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GibbsCAM v9 NLO installation instructions

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 16:31:25 GMT

ABOUT GibbsCAM v9 NETWORK LICENSE INSTALLATION PROCESS

Document Version 1.1

Starting with version 9.0 GibbsCAM Network License Installation uses the same installation media as the Hardware Key Lock version. The Installation process has also been simplified. The creation and installation of the license file can now be done via the internet or manually using electronic or physical mail when the customer's environment does not allow internet access.

Step 1

Setting up the server.

a) Run ' NLO Server Registration Setup.msi' to install the Registration Tool and support files.

Select the installation folder for Registration Tool.
Click 'Next'.
Installation is complete. You can now access the Registration Tool from the location you specified or through the Start->All Programs->GibbsCAM NLO Server->GibbsCAM Registration Tool menu.
If you have a hardware key please plug in the key and download and install the hardware key drivers on your server.

b) If you are running the v8 FlexLM license server on this same system you will need to stop that service and make a small change to the configuration.

Run LMTools.exe and change it to Configuration Using Services
Change to the Configure Services tab and uncheck 'Start Server at Power-up'
Change to the Start/Stop/Reread tab (say Yes to save your changes) and click Stop Server.

c) Run Start-->All Programs-->GibbsCAM NLO Server-->GibbsCAM Registration Utility ***Vista users - you may need to right-click the application and select ';Run as Administrator'; in order for this to run properly.***

Select Network License Server as the Registration Type
Click on Run Registration Tool
Enter your Product Code and registration information, click Finish.
A license file, 'license--.lic', will be created in your deployment directory.
Select Yes in response to, 'Would you like to install RLM license server applications in ?'
If your Windows Firewall is turned on you will be asked to open two ports.
Select Yes in response to, 'RLM server application copied. The RLM server uses ports 2764 and 2765. Do you want these ports opened in the windows firewall?'
Select Yes in response to, 'Would you like to start the RLM server as a Windows Service', unless you prefer to start the RLM server manually from a command prompt.

Step 2

Installing the client software on each node.

a) Install the GibbsCAM software on each client machine.

b) Be sure the RLM server is running.

The RLM server contains an embedded Web Server which is started automatically on port 9000 when RLM is started. To use the web server, simply point your browser to: http://ServerHostName:9000 or http://ServerHostName:5054 and select. 'Status', (example: http://nancy-pc1:9000)

c) Deploy your license file on each client machine.

You can do this manually or GibbsCAM can do this for you when you launch the system for the first time. GibbsCAM will detect that no valid License is in place and License Installation screen will display. The License Installation dialog allows you enter in the product code. Use the same product code that was used for the server.

Other NLO Points of Interest

o The 8.x (and older) FLEXlm server and GibbsCAM v9.0 RLM server do not run simultaneously but since the installation of the RLM server does not affect the FLEXlm installation you may choose to use either solution at any time.

o Documentation for RLM can be found at http://www.reprisesoftware.com/RLM_Enduser.html

o FAQ for RLM can be found at http://www.reprisesoftware.com/enduser_faq.htm

o The latest RLM End-User Download Bundle can be found at http://www.reprisesoftware.com/enduser_kits/enduser_download_dir.htm

STEP BY STEP NLO INSTALLATION PROCESS

1. The first step is setting up the server.

a) Run 'NLO Server Registration Setup.msi' to install the Registration Tool and support files.

Select the installation folder for Registration Tool and click 'Next'

Installation is complete. You can now access the Registration Tool from the location you specified or through the Start->All Programs->GibbsCAM NLO Server->GibbsCAM Registration Tool menu.

c) Run RegistrationTool.exe: ***Vista users - you may need to right-click the application and select ';Run as Administrator'; in order for this to run properly.***

Select Network License Server as the Registration Type.

Enter your Product Code and registration information, click 'Finish' to activate over the internet. If your server is not connected to the internet you can save the file (license.glc) and e-mail it to registration@gibbscam.com.

***IMPORTANT TIP - MAKE NOTE OF THE HOST NAME BELOW. IT IS USED TO ASCERTAIN THE STATUS OF THE SERVER AS DETAILED IN STEP 2B BELOW***

A license file, 'license--.lic', will be created in your deployment directory.

Select Yes in response to, 'Would you like to install RLM license server applications in ?'.

If your Windows Firewall is turned on you will be asked to if you would like to open two ports. Select Yes in response to, 'RLM server application copied. The RLM server uses ports 2764 and 2765. Do you want these ports opened in the windows firewall?'

Select Yes in response to, 'Would you like to start the RLM server as a Windows Service', unless you prefer to start the RLM server manually from a command prompt.

2. The second step is installing the client software on each node.

a) Install the GibbsCAM software on each client machine using the same product code that was used for installing the server.

b) Be sure the RLM server is running.

The RLM server contains an embedded Web Server which is started automatically on port 9000 when RLM is started. To use the web server, simply point your browser to: http://ServerHostName:9000 or http://ServerHostName:5054 and select. 'Status', (example: http://nancy-pc1:9000/)

c) Deploy your license file on each client machine.

You can do this manually or GibbsCAM can do this for you when you launch the system for the first time. GibbsCAM will detect that no valid License is in place and License Installation screen will display. The License Installation dialog allows you enter in the product code. Use the same product code that was used for the server.

Run the Registration Tool using the Product Code from the server this client will be using.

You will not be prompted for contact information on NLO client machines.

Select 'Activate Product' to complete your license deployment. Your license data will be retrieved from the Gibbs Activation Service and placed in the appropriate Application Data folder.

Repeat the second step, installing GibbsCAM product and deploying license file, for each client machine.

