on page 327

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 49

Starting the test run

 Press the RESET + START soft key: The TNC

simulates the active program up to a programmed
break or to the program end

 While the simulation is running, you can use the soft

keys to change views

 Press the STOP soft key: The TNC interrupts the test

run

 Press the START soft key: The TNC resumes the test

run after a break

Further information on this topic

 Running a test run: See "Test Run" on page 327
 Graphic functions: See "Graphics" on page 316
 Adjusting the test speed: See "Setting the speed of the test run" on

page 317

1.4 Graphically testing the first part

50 First steps with the TNC 128

1.5 Tool setup

Selecting the correct operating mode

Tools are set up in the Manual Operation mode:

 Press the Manual Operation operating mode key: the

TNC switches to that mode

Further information on this topic

 Operating modes of the TNC: See "Operating modes" on page 60

Preparing and measuring tools

 Clamp the required tools in their chucks
 When measuring with an external tool presetter: Measure the tools,

note down the length and radius, or transfer them directly to the
machine through a transfer program

 When measuring on the machine: Insert the tool

The tool table TOOL.T

In the tool table TOOL.T (permanently saved under TNC:\TABLE\), save
the tool data such as length and radius, but also further tool-specific
information that the TNC needs to perform its functions.

To enter tool data in the tool table TOOL.T, proceed as follows:

 Display the tool table

1.5 Tool setup

 Edit the tool table: Set the EDITING soft key to ON
 With the upward or downward arrow keys you can

select the tool number that you want to edit

 With the rightward or leftward arrow keys you can

select the tool data that you want to edit

 To exit the tool table, press the END key

Further information on this topic

 Operating modes of the TNC: See "Operating modes" on page 60
 Working with the tool table: See "Entering tool data in the table" on

page 144

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 51

1.6 Workpiece setup

Selecting the correct operating mode

Workpieces are set up in the Manual Operation or El. Handwheel
mode

 Press the Manual Operation operating mode key: the

TNC switches to that mode

Further information on this topic

 Manual Operation mode: See "Moving the machine axes" on page

278

1.6 Workpiece setup

Clamp the workpiece

Mount the workpiece with a fixture on the machine table so that it is
fixed with its edges parallel to the machine axes.

52 First steps with the TNC 128

Datum setting with a 3-D touch probe

 Insert the 3-D touch probe: In the MDI mode, run a TOOL CALL block

containing the tool axis and then return to the Manual Operation
mode

 Select the probing functions: The TNC displays the

available functions in the soft-key row

 Select the function for setting the datum, e.g. Probe

Position

 Position the touch probe near the first touch point on

the first workpiece edge

 Select the probing direction via soft key, e.g. +X
 Press NC start: The touch probe moves in the defined

direction until it contacts the workpiece and then
automatically returns to its starting point

 Then the TNC displays the coordinates of the

measured position

 Set to 0: Press the SET DATUM soft key
 Press the END soft key to close the menu

 Repeat this procedure for all axes, in which you want to set the

datum

Further information on this topic

 Datum setting: See "Datum setting with a 3-D touch probe" on page

303

1.6 Workpiece setup

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 53

1.7 Running the first program

Selecting the correct operating mode

You can run programs either in the Single Block or the Full Sequence
mode:

 Press the operating mode key: The TNC goes into the

Program Run, Single Block mode and the TNC
executes the program block by block. You have to
confirm each block with the NC start key

 Press the Program Run, Full Sequence operating

mode key: The TNC switches to that mode and runs
the program after NC start up to a program
interruption or to the end of the program

Further information on this topic

 Operating modes of the TNC: See "Operating modes" on page 60
 Running programs: See "Program run" on page 330

1.7 Running the first program

Choosing the program you want to run

 Press the PGM MGT key: The TNC opens the file

manager

 Press the LAST FILES soft key: The TNC opens a

pop-up window with the most recently selected files

 If desired, use the arrow keys to select the program

that you want to run. Load with the ENT key

Further information on this topic

 File management: See "Working with the file manager" on page 95

Starting the program

 Press the NC start key: The TNC runs the active

program

Further information on this topic

 Running programs: See "Program run" on page 330

54 First steps with the TNC 128

Introduction

2.1 The TNC 128

The TNC 128 is a workshop-oriented straight cut control that enables
you to program conventional machining operations right at the
machine in an easy-to-use conversational programming language.
They are designed for milling, drilling and boring machines with up to
3 axes. You can also change the angular position of the spindle under
program control.

Keyboard and screen layout are clearly arranged in such a way that the
functions are fast and easy to use.

2.1 The TNC 128

Programming: HEIDENHAIN conversational format

The HEIDENHAIN conversational programming format is an especially
easy method of writing programs. Interactive graphics illustrate the
individual machining steps for programming the contour. Workpiece
machining can be graphically simulated either during or before actual
machining.

You can also enter and test one program while the control is running
another.

Compatibility

Machining programs created on the HEIDENHAIN TNC 124 straight
cut control may not always run on the TNC 128. If NC blocks contain
invalid elements, the TNC will mark them as ERROR blocks when the
file is opened.

