Essi Eia Programing Manual 499303

IB 499-303
Rev. A
EIA
PROGRAMMING
GUIDE
ALL
HYBRID
SYSTEMS
JULY 2000
EIA PROGRAMMING GUIDE
NORTHROP GRUMMAN-CANADA, LTD.

777 Walkers Line
Burlington, Ontario, Canada
L7N 2G1
Tel: (905) 333-6000

Fax: (905) 333-6004
Email: linatrol@ngcan.com
Find us on the World Wide Web at: http://www.ngcan.com/lin

©
Copyright 1999-2000 – Northrop Grumman-Canada, Ltd. All rights reserved.
It is understood and agreed that this document contains information that is proprietary to Northrop
Grumman-Canada, Ltd. and, as such, is to be treated as strictly confidential. No portion of this publication
may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, without the prior written permission of
Northrop Grumman-Canada, Ltd.
No patent liability is assumed with respect to the use of the information contained herein. Moreover,
because Northrop Grumman-Canada, Ltd. is constantly striving to improve its high-quality products, the
information contained in this manual is subject to change without notice. Every precaution has been taken in
the preparation of this manual. Nevertheless, Northrop Grumman-Canada, Ltd. assumes no responsibility
for errors or omissions. Neither is any liability assumed for damages resulting from the use of the information
contained in this publication.
Manufactured or sold under one or more of the following patents:
Canada U.S.A. U.-K. Japan France Italy Australia Switzerland
914,773 3,740,372 1,292,507 756,804 2,066,164 916,825 450,468 531,395

930,795 3,727,120 1,384,253 844,232 2,213,543 930,838 3,725,761 1,445,253
950,553 3,860,862 2,008,343
972,446 3,883,735 1,578,514
1,005,540 4,197,453 2,054,198
1,005,548 4,128,297
1,077,775 4,160,158
1,082,333 4,146,801
4,195,265
and pending appplications in Canada, U.S.A., U.K., Germany Japan, and Italy.
JULY 2000
Manual Number IB 499-303

Rev. A
v
Read, Understand and Follow These
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Before Operation or Service
1. Please read ALL these instructions 7. Unplug this product from the power
before operating the equipment. source and refer servicing to qualified
service personnel, under the following
2. Do not locate this equipment where conditions:
moisture could cause a shock hazard.
a. When the power cord is
3. Use only the type of power source damaged or frayed.
specified to operate this equipment. b. If the product has been exposed
Ground the equipment with a properly to rain, water, or other liquids.
installed 3-wire cable that is terminated c. If the product does not operate
either by a 3-pin grounding type power normally when the operating
plug, or by a connection to a properly instructions are followed, adjust
grounded distribution box. It is only those controls that are
hazardous to defeat the purpose of this covered by the operating
grounding. instructions. Improper
adjustment of other controls may
4. DO NOT locate the power cord where it result in damage and will often
can be walked on. Ensure that nothing require extensive work by a
is allowed to rest on the cord as this qualified technician to restore the
may deform or damage the cord. product to normal operation.
d. If the unit has been damaged.
5. In general, extension cords should not e. If the product exhibits a distinct
be used. Where their use cannot be change in performance,
avoided, be sure that the cord is rated to indicating a need for service.
carry the required current, and that the
current capacity of the power outlet is 8. This equipment should not be used for
not exceeded. purposes, other than its intended and
designed use.
6. DO NOT attempt to service this product
yourself. Opening or removing covers
may expose you to dangerous voltage
points or other risks. Refer all servicing
to qualified personnel.
vi
ELECTRICAL SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS
4. Observe all rules and regulations that

CAUTION pertain to Oxyfuel cutting.
5. For Plasma cutting, a face shield must

The parts of the control system are live. Do not be worn! The plasma arc emits ultra-
misalign any PC boards or plug connections - violet radiation.
note all labeling, coding and orientation. If in
doubt, refer to the Instruction Manual or check
with a knowledgeable person. START-UP
1. Assembly, start-up, maintenance and

repair work is to be carried out by
WARNING
trained electricians only.
VOLTAGES EMPLOYED IN THE EQUIPMENT 2. The accident prevention rules and

ARE SUFFICIENTLY HIGH TO ENDANGER regulations must be observed.
HUMAN LIFE. THIS EQUIPMENT SHOULD
BE SERVICED BY QUALIFIED SERVICE 3. All conductive parts that may become
TECHNICIANS ONLY. live in the case of a malfunction must be
connected with each other and with the
Before unplugging any PC boards or plug protective conductor.
connections, the master switch of the system
must be OFF.
OPERATION
The master power switch should be switched
OFF at the end of use or during lengthy
interruptions of work. 1. The door of the control unit must be
closed during operation to protect the
operating personnel against accidental
contact with the electrical equipment
SAFETY and to avoid the accumulation of dust
into the unit.
1. A copy of these safety instructions 2. Protect all unused sockets against

should be supplied to every member of fouling by means of dummy caps or
the operating personnel. dummy plugs.
2. In order to operate the system safely, 3. When power is turned OFF, the unit and
the personnel should have a thorough the power supply are not completely
knowledge and understanding of the isolated.
operating instructions and of the
instruction manual supplied with the
unit.
3. The accident prevention rules and

regulations must be observed.
vii
REPAIR IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
1. Safety devices must not be changed - 1. If an accident involving electricity has

fuses must not be bridged and must not occurred, proceed with the following:
be replaced by amperages other than
those specified in the instruction a. Switch OFF the master power
manual. switch.
2. If any cables, plugs, switches or other If this is not immediately possible

Electro-mechanical operating facilities or has no effect, the victim must
are damaged, immediately switch off the be separated from any live parts
system (master OFF switch). The using an object that does not
defective parts are to be replaced by conduct electricity or by pulling
trained electricians only. Use only the victim away by his clothing.
genuine spare parts. The rescuer must be electrically
insulated both from the machine
3. When working with grounded measuring and the victim. The rescuer
instruments, e.g., an oscilloscope, make must not touch anything else.
sure that the ground connection of the
measuring instrument is always b. Seek qualified medical attention
connected with the ground of the control immediately.
unit.
4. When working with grounded tools, e.g., 2. Fires in controls or machinery should be
soldering iron or portable drill, the extinguished only with carbon dioxide
master switch of the system must be (CO2) or a suitable powder.
switched OFF.
5. When the master power switch of the

system is switched OFF, the system
may not be completely isolated.
6. Only properly qualified personnel are

allowed to open the unit.
ESD PRECAUTIONS
Proper Electrostatic Discharge (ESD)

procedures must be followed at all times when
servicing one of these products. Wear a
properly grounded wrist strap when handling
any circuit card. All circuit cards and electronic
assemblies must be handled in electrostatic
protective containers when in transit or when
handled by non-grounded personnel.
viii
EARTH (ground) TERMINAL. Primarily used for functional earth
terminals that are generally associated with test and
measurements circuits. These terminals are not for safety earthing
purposes but provide an earth reference point.
PROTECTIVE CONDUCTOR TERMINAL. This symbol is specifically

reserved for the PROTECTIVE CONDUCTOR TERMINAL and no other.
It is placed at the equipment earthing point and is mandatory for
all grounded equipment.
ON (supply) Note that this symbol is a bar normally applied in the

vertical orientation. It is not the number 1.
OFF (supply) Note that this symbol is a circle. It is not the number
0 or the letter O.
WARNING, risk of electric shock
CAUTION, hot surface
CAUTION (refer to accompanying documents). Used to direct

the user to the instruction manual where it is necessary to follow
certain specified instructions where safety is involved.
ix
File Nº
LR27781
The equipment described in this manual is manufactured to CSA

approved standards.
Any changes made to this equipment may void CSA approval.
The equipment described in this manual meets requirements of the

Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC, as well as the EMC Directive
89/336/EEC.
Any changes made to this equipment may void compliance.
NOTE: Not all systems described in this document are CE

compliant. CE compliant systems will have the CE mark on the
name plate.
x
TABLE OF CONTENTS
EIA PROGRAMMING GUIDE ....................................................................................................................................1
1.1 INTRODUCTION..........................................................................................................................................1
1.2 EIA RS-274D PROGRAMMING ..................................................................................................................1
1.2.1 EIA RS-274D Program Construction ....................................................................................................1
1.2.2 EIA RS-274D Block Format ..................................................................................................................3
1.2.3 Numeric Formats ..................................................................................................................................3
1.2.4 Block Numbers (N Codes) ....................................................................................................................4
1.2.5 Comments.............................................................................................................................................5
1.2.6 Preparatory Functions (G Codes) .........................................................................................................5
1.2.7 Absolute And Incremental Programming Mode ....................................................................................6
1.2.8 English And Metric Units.......................................................................................................................6
1.2.9 Constructing EIA RS-274D Line Segments ..........................................................................................6
1.2.10 Constructing EIA RS-274D Arcs ...........................................................................................................8
1.2.11 Constructing EIA RS-274D Circles .....................................................................................................10
1.2.12 Rapid Traverse ...................................................................................................................................10
1.2.13 Delays .................................................................................................................................................11
1.2.14 Kerf Compensation .............................................................................................................................11
1.2.15 Axis Presets ........................................................................................................................................12
1.2.16 Machine Speed (F Codes) ..................................................................................................................12
1.2.17 Miscellaneous Functions (M Codes)...................................................................................................13
1.2.18 Cut Control ..........................................................................................................................................13
1.2.19 plate marking ......................................................................................................................................14
1.2.20 Program Stop ......................................................................................................................................14
1.2.21 End Of Program ..................................................................................................................................15
1.2.22 Initial Conditions..................................................................................................................................15
1.2.23 Writing EIA RS-274D Program ...........................................................................................................15
1.2.24 EIA RS-274D Programming Errors.....................................................................................................17
1.2.25 Using The System Part Programming Options With EIA RS-274D Programs ...................................17
1.2.26 EIA RS-274D Memory Requirements.................................................................................................18
1.2.27 Entering And Editing EIA RS-274D Programs....................................................................................18
1.2.28 Selecting The EIA RS-274D MDI Function.........................................................................................19
1.2.29 Entering Programs From The Front Panel..........................................................................................19
1.2.30 Entering EIA RS-274D Program Blocks .............................................................................................20
1.2.31 Editing And Displaying The Program..................................................................................................20
1.2.32 Simple Edit Sequence.........................................................................................................................22
1.2.33 Changing The Cutting Parameters .....................................................................................................22
1.2.34 Changing The X-Axis Orientation .......................................................................................................23
1.3 UPLOADING AND DOWNLOADING EIA PROGRAMS ..........................................................................23
1.3.1 Communications Protocol ...................................................................................................................24
1.3.2 Tape Mode Protocol............................................................................................................................24
1.3.3 Loading A Part From Paper Tape.......................................................................................................24
1.3.4 Punching A Part Into Paper Tape .......................................................................................................25
1.3.5 Dialog Mode Protocol..........................................................................................................................26
1.3.6 Downloading A Part Program .............................................................................................................26
1.3.7 Prompting The Machine Operator ......................................................................................................27
1.3.8 Uploading A Part Ptogram ..................................................................................................................28
1.3.9 Prompting The Machine Operator ......................................................................................................29
1.3.10 Auto-Reload ........................................................................................................................................30
1.3.11 EIA RS-274D Loading Errors..............................................................................................................31
1.4 KERF COMPENSATION ...........................................................................................................................32
1.4.1 Adding Kerf Compensation To A Part.................................................................................................33
1.4.2 Using Kerf Compensation ...................................................................................................................33
1.4.3 Geometric Considerations ..................................................................................................................35
1.4.4 Kerf Compensation Errors ..................................................................................................................36
xi
LINATROL
EIA PROGRAMMING GUIDE
1.1 INTRODUCTION
The EIA RS-274D programming functions of the Hybrid family of systems allow EIA RS-
274D programs to be entered directly from the front panel via Manual Data Input (MDI). It
may also be downloaded via the RS-232C port from a tape reader, host computer, or
Computer Aided Design (CAD) system via Direct Numerical Control (DNC). EIA RS-
274D programs created on or downloaded to the system may also be uploaded to a paper
tape punch, host computer, or CAD (Computer Aided Design) system.
The Electronic Industries Association (EIA) RS-274D standard is a general-purpose CNC

part programming language which is applicable to a wide range of industrial machinery,
including flame and plasma cutting machines. EIA RS-274D is sometimes called 'Word
Address' in reference to its format.
To adapt the EIA standard language to the specific needs of cutting machines, it is
necessary to define some of the general-purpose special function codes to perform specific
functions. The definition of these codes-as interpreted by the system may be different from
other cutting machine controls.
This makes it difficult, if not impossible in some cases, to use EIA RS-274D programs
prepared for use in a different control with systems. If in doubt, check the specific code
definitions in the following sections.
If you are unfamiliar with the EIA RS-274D programming language, or with the available
special function codes, the following section provides a short tutorial on the EIA RS-274D
programming language as implemented in the system.
1.2 EIA RS-274D PROGRAMMING

To program a part in EIA RS-274D, the part must be defined in terms of a sequence or list
of operational steps. All part dimensions must be resolved into a series of straight-line
segments and/or circular arc segments, one following another, which determine the path the
cutting device will take.
Miscellaneous Functions (M-codes) are used to program machine action other than
movement along the path. For example, Miscellaneous Functions M07 and M08 turn the
cutting device on and off, respectively, allowing the cutting device to be repositioned
between cutting cycles.
1.2.1 EIA RS-274D Program Construction
A complete EIA RS-274D program specifies the operations of the cutting device, and the
path it will take, as a sequence of steps or program blocks. Each data element in a program
block assigns a value to a specific operation parameter (Cut Speed, X-axis motion, etc.),
and is preceded by a letter code which identifies it (F, X, etc.). The letter code and the
number that follows it comprise a word address, hence the reference to RS-274D as 'word
address'.
EIA Programming Guide Rev. A 1

LINATROL
Data elements may be omitted if they are not needed, because the elements in the block are
identified by the letter code. In fact, where a data element is omitted, it has an implicit value
that is carried over from preceding blocks. It is important to note that these implied values
for omitted word addresses are one of the most frequent causes of program malfunctions.
Specifying all of the valid word addresses for a given block is the safest way to avoid this
problem.
The word addresses supported by the HYBRID models are shown below.
RS-274D Word Address
ASCII ASCII Description

Character Value
F 70 Feedrate (Cut Speed)

G 71 Preparatory Function
I 73 X axis Integrand
J 74 Y axis Integrand
M 77 Miscellaneous Functions
N 78 Sequence Number
X 8 X-Axis Endpoint or Dwell
time*
Y 89 Y-Axis Endpoint
* When the X code is used for a dwell time, it must be preceded by a G04 code.
The following ASCII characters are also defined, in addition to the word addresses shown
above and the numerals 0-9:
RS-274D Word Address
RS-274D Additional ASCII Characters
ASCII ASCII Description

Character Value
% 37 Rewind Stop Reference

+ 43 Plus sign
- 45 Minus sign
( 40 Comment Start
) 41 Comment End
. 46 Decimal Point
LF 10 Line Feed (used for End of
Block)
CR 13 Carriage Return (ignored)
Space 32 Space (ignored)
Characters other than those shown in the above tables should not be used in the system EIA
RS-274D programs. Be especially careful of non-printing characters that may be inserted
by certain host computer systems, or inadvertently typed in when using an off-line program
development system. These are not displayed when reviewing the program on the system,
but will cause program errors.
2 EIA Programming Guide Rev. A

