Editor

1
EdgeCAM Editor Guide
EdgeCAM Editor is a Windows-based text editor, provided with EdgeCAM. The Editor provides a
powerful set of NC file editing functions as well as standard file editing features.
You can edit one or more files at the same time. These files can be:
NC files.
ASCII format files (for example, EdgeCAMs PCI macro files, Source files for the EdgeCAM
Code Generator).
You can also use NC code editing functions, such as:

Resequencing block numbers and converting from metric to imperial units.
Performing specific comparisons between two files and viewing the differences.
Copyright 1988-2003 Pathtrace Engineering Systems. All rights reserved.

Microsoft, Windows and Windows NT are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. Other brands and
product names are trademarks of their respective owners.
EdgeCAM User Guide
Starting the Editor

The Editor runs as a standalone application within the EdgeCAM program group.
NC files.
Code Generator).
To start the Editor, double-click on the
icon
You may have the Editor running but are currently in another application. In this case you can
use ALT+Tab to switch between Windows applications.

EdgeCAM User Guide
About the Editor Menu Bar

The interface contains a menu bar with these options:
NC files.
Code Generator).


EdgeCAM User Guide
About the Editor Toolbar

The Toolbar contains buttons that duplicate a number of the menu options:
See Also
NC and
files.Docking the Toolbar
Floating
Code Generator).


EdgeCAM User Guide
Floating and Docking the Toolbar

You can reposition the Toolbar anywhere on the screen by clicking and holding the left mouse
button while the cursor is over a clear part of the Toolbar.
The Toolbar is replaced by a rectangle showing its current size, shape and position:
Move the cursor to an appropriate location and release the mouse button.
If you hold the Shift key down at the same time, the Toolbar changes to a vertical bar:
NC files.
Code Generator).

specific
two
filesto
and
(This Performing
occurs in any
case ifcomparisons
the Toolbar between
is dragged
close
theviewing
sides ofthe
thedifferences.
application window.)
When the Toolbar rectangle is drawn in a thinner line, the mouse button may be release to
dock the Toolbar against one edge (top, bottom, left or right) of the application window.

EdgeCAM User Guide
About the Editor Status Bar

At the bottom of the screen is a status bar providing feedback information and the position of
the cursor:
NC files.
You can
toggle
the files
current
state
(inserting PCI
a character
at the
current
cursor
position
or
ASCII
format
(fortyping
example,
EdgeCAMs
macro files,
Source
files
for the
EdgeCAM
replacing
existing character) by pressing the Insert key on the keyboard.
Codethe
Generator).


EdgeCAM User Guide
Showing and Hiding the Toolbar and Status Line

TheViewmenu allows you to switch the Toolbar and Status line on or off. A tick by the toolbar
or status line shows if they are switched on.
Clicking on the relevant command changes the state of the Toolbar and Status line and
whether a tick is shown next to the command on the menu.
NC files.
Code Generator).


EdgeCAM User Guide
About the Editor Window

Once you open a file within the Editor using the Open (File menu) command, a file is
displayed in a window that is sizeable and moveable.
The contents of the window can be scrolled horizontally and vertically. Most of the text is
displayed as black on white. Depending on the control type, special word IDs or key words are
highlighted in red, and remarks within the text are coloured green. The sequence number is
coloured blue (although you can configure the colours as required in the Miscellaneous tab of
the Options (Settings menu) command).
A typical NC file might look like this in the Editor:
NC files.
Code Generator).

A file Performing
can also be specific
split to comparisons
show several between
parts of the
theviewing
same time.
For details see
twofile
filesatand
the differences.
Splitting File Windows.

EdgeCAM User Guide
Configuring the View

Cascading File Windows
You may have two or more file windows open at the same time. Use the Cascade (Window
menu) command to arrange these neatly top of one another. This only shows one window, but
you can still see and select the title bars of the other files.
Tiling Several Files in the Editor Window
You may have two or more file windows open at the same time. You can arrange these neatly
one above the other by using the Tile (Window menu) command.
Arranging
Icons
powerful setFile
of NC
file editing functions as well as standard file editing features.
You may have minimised several files within the Editor window.
You can
edit one or
more(Window
files at themenu)
same time.
Thesetofiles
can be:
Use
the Arrange
Icons
command
display
these in a regular pattern
within the window:
NC files.
Code Generator).

See Also
Splitting File Windows

EdgeCAM User Guide
10
Splitting File Windows

You might want to view one part of a document while looking at another. You can do this with
theSplit (Window menu) command or by double-clicking on the appropriate split box on a
scroll bar.
Once a window has been split into more than one pane, changes made in one pane are
automatically reflected in all other panes of the same file.
To split a file window
To split a window into two panes
To return from a split display
NC files.
Code Generator).