56 Introduction

2.2 Visual display unit and

1

3

4

4

5

77

8

2

1

6

9

keyboard

Visual display unit

The TNC is shipped with a 12.1-inch TFT flat-panel display.

1 Header

When the TNC is on, the selected operating modes are shown in
the screen header: the machining mode at the left and the
programming mode at right. The currently active operating mode
is displayed in the larger box, where the dialog prompts and TNC
messages also appear (unless the TNC is showing only graphics).

2 Soft keys

In the footer the TNC indicates additional functions in a soft-key
row. You can select these functions by pressing the keys
immediately below them. The thin bars immediately above the
soft-key row indicate the number of soft-key rows that can be
called with the arrow keys to the right and left. The bar
representing the active soft-key row is highlighted.

3 Soft-key selection keys
4 Shifting between soft-key rows
5 Setting the screen layout
6 Shift key for switchover between machining and programming

modes

7 Soft-key selection keys for machine tool builders
8 Switching the soft-key rows for machine tool builders
9 USB connection

2.2 Visual display unit and keyboard

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 57

Setting the screen layout

You select the screen layout yourself: In the PROGRAMMING AND
EDITING mode of operation, for example, you can have the TNC show
program blocks in the left window while the right window displays
programming graphics. As an alternative, the program can be
displayed in a large window. The available screen windows depend on
the selected operating mode.

To change the screen layout:

Press the screen layout key: The soft-key row shows
the available layout options (see "Operating modes",
page 60)

Select the desired screen layout

2.2 Visual display unit and keyboard

58 Introduction

Operating panel

1

7

5

1

3

2

4

6

8

The TNC 128 is delivered with an integrated keyboard. The figure at
right shows the controls and displays of the keyboard:

1  File management

 Calculator
 MOD function
 HELP function

2 Programming modes
3 Machine operating modes
4 Initiation of programming dialog
5 Arrow keys and GOTO jump command
6 Numerical input and axis selection
7 Navigation keys
8 Machine operating panel

The functions of the individual keys are described on the inside front
cover.

The keys on the operating panel are assigned to machine­dependent functions. Refer to your machine manual.

Machine panel buttons, e.g. NC START or NC STOP, are
described in the manual for your machine tool.

2.2 Visual display unit and keyboard

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 59

2.3 Operating modes

Manual Operation and El. Handwheel

The Manual Operation mode is required for setting up the machine
tool. In this operating mode, you can position the machine axes
manually or by increments and set the datums.

The El. Handwheel mode of operation allows you to move the
machine axes manually with the HR electronic handwheel.

Soft keys for selecting the screen layout (select as described
previously)

Window Soft key

2.3 Operating modes

Positions

Left: positions, right: status display

Positioning with Manual Data Input

This mode of operation is used for programming simple traversing
movements, such as for face milling or prepositioning.

Soft keys for selecting the screen layout

Window Soft key

Program

Left: program blocks, right: status display

60 Introduction

Programming and Editing

In this mode of operation you can write your part programs. The
various cycles and Q-parameter functions help you with programming
and adding necessary information. If desired, you can have the
programming graphics show the programmed paths of traverse.

Soft keys for selecting the screen layout

Window Soft key

Program

Left: program, right: program structure

Left: program blocks, right: graphics

Test Run

In the Test Run mode of operation, the TNC checks programs and
program sections for errors, such as geometrical incompatibilities,
missing or incorrect data within the program or violations of the
working space. This simulation is supported graphically in different
display modes.

Soft keys for selecting the screen layout: see "Program Run, Full
Sequence and Program Run, Single Block", page 62.

2.3 Operating modes

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 61

Program Run, Full Sequence and Program Run, Single Block

In the Program Run, Full Sequence mode of operation the TNC
executes a part program continuously to its end or to a manual or
programmed stop. You can resume program run after an interruption.

In the Program Run, Single Block mode of operation you execute each
block separately by pressing the machine START button.

Soft keys for selecting the screen layout

Window Soft key

Program

2.3 Operating modes

Left: program, right: program structure

Left: program, right: status

Left: program, right: graphics

Graphics

62 Introduction

2.4 Status displays

ACTL.

X Y Z

F S M

"General" status display

The status display in the lower part of the screen informs you of the
current state of the machine tool. It is displayed automatically in the
following modes of operation:

 Program Run, Single Block and Program Run, Full Sequence, except

if the screen layout is set to display graphics only, and

 Positioning with Manual Data Input (MDI).

In the Manual Operation and El. Handwheel modes the status display
appears in the large window.

Information in the status display

Symbol Meaning

Actual or nominal coordinates of the current position

Machine axes; the TNC displays auxiliary axes in
lower-case letters. The sequence and quantity of
displayed axes is determined by the machine tool
builder. Refer to your machine manual for more
information

The displayed feed rate in inches corresponds to one
tenth of the effective value. Spindle speed S, feed
rate F and active M functions

2.4 Status displays

Axis is clamped

Axis can be moved with the handwheel

No active program

Program run has started

Program run is stopped

Program run is being aborted

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 63

Additional status displays

The additional status displays contain detailed information on the
program run. They can be called in all operating modes except for the
Programming and Editing mode of operation.