LINATROL
1.2.2 EIA RS-274D Block Format
EIA RS-274D program blocks are formatted as a series of ASCII (or RS-244) characters
followed by an End-of-Block character. The End-of-Block character is the Line Feed,
(LF,ASCII 10). A Carriage Return (CR, ASCII 13) may be used in conjunction with the
Line Feed for readable printouts. The Carriage Return is ignored by the system.
The following generic program block shows the standard format for an EIA RS-274D
program block:
N4 G02 X+xxxxxxx Y+yyyyyyy I+iiiiiii J+jjjjjj Ffffff M02
The numbers refer to the maximum number of digits for each word address value. For the
X, Y, I, J, and F words, the small letters also indicate the maximum number of digits, but
the exact format of the number depends on the units (English or Metric) and the numeric
format (Fixed or Floating Point). See 'Numeric Formats' later in this section for more
information on the X, Y, I, J, and F word formats.
Note that the numerical values always appear after the word address letter code. Numerical
values for certain words may optionally be preceded by a plus or minus sign (denoted by +
above). A positive value (+) is assumed if no sign appears.
For all word addresses except M and G codes, leading and trailing zeros are not required to
specify the value of the data element. However, the M and G- codes must be specified with
two digits. For example, use 'G01' not 'G1'.
Only one of each type of word address code is allowed in any single program block.
Additionally, the word addresses should appear in the order shown above. As shown,
spaces may be used to format the program block for better readability; they are not required
and, if present, are ignored.
1.2.3 Numeric Formats
In EIA RS-274D, dimensional data may be formatted in two different ways. In Fixed
format, no decimal point is required, but the units have a pre-defined fractional value; in
Floating format, a decimal point is used to specify fractional information. The selection of
fixed or floating format is made by pressing EDIT/EIA/#FORMAT and toggling the Numeric
Format parameter to either FIXED or FLOATING. This parameter should be initialized
before entering an EIA RS-274D program.
Fixed Format - In Fixed format, dimensional values are expressed in thousandths of an

inch (0.001) or hundredths of a millimetre (0.01), depending on whether the UNITS
parameter of the system is set to ENGLISH or METRIC. For example, the data element
X1250 is interpreted as 1.25 inches in English mode, and as 12.5 millimetres in Metric
mode. Speed values (F codes) are expressed in tenths of an inch per minute (0.1 IPM) or
integer millimetres per minute (mmpm). Do not enter a decimal point when using FIXED
Numeric Format.

LINATROL
The maximum field lengths for dimensional word addresses are shown below.
EIA RS-274D Maximum Field Lengths for Fixed Numeric format
Word Max Field Description

Address Length
F 4(English)
5(Metric) Feedrate (Cut Speed)
I 7 X axis Integrand
J 7 Y axis Integrand
X 7 X-Axis Endpoint or Dwell time*
Y 7 Y-Axis Endpoint
Floating Format - In Floating format, dimensional values are expressed directly in inches
of millimetres, depending on whether the UNITS parameter of the system is set to ENGLISH
or METRIC. A decimal point is used to specify fractional information. For example, the date
element X1.25 is interpreted as 1.25 inches in English mode, and as 1.25 millimetres in
Metric mode.
The following table shows the specific numeric representation for word addresses when
FLOATING Numeric Format is selected:
EIA RS-274D Word Address Formats for Floating Numeric Format
Word Format Units Description

Address
F XXX.X IPM Cut Speed

XXXXX MMPM
I ±XXXX.XXX Inches X-Axis Integrand

±XXXXX.XX Millimetres
J ±XXXX.XXX Inches Y-Axis Integrand

X ±XXXX.XX Inches X-Axis Endpoint

±XXXXXX.XX Millimetres
*X ±X.XX Seconds Dwell Time

Y ±XXXX.XXX Inches Y-Axis Endpoint
NOTE: * When the X code is used for a dwell time, it must be preceded by a G04 code.
1.2.4 Block Numbers (N Codes)
Block Numbers may optionally be included at the beginning of any block in an EIA RS-
274D program. Block Numbers are specified using an N code, and may be up to 4 digits
long (0 through 9999).
Block Numbers may be used at the programmer's discretion for reference purposed, but are
ignored by the system when the program is executed.
For example, the EIA RS-274D block N28 M07 is completely equivalent to the block M07
as far as the system is concerned.

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1.2.5 Comments
Comments may be included in an EIA RS-274D program by enclosing the text of the
comment in parentheses. Comments are ignored by the system when translating and
calculating the EIA RS-274D program. These functions are useful, however, to allow the
programmer to include comments in the part program which can be read by the system
operator when the program is displayed. Additionally, these comments are helpful if the
part is listed at a programming station or printed out for future reference.
Comments can include any pertinent information, such as part number, type of part, type of
plate, number of pieces required, etc. Individual blocks in the comment field may be of any
length, although only 32 characters at a time can be displayed by the system. Any number
of comment blocks may be included in the program, limited only by the memory size of the
system.
For example, the following comment field might be included at the beginning of an EIA
RS-274D program:
(Part Number: 96405

Drawing Number: 136C3486 Revision A
Plate: 10 mm Stainless
Number of Pieces: 18
Cut at: 1000 mm/minute
Use Kerf Width of: 3 mm)
1.2.6 Preparatory Functions (G Codes)
Preparatory Functions (G-codes) are used to set the mode of operation of the cutting
machine. In general, the modes set by G-codes remain in effect until the end of the program
unless cancelled or changed by a subsequent G code.
The EIA RS-274D Preparatory Functions available in the system are shown in the table
below.
EIA RS-274D Preparatory Functions
Code Description
G00 Rapid Traverse Linear Interpolation

G01 Linear Interpolation (at programmed feedrate)
G02 Clockwise Circular Interpolation
G03 Counterclockwise Circular Interpolation
G04 Dwell
G20 Select English Units (inches)
G21 Select Metric Units (millimetres)
G40 Disable Kerf Compensation
G41 Enable Kerf Compensation
G42 Enable Right Kerf Compensation
G82 Select Oxyfuel cutting mode
G84 Select Plasma cutting mode
G90 Absolute Programming Mode
G91 Incremental Programming Mode
G92 Set Axis Presets

LINATROL
1.2.7 Absolute And Incremental Programming Mode
Dimensional data in an EIA RS-274D program may be expressed as either absolute or

incremental values. Absolute Mode is selected by placing a G90 code in a block that
precedes any motion-causing blocks, while Incremental Mode is selected using a G91 code.
Normally, one of these codes is placed in a block by itself near the beginning of the
program, prior to any motion-causing blocks, to set the programming mode for the entire
part. The programming mode must not be changed in the middle of a part, but must be
followed consistently throughout.
Incremental Mode - In Incremental Mode, the displacements specified by X,Y,I, and J

words are offsets relative to the position of the cutting device at the start of the block. The
endpoint of one block becomes the zero point of the next block.
Absolute Mode - In Absolute Mode, the displacements specified by X and Y words are
offsets from an absolute reference point, which is fixed for the entire part, unless, changed
using a G92 code. However, the I and J word values may be specified as relative
displacements from the position of the cutting device at the start of the block (incremental),
or (absolute) depending on the setting of the 'I&J Codes in Abs.Mode?' parameter in the
EDIT/EIA/#FORMAT menu.
Select the desired operation before entering or downloading an EIA RS-274D program by
pressing EDIT, EIA, #FORMAT and then toggling the 'I&J Codes in Abs.Mode?' parameter
to either INCREMENTAL or ABSOLUTE. Note that in Incremental Mode, the I and J codes
are always incremental.
1.2.8 English And Metric Units
Normally, English or Metric dimensioning units are selected using the AUX/UNITS menu of
the system. However, the AUX/UNITS selection may be overridden for a particular EIA
RS-274D program using a G20 to select English units (inches) or a G21 to select Metric
units (millimetres).
Normally, one of these codes is placed in a block by itself near the beginning of the
program, prior to any motion-causing blocks, to set the dimensioning mode for the entire
part. The dimensioning mode must not be changed in the middle of a part, but must be
followed consistently throughout.
In the absence of either a G20 or G21 code, the EIA RS-274D program dimensions are
interpreted using the current setting of the Units parameter in the system AUX/UNITS menu.
When a G20 or G21 code is present, however, a previously entered kerf value (entered in
the other type of units), may be rendered invalid. In this case, the system displays Units
Change: Re-enter Kerf. <Press Key>.
Press any key to re-enter the kerf value in the newly changed units.
1.2.9 Constructing EIA RS-274D Line Segments
In RS-274D, straight-line segments are specified by a block in which a G01 code is active
for a given block if it is explicitly specified at the beginning of the block, or if it is still
active from a preceding block. When a G01 code is active, the X and Y words specify the X
and Y axis endpoints, respectively, of the line segment. The actual interpretation of the X
and Y values is determined by the active selections for the Numeric Format (Fixed or
Floating), units (English or Metric), and the Programming Mode (Absolute or Incremental).