EdgeCAM User Guide
11
How to split a file window

1. Select the Split (Window menu) command. This splits a window into four panes with a
grey crosshair:
NC files.
Code Generator).
2. Move the crosshair about until satisfied, and click to set the size of the new panes:


EdgeCAM User Guide
12
How to split a window into two panes

You can split a window into two panes, either vertically or horizontally.
1. Double-click the split box at the top of the vertical scroll bar or on the left of the
horizontal scroll bar:
2. When you move the cursor into a split box, the cursor changes shape.
3. can
Click
and
drag
the split
down
or across
window.
You
edit
one
or more
filesline
at the
same
time. the
These
files can be:
4. Release the mouse button to fix the position of the split.
NC files.
Code Generator).


EdgeCAM User Guide
13
How to return from a split display

1. Move the cursor over the split lines.
2. Drag the split lines off the screen.
The window is returned to its former state.
NC files.
Code Generator).


EdgeCAM User Guide
14
Creating New Files

TheNew (File menu) command
lets you open a window containing a new file.
When you activate the command, a dialog appears from which you can select the type of new
file:
NC OK
files.
Click on
to display a new window containing the blank file.
Code Generator).


EdgeCAM User Guide
15
Opening, Closing and Saving Files

TheOpen (File menu)
command displays a directory dialog. The default file extension is
the last extension used, provided that it is one that the Editor recognises. You can add
customised file extensions as required.
Use the Browse... button to help you search for a particular file.
You can also select from the last files opened in the Editor: these appear at the bottom of the
file menu, above the Exit option.
TheClose (File menu) command removes the currently active document window.
If the file has changed since it was last saved, you are asked if you want to save it.
powerful
of NC
file editing command
functions as
wellthe
as standard
editing
features.
The
Save set
(File
menu)
saves
active filefile
under
its original
name and
location.
YouSave
can edit
one
or more
filescommand
at the same
time.
These
files acan
be:
The
As...
(File
menu)
allows
you
to select
new
file name from a directory
dialog. The Editor saves the file under this new name.
NC files.
Code Generator).


EdgeCAM User Guide
16
Customised File Extensions

As well as the normal .nc extension used to identify NC code files, you can create your own file
extensions.
The extension is added using a simple setup dialog. Any files opened with the extension will be
treated in exactly the same way as .nc files.
The file types are added using the File Types tab dialog of the Options (Settings menu)
command:
NC files.
ASCII format
files (for
example,
EdgeCAMs
macro
files, Source
files
the EdgeCAM
Any number
of file types
may
be added
by typing PCI
in the
extension,
filling in
thefor
Name
fields
Code Generator).
and clicking
on Add/Update.
When you type in a new extension, the Name defaults to the extension plus the word File.
If
the
leading
. isNC
omitted
it is automatically
inserted.
You
can
also use
code editing
functions, such
as: Wild card characters (* or ?) do not
work.
If youResequencing
select an existing
modify from
it. You
must to
click
on theunits.
Add/Update
blockextension
numbers you
and can
converting
metric
imperial
button to keep the modifications.

EdgeCAM User Guide
17
Printing Files
ThePrint (File menu)
command prints the current file using the standard Windows
dialog. It also allows you to configure the printer by clicking on the Properties button.
ThePrint Preview (File menu)
when printed.
command displays the pages as they would appear
See your Windows User Manual for further details.
NC files.
Code Generator).


EdgeCAM User Guide
18
Sending Files
Use the Send (File menu) command to send the currently active file to a recipient using
your e-mail system (if you have one).
NC files.
Code Generator).


EdgeCAM User Guide
19
Editing Files
You can access the editing commands from the Edit menu or the toolbar:
You can also display the Edit menu by clicking the right mouse button while the cursor is over a
file window:
NC files.
Code Generator).

Displaying Modified Files

When you make a change to a loaded file, a star appears after the filename at the top of the
file
window:
You may find that the file has changed while you have had it loaded. If this occurs, the Editor
displays a warning message.
See Also
Displaying Modified Files
Cutting and Pasting
Undoing Errors when Editing
EdgeCAM User Guide
Finding and Replacing Text

Finding Lines or Sequence Numbers
Changing the Display Font
Defining the Format of a Word
Resequencing NC Files
Entering NC File Information
Formatting NC Files
Changing the Appearance of the NC File
Setting Miscellaneous NC Parameters
Changing NC Files Using Global Arithmetic
NC files.
Code Generator).