To switch on the additional status display:

Call the soft-key row for screen layout

2.4 Status displays

To select an additional status display:

The available status displays described below can be selected either
directly by soft key or with the switch-over soft keys.

Select the screen layout with additional status
display: In the right half of the screen, the TNC shows
the Overview status form

Switch the soft-key rows until the STATUS soft keys
appear

Either select the additional status display directly by
soft key, e.g. positions and coordinates, or

use the switch-over soft keys to select the desired
view

Please note that some of the status information described
below is not available unless the associated software
option is enabled on your TNC.

64 Introduction

Overview

After switch-on, the TNC displays the Overview status form, provided
that you have selected the PROGRAM+STATUS screen layout (or
POSITION + STATUS). The overview form contains a summary of the
most important status information, which you can also find on the
various detail forms.

Soft key Meaning

Position display

Tool information

Active M functions

Active coordinate transformations

Active subprogram

Active program section repeat

Program called with PGM CALL

Current machining time

Name of the active main program

General program information (PGM tab)

Soft key Meaning

No direct
selection
possible

Name of the active main program

Dwell time counter

Machining time when the program was
completely simulated in the Test Run operating
mode

Current time

2.4 Status displays

Active programs

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 65

Program section repeat/Subprograms (LBL tab)

Soft key Meaning

No direct
selection
possible

Information on standard cycles (CYC tab)

2.4 Status displays

Soft key Meaning

No direct
selection
possible

Active program section repeats with block
number, label number, and number of
programmed repeats/repeats yet to be run

Active subprogram numbers with block number in
which the subprogram was called and the label
number that was called

Active machining cycle

66 Introduction

Active miscellaneous functions M (M tab)

Soft key Meaning

No direct
selection
possible

List of the active M functions with fixed meaning

List of the active M functions that are adapted by
your machine manufacturer

2.4 Status displays

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 67

Positions and coordinates (POS tab)

Soft key Meaning

Type of position display, e.g. actual position

Information on tools (TOOL tab)

Soft key Meaning

 T: Tool number and name
 RT: Number and name of a replacement tool

2.4 Status displays

Tool axis

Tool length and radii

Oversizes (delta values) from the tool table (TAB) and
the TOOL CALL (PGM)

Tool life, maximum tool life (TIME 1) and maximum
tool life for TOOL CALL (TIME 2)

Display of the active tool and the (next) replacement
tool

68 Introduction

Tool measurement (TT tab)

The TNC displays the TT tab only if the function is active
on your machine.

Soft key Meaning

No direct
selection
possible

Number of the tool to be measured

Display whether the tool radius or the tool length
is being measured

MIN and MAX values of the individual cutting
edges and the result of measuring the rotating
tool (DYN = dynamic measurement)

Cutting edge number with the corresponding
measured value. If the measured value is
followed by an asterisk, the permissible tolerance
in the tool table was exceeded

Coordinate transformations (TRANS tab)

Soft key Meaning

Name of the active datum table

Active datum number (#), comment from the
active line of the active datum number (DOC) from
Cycle 7

Active datum shift (Cycle 7); The TNC displays an
active datum shift in up to 8 axes

Mirrored axes (Cycle 8)

Active scaling factor/factors (Cycles 11 / 26); The
TNC displays an active scaling factor in up to 6
axes

2.4 Status displays

Scaling datum

For further information, refer to the User's Manual for Cycles,
"Coordinate Transformation Cycles."

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 69

Displaying Q parameters (QPARA tab)

Soft key Meaning

Display the current values of the defined Q
parameters

Display the character strings of the defined string
parameters

Press the Q PARAMETER LIST soft key. The TNC opens a

2.4 Status displays

pop-up window in which you can enter the desired range
for display of the Q parameters or string parameters.
Multiple Q parameters are entered separated by commas
(e.g. Q 1,2,3,4). To define display ranges, enter a hyphen
(e.g. Q 10-14).

70 Introduction

2.5 Window manager

The machine tool builder determines the scope of function
and behavior of the window manager. The machine
manual provides further information.

The TNC features the Xfce window manager. Xfce is a standard
application for UNIX-based operating systems, and is used to manage
graphical user interfaces. The following functions are possible with the
window manager:

 Display a task bar for switching between various applications (user

interfaces).

 Manage an additional desktop, on which special applications from

your machine tool builder can run.

 Control the focus between NC-software applications and those of

the machine tool builder.

 The size and position of pop-up windows can be changed. It is also

possible to close, minimize and restore the pop-up windows.

The TNC shows a star in the upper left of the screen if an
application of the window manager or the window
manager itself has caused an error. In this case, switch to
the window manager and correct the problem. If required,
refer to your machine manual.

2.5 Window manager

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 71

Task bar

In the task bar you can choose different workspaces by mouse click.
The TNC provides the following workspaces:

 Workspace 1: Active mode of operation
 Workspace 2: Active programming mode
 Workspace 3: Manufacturer's applications (optionally available)

In the task bar you can also select other applications that you have
started together with the TNC (switch for example to the PDF viewer
or TNCguide).