Hardware requirements for running GibbsCAM

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 17:11:43 GMT

System Requirements

For version 9.5+

Updated 2/10/10

The system supports all monitors capable of running at a resolution of 800x600 or higher. The GibbsCAM window is dynamically resizable from approximately 640x525 to the highest resolution your monitor will support. Please be aware that with monitors running higher monitor resolutions, you will need more RAM to support solids and Cut Part Rendering and a better video card. Recommended and actual requirements do not have a definite value. Your requirements will vary depending on the type of part you are trying to cut and the complexity of the part. The more complex a part, the higher your system requirements. If you use only the basic Mill or Lathe modules the Minimum settings for Production shown below are quite adequate. If you are regularly making parts that are prismatic solids with thousands of faces, the recommended SolidSurfacer system shown below could be considered a minimum. We recommend using the latest available service pack from Microsoft as we experience greater reliability with the newer software.

IMPORTANT NOTE:

The following CPUs supported by V9.3 are no longer supported by V9.5:

Intel Pentium II and Pentium III

Intel Celeron processors <= 1.3Ghz

AMD Athlon and Athlon XP

AMD Duron and Sempron (32-bit)

Core Requirements

If you are running very complex parts or toolpaths you may require higher specifications

Minimum

Windows XP SP3, Windows Vista, Windows 2003 Server R1 or later, Windows 7
Intel Pentium 4 or newer (including Celeron 1.7Ghz (or higher) and Xeon, Pentium M, Core, Core 2, and Core i5/i7) AMD Athlon 64 or newer (including Sempron 64, Turion 64, and Phenom)
256 MB of total RAM with at least 64 or more MB not being used by other applications
A quality 3D accelerated video card with the latest drivers installed (Click HERE for specific information)
512 MB of hard drive space for virtual memory

Recommended

Windows XP SP3, Windows Vista, Windows 2003 Server R1 or later, Windows 7
Intel Pentium 4 or newer (including Celeron 1.7Ghz (or higher) and Xeon, Pentium M, Core, Core 2, and Core i5/i7) AMD Athlon 64 or newer (including Sempron 64, Turion 64, and Phenom)
512 MB of total RAM or better
A quality 3D accelerated video card with the latest drivers installed (Click HERE for specific information)
At least 1 GB of hard drive space more for virtual memory

What video card should I use with Gibbs?

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 21:47:46 GMT

HTML Source EditorWord wrap

GibbsCAM is a video-intensive application. The use of a good quality, mainstream video card is recommended. The following cards have been tested with GibbsCAM

Recommended:

AGP

nVidia geForce chipset
NVIDIA Quadro chipset

PCI Express

nVidia GeForce chipset
NVIDIA Quadro chipset

**In all cases the current video drivers from the chipset manufacturer should be downloaded and installed. Here are links to the chipset manufacturers listed above:

nVidia

Cards to avoid:

ATI video cards
Intel integrated video cards
SiS chipset cards
3D Labs video cards
other high-end "CAD" cards

2/8/06 - The ATI cards have been added to the list of cards to avoid. The OpenGL portion of the drivers has long had problems but has never been much of an issue within GibbsCAM until the addition of the FlashCPR feature. With the release of GibbsCAM v8.0 this deficiency in the drivers will be much more noticeable as more OpenGL features are added.

Low-end cards should especially be avoided. The integrated Intel video chipset runs GibbsCAM particularly poorly. This video card is often included in less expensive systems.

SLI Mode - Running newer systems in SLI mode with GibbsCAM can result in poor performance and is not recommended.

Downloads

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 13:54:48 GMT

Hardware Key Drivers

Rainbow Sentinel Superpro driver v7.6.1
Windows 95/98/NT/2000/XP/Vista (32-bit and 64-bit)/Windows 7 (32-bit and 64-bit)/ Server 2003 (32-bit and AMD 64-bit)

Aladdin HASP Key driver
Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 2003 Server, Windows XP 64-bit

GibbsCAM Add-Ins

NPT Processes
Includes all available sizes of ID & OD NPT threading definitions in Standard and Metric

Moorpark Font for PC systems
Single-stroke engraving font

Third-party Applications

Autodesk Inventor View 2011 for 32-bit systems
Autodesk Inventor View 2011 for 64-bit systems
Required application for opening .IPT and .IAM files in GibbsCAM (Solids and ACIS (.SAT) Import option also required)

Winzip
Extraction utility for .ZIP files

Go!Zilla
Download manager for use when large downloads are interrupted before finished.

FileZilla
Good FTP client. Open-source and free. Click here for information about connecting to the GibbsCAM FTP site

How do I reactivate GibbsCAM?

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 20:26:14 GMT

Question:

I was told to reactivate my GibbsCAM software. How do I do that?

Answer:

If you are currently able to launch GibbsCAM:

Launch GibbsCAM
Go to File-->Preferences-->Interface
Click the License Update button
Click the 'Run Registration Tool...' link and follow the prompts
Restart GibbsCAM

If you cannot run GibbsCAM at this time:

Go to Start-->Programs-->GibbsCAM-->Registration Tool v9.x.x
Select the appropriate license registration type (probably hardware locked)
Click the 'Run Registration Tool...' link and follow the prompts

'Hardware Key Not Found' or 'Hardware Key Missing'

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 21:51:44 GMT

These steps should help you to identify and fix a 'Hardware Key not Found' message when starting GibbsCAM.

First, identify the key type you are using:

Sentinel SuperPro - This key is manufactured by SafeNet and is the type generally included with your software when you purchase GibbsCAM You can identify the key by reading the lettering embossed in the plastic.
HASP - This key is manufactured by Aladdin and is a time-based key. A HASP key will be set to expire on a given date and is generally shipped to customers evaluating GibbsCAM or who made arrangement to make payments on their purchase.

Additionally, there are two types of keys in use: USB and Parallel.

USB: compact 'fob'-type key that will attach to a system via the USB port on your system.
Parallel: Rectangular key that plugs into the printer port of your system.

After identifying the type of key you have be sure you installed the corresponding version when GibbsCAM was installed. If you are unsure insert the installation CD and perform the installation again.

Drivers:

Download and install the appropriate drivers from the list below. Often an update driver will fix the issue. On occasion the drivers included on the installation CD are not fully functional under certain Windows configurations.

