Page 1 of 2
CNC12 DEMO MODE??
Posted: Wed Dec 15, 2021 1:56 pm
by backyard_cnc
I just ordered an ACORN to update my MACH3 6040 CNC router and i wonder if its possible to have a demo mode of the software without a connection to the board. just like to get a feel for it while waiting for the ACORN to arrive?
gerald
Re: CNC12 DEMO MODE??
Posted: Wed Dec 15, 2021 2:07 pm
by centroidsupport
The servo software has a demo program that will do what you want.
https://www.centroidcnc.com/centroid_di ... v420-D.exe
Re: CNC12 DEMO MODE??
Posted: Wed Dec 15, 2021 3:10 pm
by cnckeith
....not quite the same as Acorn CNC12, no Acorn Wizard, and different VCP. so....
I'd wait for your Acorn to arrive and hook up in bench test configuration so you can run the actual Acorn CNC12 software.
Be sure to follow the instructions here. There many things you can do in preparation.
https://www.centroidcnc.com/centroid_di ... guide.html
Re: CNC12 DEMO MODE??
Posted: Thu Dec 16, 2021 5:47 pm
by martyscncgarage
As Keith mentioned, there is nothing to configure with the Demo software, there is no Wizard or Virtual Control Panel. The PC must be able to communicate with the hardware in order for that to work.
That said, what Centroidsupport suggested will allow you to get a feel for the software, loading a program, looking setting up tool library, etc.
Just basically a look around "kick the tires" lots of videos on YouTube you can go watch while waiting for it to arrive.
Marty
Re: CNC12 DEMO MODE??
Posted: Thu Dec 16, 2021 6:00 pm
by suntravel
IMHO the Demo is good to get used to Intercon or test programs in the living room on a Laptop. Graphics are working an you can setup the tool library.
I am using it a lot of the machine. The way you can turn 3D graphics in the Demo different to Acorn for me even better.
Regards
Uwe
Re: CNC12 DEMO MODE??
Posted: Thu Dec 16, 2021 6:48 pm
by cnckeith
suntravel wrote: ↑Thu Dec 16, 2021 6:00 pm
The way you can turn 3D graphics in the Demo different to Acorn for me even better.
Regards
Uwe
accelerated graphics is in Acorn CNC12 as well. use parameter #260 to activate it. set P260=1
page 312 in the Mill Operator manual.
Re: CNC12 DEMO MODE??
Posted: Fri Dec 17, 2021 1:55 am
by suntravel
cnckeith wrote: ↑Thu Dec 16, 2021 6:48 pm
suntravel wrote: ↑Thu Dec 16, 2021 6:00 pm
The way you can turn 3D graphics in the Demo different to Acorn for me even better.
Regards
Uwe
accelerated graphics is in Acorn CNC12 as well. use parameter #260 to activate it. set P260=1
page 312 in the Mill Operator manual.
Thanks Keith for the kick
I have read about this setting but never changed it, was sure must be on by default
Now I am happy, working with Centroid gets smoother every day.
Kind regards
Uwe
Re: CNC12 DEMO MODE??
Posted: Sat Jan 22, 2022 1:36 pm
by Sword
Keith, on the topic of accelerated graphics, how about having a toggle for this on the graph screen? Since default is "off" and the only way to turn it on is through params, many may never give it a try. It would also be great if the "Run" screen could use this type of view, but with a cone that follows and highlights the toolpath as it's running, and isn't dependent upon tool diameter (thus eliminating the issue of people either not seeing the tool dot or it being too large). Here's an example of what that could look like in both "Run" and "Graph". The added dimensions would be a bonus. I seldom if ever use the "Run" screen, due to the way RTG currently is displayed.
Just some thoughts for future improvements.

Re: CNC12 DEMO MODE??
Posted: Sat Jan 22, 2022 1:53 pm
by Gary Campbell
Sword wrote: ↑Sat Jan 22, 2022 1:36 pm
Keith, on the topic of accelerated graphics, how about having a toggle for this on the graph screen? Since default is "off" and the only way to turn it on is through params, many may never give it a try. It would also be great if the "Run" screen could use this type of view, but with a cone that follows and highlights the toolpath as it's running, and isn't dependent upon tool diameter (thus eliminating the issue of people either not seeing the tool dot or it being too large). Here's an example of what that could look like in both "Run" and "Graph". The added dimensions would be a bonus. I seldom if ever use the "Run" screen, due to the way RTG currently is displayed.
Just some thoughts for future improvements.
A big PLUS ONE
Re: CNC12 DEMO MODE??
Posted: Sat Jan 22, 2022 2:42 pm
by Nigelo
Yep +1 from me too