Click the green HEIDENHAIN symbol to open a menu in which you can
get information, make settings or start applications. The following
functions are available:

2.5 Window manager

 About Xfce: Information on the Windows manager Xfce
 About HEROS: Information about the operating system of the TNC
 NC Control: Start and stop the TNC software. Only permitted for

diagnostic purposes

 Web Browser: Start Mozilla Firefox
 Diagnostics: Available only to authorized specialists to start

diagnostic functions

 Settings: Configuration of miscellaneous settings

 Date/Time: Set the date and time
 Language: Language setting for the system dialogs. During startup

the TNC overwrites this setting with the language setting of MP
7230

 Network: Network setting
 Reset WM-Conf: Restore basic settings of the Windows Manager.

May also reset settings implemented by your machine
manufacturer

 Screensaver: Settings for the screen saver; several are available
 Shares: Configure network connections

 Tools: Only for authorized users. The applications available under

tools can be started directly by selecting the pertaining file type in
the file management of the TNC (see "File management:
Fundamentals" on page 92)

72 Introduction

2.6 Accessories: HEIDENHAIN 3-D
touch probes and electronic
handwheels

3-D touch probes

The various HEIDENHAIN 3-D touch probes enable you to:

 Quickly and precisely set datums
 Measure the workpiece

TS 220 and KT 130 touch trigger probes

These touch probes are particularly effective for datum setting and
workpiece measurement. The TS 220 and KT 130 touch probes
transmit the triggering signals to the TNC via cable.

Principle of operation: HEIDENHAIN triggering touch probes feature a
wear resisting optical switch that generates an electrical signal as
soon as the stylus is deflected. This signal is transmitted to the
control, which stores the current position of the stylus as the actual
value.

HR electronic handwheels

Electronic handwheels facilitate moving the axis slides precisely by
hand. A wide range of traverses per handwheel revolution is available.
Apart from the HR 130 and HR 150 panel-mounted handwheels,
HEIDENHAIN also offers the HR 410 portable handwheel.

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 73

2.6 Accessories: HEIDENHAIN 3-D touch probes and electronic handwheels

2.6 Accessories: HEIDENHAIN 3-D touch probes and electronic handwheels

74 Introduction

Programming:

Fundamentals,

file management

3.1 Fundamentals

Y

X

Z

X (Z,Y)

X

MP

Y

X

Z

Position encoders and reference marks

The machine axes are equipped with position encoders that register
the positions of the machine table or tool. Linear axes are usually
equipped with linear encoders, rotary tables and tilting axes with angle
encoders.

When a machine axis moves, the corresponding position encoder
generates an electrical signal. The TNC evaluates this signal and
calculates the precise actual position of the machine axis.

3.1 Fundamentals

If there is a power interruption, the calculated position will no longer
correspond to the actual position of the machine slide. To recover this
association, incremental position encoders are provided with
reference marks. The scales of the position encoders contain one or
more reference marks that transmit a signal to the TNC when they are
crossed over. From that signal the TNC can re-establish the
assignment of displayed positions to machine positions. For linear
encoders with distance-coded reference marks, the machine axes
need to move by no more than 20 mm, for angle encoders by no more
than 20°.

With absolute encoders, an absolute position value is transmitted to
the control immediately upon switch-on. In this way the assignment
of the actual position to the machine slide position is re-established
directly after switch-on.

Reference system

A reference system is required to define positions in a plane or in
space. The position data are always referenced to a predetermined
point and are described through coordinates.

The Cartesian coordinate system (a rectangular coordinate system) is
based on the three coordinate axes X, Y and Z. The axes are mutually
perpendicular and intersect at one point called the datum. A
coordinate identifies the distance from the datum in one of these
directions. A position in a plane is thus described through two
coordinates, and a position in space through three coordinates.

Coordinates that are referenced to the datum are referred to as
absolute coordinates. Relative coordinates are referenced to any other
known position (reference point) you define within the coordinate
system. Relative coordinate values are also referred to as incremental
coordinate values.

76 Programming: Fundamentals, file management

Reference system on milling machines

+X

+Y

+Z

+X

+Z

+Y

W+

C+

B+

V+

A+

U+

Y

X

Z

When using a milling machine, you orient tool movements to the
Cartesian coordinate system. The illustration at right shows how the
Cartesian coordinate system describes the machine axes. The figure
illustrates the right-hand rule for remembering the three axis
directions: the middle finger points in the positive direction of the tool
axis from the workpiece toward the tool (the Z axis), the thumb points
in the positive X direction, and the index finger in the positive Y
direction.

The TNC 128 can control up to 4 axes optionally. The axes U, V and W
are secondary linear axes parallel to the main axes X, Y and Z,
respectively. Rotary axes are designated as A, B and C. The illustration
at lower right shows the assignment of secondary axes and rotary
axes to the main axes.

Designation of the axes on milling machines

The X, Y and Z axes on your milling machine are also referred to as tool
axis, principal axis (1st axis) and secondary axis (2nd axis). The
assignment of the tool axis is decisive for the assignment of the
principal and secondary axes.

Tool axis Principal axis Secondary axis

XYZ

YZX

3.1 Fundamentals

ZXY

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 77

Absolute and incremental workpiece positions

X

Y

2

1

3

10 30 50

10

20

30

X

Y

20

10 10

20

10

5

4

6

10

Absolute workpiece positions

Absolute coordinates are position coordinates that are referenced to
the datum of the coordinate system (origin). Each position on the
workpiece is uniquely defined by its absolute coordinates.