Rainbow Drivers

HASP Drivers

USB → Parallel port adapters:

These adapters have been used with some success. In all cases the ability of the key to function on an adapter is dependent upon the drivers available from the adapter manufacturer. We do not currently know a specific adapter that is known to work with either of the hardware keys we use. When considering an adapter be sure to check the web site of the manufacturer regarding hardware key or "dongle" support.

Troubleshooting:

If, after installing the drivers as outlined above, the problem persists please try the solutions below:

Make sure the key is securely attached to the correct port.
Re-install GibbsCAM ensuring that you select the correct key type
If other devices are attached to the back of the key try unplugging the other devices to see if any are conflicting.
Check your system Device Manager to make sure there are no problems with the port being used.
Try installing GibbsCAM on a different computer. This is a good way to check whether the key has failed.
Go to Start-->Control Panels and run Add/Remove Programs. Look through the list of installed programs and make sure Sentinel is not listed more than once. If you see multiple Sentinel applications uninstall them all and install the newly-downloaded drivers to insure only the most current drivers are installed.

Having your post processor modified

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 23:32:13 GMT

The steps outlined in this document will insure that your post is modified to your desired specifications with a minimum of delay and expense.

Ideally you would send to us:

One (1) marked-up g-code program (with comments turned on)
One (1) .VNC file that was used to create the g-code program
Your contact information

The images below illustrate how the g-code program would be marked up in the desired manner.

**Click the image above to see it full-sized

In order to have the post modified please follow these steps:

By e-mail:

Save the g-code program exactly as it was generated by GibbsCAM. Please be sure you had comments on as well as Minimize un-checked
Indicate the changes you want to the right of the original line of g-code. Please do not make any changes to the original code. Indicate where and how these changes should be made using arrows and notes to the right of the original code.
E-mail the edited program file along with your name, company name and telephone number to posts@gibbscam.com.

If e-mail is unavailable you can also submit your changes by fax.

By fax:

Print the g-code program exactly as it was generated by GibbsCAM. Please be sure you had comments on as well as Minimize un-checked
Mark the changes on the printout you desire in your post. Please indicate where and how these changes should be made using arrows and notes on the previously printed program.
Fax this printout along with your name, company name and telephone number to 805-523-0006.

All post processor related issues should be sent to posts@gibbscam.com. If you are unsure whether your question is post processor related or not please send us an e-mail at support@gibbscam.com for help.

Note about post processors: Our library post processors are individually modified for a customer. When a new modification is made the resulting file is added to our library for the next customer who requests a post for the same type of control. This is why we have multiple posts for each machine and why it may not be perfect for your machine.

Video Card Performance testing results

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 17:29:05 GMT

Video Card Performance

General Performance Testing Comments

Ten parts (three lathe/MTM, five fixed milling, and two rotary milling) were used as a comprehensive FlashCPR performance test suite. All tests were performed with the latest available drivers from the video chipset manufacturer and at factory clock rates. All tests were performed twice to verify low testing variance.

Lower scores (shorter bars) are better. The row titled GDI Generic is a baseline score obtained by disabling hardware acceleration. Row titles are given by the renderer name reported by the driver; in all but one case, this is the exact model of the card. The Radeon X1800 Series tested is actually a Radeon X1800 XT. Please note that AGP and PCI-E results are not directly comparable to each other; the baseline for the AGP testbed system is somewhat slower. See the graphs for details.

AGP Performance Testing Results

Test bed used for AGP performance testing: AMD Athlon 64 3000+ on a Gigabyte GA-K8NS-939 (nForce3 chipset), with 1GB of dual-channel DDR-400.

PCI Express Performance Testing Results

GibbsCAM Settings for Quality and Performance

If you are using a relatively modern video card (GeForce2/Radeon 8500 or newer) with a reasonably large amount of memory (128Mb+), turning Display Lists on can improve performance significantly. Note, however, that if you are using a card without hardware geometry acceleration, or one with less than 128Mb of memory, turning Display Lists on can actually result in a significant slowdown.

Partial Updates can increase performance on certain configurations, and has no effect in others; several of the quality problems mentioned in the first part of this document are caused by the Partial Updates setting, however.

Vertex Arrays, like Display Lists, can be used improve performance on modern cards with large amounts of memory. In some limited-memory situations (particularly those in which the video memory is shared with the system memory), Vertex Arrays can cause a slowdown; in general, however, it is recommended to leave Vertex Arrays turned on.

Getting license files for a new server

Mon, 26 Apr 2010 14:17:31 GMT

If you are setting up a new server please follow these steps to begin the process of having your license files created. These steps should be followed for new installations as well as sites where the server is being changed.

Click HERE to download the Gethost application.

Place this application on the system that will act as your server and run in. Click on the 'Save to File' button and e-mail the resulting file to nlo@gibbscam.com.

Gethost.exe is designed to collect the IP and MAC addresses of the system and save them to a file in a format that allows us to create the license files. We will generally e-mail the license files and installation instructions in 24-48 hours.

You can save some time by completing and faxing THIS FORM to our Sales department at 805-523-0006.

If you need the LMTools configuration utility please click HERE.

Do you have a library of sample Machine Simulation machines?

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 21:30:52 GMT

Q: Do you have a library of sample Machine Simulation machines?

A: Yes! Click HERE to see our current library of machines. These are distributed for personal use and should not be sold. We ask that any machines you make/modify that may be useful to other users be submitted to support@gibbscam.com.

This Knowledgebase Article offers tips on how to use these machine models. The Machine Simulation option is required to make use of these sample machines. You must install the custom MDD included with each model in order for the simulation to display correctly.

Large memory support in GibbsCAM v9 and later

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 21:50:38 GMT

More memory for GibbsCAM 2008

GibbsCAM 2008, v9.0 has been implemented to be 'Large Address Aware'. By making a small change in the C:BOOT.INI file or in the BCD store, you can increase the memory available to GibbsCAM from 2GB to 3GB.