LINATROL
Referring to Figure 1, and assuming Floating Numeric Format with a G21 (Metric units)
and a G91 (Incremental Programming Mode) active, line segment AB is constructed as
follows:
X Distance: 300mm positive = X300.0

Y Distance: 75mm negative = Y-75.0
Thus, the EIA RS-274D block for this line segment is:
G01 X300 Y-75
Note that leading and trailing zeros are not required and that the decimal point is optional
for integer values. The other line segments are programmed in a similar fashion.
BC = G01 X75 Y75

CD = G01 X150
DE = G01 Y100
Figure 1
EIA RS-274D Line
Segment Programming
If either an X or Y word is omitted in a block with an active G01 code, the value of the
omitted X or Y word is implied. In Absolute Programming Mode (G90), the implied value
for a missing X or Y word is equal to the last preceding X or Y word value (respectively)
in the program, or to zero if there was no preceding explicit X or Y word.
For example, in Absolute Programming Mode (G90), the line segments in Figure 1 are
programmed as follows (assuming point A is X=0, Y=0):
AB = G01 X300 Y-75

BC = G01 X375 Y0
CD = G01 X525
DE = G01 Y100
In Incremental Programming Mode (G91), the implied value for omitted X or Y words is
zero. For example, in Incremental Programming Mode, the following blocks are equivalent:
N24 G01 Y1450

N24 G01 X0.0 Y1450

LINATROL
A G00, G01, G02, or G03 code, is active from block to block-even if not explicitly included
in each block- until cancelled by an explicit reference to a different one of these four words.
In blocks where there is no explicit X, Y, I, or J word and no explicit G00, G01, G02, or
G03 code, no implicit G00, G01, G02 or G03 code is assumed to be active. However, such
a block does not deactivate a G00, G01, G02, or G03 code from a previous block for
subsequent blocks.
For example, in the following EIA RS-274D program excerpt,
N01 G90
.
.
N26 G01 X0 Y200
N27 G02 X400 I-200 J0
N28 M07
N29 X800 I-200
.
.
block N28 does not generate any motion since no G00, G01, G02, or G03 code, or X,Y, I,
or J word appears. However, in block N29, the G02 is still active from block N27, the J
word is implied to be zero and the Y200 is active from block N26.
1.2.10 Constructing EIA RS-274D Arcs
A block in which a G02 or G03 code is active specifies circular arc segments. A G02
specifies a clockwise arc, while a G03 specifies a counter-clockwise arc. A G02 and G03
code is active for a given block if it is explicitly specified at the beginning of the block, or if
it is still active from a preceding block. Note that a G02 and G03 code cannot both be
active at the same time-one cancels the effect of the preceding one.
Assuming that a G02 or G03 code is active, the X and Y words specify the X and Y axis
endpoints, respectively, of the arc segment. The I and J words specify the X and Y axis
coordinates, respectively, of the centre of the circle of which the arc is a part. The actual
interpretation of the X, Y, I, and J values is determined by the active selections for the
Numeric Format (Fixed or Floating, I and J codes incremental or absolute), units (English
or Metric), and the Programming Mode (Absolute or Incremental).
Referring to Figure 2, and assuming Floating Numeric Format with G21 (Metric units) and
G91 (Incremental Programming Mode) are active, arc segment AB is programmed as
follows:
X-axis Endpoint Distance = 216 mm = X216

Y-axis Endpoint Distance = 79 mm = Y79
X-axis Centre Distance = 141 mm = I141
Y-axis Centre Distance = 51 mm = J-51

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Figure 2
EIA RS-274D Arc Programming
Thus the EIA RS-274D block is programmed as G02 X216 Y79 I141 J-51.
If the first data element were G03, signifying CCW rotation, the portion of the circle shown
as a shaded line would have been the resulting arc.
In Absolute Programming Mode only, the I and J words may be interpreted as either
incremental (measured from the start of the arc) or absolute. This selection is made in the
EDIT/EIA/ #FORMAT Menu by toggling the 'I & J Codes in Abs.Mode?' parameter to either
INCREMENTAL or ABSOLUTE. Be sure to set this parameter before entering a program or
cutting a part to insure proper interpretation of the I and J words.
If an X, Y, I, or J word, is omitted in a block, with an active G02 or G03 code, the value of
the omitted word is implied. In the Absolute Programming Mode, the implied value for a
missing X or Y word is the last preceding X or Y word value (respectively in the program,
or zero if there was no preceding explicitly X or Y word. In the Incremental Programming
Mode, the implied value for omitted X or Y words is zero. In either Absolute or
Incremental Programming Mode, the implied value for an omitted I or J word is always
zero.
A G00, G01, G02, or G03 code is active from block to block-even if not explicitly included
in each block until cancelled by an explicit reference to a different one of these four words.
In blocks where there is no explicit X, Y, I, or J word and no explicit G00, G01, G02, or
G03 code, no implicit G00, G01, G02, or G03 code is assumed to be active. However, such
subsequent blocks.

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N01 G90
.
.
N26 G01 X0 Y200
N27 G02 X400 I-200 J0
N28 M07
N29 X800 I-200
.
.
block N28 does not generate any motion since no G00, G01, G02, or G03 code, or X, Y, I,
word is implied to be zero and the Y200 is active from block N26.
It is possible to program EIA RS-274D arc blocks with dimensions that are non-
commensurate; i.e. the distance values for the data elements do not describe a real circle or
arc. Blocks of this nature cause the message Bad Arc to be displayed when the program is
translated by the system.
For example, if the above EIA RS-274D arc block were changed to G02 X216 Y179 I141
J-51 the 'Bad Arc' message would be displayed since the arc endpoint (X=216, Y=179)
does not lie on the circle whose centre is (X=141, Y=-51).
Other than normal typographical errors, the most common cause of such problems is
incorrect trigonometric calculations or lack of sufficient precision in the calculations.
Obviously, guessing the arc parameters rarely results in the desired segment.
Most part prints from which EIA RS-274D programs are written do not specify the
necessary parameters explicitly. Usually, these must be calculated from a known circle
radius or diameter, starting and ending angles, and standard trigonometry. In performing
these calculations, it is a good idea to keep all figures to four places of precision (.0000), in
English units, and three places (.001) in Metric, and round off only when translating
dimensions into EIA RS-274D data elements.
1.2.11 Constructing EIA RS-274D Circles
A complete circle is a special case of the circular arc described above. To ensure that a
complete circle is recognized as such by the system, it is essential that the X and Y words
are exactly zero. The EIA RS-274D program block for the entire 300mm circle starting at
point as shown in Figure 2 is thus G02 I141 J-51 since the implied value for the X and Y
words is zero in Incremental Programming Mode.
Note that the EIA RS-274D block G02 X10 I141 J-51 is not a complete circle, but is instead
a very short arc.
1.2.12 Rapid Traverse
Rapid Traverse speed motion (as set in the system in the AUX/SETUP/SPEEDS menu) is
specified by an active G00 code. The actual rapid speed is set by the Maximum Machine
Speed parameter in the AUX/SETUP/SPEEDS menu; refer to the User's Manual. Blocks
with an active G00 code are programmed identically to the straight-line segments discussed
in 'Constructing EIA RS-274D Line Segments' above. The only difference between G00
and G01 blocks is the speed at which the machine moves when the block is executed.