Example 1: Holes dimensioned in absolute coordinates
Hole 1 Hole 2 Hole 3

X = 10 mm X = 30 mm X = 50 mm
Y = 10 mm Y = 20 mm Y = 30 mm

3.1 Fundamentals

Incremental workpiece positions

Incremental coordinates are referenced to the last programmed
nominal position of the tool, which serves as the relative (imaginary)
datum. When you write an NC program in incremental coordinates,
you thus program the tool to move by the distance between the
previous and the subsequent nominal positions. This is why they are
also referred to as chain dimensions.

To program a position in incremental coordinates, enter the prefix "I"
before the axis.

Example 2: Holes dimensioned in incremental coordinates
Absolute coordinates of hole 4
X = 10 mm

Y = 10 mm
Hole 5, with respect to 4 Hole 6, with respect to 5

X = 20 mm X = 20 mm
Y = 10 mm Y = 10 mm

78 Programming: Fundamentals, file management

Setting the datum

Y

X

Z

MAX

MIN

X

Y

325

320

0

450 900

950

150

-150

750

0

300

±

0,1

21

3 4

7
6

5

A production drawing identifies a certain form element of the
workpiece, usually a corner, as the absolute datum. When setting the
datum, you first align the workpiece along the machine axes, and then
move the tool in each axis to a defined position relative to the
workpiece. Set the display of the TNC either to zero or to a known
position value for each position. This establishes the reference system
for the workpiece, which will be used for the TNC display and your part
program.

If the production drawing is dimensioned in relative coordinates,
simply use the coordinate transformation cycles (see User’s Manual
for Cycles, Cycles for Coordinate Transformation).

If the production drawing is not dimensioned for NC, set the datum at
a position or corner on the workpiece from which the dimensions of
the remaining workpiece positions can be most easily measured.

The fastest, easiest and most accurate way of setting the datum is by
using a 3-D touch probe from HEIDENHAIN. See "Setting the Datum
with a 3-D Touch Probe" in the Touch Probe Cycles User’s Manual.

Example

The workpiece drawing shows holes (1 to 4) whose dimensions are
shown with respect to an absolute datum with the coordinates X=0
Y=0. Holes 5 to 7 are dimensioned with respect to a relative datum
with the absolute coordinates X=450, Y=750. With the DATUM SHIFT
cycle you can temporarily set the datum to the position X=450, Y=750,
to be able to program holes 5 to 7 without further calculations.

3.1 Fundamentals

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 79

3.2 Creating and writing programs

10 X+10 R+ F100 M3

Block number

Words

Block

Organization of an NC program in HEIDENHAIN conversational format

A part program consists of a series of program blocks. The figure at
right illustrates the elements of a block.

The TNC numbers the blocks in ascending sequence.
The first block of a program is identified by BEGIN PGM, the program

name and the active unit of measure.
The subsequent blocks contain information on:

 The workpiece blank
 Tool calls
 Approaching a safe position
 Feed rates and spindle speeds, as well as
 Path contours, cycles and other functions

The last block of a program is identified by END PGM, the program name
and the active unit of measure.

3.2 Creating and writing programs

Defining the workpiece blank: BLK FORM

Immediately after initiating a new program, you define a cuboid
workpiece blank. If you wish to define the blank at a later stage, press
the SPEC FCT key, the PROGRAM DEFAULTS soft key, and then the
BLK FORM soft key. This definition is needed for the TNC’s graphic
simulation feature. The sides of the workpiece blank lie parallel to the
X, Y and Z axes and can be up to 100 000 mm long. The workpiece
blank is defined by two of its corner points:

 MIN point: the smallest X, Y and Z coordinates of workpiece blank,

entered as absolute values

 MAX point: the largest X, Y and Z coordinates of the workpiece

blank, entered as absolute or incremental values

After each tool call, HEIDENHAIN recommends always
traversing to a safe position from which the TNC can
position the tool for machining without causing a collision!

You only need to define the workpiece blank if you wish
to run a graphic test for the program!

80 Programming: Fundamentals, file management

Creating a new part program

You always enter a part program in the Programming and Editing
mode of operation. An example of program initiation:

Select the Programming and Editing operating mode

Press the PGM MGT key to call the file manager

Select the directory in which you wish to store the new program:

FILE NAME = ALT.H

Enter the new program name and confirm your entry
with the ENT key

Select the unit of measure: Press the MM or INCH
soft key. The TNC switches the screen layout and
initiates the dialog for defining the BLK FORM
(workpiece blank)

WORKING PLANE IN GRAPHIC: XY

3.2 Creating and writing programs

Enter spindle axis, e.g. Z

WORKPIECE BLANK DEF.: MINIMUM

Enter in sequence the X, Y and Z coordinates of the
MIN point and confirm each of your entries with the
ENT key

WORKPIECE BLANK DEF.: MAXIMUM

Enter in sequence the X, Y and Z coordinates of the
MAX point and confirm each of your entries with the
ENT key

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 81

Example: Display the BLK form in the NC program

0 BEGIN PGM NEW MM
1 BLK FORM 0.1 Z X+0 Y+0 Z-40
2 BLK FORM 0.2 X+100 Y+100 Z+0
3 END PGM NEW MM

The TNC generates the block numbers as well as the BEGIN and END
blocks automatically.