Warning: Numerous technical support documents from Microsoft warn that the changes described below are ill-advised for most situations. Make these changes with extreme caution and be prepared to reverse them in the event of problems. Use this information at your own risk.

Background

Windows XP and Vista includes support for a startup switch that lets you tune the allocation of use of memory and memory address space. Regardless of the amount of physical memory in your system, Windows uses a virtual address space of 4 GB, with 2 GB allocated to user-mode processes (for example, applications) and 2 GB allocated to kernel-mode processes (for example, the operating system and kernel-mode drivers). On systems that have 1 GB or more of physical memory, there are two startup switches that can be used to allocate more memory to applications like GibbsCAM (3 GB) and less memory to the operating system (1 GB). This additional virtual address space helps reduce the amount of memory fragmentation in the virtual address space of the Exchange information store process. It also allows the system to allocate more real memory to the application on systems with larger amounts of RAM. For example, with 4 GB RAM, GibbsCAM can use 3GB of RAM to help process large models or large tool paths.The /3GB switch is used to effect this allocation change. The switch is entered in the system's boot.ini file and takes effect after a restart.

Instructions

To Set the /3GB Startup Switch in Windows XP

1. Right-click My Computer and select Properties. The System Properties dialog box will appear.

2. Click the Advanced tab.

3. In the Startup and Recovery area, click Settings. The Startup and Recovery dialog box will appear.

4. In the System startup area, click Edit. This will open the Windows boot.ini file in Notepad.

5. In the [Operating Systems] section, add the following switches to the end of the startup line that includes the /fastdetect switch: /3GB

6. Save the changes and close Notepad.

7. Click OK two times to close the open dialog boxes, and then restart the computer for the change to take effect.

In Windows Vista

C:Boot.ini has been replaced with the Boot Configuration Data Store

Note: In Windows Vista the BCDEDIT utility is used to first export and then modify the BCD store. BCDEDIT is a command line utility and is run from a CMD Window.

1. BCDEDIT /export "C:BCD Backup" - Makes a backup of your original settings

2. BCDEDIT /set increaseuserva 3072 - Changes the memory setting

If you experience video driver problems when using the /3GB switch (WinXP):

If after adding the /3GB switch to boot.ini, you find upon rebooting that your video driver is not working properly (you're stuck with the VgaSave fall-back driver), adding the /USERVA switch as well may be the fix, for example:

/3GB /USERVA=2800

You can find more information on this switch at: http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;319043

Also, when modifying boot.ini, it is prudent to do so by including your changes as a second copy of the OS, so that if your changes are unsuccessful, you can simply choose your original configuration on bootup. Here's an example Windows XP Pro boot.ini which might be useful while testing the /3GB & /USERVA switches:

[boot loader]
timeout=30
default=multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)WINDOWS
[operating systems]
multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows XP Professional" /fastdetect /NoExecute=Opt
In multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows XP Professional with /3GB" /fastdetect /NoExecute=OptIn /3GB /USERVA=2800

If you experience problems when using the "increaseuserva" in Vista:

If after changing the memory setting using BCDEDIT, you can restore your original setting provided you made a backup.

BCDEDIT /import "C:BCD Backup" - Imports original settings provided you made a backup

Additional information on BCDEDIT can be found here:http://technet2.microsoft.com/WindowsVista/en/library/85cd5efe-c349-427c-b035-c2719d4af7781033.mspx?mfr=truehttp://msdn2.microsoft.com/en-us/library/aa906217.aspx

Detailed Instructions

For Windows XP:

1. First you need to check how much physical memory you have on your computer:
a. Click Start, Run, and type msinfo32.exe.

b. If you have less than 4 GB physical memory, stop here.

2. Change boot.ini:
a. Click Start, Run and type sysdm.cpl

b. Click Settings button.

c. Click Edit button, boot.ini will be loaded to Notepad

d. Change to boot.ini to following by adding /3GB to the end of the last line:

     e.      Exit notepad and save boot.ini.
     f.      Restart your computer. Select the second launch mode if you want to use Large Memory on your computer for applications such as GibbsCAM.

Introduction to Rotary Milling with engraving example

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 23:41:35 GMT

Rotary Milling Basics

Rules of Rotary Milling:

All geometry must be drawn in the XY plane
Only OD Rotary Milling is supported
No off-center rotary milling is supported

The part in this example shows two examples of engraving on an OD of a 2" cylinder. Download the part HERE.

Steps to recreate this part:

Create a new GibbsCAM part file
Set the machine type to 4 Axis Vertical Mill.
Define your stock as X+ = 2, X- = -2, Y+ = 4, Y- = -4, Z+ = 2, Z- = -2
Open the Workgroup window and right-click WG#1
Set workgroup to Rotary Milling
Create a new workgroup.
Right-click on WG#2 and set it to Part Stock extruded along the Y axis
Draw a 2" circle in WG #2
Change to WG #1
Using the Text Creation tool generate the text you wish to machine. Be sure to define the geometry at the correct Z-level. When drawing geometry for Rotary Milling it should always be drawn at the OD of the stock...This means all your geometry used for Rotary Milling will be drawn at a POSITIVE Z position.
Apply a roughing or contouring toolpath to your geometry. Be sure to go to the Rotate tab and select Rotary Mill.

Special notes: Be sure to pay special attention to your depths and clearances. This is the #1 cause of problems when performing a rotary milling operation.

Mill Post Label Definitions and Code Issues

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 23:36:18 GMT

Mill Post Label Definitions and Code Issues

Mill post names use letters to signify their capabilities. The designation may be a single letter or multiple letters to specify the post's capability. Following the letter designation is a unique number for this post.

The general format of a post can be described as :

<control name>[client initials]###.##

Note that a metric post will end with an “m”.

Following is a description of how Mill Posts are named and what they do. Also included are brief explanations of code issues that might be encountered in Mill Posts.