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For example, the following EIA RS-274D blocks illustrate a rapid traverse of 200mm in
both the X and Y axis between two 60mm circles:
G02 I30
G00 X200 Y200
G02 I30
A G00, G01, G02, or G03 code is active from block to block-even if not explicitly included
in each block until cancelled by an explicit reference to a different one of these four words.
In blocks where there is no explicitly X, Y, I, or J word and no explicit G00, G01, G02, or
G03 code, no implicit G00, G01, G02, or G03 code is assumed to be active. However, such
subsequent blocks.
N01 G90
.
.
N26 G01 X0 Y200
N27 G02 X400 I-200 J0
N28 M07
N29 X800 I-200
.
.
block N28 does not generate any motion since no G00, G01, G02, or G03 code, or X, Y, I,
word is implied to be zero, and the Y200 is active from block N26.
1.2.13 Delays
A delay or dwell is programmed with a G04 code. A delay may be used at corners where
flame lag can cause a poor cut.
If the G04 code is immediately followed by an X code in the same block, the value of the X
word is used as the dwell time in seconds (between 0 and 9.99). For example, the EIA RS-
274D block G04 X2 causes a 2-second delay in program execution when executed.
If no X code follows the G04, the Dwell Time (in seconds) is prompted for under the
EDIT/EIA/PARAMS menu. The dwell time value can range from 0.00 to 650.00 seconds.
Only a single value is entered which applies to all G04 blocks without an X code time value
in a program.
A delay can also be used to force a full stop between two segments that would normally
intersect at some non-zero velocity. Program a dwell value of 0.00 to cause a full stop
without introducing an actual delay.
1.2.14 Kerf Compensation
Preparatory Codes G41 and G42 enable kerf compensation on the left and right side,
respectively, of the torch path. The actual kerf value used is programmed in the system at
run time via the EDIT/EIA/PARAMS menu (D-codes in the program are ignored).

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The left and right sides of the torch path are defined with respect to the direction of torch
motion, and can be easily remembered by the use of the corresponding hands. With the
palm down, and thumb pointing in the direction of torch motion, the fingers of the left hand
are on the side of the line that the torch will be on when using a G41 code (Enable Left Kerf
Compensation). At the same time, the fingers of the right hand are on the side of the line the
torch will be on when using a G42 code (Enable Right Kerf Compensation).
Preparatory Code G40 disables all kerf compensation, and the torch path will be the
programmed path regardless of the kerf value entered under EDIT/EIA/PARAMS. A
complete description of the kerf compensation implemented in the system is included in of
this manual.
1.2.15 Axis Presets
The axis preset function (G92) is used to define or redefine the absolute position reference
used in Absolute Programming Mode. For example, the EIA RS-274D block G92 X9600
Y-12000 defines the current position of the cutting device as being 9600mm in the plus X
direction and 12000mm in the minus Y direction away from the absolute zero reference
point. In the absence of any explicit G92 code, the position of the cutting device when the
EIA RS-274D program is initiated is the absolute position reference. The G92 code does
not cause motion. For example, if the following blocks appear in an EIA RS-274D
program,
G90
G92 X300 Y300
G01 X400
the motion is assumed to have started at X=300 and Y=300. Since the implicit Y value in
Absolute Programming Mode with the G01 active is Y=300 , the X Axis (only) moves
100mmm in the positive direction.
1.2.16 Machine Speed (F Codes)
Usually, the machine operator, using the AUX/SETUP/SPEEDS and EDIT/EIA/PARAMS

menus of the system, sets the machine cutting and Rapid Traverse speeds. However, these
preset speeds may be overridden by placing F code blocks in the EIA RS-274D program.
To enable the system to interpret the F codes in the program, the 'F code' parameter in the
EDIT/EIA/PARAMS menu must be set to ON.
In general, an F code may be placed in any block in which a G01, G02, or G03 code is
active to set the cutting speed for the part. Usually, an F code block is placed at the
beginning of the program to set the cut speed for the entire part. Cut speed may be changed
during the part using a subsequent F code, but care should be taken not to change cut speed
while in the middle of a cut piece.
If an F code is placed in a block in which a G00 code (Rapid Traverse) is active, both the
rapid traverse speed and the cut speed for all future G01, G02, and G03 blocks is set to the
value specified by the F code. The actual interpretation F code value is determined by the
active selections for the Numeric Format (Fixed or Floating) and units (English or Metric).

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The system may also be set to ignore any F codes in the EIA RS-274D program. If the 'F
Code?' parameter in the EDIT/EIA/PARAMS menus is set to OFF, the system ignores all F
codes in the program and the cut speed is the value set in the EDIT/EIA/PARAMS menu for
the 'Cut Speed??' parameter. Setting this parameter to the ON state enables the F codes in
the program to set the cut speed for the part.
1.2.17 Miscellaneous Functions (M Codes)
Miscellaneous Functions (M-codes) are used to control the non-motion-related operations

of the cutting machine. The EIA RS-274D Miscellaneous Functions available in the system
are shown in the table below.
EIA RS-274D Miscellaneous Functions
Code Description
M00 Program Stop

M01 Optional Program Stop
M02 End Of Program
M07 Cutting Device ON
M08 Cutting Device OFF
M09 Marking Powder ON
M10 Marking Powder OFF
M11 Marker Offset ON, Marking Preheat ON
M12 Marker Offset OFF, Marking Preheat OFF
M15 Cutting Device ON
M16 Cutting Device OFF
M30 End Of Program With Tape Rewind
M31 Reset Functions to Default State
M50 Automatic Height Control OFF (Hold Position)
M51 Automatic Height Control ON
M65 End Of Program with Auto Reload Active
M codes take effect in the sequence in which they are found. This means that an M code
appearing in its proper place after a G code in a block will take effect after the G code. To
avoid confusion and errors, M codes should be placed in blocks without G codes or X, Y, I,
or J words. In this way, the sequence of operations is easier to follow and the cutting
machine is more likely to behave as expected.
1.2.18 Cut Control
Miscellaneous Functions M07 and M15 turn the cutting device ON, while Miscellaneous
Functions M08 and M16 turn it OFF. While Miscellaneous Functions M07 and M08 were
traditionally used for Oxyfuel control, and M15 and M16 for plasma systems, they are
treated the same by the system. The selection of plasma or Oxyfuel cutting is made via the
GAS/TEST/PLASMA switch on the gas control panel.

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1.2.19 plate marking
Miscellaneous Functions M09, M10, M11 and M12 are used in conjunction with a Plate
Marking system, if installed, to mark the plate for subsequent operations.
Miscellaneous Functions M11 and M12 move the machine by the X and Y Marker Offset
values set in the AUX/SETUP/MACHINE menu. These Marker Offsets are the distances in
both the X and Y directions between the cutting device and the marking mechanism. These
Miscellaneous Functions are used to position the marking device at the current cutting
device position (M11), turn on the Marking Preheat Output, to re-position the cutting device
at the current marker position (M12), and turn off the Marking Preheat Output. All Marker
Offset motions occur at Maximum Machine Speed as set in the AUX/SETUP/MACHINE
menu.
Miscellaneous Function M09 activates the Marking Powder output to activate the marking
mechanism itself. Miscellaneous Function M10 deactivates the Marking Powder output.
In general, the marker offset move should be performed before activating the marker to
ensure that the marking mechanism is correctly positioned. A Dwell (G04 block) may be
used to ensure that the marking mechanism has adequate time to activate before being
turned OFF (see Delays earlier in this section).
For example, the following EIA RS-274D blocks might be used with a static marker to
mark the centre of a hole to be cut by a subsequent operation:
M11
M09
G04
M10
M12
If the marking system is capable of marking lines on the plate while the machine moves, the
EIA RS-274D blocks for the desired motion should be programmed between the
Miscellaneous Functions M09 and M10. For example, the following EIA RS-274D blocks
cause the marker to make a 100mm square on the plate:
M11
M09
G01 X100
G01 Y100
G01 X-100
G01 Y-100
M10
M12
All motion following a Miscellaneous Function M11 occurs at the preset Marking Speed as
set in the AUX/SETUP/MACHINE menu; refer to the system User's Manual.
1.2.20 Program Stop
The M00 Program Stop code halts execution of the EIA RS-274D program until the Enter
key on the front panel is pressed. The M01 Optional Stop code is enabled or disabled
according to the Optional Program Stop Parameter in the EDIT/EIA/PARAMS menu. If the
Optional Program Stop is enabled, an M01 code operates identically to M00. If the Optional
Program Stop is disabled, the M01 code is ignored.