If you do not wish to define a blank form, cancel the dialog
at Working plane in graphic: XY by pressing the DEL
key.

The TNC can display the graphics only if the shortest side
is at least 50 µm long and the longest side is no longer
than 99 999.999 mm.

3.2 Creating and writing programs

Program begin, name, unit of measure
Spindle axis, MIN point coordinates
MAX point coordinates
Program end, name, unit of measure

82 Programming: Fundamentals, file management

Programming tool movements in conversational

10

format

To program a block, initiate the dialog by pressing an axis key. In the
screen header, the TNC then asks you for all the information
necessary to program the desired function.

Example of a positioning block

Open

COORDINATES?

Enter the target coordinate for the X axis

TOOL RADIUS COMP: R+/R–/NO COMP?

Enter "No radius compensation" and go to the next
question with ENT

FEED RATE F=? / F MAX = ENT

Enter a feed rate of 100 mm/min for this path contour;
go to the next question with ENT

MISCELLANEOUS FUNCTION M?

Enter the miscellaneous function M3 "spindle ON."
Pressing the ENT key terminates this dialog

The program-block window displays the following line:

3 X+10 R0 F100 M3

3.2 Creating and writing programs

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 83

Possible feed rate input

Functions for setting the feed rate Soft key

Rapid traverse, non-modal. Exception.

Traverse feed rate automatically calculated in

TOOL CALL

Move at the programmed feed rate (unit of
measure is mm/min or 1/10 inch/min). With
rotary axes, the TNC interprets the feed rate in
degrees/min, regardless of whether the program
is written in mm or inches

Define the feed per revolution (units in mm/rev or
inch/rev). Caution: In inch-programs, FU cannot
be combined with M136

Define the tooth feed (units in mm/tooth or
inch/tooth). The number of teeth must be defined
in the tool table in the CUT. column

Functions for conversational guidance Key

3.2 Creating and writing programs

Ignore the dialog question

End the dialog immediately

Abort the dialog and erase the block

84 Programming: Fundamentals, file management

Actual position capture

The TNC enables you to transfer the current tool position into the
program, for example during

 Positioning-block programming
 Cycle programming

To transfer the correct position values, proceed as follows:

 Place the input box at the position in the block where you want to

insert a position value

 Select the actual-position-capture function: In the

soft-key row the TNC displays the axes whose
positions can be transferred

 Select the axis: The TNC writes the current position of

the selected axis into the active input box

In the working plane the TNC always captures the
coordinates of the tool center, even though tool radius
compensation is active.

In the tool axis the TNC always captures the coordinates
of the tool tip and thus always takes the active tool length
compensation into account.

The TNC keeps the soft-key row for axis selection active
until you deactivate it by pressing the actual-position­capture key again. This behavior remains in effect even if
you save the current block and open a new one with a path
function key. If you select a block element in which you
must choose an input alternative via soft key (e.g. for
radius compensation), then the TNC also closes the
soft-key row for axis selection.

3.2 Creating and writing programs

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 85

Editing a program

You cannot edit a program while it is being run by the TNC
in a machine operating mode.

While you are creating or editing a part program, you can select any
desired line in the program or individual words in a block with the
arrow keys or the soft keys:

Function Soft key/Keys

Go to previous page

Go to next page

Go to beginning of program

Go to end of program

Change the position of the current block on

3.2 Creating and writing programs

the screen. Press this soft key to display
additional program blocks that are
programmed before the current block

Change the position of the current block on
the screen. Press this soft key to display
additional program blocks that are
programmed after the current block

Move from one block to the next

Select individual words in a block

To select a certain block, press the GOTO key,
enter the desired block number, and confirm
with the ENT key. Or: Enter the block number
step and press the N LINES soft key to jump
over the entered number of lines upward or
downward

86 Programming: Fundamentals, file management

Function Soft key/Key

Set the selected word to zero

Erase an incorrect number

Clear a (non-blinking) error message

Delete the selected word

Delete the selected block

Erase cycles and program sections

Insert the block that you last edited or deleted

Inserting blocks at any desired location

 Select the block after which you want to insert a new block and

initiate the dialog

Editing and inserting words

 Select a word in a block and overwrite it with the new one. The

plain-language dialog is available while the word is highlighted

 To accept the change, press the END key

If you want to insert a word, press the horizontal arrow key repeatedly
until the desired dialog appears. You can then enter the desired value.

3.2 Creating and writing programs

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 87

Looking for the same words in different blocks

To use this function, set the AUTO DRAW soft key to OFF.

Select a word in a block: Press the arrow keys
repeatedly until the highlight is on the desired word

Select a block with the arrow keys

The word that is highlighted in the new block is the same as the one
you selected previously.

If you have started a search in a very long program, the
TNC shows a progress display window. You then have the
option of canceling the search via soft key.