3-Axis Mill

Label Definitions:

M – This designates a regular 2- or 3-axis mill post. A 3-axis mill post has 3 linear axes (X, Y, and Z) that can position and cut simultaneously.
Example: Fanuc 6M [VG] M001.19
N – This designates a mill post that does not use subprograms. This is known as a "Long Hand post". Subprograms are frequently used for multi-process drilling, Z-repeat milling, patterns, thread milling, rough & finish mill bore, multiple parts, etcetera. Any mill post can be modified into a Long Hand post.
Example: Fanuc 6M [VG] NM001.19
U – This designates a Mill post that supports Spline Interpolation (also known as NURBS).
Example: Fanuc 15M [VG] UM001.19

Code Issues:

Cutter Radius Compensation

There are two different Cutter Radius Compensation (CRC) options available in the system: From Tool Center and From Tool Edge. This preference can be found in File→Preferences→Machining.

From Tool Center outputs code to the center of the tool in contouring and roughing operations.

From Tool Edge outputs code to the edge of the tool in contouring operations. However, it outputs to the center of the tool in roughing operations.

Most CNC machines require that CRC be turned on (e.g. G41/G42) on the entry line move and turned off on the exit line move. The entry and exit moves immediately preceed and follow your toolpath moves and is programmed in the process dialog window.

If the From Tool Center option is selected, the value entered into the offset register on the control should be 0. The system has already compensated the values in the output by the tool radius.

If the From Tool Edge option is selected, the value entered into the CNC control’s offset register should be the tool radius. The values in the output are to the edge of the tool.

Sub-programs/Sub-routines vs. Long Hand g-code

Prefer Subs - This checkbox only toggles between subprograms and long hand output for multiple Z steps in contouring and roughing operations. It will not eliminate all subs in your program or even for this operation.

The Prefer Subs checkbox is not available for drilling operations. If multiple processes are used for multiple holes, drilling subprograms will be created.

Patterns, multiple parts, and rotary repeats will always output sub-programs in a standard mill post.

If a Longhand post is used no subprograms will be output.

Absolute Subs vs. Incremental Subs

The system will generally only output incremental sub-programs during Pattern, Mill Bore, and Thread Milling operations.

A subprogram that uses ramping or helical milling for entry moves output these moves in incremental. After the entry moves are complete, the subprogram switches back to absolute for all remaining moves.

If incremental output is selected in the Post window, all moves are incremental.

Advanced Mill

Advanced Mill is an option in GibbsCAM. An Advanced Mill post is needed when coordinate systems are defined in any part. An Advanced Mill post has the same capability as a 3-axis post. A 3-axis post is no longer needed if an Advanced Mill post is available.

Label Definitions:

There are three different letter designations for Advanced Mill Posts:

B – This post style is useful for multiple setups of the same part, tombstone work and machines without automatic rotation capability.

The “B” style post uses a Work Fixture Offset for any machining coordinate system. All of the X-, Y-, Z-, A- and B-axis offsets must be stored in the control's Work Fixture Offsets. The output of the rotary axes will always be zero (A0 and/or B0). The X-, Y-, Z-, A- and B-axis offsets are output in the operation comments.

Example: Fanuc 6M [FW] B001.16.pst

C – This post style is useful if you have a 4^th and/or 5^th axis rotary table.

The “C” Style post also use Work Fixture Offsets for any machining coordinate system. Only the X-, Y- and Z-axis offsets must be stored in the control's Work Fixture Offsets. The A- and B-axis rotations are output in the G-code. The X-, Y- and Z-axis offsets are output in the operation comments.

Example: Fanuc 6M [PW] C001.16.pst

D – This post style is useful for 4^th and/or 5^th axis parts where you do not want to use Work Fixture Offsets. It is also useful if you do not like having to input data into the control's Work Fixture Offsets.

The “D” Style post uses one Work Fixture Offset for the entire part. This means that the X-, Y- and Z-axis values in the G-code are offset based on the machining coordinate system. The A- and B-axis rotations are output in the G-code.

Example: Fanuc 6M [NW] D001.16.pst

Most customers use either a “B” or “C” style post. Both the “B” and “C” style posts fall back to “D” style output if they exceed the maximum number of work fixture offsets available for a particular CNC machine.

Code Issues:

Advanced Mill vs. Simple Positioning and/or Rotary Mill

An Advanced Mill post is incompatible with a Simple Positioning and/or Rotary Mill post. If you use coordinate systems to specify rotations, you need to use an Advanced Mill post.

Master Clearance Plane

The value entered into the Z clearance plane in the Document Control dialog is a fixed point in space. This position or location is not relative to the current coordinate system. In other words, this value is always local to the home coordinate system.

This value is output at the beginning of each new tool operation and at the beginning of a same tool operation if there is a new coordinate system specified.

If this value is not entered correctly, it is very possible that the system will produce unexpected negative Z rapid moves. Therefore, It is essential to make sure this value is clear of the part during all machining coordinate system rotations.

Rotate to Shortest Distance

The system calculates the shortest distance to rotate from one coordinate system to another. For example, the system will output a positive move in the clockwise direction to get from 270° to 0° degrees. The system will output a negative move in the counterclockwise direction to get from 90° to 0°. The system will output either a clockwise or a counterclockwise move to get from 180° to 0°.

4-Axis Simple Positioning

Rotation information entered in the system's Rotate Tab is output in a simple positioning post. A Simple positioning post uses either the A OR B-axis to rotate the part into position. A Simple Positioning post has the same capabilities as a 3-axis post. A 3-axis post is no longer needed if a Simple Positioning post is available.

Label Definitions:

1. P – This designates a 4^thaxis positioning post. A simple positioning post will output an A-axis move in the G-code. No Work Fixture Offsets will be used in the rotation of the part.

Example: Fanuc 6M [VG] PM001.19.pst

2. Y – This designates a simple positioning post which will output a B-axis move in the G-code. No Work Fixture Offsets will be used in the rotation of the part.