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1.2.21 End Of Program
Miscellaneous Functions M02, M30, and M65 define the end of an EIA RS-274D program.
All of these functions turn the cutting device OFF as a safety mechanism, but do not
necessarily restore the power-up condition of all the Preparatory and Miscellaneous
Functions. Make sure that the desired states are established before the end of the program or
use a Miscellaneous Function M31 (see 'Initial Conditions' below).
Miscellaneous Function M30 causes a Tape Rewind character to be issued to the paper tape
reader, in addition to defining the end of the program. The actual tape rewind character
issued is determined by the specific tape reader being used, and is programmed in the
AUX/SETUP/LINK menu (refer to the system User's Manual).
Miscellaneous Function M65 defines the end of the current 'piece' of the EIA RS-274D
program and enables the Auto-Reload feature of the system. Refer to Uploading and
Downloading EIA RS-274D Programs, for more information on Auto-Reload.
1.2.22 Initial Conditions
The initial conditions-which are active whenever the system begins an EIA RS-274D
program execution-are:
EIA RS-274D Initial Conditions
Code Description
G91 Incremental Programming Mode

G20 English Units (Inches)
G40 Kerf Compensation Disabled
M07 & M16 Cutting Device OFF
M10 & M12 Marker OFF
In addition, the default dimensional values are X0, Y0, I0 and J0. A G92 code in a block
with X and/or Y words may be used prior to the first G00, G01, G02, or G03 block in
Absolute Programming Mode to set the reference point for the start of the part. The I and J
values can only be changed by an explicit I or J word with a G02 or G03 active.
The initial condition shown in the table above may be re-established at a time in the EIA
RS-274D program using Miscellaneous Function M31.
1.2.23 Writing EIA RS-274D Program
A single EIA RS-274D program defines the activity of a single session at the cutting
machine. A session can involve the cutting of an entire plate, or the cutting of a portion of
the plate which the programmer and operator wish to manage at one time. EIA RS-274D
programs may range in size from very short to very long. Transformation Options such as
Shape Repeat, Mirror Imaging, Part Rotation, and Sealing allow the operator to do a great
deal of customization of an EIA RS-274D program at the cutting machine. Thus EIA RS-
274D programming provides a great deal of flexibility for managing the operator's activity
at the machine.

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In general, it is a good idea to keep the use of Miscellaneous Functions well organized. If
two operations are active at once, the cutting machine may not work as expected. Make
sure that an operation turned ON by a Miscellaneous Function is turned OFF later in the
program. A Miscellaneous Function M31 restores the initial conditions (see 'Initial
Conditions' above).
Insofar as is possible, it is helpful to organize a program in terms of 'cut pieces'. A cut piece
is a sequence of lines, arcs, and Miscellaneous Functions through which the cutting device
is cutting continuously. 'Cut piece' is thus a general term for a single cutting cycle. The term
encompasses both 'pieces' and 'holes' for simple shape circles and rectangles, and suggests
the piece that falls out in either case. A simple shape flange consists of two cut pieces. The
term also applies to cuts which do not close and where no 'piece' falls out after the
execution cycle. These are still 'cut pieces', even though the analogy is not quite clear for
these cases.
The EIA RS-274D part program is typically comprised of several shapes, each defined as a
cut piece. Rapid traverse lines generally connect these individually cut pieces (with the
cutting device off). Thus the placement and orientation of several cut pieces can be planned
so as to optimize plate usage, and the entire plan can be made into a single EIA RS-274D
program.
Figure 3 shows a typical part consisting of two cut pieces and two EIA RS-274D programs
to cut it. The first program is written in Incremental Programming Mode and Fixed
Numeric Format, while the second is written in Absolute Programming Mode and Floating
Numeric Format. Most of the programming techniques and concepts discussed in the
previous sections are illustrated here.
Figure 3
EIA RS-274D Programming
Example
+Y
350.0
+X
120 O
300.0
500.0
A ll Dimensions A re In mm.
N01 G 21 G 21
N01 G 92 G 90
N03 (PA RT NO .2A 303) G 92 X30
N04 G 00 X+25500 Y+20000 (PA RT NO . 2A 303)
N05 G 41 M07 G 00 X555 Y200
N06 G 03 X-1500 I-750 G 41 M07
N07 I+6000 G 03 X540 I-7.5
N08 X+1500 I+750 M08 I60
N09 G 40 X555 I7.5
N10 G 00 X-26500 Y-20000 G 40
N11 G 41 M07 G 00 X290 Y0
N12 G 01 X+51000 G 41 M07
N13 Y+35000 G 01 X800
N14 X-50000 Y350
N15 Y-36000 M08 X300
N16 G 40 M02 Y-10 M08
G 40 M02

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1.2.24 EIA RS-274D Programming Errors
When an EIA RS-274D part program is loaded into the system from a paper tape, CAD
system, host computer, or entered from the front panel using manual data input, the system
examines the program block by block to detect certain format errors. Some format errors
cannot be detected so a careful manual check of the program is recommended before
loading or entering. The errors that are detected are listed below:
Illegal EIA RS-274D Function - This error occurs if the program contains a Miscellaneous
Function code that is not listed in the table of legal Miscellaneous Functions. This error also
appears if a ')' right parenthesis is encountered prior to a '(' left parenthesis.
Bad Block Format - This error occurs if any block in the EIA RS-274D program contains
more than one word of the same type.
No End of Program Found - This error occurs if the program does not contain a legal EIA
RS-274D End of Program Miscellaneous Function. Legal End of Program Miscellaneous
Functions are M02, M30, and M65 (see 'End of Program' above).
Bad Comment Format - This error occurs when the EIA RS-274D program contains a '('
right parenthesis without a matching ')' left parenthesis.
Bad Arc - This error occurs when the radius of the arc at the starting point and the radius of
the arc at the ending point have a discrepancy of more than 1.27mm (0.05").
If any of these error are detected in an EIA RS-274D program, the system aborts the
translation and calculation of the part program and displays the appropriate error message
along with the line number of the EIA RS-274D block where the error was found. Pressing
any key at this time causes the system to return to the main options menu. The MDI editing
features can then be used to examine and correct the offending block.
If and EIA RS-274D program is in memory with an uncorrected EIA RS-274D program
error, no cutting operations can be performed. The message Illegal Program in Memory!!! is
displayed if a CUT or TRIAL is attempted.
1.2.25 Using The System Part Programming Options With EIA RS-274D Programs
All Part Transformation Options: Mirror, Rotate, Scale and Shape Repeat, are available for
EIA RS-274D part programs downloaded into the system or entered manually from the
panel; Automatic Plate and Corner Alignment features are also available.
When using any of the options, the entire EIA RS-274D part program is treated as a whole.
All rotations, mirroring, scaling, repeats and corner alignments operate on the entire part
including all cut pieces and traverse segments. Mirroring and rotation operate about the
starting point of the part, i.e. the entire part is mirrored across the X and Y axis at this point.
Likewise, rotations rotate about the starting point.
Each time an option is activated, the entire part geometry in memory is altered (with the
exception of the corner alignment function). To restore the original geometry after
mirroring or rotation, the various options must be 'undone'. For example, if a part is rotated
90°, rotating to '0' can restore it. Any shape repeat option can be cancelled by turning Shape
Repeat OFF via the OPTION/REPEAT menu. Also, a part can always be restored to its
original definition by reloading the EIA RS-274D program.