EdgeCAM User Guide
20
21
Cutting and Pasting

TheCut (Edit menu)
command deletes the highlighted text from the active document
and inserts it into the clipboard.
TheCopy (Edit menu)
command copies the highlighted text into the clipboard.
ThePaste (Edit menu)

command copies the contents of the clipboard into the file at the
current position of the cursor.
ThePaste Link (Edit menu) command copies the contents of the clipboard as a linked
object.
See
your set
Windows
User
Manual
for further
details
on cuttingfile
and
pasting
and using the
powerful
of NC file
editing
functions
as well
as standard
editing
features.
clipboard.
NC files.
Code Generator).


EdgeCAM User Guide
22
Undoing Errors when Editing

If you make any mistakes while editing a file, use the Undo (Edit menu)
command (or
use the Ctrl-Z key combination). This command cancels your previous action. You can continue
using Undo to cancel up to ten previous actions.
NC files.
Code Generator).


EdgeCAM User Guide
23
Finding and Replacing Text

TheReplace (Edit menu) command allows you to replace one specified text string with
another. For example, to replace X50 with X250.
Enter a string of text to be found and the string of text with which to replace it. You can either
replace each occurrence of the string selectively, or choose to replace all occurrences.
Select the Match Case parameter to ensure that only strings matching the case of the Find
Text string will be operated on.
TheFind (Edit menu)

command allows you to search for a specified string, or search
for a specific value associated with a word ID.
See
your Windows
Manual for details.
EdgeCAM
Editor is aUser
Windows-based
text editor, provided with EdgeCAM. The Editor provides a
NC files.
Code Generator).


EdgeCAM User Guide
24
Finding Lines or Sequence Numbers

You can use the Goto (Edit menu) command to move straight to a specified line (or sequence
number as well in NC files).
You can
or more
files
at the line
same
files
Note
thatedit
theone
number
of the
current
in time.
a file These
is shown
oncan
thebe:
right of the status bar.
NC files.
Code Generator).


EdgeCAM User Guide
25
Changing the Display Font

TheFont (Settings menu) command allows you to change the display text font, size and
style for text and NC files. This command has no effect for .log files.
Some of the available fonts are provided by the selected printer (set using the Print (File
menu) command). Other available fonts will depend on other software components previously
installed on the PC.
NC files.
Code Generator).


EdgeCAM User Guide
26
Defining the Format of a Word

TheWord Formats tab dialog of the Options (Settings menu) command allows you to
define the format for a word:
NC files.
Code Generator).

This
overrides
anyPathtrace
formatting
within Systems.
the configuration
file, or provides information where no
Copyright
1988-2003
Engineering
All rights reserved.
configuration
file
is
available.
product
names
are trademarks
of their
respective
owners. of the required word in the box at the top left
To
create
a new
word, type
in the
letter address
of the dialog. Specify all relevant parameters (which are listed below), and click on the Update
button to save the information.
The information in this dialog is used when you select the Format (Edit menu) command.
Letter Description This lists all currently available words.
Letter Address Usually a single upper case letter, but it can be any combination of ASCII
characters.
Description Enter or edit a description for the currently selected word.
Insert Click on this button to indicate that any changes to the active word should be saved.
Delete Click on this button to delete the currently active word in the list.
Numerical Precision Specifies the number of possible digits before and after the decimal
point for both metric and imperial values.
The sample output allows the user to input a value which is formatted for both imperial and
metric. The two results fields are not editable.
EdgeCAM User Guide
Format Control These check boxes form the format options for the currently selected word
ID within the currently active NC file.
Lead Zeros/Blanks Check the box to force leading zeros/blanks before a value to give a fixed
number of places before the decimal point. For example, if Lead Zeros was selected and
Before (in Numeric Precision) was set to 4, the value 34 would be represented as 0034.
Trail Zeros/Blanks Check the box to force trailing zeros/blanks after a value to give a fixed
number of places after the decimal point, as determined by the Decimal Places parameter.
For example, if this parameter was selected and Decimal Places was set to 4, the value 3.5
would be represented as 3.5000. Machines that do not use a decimal separator normally have
a fixed number of decimal places.
Suppress Decimal Check the box to remove the decimal point.