Example: Fanuc 6M [VG] YPM001.19.pst

3. Any Simple Positioning post can be modified into a Long Hand post.

Examples: Fanuc 6M [VG] NPM299.19.pst

Fanuc 6M [VG] NYPM299.19.pst

Code Issues:

1. Simple Positioning vs. Advanced Mill

a. A Simple Positioning post is incompatible with an Advanced Mill post. If you use coordinate systems to specify rotations, you need to use an Advanced Mill post.

2. Origin of Rotation

a. In Simple Positioning, the origin of rotation of the X-, Y- and Z-axes must be 0.

Rotary Mill

If you program Wrapped Geometry, or choose the Rotary Milling radio button in the Rotate Tab, you will need a Rotary Mill post. A Rotary Mill post uses either the A OR B-axis to rotate and machine the part simultaneously. A Rotary Mill post has the same capabilities as a 3-axis post. A 3-axis post is no longer needed if a Rotary Mill post is available.

Additionally, a Rotary Mill post has all the capabilities of a Simple Positioning post. If you order a Rotary Mill post, you will not need a Simple Positioning post.

Label Definitions:

1. R – This designates a 4^thaxis Rotary Mill post. A Rotary Mill post will output an A-axis move in the G-code. Cutting of wrapped arcs will be broken into linear segments. No Work Fixture Offsets will be used in the rotation of the part.

Example: Fanuc 6M [VG] RM001.19.pst

2. Y – This designates a 4^thaxis Rotary Mill post which will output a B-axis move in the G-code. Cutting of wrapped arcs will be broken into linear segments. No Work Fixture Offsets will be used in the rotation of the part.

Example: Fanuc 6M [VG] YRM001.19.pst

3. I – This designates a Rotary Mill post that supports Cylindrical Interpolation. A Cylindrical Interpolation Rotary Mill post will output a G2 or G3 with rotary moves.

Examples: Fanuc 6M [VG] IRM001.19.pst

Fanuc 6M [VG] YIRM001.19.pst

4. Any Rotary Mill post can be modified into a Long Hand post.

Examples: Fanuc 6M [VG] NRM299.19.pst

Fanuc 6M [VG] NYRM299.19.pst

Fanuc 6M [VG] NYIRM299.19.pst

Code Issues:

1. Rotary Mill vs. Advanced Mill

a. A Rotary Mill post is incompatible with an Advanced Mill post. If you use coordinate systems to specify rotations, you need to use an Advanced Mill post.

2. Origin of Rotation

a. In Rotary Milling, the origin of rotation of the X-, Y- and Z-axes must be 0.

3. Rotary Feedrates

a. Most rotary feedrates are calculated in Degrees Per Minute per rotary segment based on its length. Since the length of each segment is variable, the system outputs a different feedrate for each segment. The resulting rotary feedrate can be a large value based on the Degrees Per Minute calculation.

b. Certain CNCs, such as Haas and Mazak, calculate rotary feedrates using Inverse Time. Any Rotary Mill post can be modified to use Inverse Time for feedrates.

General tips to solve installation issues

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 17:50:12 GMT

Having trouble loading GibbsCAM?

Errors during installation or when launching GibbsCAM for the first time. This includes DLL and installer errors. Try these steps:

Uninstall GibbsCAM
Restart your system
Login as an administrator
Temporarily disable any anti-virus or anti-spyware applications
Go to c:/program files/common files/
Delete (or rename) the Installshield folder. (If it will not delete or rename note the filename preventing. Hit alt-ctrl-del and select Task Manager. Click on the Processes tab and look for the file you noted earlier. Right-click on the file and select End Process)
Reinstall GibbsCAM from the installation CD or download file.
Confirm GibbsCAM will launch normally and re-start your anti-virus and anti-spyware software.

Hardware key driver issues:

Follow steps 2-6 above
Go to Add/Remove Programs
Uninstall any instances of Sentinel System Driver or Sentinel Protection Installer (if running a Rainbow Sentinel SuperPro key) or HASP drivers (if using a timed key)
Download the current Sentinel drivers or HASP drivers and install them
Launch GibbsCAM. If you still receive a Hardware Key Missing error you may have installed the wrong version of GibbsCAM. Uninstall Gibbs and re-install being sure to select the correct key type.

How do I get the Moorpark Font?

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 23:32:30 GMT

There are a 2 ways to get the Moorpark font:

You can insert the v7.0 GibbsCAM CD and cancel out of the install menu. Explore CD and go to the Installer folder/Moorpark Font folder. You can copy the Moorpark Font into your WINNT/Fonts folder.
In pre 7.0 GibbsCAM CD's the Moorpark Font is located in the Extras Folder.
Click HERE to download the font.

Installation:

Copy the Moorpark.TTF file to your Windows/Fonts folder

Place the file in a folder of your choosing and change the font directory for Gibbs by going to File-->Preferences-->Set Font Directory

How do I create a template file so tools and settings are automatically set when I create a new part?

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 20:12:00 GMT

You can create a default part which can include tool lists, geometry and settings that will be applied to any new part you create as follows.

V9 and later

Create a part file which includes the tools and features you would like to be included in any new part
Go to File-->Save as Default

Select Type Default Part when you want the tools and other data loaded whenever the type of machine you have selected is used.
Select MDD Default Part when you want the tools and other data loaded only when using the specific MDD you have selected.

Pre-v9

To activate this function create a new part with the desired machine type, tools, stock, etc. and save it as a default part file.

The default file must be named:

New Lathe Part.vnc
New Mill Part.vnc
New Mlll_Turn Part.vnc

These files must be saved in the GibbsCAM installation folder. All three default files may be used.

Any time you create a new file Gibbs will check for the existence of the default part file and will load the data from that file into the part.

Program needed to open Autodesk Inventor .IPT files

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 14:41:59 GMT

***UPDATED 4/29/10. This version of AutoDesk Inventor View will read up to and including Inventor 2011 files. If a previous version of Autodesk View is installed on your system be sure to uninstall it prior to installing this new release.

