USB I/O

Purpose

This document gives instructions on installing and using the USB M-Code I/O Interface Kit to integrate external devices with the PathPilot controller.

Product Information

Product: USB M-Code I/O Interface Kit (PN 32616)

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NOTE: If any items are missing, we can help. Create a support ticket with Tormach Technical Support at tormach.com/how-to-submit-a-support-ticket for guidance on how to proceed.

Before You Begin

The USB I/O module extends the inputs and outputs controlled by G- and M-code inside programs: once plugged into a PathPilot controller USB port, a USB I/O Module can expand the functionality of your machine.

WARNING! Operator Education: Before using this product, you must have adequate knowledge of electrical circuits, machine wiring, and proper safety procedures associated with a component-level product. Failure to do so could result in serious injury and/or machine damage.

Required Tools

This procedure requires the following tools. Collect them before you begin.

• Razor blade

Assembly

1. Using a razor blade, trim the enclosure 1/16 inch at the locations indicated in the following image.

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Figure 1: Trimming the enclosure with a razor blade.

NOTE: The enclosure is symmetrical — you can trim either side.

2. Place the control board into the enclosure as shown in the following image.

3. Snap the base on to the bottom of enclosure and attach the cover plate to the top of the enclosure. Make sure the text on the sticker matches the terminal block locations and the USB port on the control board.

4. Attach the terminal block covers over both terminal blocks.

5. Snap the DIN rail latch into the bottom of the base; you can use the hook to mount the USB I/O module on the DIN rail in the electrical cabinet.

6. From the PathPilot interface, on the Settings tab, select the Enable the USB I/O checkbox.

Input and Output Specifications

Using Inputs

Inputs are used to control progress of the G-code and M-code programs. You can wire the USB I/O inputs in one of two ways:

1. Using an NPN (sinking) proximity switch

2. Using a snap action or micro switch

Input Modes

NPN (Sinking) Proximity Switch

You can use an NPN (sinking) proximity switch by sharing the power supply ground with the USB I/O board’s 0 input. Wire the proximity power and route the load to the 0+ input.

Snap Action or Micro Switch

You can use a snap action or micro switch to wire the input wires to the switch between Common and NO.

G-Code Example

NOTE: You can only use one subcall in each program.

%

(start)

N20 G90 G54 G64 G50 G17 G40 G80 G49

N30 G20 (Inch)

(Check input)

M66 P0 L3 Q100

o100 if [#5399 LT 0]

(msg,The input is missing or was applied too late)

M2

o100 End if

N39 M1 (Wait for cycle start)

(Hole machining call tool)

N40 G54

N50 T1 G43 H1 M6

(Center Drill)

N60 S5000 M3

N70 G0X-1.0625 Y0.3437 Z0.1754

N80 G98 G81 Z-0.031 R0.0394 F30

N90 X-0.7873 Y0.476

N100 G80

N110 M5 M9

N120 G30

N130 M30

%

G-Code Example Breakdown

(Start)- The program starts and defines the modal codes used.

(Check Input)-

M66 = Check Input

P0 = Input 1

L3 = Input High Mode

Q100 = time to wait before error

Code checks the #5399 parameter to verify the input 1 is present. If it is not, end the program and send an error to the status page after 100 seconds(Q100).

M66 = check Input

P0 = Input 1

L3 = Input High Mode

Q100 = time to wait before error

-If the input is present, the program proceeds to call the tool and drill the hole.

Using Outputs

The outputs are programmed using M64 (contact close) and M65 (contact open). There are four contacts, numbered from 0 to 3 on a mill and from 5 to 8 on a lathe. The contact is specified by the P word.

IMPORTANT! Lathes use different P calls than mills. Please read the following table carefully.

Output Relay Examples

Syntax Limitations

There is only one P word and one relay per line.

IMPORTANT! Each relay command must be done on an individual line.

Troubleshooting

There are 12 diagnostic LEDs on the Control Board. These can be accessed by removing the cover plate.

Under normal conditions (i.e., after plugging the board into a USB port), the following happens on the control board:

• The Input and Output LEDs flash

• The CPU Booted LED comes on

• The Power LED comes on

NOTE: The Communication LED does not flash until the USB I/O Module Control Board is both plugged in and enabled in PathPilot.

Important Considerations

Electrical Noise

Interruption of an electrical circuit (opening a relay contact) can create electrical noise that may disrupt USB communications. If there is any inductance (coil, motor, solenoid, etc.) on the load, include the appropriate RC filter across the load. These may be referred to as snubbers, suppressors, RC filter, or noise filters. For further information, refer to Tormach Service Bulletin SB0039, Problems from Electrical Noise.

Starting Up

Relay outputs may be pulsed for a fraction of a second when the controller is powered on.

Last State

The USB I/O driver maintains the last state if a G-code and/or M-code program is halted or reset. If the USB I/O board is disconnected from USB communications, the output relays are deactivated, but they are restored to their last state when the USB I/O board is reconnected via a USB.

To view a PDF version of your manual, go to Tormach document TD10163.

If you have additional questions, we can help. Create a support ticket with Tormach Technical Support at tormach.com/how-to-submit-a-support-ticket for guidance on how to proceed.