Use , instead of . Check the box to replace the decimal point with a comma.
Force
. on
integer
Check the box to
addeditor,
a decimal
pointwith
to values
with no
places. a
EdgeCAM
Editor
is aWindows-based
text
provided
EdgeCAM.
Thedecimal
Editor provides
powerful
NC fileediting
well as'.0'
standard
file with
editing
Force
.0 set
on of
integers
Check functions
the box toasappend
to values
no features.
decimal places.
Force on positive numbers Check the box to add a positive sign in front of positive values.
Right fill with spaces to a total of 5 Check the box to force the word to be 5 characters long
by truncating or right filling.
NC files.
Right fill with spaces to a total of 10 Check the box to force the word to be 10 characters long
ASCII format
files
(for example, EdgeCAMs PCI macro files, Source files for the EdgeCAM
by truncating
or right
filling.
Code Generator).
Do not output 0 after letter address Check the box to suppress the value if zero.
Output 000.000 as 0 Check the box to ignore all formatting for a zero value.
You convert
can also
use NC
code
functions,
such
Can
units
Check
theediting
box to permit
values
to beas:
changed by a factor of 25.4 when converting
between metric and imperial units.

EdgeCAM User Guide
27
28
Resequencing NC Files
TheResequence (Edit menu) command resequences the NC file. The command can also add
the sequence word to NC files that do not already contain it.
The sequence word is set up using the Word Formats tab of the Options (Settings menu)
command dialog. See Defining the Format of a Word for details.
You can also set up the parameters for the resequencing using the Resequence tab of the
Options (Settings menu) command dialog. See Specifying Resequence Settings for details.
Once you activate the command, the active NC file is resequenced using the set parameters.
You will see the line number (displayed on the right hand side of the file window's status bar)
rapidly increment as the resequencing progresses.
The
Remove
Sequence
(Edit menu)
command
removeswith
any EdgeCAM.
existing NCThe
file Editor
sequencing.
EdgeCAM
Editor
is a Windows-based
text
editor, provided
provides a
NC files.
Code Generator).


EdgeCAM User Guide
29
Specifying Resequence Settings

TheResequencetab of the Options (Settings menu) command allows you to specify the
settings for an NC file Resequence (Edit menu).
Once the Options command is selected, this dialog appears (select the Resequence tab):
NC files.
Code Generator).

Word ID Specifies the sequence word to use. Note that you can use the Add Sequence
(EditResequencing
menu) command
add a sequence
word tofrom
linesmetric
if it is to
notimperial
alreadyunits.
present.
blocktonumbers
and converting
StartPerforming
Specifies specific
the initial
number forbetween
the first two
sequence
word.
comparisons
files and
viewing the differences.
Increment Specifies the amount by which to increment each sequence word.
For example, if Word ID is set to N, Start = 10 and Increment = 10, the file would be
resequenced as:
N10
N20
N30
N40...
Rules
Windows
The available
combinations
of Triggers
andofLabels
can beOther
usedbrands
for and
Microsoft,
and Windows
NT are registered
trademarks
Microsoftthat
Corporation.
resequencing.
Trigger Specify a string to search for embedded subroutine calls.
Label(s) A list of word IDs which identify letter addresses to be renumbered (for example, N,
P, Q, and so on).
Update Updates a rule.
Delete Deletes a rule.
If you resequence a file containing embedded subroutines (using the Trigger string), the Editor
automatically updates all corresponding jump references. For example, G71 P120 Q280 U1.0
V0.5 F35.0 S2300, where the triggers are the combination of G71 with P and Q. P and Q
identify the block numbers which identify the embedded subroutine. For many controls this
would be blank.
EdgeCAM User Guide
30
Entering NC File Information

TheProperties (File menu) command
(only available for NC documents) allows you to
specify the control type, and lists the size and number of lines in the file:
The control type determines the way text colours are displayed for different words, and so on.
You information
can edit oneisorappended
more filestoatthe
thebeginning
same time.
These
be:
The
of the
file,files
likecan
this:
NC files.
Code Generator).

specific
comparisons
between
two filesbox
andin
viewing
the differences.
If youPerforming
have checked
the Expanded
File
Information
the Editor
tab of the Options,
Settings menu command, the Properties appears like this:

The information is stored in the file in a manner that could cause problems if you attempt to
load the file into another editor (or transmit it using another DNC system).
EdgeCAM User Guide
31
Formatting NC Files
Selecting the Format (Edit menu) command displays this dialog:
Reformat Reformat each line according to the settings in the Word tab of the Options
(Settings menu) dialog.
Metric to Imperial or Imperial to Metric Converts all applicable words using a defined
conversion factor (usually 25.4). The function also changes the unit designation (for example,
NC files.
G20 to G21).
TheEditor keeps this setting as the new default type of units, until changed again with this
Code Generator).
command.