In order to open .IPT or .IAM files in Gibbs you must have Autodesk Inventor View installed. This free application can be downloaded here:

Autodesk Inventor View 2011 for 32-bit systems
Autodesk Inventor View 2011 for 64-bit systems

Non-English versions of this application can be found HERE.

If you are having trouble opening IPT files you may have the wrong version of AutoDesk Inventor View installed. Please download and install this release. Be sure to remove previous installations of AutoDesk Inventor View using the Add/Remove Programs control panel.

IMPORTANT NOTE: You must have the ACIS (SAT) Import option in GibbsCAM to use this direct-read functionality.

Lathe Post Label Definitions and Code Issues

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 23:32:34 GMT

Lathe Post Label Definitions and Code Issues

Lathe post names use letters to signify their capabilities. The designation may be a single letter or multiple letters to specify the post's capability. Following the letter designation is a unique number for this post.

The general format of a post can be described as :
[client initials]###.##

Note that a metric post will end with a lower case m

Following is a description of how Lathe Posts are named and what they do. Also included are brief explanations of code issues that might be encountered in Lathe Posts.

2-Axis Lathe

Label Definitions:

1. L This designates a regular 2-axis turning post. A Lathe post has 2 linear axes (X and Z) that can position and cut simultaneously.

Example:

Fanuc 16T [VG] L800.18.pst

Code Issues:

1. Tool Tip

The system draws the toolpath to the center of the tool tip radius. The X and Z-axis values are output to the theoretical tool tip if the system is able to calculate a touch-off point in both axes. X or Z-axis values are output to the center of the tool tip radius when the software is not able to calculate the touch-off point in that particular axis.
If the tool is machining parallel to the Z-axis, the X values are output to blueprint dimensions. If the tool is machining parallel to the X-axis, the Z values are output to blueprint dimensions. So, the theoretical tool tip only aligns with blueprint dimensions on faces and diameters.
When the tool is machining at an angle, the X and Z-axis values will not match the blueprint dimensions. This is because the theoretical tool tip is not always a blueprint dimension. So, in order for the system to get the surface of the tool in position to cut the part, the theoretical tool tip is calculated closer to the part, and in some cases inside the part.
Most Lathe Posts output X and Z values to the theoretical tool tip. Posts can be modified to output X and Z values to the center of the tool tip radius.

2. Canned Cycles
Lathe canned cycles are output when the Prefer Canned checkbox is checked. This checkbox will only be available if Auto Clearance and Material only are not selected. If Auto Clearance and/or Material Only are selected, the system will not output Canned Cycles.

3 & 4-Axis Mill/Turn

A Mill/Turn post supports both milling and turning operations in the same part. A 2-axis lathe post is no longer needed if a Mill/Turn post is available.

Label Definitions:

ML - This designates a Mill/Turn post.
S - This designates a Mill/Turn post that segments rotary arcs into linear moves.

Example: Fanuc 16T [VG] SML800.19.pst
I - This designates a Mill/Turn post that supports Polar and Cylindrical Interpolation. A Polar and Cylindrical Interpolation Mill/Turn post will output a G2 or G3 with rotary moves.
Example: Fanuc 16T [VG] IML800.19.pst
Y - This designation is for a 4-axis Mill/Turn machine that has a linear Y-axis.
Example:
Fanuc 16T [VG] YIML800.19.pst
Fanuc 16T [VG] YSML800.19.pst
P - This designates a C-axis positioning post. A Mill/Turn positioning post will rotate the part and then move in X and Z. It will not rotate and cut simultaneously.
Example: Fanuc 16T [VG] PML800.19.pst
N - This designates a Mill/Turn post that does not use subprograms. This is known as a "Long Hand post". Subprograms are frequently used for multi-process drilling, C-repeat drilling, Z-repeat milling, C-repeat milling, Patterns (OD only), etcetera.
Example:
Fanuc 16T [VG] NSML800.19.pst
Fanuc 16T [VG] NIML800.19.pst
B - This designates a B-axis rotation post. This supports the creation of coordinate systems that has the tool rotate about the B-axis.
Example:
Super Hicell 250 HS [JMC] BSML1082.19.7.pst
Code Issues:

1. Tool Orientation
When using a mill tool on the Face or OD, it is important to define the orientation of that tool correctly. When Milling or Drilling on the face, make sure the orientation of the tool is perpendicular to the face. When Milling or Drilling on the OD, make sure the orientation of the tool is perpendicular the OD. If the tool is not oriented properly, the output will not be correct.
2. C-Axis And Y-Axis Output
The radio buttons Position and Rotary Milling in the Rotate Tab determine whether C-axis moves or Y-axis moves are output during Rotary Mill operations. If the position radio button is selected, the system calculates Y-axis moves. If the Rotary Milling radio button is selected, the system calculates C-axis moves.
If your machine does not have a Y-axis, then you need to select the Rotary Milling radio button.
If your machine has a Y-axis, this capability can be added to any Mill/Turn post.
3. Rotary Feedrates
Most rotary feedrates are calculated in Degrees Per Minute per rotary segment based on its length. Since the length of each segment is variable, the system outputs a different feedrate for each segment. The resulting rotary feedrate can be a large value based on the Degrees Per Minute calculation.
Certain CNCs, such as Haas and Mazak, calculate rotary feedrates using Inverse Time. Any Mill/Turn post can be modified to use Inverse Time for feedrates.
Polar Interpolation posts use inches per minute for rotary feedrate calculations. Any Mill/Turn post can be modified to use Polar Interpolation with inches per minute feedrates.

Where is the Get Section (or any other extra) plugin?

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 20:13:56 GMT

A number of extra plug-ins are included with your GibbsCAM installation. They are located in the Extras/Plugins folder in the GibbsCAM installation folder. If you move the desired plug-in from that folder into the Plugins folder then re-launch GibbsCAM the extra plugin will appear in the Plug-Ins pull-down menu.