Finding any text

 Select the search function: Press the FIND soft key. The TNC

displays the Find text: dialog prompt

 Enter the text that you wish to find

3.2 Creating and writing programs

 To find the text, press the FIND soft key

88 Programming: Fundamentals, file management

Marking, copying, deleting and inserting program sections

The TNC provides certain functions for copying program sections
within an NC program or into another NC program—see the table
below.

To copy a program section, proceed as follows:

 Select the soft-key row containing the marking functions
 Select the first (last) block of the section you wish to copy
 To mark the first (last) block, press the SELECT BLOCK soft key. The

TNC then highlights the first character of the block and the CANCEL
SELECTION soft key appears

 Move the highlight to the last (first) block of the program section you

wish to copy or delete. The TNC shows the marked blocks in a
different color. You can end the marking function at any time by
pressing the CANCEL SELECTION soft key

 To copy the selected program section, press the COPY BLOCK soft

key. To delete the selected section, press the DELETE BLOCK soft
key. The TNC stores the selected block

 Using the arrow keys, select the block after which you wish to insert

the copied (deleted) program section

To insert the section into another program, select the
corresponding program using the file manager and then
mark the block after which you wish to insert the copied
block.

 To insert the block, press the INSERT BLOCK soft key
 To end the marking function, press the CANCEL SELECTION soft

key

3.2 Creating and writing programs

Function Soft key

Switch the marking function on

Switch the marking function off

Delete the marked block

Insert the block that is stored in the buffer
memory

Copy the marked block

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 89

The TNC search function

+40

The search function of the TNC enables you to search for any text
within a program and replace it by a new text, if required.

Finding any text

 If required, select the block containing the word you wish to find

 Select the search function: The TNC superimposes

the search window and displays the available search
functions in the soft-key row (see table of search
functions)

 Enter the text to be searched for. Please note that the

search is case-sensitive

 Start the search process: The TNC moves to the next

block containing the text you are searching for

 Repeat the search process: The TNC moves to the

next block containing the text you are searching for

 End the search function

3.2 Creating and writing programs

90 Programming: Fundamentals, file management

Finding/Replacing any text

The find/replace function is not possible if

 a program is protected
 the program is currently being run by the TNC

When using the REPLACE ALL function, ensure that you
do not accidentally replace text that you do not want to
change. Once replaced, such text cannot be restored.

 If required, select the block containing the word you wish to find

 Select the Search function: The TNC superimposes

the search window and displays the available search
functions in the soft-key row

 Enter the text to be searched for. Please note that the

search is case-sensitive. Then confirm with the ENT
key

 Enter the text to be inserted. Please note that the

entry is case-sensitive

 Start the search process: The TNC moves to the next

occurrence of the text you are searching for

 To replace the text and then move to the next

occurrence of the text, press the REPLACE soft key.
To replace all text occurrences, press the REPLACE
ALL soft key. To skip the text and move to its next
occurrence press the FIND soft key

 End the search function

3.2 Creating and writing programs

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 91

3.3 File management:
Fundamentals

Files

Files in the TNC Ty p e
Programs

In HEIDENHAIN format
In DIN/ISO format

.H
.I

Tables for

Tools
Tool changers
Pallets
Datums
Points
Presets
Touch probes
Backup files
Dependent data (such as structure items)

Texts as

ASCII files
Log files

3.3 File management: Fundamentals

Help files

When you write a part program on the TNC, you must first enter a
program name. The TNC saves the program to the internal memory of
the control as a file with the same name. The TNC can also save texts
and tables as files.

The TNC provides a special file management window in which you can
easily find and manage your files. Here you can call, copy, rename and
erase files.

You can create folder structures in the TNC so that you can manage
your files. The memory available in the control is 2GB.

Depending on the setting, the TNC generates a backup file
(*.bak) after editing and saving of NC programs. This can
reduce the memory space available to you.

.T
.TCH
.P
.D
.PNT
.PR
.TP
.BAK
.DEP

.A
.TXT
.CHM

92 Programming: Fundamentals, file management

File names

When you store programs, tables and texts as files, the TNC adds an
extension to the file name, separated by a point. This extension
indicates the file type.

PROG20 .H
File name File type

File names should not exceed 25 characters, otherwise the TNC
cannot display the entire file name.

File names on the TNC must comply with this standard: The Open
Group Base Specifications Issue 6 IEEE Std 1003.1, 2004 Edition
(Posix-Standard). Accordingly, the file names may include the
characters below:

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z a b c d e f g h i
j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 . _ -

You should not use any other characters in file names in order to
prevent any file transfer problems.

The maximum limit for the path and file name together is
82 characters (see "Paths" on page 95).

3.3 File management: Fundamentals

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 93

Showing externally created files on the TNC

The TNC features several additional tools which you can use to display
the files shown in the table below. Some of the files can also be
edited.

File types Ty p e

PDF files
Excel tables

Internet files

pdf
xls
csv
html

Text files txt

Graphics files bmp

For further information about displaying and editing the listed file
types: See "Additional tools for management of external file types" on
page 109.

ini

gif
jpg
png

Data backup

3.3 File management: Fundamentals

We recommend saving newly written programs and files on a PC at
regular intervals.