EdgeCAM User Guide
32
Changing the Appearance of the NC File

TheEditor tab of the Options (Settings menu) command allows you to configure the
appearance of the file on screen and when printed out.
NC files.
Code Generator).

Print Options This set of buttons controls how the file appears when printed. You must
already
have set specific
the file'scomparisons
Title using the
Properties
(File
for the title to be
Performing
between
two files
andmenu)
viewingcommand
the differences.
displayed.
The example below shows a file being displayed in Print Preview mode. Note the date, time and
page number in the page footer:

Auto-save These checkboxes allow you to choose when the current file is to be
automatically saved:
Before Send to Machine See Sending an NC File to a Machine.
Before Running Tool Tools are any customised commands in the Tools menu. See
Configuring the Tools Menu.
EdgeCAM User Guide
File Formatting These radio buttons let you set Metric or Imperial unit formatting.
Tab Space This determines the width of a tab in character spaces. For proportional fonts
(where not all characters are the same width) this is taken to be the number of average
character widths.
Expanded File Information Check this box to use the older method of file information. See
Entering NC File Information.
Colour This controls the colour of several text features:
Text Controls the standard text colour.
Comment Sets the colour of any lines marked as comment lines. The characters marking the
beginning and end of comment lines are defined in the Miscellaneous tab by the Comment
From and To parameters.
Ignore Line Sets the colour of any text beginning with an asterisk. This text is not sent to the
EdgeCAMTool.
Editor is a Windows-based text editor, provided with EdgeCAM. The Editor provides a
Machine
Word ID Set the colour of all specified Word IDs.
NC files.
Code Generator).


EdgeCAM User Guide
33
34
Setting Miscellaneous NC Parameters

Select the Miscellaneous tab of the Options (Settings menu) command to display these
parameters:
NC files.
Code Generator).
You can also useFile

NC
code
editinganfunctions,
such(*.blc
as: file) that is automatically executed
Configuration
Specifies
optional task
within the Editor for NC programs nominated for this control. This task converts the NC code of
the current
line into block
readable
text, which
is displayed
in metric
the Editors
statusunits.
bar.
Resequencing
numbers
and converting
from
to imperial
Click on
the Browse
button
to search between
for a configuration
file.viewing
This displays
configuration files
Performing
specific
comparisons
two files and
the differences.
with the extension .blc.
Comment From This parameter defines the start of a comment line in the NC file for this
Machine, which would typically be the ( character.
To This defines the end of a comment within the NC file for this Machine, and would typically
be the ) character.
The colour of comment lines can be controlled from the Editor tab. Comment lines are sent to
the
machine
tool. Pathtrace Engineering Systems. All rights reserved.
Copyright
1988-2003
Microsoft, Windows
Windows
NT the
are registered
trademarks
of Microsoft
Corporation.
Other brands
and
Optional
Line and
This
defines
character
that appears
in front
of the sequence
number.
This
product
names
are/trademarks
of their
is
typically
the
character,
and respective
indicatesowners.
to the Machine that any block of information
preceded by this character may be ignored if the Machine is in that particular mode.
Set Units The information entered here is used by the Format (Edit menu) command.
Metric Indicates the code and value that defines that the machine is to operate in metric
mode. For an ISO type control this is typically G21.
Imperial Indicates the code and value that defines that the machine is to operate in imperial
mode. For an ISO type control this is typically G20.
EdgeCAM User Guide
35
Changing NC Files Using Global Arithmetic

Use the Global Arithmetic (Edit menu) command to make changes to the file using macros.
These macros can be created from new or pre-defined.
When you select this command, a dialog appears with a blank window. You can now either type
in a macro or load a pre-defined .mlc macro file.
Here is an example of a simple macro:
NC files.
Code Generator).

The macro can change the values of any words identified for the control associated with the file
(default if no control specified).
An example macro is xyz.mlc, shown here:

If you check the Confirm Changes box, when you run the macro you will be asked to confirm
each change the macro makes.
Click on the Run button to activate the macro. When the macro reaches a position in the file
where a change is required, this dialog is displayed:
EdgeCAM User Guide
36

Confirm Click on this button to accept this change and continue the macro.
Ignore Do not make this change but continue running the macro.
Finish Stops the macro, accepting any changes made so far.
Cancel
Stops
the file
macro
andfunctions
resets any
made. file editing features.
powerful
set of NC
editing
aschanges
well as standard
You can
onecommand
or more files
atin
the
same time.
Thesemacro:
files can be:
Here
is aedit
simple
used
a Global
Arithmetic
#WORDw
NC files.
This macro command allows you to specify a variable, generally using a single letter word ID
w, such as N for the sequence word or X, Y, Z for co-ordinates and so on.
Code Generator).
TheEditor changes any line when either the buffer has been modified or a word on the line has
changed. Any word values that are modified are automatically formatted according to the
control setup.
Example

#WORDX=#WORDX*2
Performing
comparisons
twothe
files
and viewing
differences.
This sets
the newspecific
value of
the word Xbetween
to 2 times
previous
valuethe
of the
word X.
The expressions used in Global Arithmetic include addition, subtraction, multiplication and
division.