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Scaling - The scaling function caused the part to be completely re-translated in order to
preserve the true kerf size. This means that any previous mirroring, rotation or shape repeats
will be lost. If mirroring, rotation or repeats are desired on a scaled part, the scaling should
be done first followed by the desired rotation, mirroring and/or repeats. When changing the
Scale Factor, any previous rotations and mirroring are cancelled. The programmed kerf
value is preserved, however.
Kerf Compensation - Special attention must be paid if kerf adjustments are made in the
system after utilizing some of the Part Transformation options. Since re-adjustment of the
kerf requires re-translation of the part from its original geometry, previous transformations
of mirroring and rotation will be undone (the Scale Factor is preserved). It is best to adjust
the kerf to the desired value before using any of these options.
1.2.26 EIA RS-274D Memory Requirements
When and EIA RS-274D program is loaded from a paper tape reader, CAD system, or host
computer, each ASCII character requires 1 byte or character in part program memory. Any
ASCII null characters (leader) or Carriage Returns are ignored.
When loading an EIA RS-274D program, the system first stores the entire part in its
original ASCII format and then translates it into an internal 'work' format in the remainder
of the part program memory. If the combination of the ASCII and 'work' format exceeds the
available memory, the system automatically discards the section of ASCII it has already
translated and reshuffles the memory to make more space for the 'work' format. When this
happens, the system momentarily displays the message Shuffling... EIA RS-274D
comments do not require any memory. Shape repeats do not require any additional memory
no matter how many rows and columns are specified except for the nested repeat. To
generate the nested geometry, the system requires enough space to define a duplicate of the
original part. If enough memory is not available, an error message is displayed and the
option cannot be used.
The kerf compensation process also affects the memory requirements somewhat. If a non-
zero kerf value is entered, patch arcs and/or lines may be created to generate the kerf
compensated path. The exact amount of extra memory required cannot be predicted as it
depends on the exact geometry. It is therefore best to leave a fair amount of memory
available beyond the direct needs for the uncompensated part.
1.2.27 Entering And Editing EIA RS-274D Programs
The system allows entering and editing EIA RS-274D part programs from the front panel.
This is called Manual Data Input (MDI) and is accessed by pressing the EDIT key on the
front panel. This displays the Edit Menu as shown below:
ESSI: EIA: *SHAPES
Pressing the function key directly under EIA in the display selects the EIA RS-274D MDI
functions.
The Edit Menu also shows other information about the part currently in the system's main
part program memory. The asterisk (*) in the display shows how the current part was
created. *SHAPES indicates it was created from the shapes library or by teach tracing.
UNIT = METRIC indicates that the current part is dimensioned using Metric Units
(millimetres). If the current part is dimensioned using English Units (inches), UNIT =
ENGLISH is displayed.

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An EIA RS-274D part can be dimensioned in either English or metric units and this
information is saved with the part. The type of units of the current part determines the
current 'personality' of the control: if the current part is English, all values are displayed and
must be entered in inches; if the current part is metric, all values are displayed and must be
entered in millimetres.
To change the current type of units used to enter part dimensions, press DONE, and then
AUX/UNITS. Select the desired units (English or Metric) by pressing the TOGGLE key until
the desired selection appears and then press ENTER. Press EDIT followed by EIA to re-
select the EIA RS-274D MDI functions. Note that when the Units are changed in this way,
the current part is lost (destroyed).
1.2.28 Selecting The EIA RS-274D MDI Function
Pressing the EIA RS-274D key from the Edit Menu displays the MDI functions as shown
below:
PROGRAM: #FORMAT: NEW :PARAMS: RECALC
These menu options allow for entering, editing, or displaying the current EIA RS-274D
program (PROGRAM), changing the Axis Conversion (#FORMAT), erasing the current
program (NEW), changing the cutting parameters such as Cut Speed and Kerf Width
(PARAMS), and forcing a recalculation of the current EIA RS-274D part (RECALC). MDI
functions are explained in the following sections.
1.2.29 Entering Programs From The Front Panel
To enter a new EIA RS-274D program into the system, first press NEW followed by
ENTER to erase the current program in memory. Then press PROGRAM to display the
menu shown below (to edit or display a previously loaded EIA RS-274D program just press
PROGRAM):
LINE+ :LINE- :LINE# :INSERT:DELETE
Pressing any one of these keys erases this menu, and displays the selected line in the EIA
RS-274D program. However, the function keys associated with this menu are still active as
shown in yellow on the front panel.
After clearing an existing program using the NEW function, the system does not have any
program in its memory. In this case, attempting to display any line results in the message
No Program in Memory!!!.
Blocks can, however, be entered to create a new program using the INSERT key as
explained later.
When EIA RS-274D program blocks are displayed, each line is terminated by and asterisk
(*) representing the Line Feed end-of-block character. For example, this might be the
display for line 4 of a certain program G01 X102.4 Y28*

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1.2.30 Entering EIA RS-274D Program Blocks
Since the system’s keypad does not incorporate the full ASCII character set, a special
technique is used to enter the necessary alphanumeric characters. The keypad incorporates a
set of 'shifted' key functions that are shown in red above the normal unshifted key functions.
Pressing the SHIFT key followed by the desired shifted key, accesses these shifted keys.
EIA RS-274D Keypad
Key Unshifted Shifted

Label Character Character
0 0 T
1 1 I
2 2 J
3 3 F
4 4 X
5 5 Y
6 6 Z
7 7 N
8 8 M
9 9 G
! ! «Space»
PAUSE P
SPEED/\ (
SPEED\/ )
OPTION +
EDIT E
AUX A
REMOTE C
ENTER «LF»
To indicate that a shift is active after pressing SHIFT, the system displays a solid block or
checkerboard character at the character position where the shifted key will go. After
entering a shifted key, the system returns the keypad to its non-shifted state and the SHIFT
key must be pressed again to enter another shifted key.
In addition to the shifted keys discussed above, other required ASCII characters are
available by pressing certain non-shifted keys on the keypad. For example, SPEED/\
produces an open parenthesis '(' and SPEED \/ produces a closed parenthesis ')'. The
previous table shows both the shifted and non-shifted ASCII character generated by each
key on the system 's front panel.
1.2.31 Editing And Displaying The Program
After pressing EDIT/EIA/PROGRAM, the five function keys perform the MDI editing
operations shown above the function keys and beneath the display on the front panel. The
operation of these keys is explained below.
LINE+ - This key displays the next line in the EIA RS-274D program. If the currently
displayed line is the last line in the program, pressing LINE+ displays the first line of the
EIA RS-274D program. This feature is known as 'wrap around'/. If LINE+ is pressed
immediately after EDIT/EIA/PROGRAM, the first line in the EIA RS-274D program is
displayed.

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If no program is presently in the system 's memory, the message No Program in Memory!! Is
shown. Press DONE to recover.
LINE- - Displays the previous line in the program. If the currently displayed line is the first
line in the program, nothing happens. This is different than the operation of the LINE+ key,
which wraps around to the beginning of the program. If no program is presently in the
system's memory, the message No Program in Memory!! is shown. Press any key to recover.
LINE# - Displays the Line Number of the current EIA RS-274D block and requests a new
Line Number to display. After pressing ENTER the requested block in the EIA RS-274D
program is displayed. If the line does not exist in the program (i.e. line 100 was requested
and the program only has 50 lines), the message Line Not Found!!! is displayed, and the last
line in the program is displayed. If ENTER is pressed without entering a new line number,
the current EIA RS-274D block is re-displayed.
INSERT - 'Opens up' the EIA RS-274D program and allows a new block of data to be
inserted after the currently displayed line. If the currently displayed line is the last block in
the program, the new line is inserted before the current line. If no program currently exists,
the entered line becomes the first line of the program.
After pressing INSERT, the system displays a question mark to request the desired EIA RS-
274D data. Enter a legal EIA RS-274D program block and then press ENTER. Pressing
ENTER displays an asterisk (*), and adds the Line Feed end-of-block character to the
program block.
DELETE - Erases the currently displayed EIA RS-274D program block (line). When
deleting a line in the middle of the program, the system displays the line following the one
just deleted. When deleting the last line in the program, the previous block is displayed. A
single line program cannot be deleted.
EDIT - Pressing the EDIT key while editing an EIA RS-274D program erases the currently
displayed line, and prompts for new data with the '?'. This is equivalent to pressing the
DELETE, LINE-, and INSERT in that order.
DONE - Pressing the DONE key terminates the editing or display process. If the system
detects that changes or additions have been made to the EIA RS-274D program, it is re-
translated and re-calculated for cutting. When calculation is complete the MAIN menu is
displayed.

