How do I use the PathPilot Tool Table?

Owned by Jacob Steuber
Last updated: Aug 01, 2024 by Sam Bollen
2 min read

The PathPilot Table consists of 4 columns: Tool Number, Description, Diameter, and Length.

Tool Number

Tool numbers are used to identify each cutting tool.  The active tool will be indicated in the "T" DRO in the lower right hand of the screen.  Tool numbers are also used in G-code programs to identify tools.

Tool_Numbers.png

Description

You can use any tool descriptions you want in the PathPilot Tool Table.  Many users find it useful to use standardized descriptions, which can be created with either of the methods below

Method 1: Use Tormach Part Numbers

Each tool you purchase from Tormach will have a 5-digit part number.  You can enter the part number into the DESCRIPTION field the the tool table to auto-populate tool parameters.

Method 2:  Use Rich Tooling Descriptions

If your tools does not have a Tormach Part Number, you can use the built-in tool parameter pattern recognition in PathPilot to create useful tool descriptions. 

Tool_Table_Patterns.png

Diameter

The cutting tool diameter should be entered into the Diameter field.  It can be left unfilled; however, it is required when using many of PathPilot's conversational programming features as well as certain G-codes.

Length

The length column is used for multiple tool programming.  The value stored in the tool length column is known as the relative tool length and represents the difference in tool length from the baseline.