EdgeCAM User Guide
37
Comparing NC Files
TheCompare menu contains commands for comparing the active file with another open file.
These are:
File Compare
Compares two files. This may only be selected when you have an active
NC file loaded in the Editor .
Stop Compare
Halts an ongoing comparison. This may only be selected once you have
usedFile Compare to start a file comparison.
Resynchronise
Restarts comparison at a common point. This may only be selected
EdgeCAM
Editorused
is a File
Windows-based
editor,
with EdgeCAM. The Editor provides a
once
you have
Compare totext
start
a fileprovided
comparison.
See also Changing the Comparison Settings.
NC files.
Code Generator).


EdgeCAM User Guide
38
Comparing Two Files

TheFile Compare (Compare menu)
command identifies the differences between the
active open file and another open file. The comparison can either be a straight text comparison
or the comparison of specific words by value.
Once this is selected, you must choose the other open text window. When you move the cursor
over an appropriate file, the cursor shape changes to a crosshair.
The comparison is then carried out, beginning at the current text cursor position in each
window.
When a whole line appears to be different, the comparison function attempts to automatically
resynchronise the comparison.
The
resultset
of of
theNC
comparison
stored inas
a well
file called
output.log,
which features.
is displayed in a new
powerful
file editingisfunctions
as standard
file editing
window from the beginning of the comparison process.
NC files.
Code Generator).


EdgeCAM User Guide
39
How to compare files

The currently active document should be the first of the two files that you want to compare.
1. Click on the File Compare (Compare menu)
command .
2. The cursor now changes to a crosshair when you move it over another document window:
powerful
NCsecond,
file editing
functions
as well as
standard
fileto
editing
features.
3. Clickset
onof
the
non-active
document
that
you want
compare.
The comparison now takes place. A new window appears, displaying the differences between
You two
can files
edit as
onethey
or more
files atThis
the information
same time. is
These
cantobe:
the
are found.
also files
written
a file called Output.log:
NC files.
Code Generator).


The contents of this log file depend on how the comparison was configured in the File
Comparetab of the Options (Settings menu) command.
You are advised when the process is complete:
EdgeCAM User Guide
40
Stopping the Comparison

TheStop Comparison (Compare menu)
command halts an ongoing comparison
process. This may only be selected once you have used File Compare to start a file
comparison.
NC files.
Code Generator).


EdgeCAM User Guide
41
Resynchronising the Files

TheResynchronise (Compare menu)
command restarts the comparison process after
a halt due to finding a difference between the two files. The process restarts at the next
common point between the two files.
NC files.
Code Generator).


EdgeCAM User Guide
42
Changing the Comparison Settings

TheOptions (Settings menu) command allows you to change parameters that the Editor
uses when comparing two open files.
Select the File Compare tab to display this dialog box:
NC files.
Code Generator).
Comparison
Select the type of comparison you want to make: Text, Word Value or Line
Type.
Stop on differences Mark this box to halt the comparison process and immediately report
You result.
can also use NC code editing functions, such as:
the
In this case, a difference in a comparison is reported as follows:

Auto-Resynchronise Mark this box to automatically resynchronise the comparison after a

difference has been identified.
Start at top Mark this box to always start the comparison from the top of each file.
EdgeCAM User Guide
43
Sending an NC File to a Machine

TheSend to Machine
(File menu) command
allows you to send the
current NC document
directly to a Machine
tool without having to
save the file and invoke
the Machine menu.
The command displays

a sub-menu which
EdgeCAM
Editor
is a Windows-based text editor, provided with EdgeCAM. The Editor provides a
shows all the
locally
powerful
set of NC file editing functions as well as standard file editing features.
defined Machines.
NC files.
Code Generator).
When you select a machine from the list, the default transmit task sends the active document
You
can
also use
NC code editing functions, such as:
to
the
machine
tool.

