Selection to Absolute in CNC Simulator Pro

Introduction


The "Selection to Absolute" feature in CNC Simulator Pro allows users to convert incremental coordinate values in a selected section of G-code to absolute coordinates. This function is particularly useful when you need to reference a fixed point in space, ensuring that each move is based on a specific coordinate system rather than relative to the last position.


How to Use the Selection to Absolute Feature

Step 1: Select the Code

- Open your CNC program in the CNC Simulator Pro editor.
 - Highlight the section of the G-code that you want to convert from incremental to absolute coordinates.



Step 2: Access the Selection to Absolute Function

- With the section of code highlighted, go to the Edit menu at the top of the CNC Simulator Pro window.
 - From the dropdown menu, click on Selection to Absolute.


A computer screen shot of a number Description automatically generated 


Step 3: Review the Converted Code

After selecting Selection to Absolute, the software will automatically convert the selected incremental coordinates to absolute ones. This ensures that each coordinate is based on the fixed origin of the machine's coordinate system.


Example:

Before Conversion:

G91 (Switch to incremental mode)
G01 Z-22.000 F500 M08
 G03 X38.400 I19.200 J0.000

After Conversion:

G90 (Switch to absolute mode)
G01 Z-20.000 F500 M08
 G03 X15.176 I19.200 J0.000


Step 4: Save and Use

- After the conversion, save your program. You can now run the CNC simulation with the new absolute coordinates, which is particularly useful for operations where consistent reference to a fixed origin is required.


Benefits of Using Absolute Coordinates

- Consistency: Absolute coordinates ensure that each move is made relative to a fixed origin, reducing the chances of errors in positioning.
- Precision: Ideal for precise operations where each point needs to be referenced from a known fixed location.
 - Clarity: Easier to visualize and understand the tool path when coordinates are absolute.


Important Note:

When converting to absolute coordinates, ensure that the first block in the selected code contains all three coordinate values (X, Y, and Z). This is crucial for the simulator to correctly calculate the absolute values based on the initial position. Missing any of these coordinates may result in incorrect movements during simulation.