A partial list of extra plug-ins is detailed below:

GetSection - used in lathe to automatically get the cutaway shape of a lathe part from a solid.
Deburring - Used to generate a deburring toolpath on a solid...generally with a lollipop cutter.
SetPartOrigin - Generally used with Machine Simulation to adjust the part zero

How do I create a custom view?

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 18:21:56 GMT

How can I create custom views ?

Rotate the part to the desired orientation.
Open your CS Dialog
Right Click on the menu bar at the top and select New CS from VIEW.
This will create a CS in your current view.
To return to that view, select the CS form the dialog window and choose the “HOME” view icon on the palette or from the “view” menu.

Where should I put my post processor files?

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 23:33:35 GMT

Question: Where should I place my post processors?

Answer: Your post processors can be copied anywhere on your system. We typically recommend that customers create a folder called Posts on your C:/ drive and place your posts there.

If you received your post on floppy disk: Simply copy the contents of the floppy to the folder you've created for your posts.

If you received your post by e-mail: If you received your post(s) by e-mail it has likely been compressed as a .ZIP file. You will need to unzip this file before you can use the post(s). A good utility for doing this Winzip

By keeping the posts separate from your Gibbs installation you are saved from having to locate and move your posts each time you get a new release. When posting a part the first time you will need to change directories to where your posts are located but you should default to the location on subsequent newly-created parts as well as previously posted part files.

Will GibbsCAM operate under Windows XP x64?

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 17:31:58 GMT

11/2/2006

Extensive testing of GibbsCAM in Windows XP X64 has not yet been performed. However, we have tested the current 64-bit drivers with both USB and parallel Rainbow Sentinel Superpro hardware keys and have been able to launch and run GibbsCAM with the system configuration shown below.

Current hardware key drivers can be found here.

System configuration:

AMD Athlon 64 3200+
Windows XP X64
nVidia geForce FX video (with current drivers)
1GB RAM
GibbsCAM v8.0.6

The performance of GibbsCAM on Windows XP 64-bit seems about the same as on regular Windows XP. Please note that while we have begun testing this OS we have not yet certified it for use with GibbsCAM. The possibility exists that errors could occur as a result of using the 64-bit version of Windows XP. If you have the choice we recommend using the regular 32-bit version.

How do I reorient a solid body (v7.0 and older)?

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 23:48:39 GMT

Reorientation of a solid body using coordinate systems

This document is intended to provide a step-by-step procedure for reorienting an imported solid body. This example requires the use of coordinate systems which is only available if you have the Advanced Mill option. Most SolidSurfacer customers will have this option.

Identify a planar (flat) surface on your imported body
Depress the face selection button and select the planar face
Open the CS list and create a new coordinate system
Open the CS modification pallet (directly below the CS list button) and right-click on the Align Plane button and select Align Plane Through and Move. Be sure that your planar face is still selected for this step. If you have additional part bodies that need to be moved with your part be sure they are all selected for the next step.
Select Modify-->Change CS (XYZ). This will associate the selected body with the new CS.
Click on the XY preset on the CS modification pallet. This will modify the current CS to align with the XY plane. Your body may be upside down at this point. If it is select the Depth Axis button on the CS modification pallet.
Select View-->Shrink Wrap.
Change to CS#1
Select the body and select Modify-->Change cs (XYZ)
Highlight CS#2 in the CS list and click on the trashcan.
Your part should now be oriented properly to the XY plane and should be fully contained within the stock definition.

Next we will move the part origin to a desired point on the model.
Turn on Edge Selection.
Select an edge that would help identify the new origin. This could be a corner or a circle.
Open the geometry pallet, select Geometry from Solids and select Geometry Extraction from the sub-menu.
Specify a tolerance of .001" and click the Do It button. This should result in geometry being created from the edge selected. If you selected a circular shape it will be necessary to generate the center point of the circle at this point. This function can be found on the point pallet.
Select Modify-->Move Part Origin.
At this point it is important that the Origin dialog remain the active dialog. Be sure not to click any other feature or dialog after opening the Origin dialog.
Hold down the ALT and SHIFT keys on your keyboard. The mouse pointer should turn into a square, Place the square over the point created in step #15 and click. This will load some values in the Origin Dialog. Hit Do It on the Origin dialog.
You should now have your part in the correct orientation with the correct part origin

'Holder DB not available' error message

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 22:03:52 GMT

Problem:

When attempting to configure a toolholder in a tool dialog a message appears that says 'Holder DB not available'

Solution:

In pre-v9 versions this problem occurs when a component of Microsoft Office is missing or corrupted. If you follow the steps in THIS Microsoft knowledgebase article to reinstall the MDAC.INF file it should alleviate this problem.
In GibbsCAM v9 and later this problem is caused by out-of-date Windows Updates. If you go to Start-->All Programs-->Windows Update and bring your system current it should correct this issue.

How do I check which video card and driver I have?

Fri, 21 May 2010 19:15:14 GMT

The following steps will allow you to check the type of video adapter you have as well as the driver version in Windows 2000 and Windows XP:

Minimize or close any open programs
Right-click the desktop and select Properties
Click on the Settings tab
Click the Advanced button
Click the Adapter tab. The adapter type is shown here.
Click the Properties button
Click the Driver tab. The driver version and driver date are shown here.

The following steps will allow you to check the type of video adapter you have as well as the driver version in Windows Vista

Minimize or close any open programs
Right-click the desktop and select Personalize
Click on the Display Settings selection
Click the Advanced button
Click the Adapter tab. The adapter type is shown here.
Click the Properties button
Click the Driver tab. The driver version and driver date are shown here.

The following steps will allow you to check the type of video adapter you have as well as the driver version in Windows 7

Minimize or close any open programs
Right-click the desktop and select Personalize
Click on the Display link
Click on the Change Display Settings selection
Click the Advanced Settings link
Click the Adapter tab. The adapter type is shown here.
Click the Properties button
Click the Driver tab. The driver version and driver date are shown here.

If the driver date is more than a year old it is likely there is an update available. NVIDIA drivers can be downloaded clicking on the link. If you have some other type of video card this tech article may be useful.