The file is normally transmitted beginning from the top of the NC file. However, you can set the
start point of a transmission using the 'bullet' marker
(as shown in the above example).
You
can
set the
position ofofthe
to the
start of the line containing the cursor by pressing
product
names
are trademarks
theirbullet
respective
owners.
the F2 key or by selecting the Show Send Bullet (View menu) command. As the file is sent,
the view of the file scrolls down, with the bullet marker showing the current line being sent.
While the file is being transmitted, the Editor displays this toolbar:
EdgeCAM User Guide
Pause
Start/Restart
To pause the transmission, click on the Pause button . During a

pause, you can reposition the bullet as required. When you click the
pause button again to resume sending, the next line sent is the one
you marked with the bullet.
To restart the transmission from the beginning of the file (for
example, to include the header), click the Start button .
To cancel the transmission, click on the Stop button .

Stop
When the bullet reaches the end of the document, the transmission ends and the toolbar
disappears.
There is an Autosave Before Sending to Machine checkbox in the Editor page of Options
(Settings menu) to force a save of the document before it is sent to the Machine. This option
You
can edit
or more files at the same time. These files can be:
is
checked
byone
default.
NC files.
Code Generator).


EdgeCAM User Guide
44
45
Configuring the Tools Menu

The user-configurableTools menu lets you run other applications and custom Communications
tasks from the Editor. For example:
TheBefore Running Tool checkbox in the Editor page of the Options (Settings menu)
command forces all documents to be saved before any of the tools are run (the default is
checked). Tools are any customised commands in the Tools menu.
To configure
NC files.the menu, use the Customise (Tools menu) command:
Code Generator).


TheMenu Contents list box displays all the currently displayed options.
Menu Text the text displayed in the menu for the currently selected item. Place a & symbol
in front of the character you want to use as a standard Windows hotkey within the menu.
Task Command the executable command line or the custom Communications task file
name. You can select the task (or executable) using the Browse button.
Initial Directory is the current working directory when the option is selected.
The lists beside the Task Command and Initial Directory edit boxes provide a list of variables
that will be replaced when the option is selected from the menu. These are:
EdgeCAM User Guide
46
File Name includes the extension.
File Path includes the full directory path and the name.
File Title is just the name without the extension.
Control Name is the name given in the file information (the default is <Generic>).
EdgeCAM
Editor
is afull
Windows-based
text
editor,document
provided file
withwithout
EdgeCAM.
The Editor
provides a
File
directory
is the
directory to the
current
the final
\ character.
powerful set
NCand
file editing
functionsare
as well
as standard
filetwo
editing
Similarly
the of
CAM
DNC directories
the paths
to these
local features.
areas (e.g. c:\edge\cam
and c:\edge\dnc).
You can edit
one or
more
files
at the
time.
These
files can
be: for the task. This is only
Display
Output
Screen
Check
to same
open an
output
screen
window
applicable for custom Communications tasks.
NC files.
Display
Task toolbar Check to display the toolbar. This is only applicable for custom
Communications
tasks.
ASCII format
files (for example, EdgeCAMs PCI macro files, Source files for the EdgeCAM
Generator).
Add Code
Blanks
out the edit boxes so that a new option can be added. On completion the new
option is added to the menu. In the example below, 'Calculator' has been added:
Remove Deletes the currently selected option.

Move Up and Move Down change the relative position of the currently selected option.
EdgeCAM User Guide
47
Leaving the Editor

To close down the Editor , select Exit (File menu).
If you have any open files that have changed since they were last saved, you are asked if you
want to save them.
If you want to move to another application, you can either minimise the Editor orpress ALT +
Tab to cycle through the other active Windows applications.
NC files.
Code Generator).


EdgeCAM User Guide
48
Copyright
(C)1988-2003 Pathtrace Engineering Systems. All rights reserved.
Pathtrace Engineering Systems and its registered resellers or sub-resellers shall have no
liability or responsibility to the licensee or any other person or entity with respect to any
liability, loss or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly by this product,
including but not limited to any interruption of service, loss of business or anticipatory profits
or consequent damages resulting from the use or operation of this software.
Microsoft, Windows and Windows NT are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.