The TNCremoNT data transmission freeware from HEIDENHAIN is a
simple and convenient method for backing up data stored on the TNC.

You additionally need a data medium on which all machine-specific
data, such as the PLC program, machine parameters, etc., are stored.
Ask your machine manufacturer for assistance, if necessary.

Saving the contents of the entire hard disk can take up to
several hours. In this case, it is a good idea to save the
data outside of work hours, e.g. during the night.

Take the time occasionally to delete any unneeded files so
that the TNC always has enough hard-disk space for
system files (such as the tool table).

Depending on operating conditions (e.g., vibration load),
hard disks generally have a higher failure rate after three to
five years of service. HEIDENHAIN therefore
recommends having the hard disk inspected after three to
five years.

94 Programming: Fundamentals, file management

3.4 Working with the file manager

TNC:\

AUFTR1

NCPROG

WZTAB

A35K941

ZYLM

TESTPROG

HUBER

KAR25T

Directories

To ensure that you can easily find your files, we recommend that you
organize your hard disk into directories. You can divide a directory into
further directories, which are called subdirectories. With the –/+ key or
ENT you can show or hide the subdirectories.

Paths

A path indicates the drive and all directories and subdirectories under
which a file is saved. The individual names are separated by a
backslash "\".

The path, including all drive characters, directory and the
file name, including the extension, must not exceed 82
characters!

Drive designations must not include more than 8
uppercase letters.

Example

The directory AUFTR1 was created on the TNC:\ drive. Then, in the
AUFTR1 directory, the subdirectory NCPROG was created and the part

program PROG1.H was copied into it. The part program now has the
following path:

TNC:\AUFTR1\NCPROG\PROG1.H

The chart at right illustrates an example of a directory display with
different paths.

3.4 Working with the file manager

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 95

Overview: Functions of the file manager

Function Soft key Page

Copy a file Page 101

Display a specific file type Page 98

Create new file Page 100

Display the last 10 files that were
selected

Delete a file or directory Page 104

Tag a file Page 106

Rename a file Page 107

3.4 Working with the file manager

Protect a file against editing and erasure Page 108

Cancel file protection Page 108

Import tool table Page 150

Manage network drives Page 116

Select the editor Page 108

Sort files by properties Page 107

Page 104

Copy a directory Page 103

Delete directory with all its
subdirectories

Display all the directories of a particular
drive

Rename a directory

Create a new directory

96 Programming: Fundamentals, file management

Calling the file manager

Press the PGM MGT key: The TNC displays the file
management window (see figure for default setting.
If the TNC displays a different screen layout, press
the WINDOW soft key.)

The narrow window on the left shows the available drives and
directories. Drives designate devices with which data are stored or
transferred. One drive is the hard disk of the TNC. Other drives are the
interfaces (RS232, Ethernet), which can be used, for example, for
connecting a personal computer. A directory is always identified by a
folder symbol to the left and the directory name to the right.
Subdirectories are shown to the right of and below their parent
directories. A triangle in front of the folder symbol indicates that there
are further subdirectories, which can be shown with the –/+ or ENT
keys.

The wide window on the right shows you all files that are stored in the
selected directory. Each file is shown with additional information,
illustrated in the table below.

Display Meaning

File name Name with max. 25 characters

Type File type

Bytes File size in bytes

Status File properties:

E Program is selected in the Programming

mode of operation

S Program is selected in the Test Run mode of

operation

M Program is selected in a Program Run mode

of operation

File is protected against erasing and editing

File is protected against erasing and editing,
because it is being run

Date Date that the file was last edited

Time Time that the file was last edited

3.4 Working with the file manager

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 97

Selecting drives, directories and files

Call the file manager

Use the arrow keys or the soft keys to move the highlight to the
desired position on the screen:

Moves the highlight from the left to the right window,
and vice versa

Moves the highlight up and down within a window

Moves the highlight one page up or down within a
window

Step 1: Select drive

3.4 Working with the file manager

Move the highlight to the desired drive in the left window:

To select a drive, press the SELECT soft key, or

Press the ENT key

Step 2: Select a directory

Move the highlight to the desired directory in the left-hand window—
the right-hand window automatically shows all files stored in the
highlighted directory

98 Programming: Fundamentals, file management

Step 3: Select a file

Press the SELECT TYPE soft key

Press the soft key for the desired file type, or

Press the SHOW ALL soft key to display all files, or

Move the highlight to the desired file in the right window:

Press the SELECT soft key, or

Press the ENT key

The TNC opens the selected file in the operating mode from which you
called the file manager

3.4 Working with the file manager

HEIDENHAIN TNC 128 99

Creating a new directory

Move the highlight in the left window to the directory in which you
want to create a subdirectory

Enter the new file name, and confirm with ENT

CREATE \NEW DIRECTORY?

Press the YES soft key to confirm, or

Abort with the NO soft key

Creating a new file

3.4 Working with the file manager

Select the directory in which you wish to create the new file

Enter the new file name with the file extension, and
confirm with ENT

Open the dialog box for creating a new file

Enter the new file name with the file extension, and
confirm with ENT

100 Programming: Fundamentals, file management