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AlphaCAM, AlphaEDIT and Portadisk
NC code created and saved in AlphaCAM contains comments and information useful to people but not required by a machine controller such as WELmill. This material must be removed from the code.
To do this, leave AlphaCAM and start AlphaEDIT. Bring the NC code file on to the screen using File - Open NC/Text.
Click on Comms - Output to Portadisk. Follow the on-screen instructions. The NC file, with all unnecessary information removed, is exported and saved either in C:\Milldata or in whatever other folder you choose. When next you go into WELmill, you can access the file and use it to machine a part.
If Portadisk is to do its job correctly, it must be properly configured. The screen shots below show how this is done.
Click on Portadisk. Ignore the existing names which may appear.
Click on Add.
Complete the Disk dialogue. Please note that the entry in the Directory field is:
\MillData
When installation of WELmill was completed, it was suggested that you create the folder C:\MillData to store the WELmill machining data files. If you have chosen to keep files in a different folder and/or another location please enter that information in the relevant fields of the dialogue window. Note that the file extension is WMC
Set the Codes dialogue as shown.
Set the Format dialogue as shown and then click OK.
Click on and then delete the unwanted names to leave just WELmill (and WELturn, if you have our Emco 5CNC/5PC lathe controller).
When you leave AlphaEDIT you are asked if you want to save the new configuration. Answer Yes.
AlphaEDIT is a powerful text editor. Provided you understand what you are doing, you can use it to edit and save the files: for example a spindle speed, feed rate or tool number can be changed. (NB different tool number but same diameter of tool - the code was generated for that diameter tool.)
AlphaCAM
AlphaCAM, the Billet, the Part, the Work Origin
Defining Tools in AlphaCAM
WELmill NC code file extension