MemoHASP is a registered trademark of Aladdin Knowledge Systems Ltd.
NetSentinel is a trademark of Rainbow Technologies, Inc.
OpenGL(r) and Optimizer are trademarks of Silicon Graphics Inc.
EdgeCAM is
Editor
is a Windows-based
text
editor, provided
with EdgeCAM. The Editor provides a
Parasolid
a trademark
of Unigraphics
Solutions
Inc.
powerful set
of NC file
editing
functions of
as Autodesk
well as standard
file editing features.
Autodesk
Inventor
(tm)
is a trademark
Inc.
SolidWorks is a registered trademark of SolidWorks Corporation.
Solid
Edge
is one
a registered
trademark
of EDStime.
Inc. These files can be:
You can
edit
or more files
at the same
PTC, Pro/DESKTOP, Pro/ENGINEER(r), GRANITE (tm) One, are trademarks or registered
trademarks of Parametric Technology Corporation or its subsidiaries in the U.S. and in other
NC files.
countries.
AutoCAD
and
DXF are
trademarks
of Autodesk
Inc.
ASCII
format
filesregistered
(for example,
EdgeCAMs
PCI macro
files, Source files for the EdgeCAM
MicroStation
is a trademark of Bentley Systems Inc., an affiliate of Intergraph Corporation.
Code Generator).
IGDS is a trademark of Intergraph Corporation.
EdgeCAM Simulator and EdgeCAM Verify use technology developed by Lightworks Designs Ltd.
ACIS is a trademark of Spatial Technology, Inc., and was developed in co-operation with
You can also use
NCCambridge,
code editing
functions,
as: Geometry Corporation, Seattle,
Three-Space,
Ltd.,
England,
andsuch
Applied
Washington.
Other brands and product names are trademarks of their respective owners.
The information contained within this document is subject to change without notice and does
not represent a commitment on the part of the vendor. The software described in this
document is furnished under a licence agreement and may only be used or copied only in
accordance with the terms of the agreement.
Pathtrace Engineering Systems

45 Boulton Road Reading Berkshire England RG2 0NH
Telephone
+44
(0)118
975 trademarks
6084 Facsimile
+44
(0)118 975
6143
Microsoft, Windows
and Windows
NT are
registered
of Microsoft
Corporation.
Other
brands and
http://www.edgecam.com
EdgeCAM User Guide

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1

EdgeCAM Editor Guide

You can also use NC code editing functions, such as:

Copyright 1988-2003 Pathtrace Engineering Systems. All rights reserved.

EdgeCAM User Guide

Starting the Editor

EdgeCAM Editor Guide

Copyright 1988-2003 Pathtrace Engineering Systems. All rights reserved.

EdgeCAM User Guide

About the Editor Menu Bar

EdgeCAM Editor Guide

You can also use NC code editing functions, such as:

Copyright 1988-2003 Pathtrace Engineering Systems. All rights reserved.

EdgeCAM User Guide

About the Editor Toolbar

EdgeCAM Editor Guide

You can also use NC code editing functions, such as:

Copyright 1988-2003 Pathtrace Engineering Systems. All rights reserved.

EdgeCAM User Guide

Floating and Docking the Toolbar

EdgeCAM Editor Guide

You can also use NC code editing functions, such as:

Copyright 1988-2003 Pathtrace Engineering Systems. All rights reserved.

EdgeCAM User Guide

About the Editor Status Bar

EdgeCAM Editor Guide

You can also use NC code editing functions, such as:

Copyright 1988-2003 Pathtrace Engineering Systems. All rights reserved.

EdgeCAM User Guide

Showing and Hiding the Toolbar and Status Line

EdgeCAM Editor Guide

You can also use NC code editing functions, such as:

Copyright 1988-2003 Pathtrace Engineering Systems. All rights reserved.

EdgeCAM User Guide

About the Editor Window

EdgeCAM Editor Guide

A typical NC file might look like this in the Editor:

You can also use NC code editing functions, such as:

Copyright 1988-2003 Pathtrace Engineering Systems. All rights reserved.

EdgeCAM User Guide

Configuring the View

EdgeCAM Editor Guide

Tiling Several Files in the Editor Window

You can also use NC code editing functions, such as:

Copyright 1988-2003 Pathtrace Engineering Systems. All rights reserved.

EdgeCAM User Guide

Splitting File Windows

EdgeCAM Editor Guide

You can also use NC code editing functions, such as:

Copyright 1988-2003 Pathtrace Engineering Systems. All rights reserved.

EdgeCAM User Guide

How to split a file window

EdgeCAM Editor Guide

Resequencing block numbers and converting from metric to imperial units.

Copyright 1988-2003 Pathtrace Engineering Systems. All rights reserved.

EdgeCAM User Guide

How to split a window into two panes

EdgeCAM Editor Guide

You can also use NC code editing functions, such as:

Copyright 1988-2003 Pathtrace Engineering Systems. All rights reserved.

EdgeCAM User Guide

How to return from a split display

EdgeCAM Editor Guide