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1.2.32 Simple Edit Sequence
Suppose we wish to program the shape shown in Figure 4.
Figure 4
Sample EIA RS-274D Part
Table 1 on the next page contains information used to enter the EIA RS-274D part; English
Units are used.
During the time when the message 'Translating...’ appears, if any format error, are detected,
the appropriate error message is displayed along with the line number of the offending
block. If this occurs, re-enter the EDIT mode and correct the error using the appropriate,
EDIT, INSERT or DELETE functions and then press DONE again.
After successful translation, the part is adjusted for cornering velocities and kerf
compensation. During this process the messages 'Calculating...' and 'Kerf Compensating
Part...' appear. At the completion of this phase, the part is now ready for standard cutting
operations (TRIAL and CUT) or for additional transformations such as mirroring or rotation.
Refer to the system User's Manual for more information on these functions.
1.2.33 Changing The Cutting Parameters
An EIA RS-274D part program which is entered via manual data input or loaded in from a
paper tape reader, CAD system, or host computer, can have its cut speed, kerf value, and
Dwell Time (if there are any G04 blocks without X word time values in the program)
modified at any time.
To change these parameters, press EDIT, EIA, and then PARAMS and the system prompts
for the new values. To keep the current value, just press ENTER. To alter the current value,
key in a new number and then press ENTER.
To enable the system to interpret the F codes in the program, the 'F code' parameter must be
set to ON. IF the 'F Code?' parameter is set to OFF, the system ignores all F codes in the
program and the cut speed is the value set for the 'Cut Speed?' parameter. Setting this
parameter to ON enables F codes in the program to set the part cut-speed.
If the kerf value is changed, the system re-translates the EIA RS-274D program and then
recalculates the geometry for the new kerf value.

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Table 1
Information for entering an EIA Display Operator Action
RS-274D part
START:RIP:WORKFILE:ALIGN:SPEED press EDIT
ESSI:EIA:*SHAPES: press EIA
PROGRAM:#FORMAT:NEW:PARAMS:RECALC: press NEW
Press ENTER to confirm... press ENTER
PROGRAM:#FORMAT:NEW:PARAMS :RECALC: press PROGRAM
LINE+:LINE-:LINE# :INSERT:DELETE press INSERT
? press SPEED/\, PAUSE, 1, 0, 0,
SPEED\/,
ENTER,
(P100) * press INSERT
? press SHIFT, G, 9, 1, ENTER
G91 * press INSERT
? press SHIFT, M, 0, 7, ENTER
MO7 * press INSERT
? press SHIFT, G, 0, 1, SHIFT, .,
SHIFT, X, +, 5, ENTER
G01 X+5 * press INSERT
? press SHIFT, Y, +, 2, ., 7, 5,
Y+2.75 * ENTER
? press INSERT
X-4.50 * press SHIFT X, -, 4, ., 5, 0,
? ENTER
press INSERT
press SHIFT, Y, -, 3, ., 2, 5,
Y-3.25 M08 * SHIFT, ., SHIFT, M, 0, 8, ENTER
? press INSERT
M02 * press SHIFT, M, 0, 2, Enter
Translating... press DONE
Calculating...
PROGRAM:#FORMAT:NEW:PARAMS :RECALC:
Cut Speed? press PARAMS
Kerf Width? press 5, 0, ENTER
press ., 0, 1, 7, ENTER
Translating...
Calculating...
Kerf Compensation Part...
Calculating Checksum...
PROGRAM:#FORMAT:NEW:PARAMS :RECALC:
START:RIP:WORKFILE:ALIGN:SPEED press DONE
1.2.34 Changing The X-Axis Orientation
The system allows specifying the X-Axis as being either the Rail or Traverse axis.
Selection is done in the EDIT/EIA/#FORMAT menu by toggling the Axis Conversion
parameter to either RAIL or TRAVERSE. The normal setting is TRAVERSE. This
parameter should be set before cutting the part.
1.3 UPLOADING AND DOWNLOADING EIA PROGRAMS

EIA RS-274D parts that have been previously prepared using a CAD system or are stored
on a hose computer may be downloaded to the system via the RS-232C port on the rear
panel of the system. EIA RS-274D programs entered directly via the front panel may also
be uploaded to a CAD system, host computer or paper tape punch.
Before using any of the RS-232C port operations, the remote link parameters in the
AUX/SETUP/LINK menu must be properly set. Refer to the system User's Manual for
information on how to set these parameters. In addition, the Axis Conversion parameter in
the EDIT/EIA/#FORMAT must be set to match the desired axis orientation.

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The specifications for the RS-232C interface are as follows:
EIA RS-232C standard interface

Uses Shield, RxD, TxD, and Common (pins 1,2,3,and 5)
ASCII or RS-244 character set
7 data bits, 1 parity bit, 1 or 2 stop bits
Parity supported is even, odd, mark, space, or ignore
Supports baud rates of 300, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600 or 19.2K
Tape read functions support XON, XOFF
Refer to the system User's Manual for details concerning setup of the RS-232C interface
port.
1.3.1 Communications Protocol
The system includes two built-in communications protocols for uploading and downloading
EIA RS-274D programs. Tape Mode is a simple protocol usually used with paper tape
readers and punches, although it may also be used for simple communications with a host
computer or remote programming system. Dialog Mode is a much more sophisticated
protocol usually used with a remote host computer or CAD system that allows interaction
between the machine operator and the CAD system or host computer.
Pressing the REMOTE key accesses both protocols. This displays the Remote Menu as
shown below:
UPLOAD: DNLOAD: :PUNCH : READTAPE
The Tape Mode protocol is used whenever the PUNCH key (to send a program) or the
READTAPE key (to receive a program) is pressed. Dialog Mode is used whenever the
UPLOAD (to upload a program) or DNLOAD to download a program) keys are pressed.
Both of these communications protocols are explained below.
1.3.2 Tape Mode Protocol
Tape Mode is a simple communications protocol usually used with paper tape readers and
punches. It may also be used, however, to communicate with a remote programming system
or host computer which does not support the more sophisticated Dialog Mode protocol.
The Tape Mode protocol may be used to read and punch tapes using either the ASCII or
RS-244B character codes. The desired code is selected in the AUX/SETUP/LINK menu;
refer to the system User's Manual for more information.
1.3.3 Loading A Part From Paper Tape
To load a EIA RS-274D program into the system, the paper tape reader or remote
programming station must be ready to send the program data upon receipt of the XON
(«DCI») character from the system. Usually this just means that the tape should be loaded
in the tape reader, and the unit should be turned on.
Press the function key directly under READTAPE in the Remote menu. The system displays
Kerf Width? asking you to enter the desired kerf width. Use the numeric keypad to enter the
desired kerf width for the part, and then press ENTER.

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The system then sends an XON character («DCI» = ASCII 17) from the RS-232C port to
initiate sending the part program and displays Remote Link...
At this point, the tape reader or remote programming station must send the EIA RS-274D
program block by block to the system. The system does not echo the characters it receives.
If the system does not receive a legal EIA RS-274D program character after sending the
XON and before the 'DNC Timeout' time has elapsed, the message Communications Error:
Timeout is displayed. This indicates that the tape reader or remote programming station is
not responding with the requested program data. For information on setting the 'DNC
Timeout' value, refer to the system User's Manual.
The loading process is stopped when a Miscellaneous Function M02, M30, or M65 is
detected from the RS- 232C port. When any of these Miscellaneous Functions are detected,
the system displays Translating... indicating that it is translating the EIA RS-274D program
into internal format.
When a Miscellaneous Function M02 (Program End) is detected, the system immediately
sends an XOFF («DC3» = ASCII 19) character from the RS-232C port to stop the tape
reader. If multiple parts are stored on a single paper tape, padding characters should be
added between parts. The number of padding characters required depends on how fast the
tape reader responds to the XOFF but normally 5 to 10 characters is adequate. Padding
characters may be any characters that are ignored by the system, including nulls (leader),
rubouts, spaces, and carriage returns.
When a Miscellaneous Function M30 (End of Program with Tape Rewind) is detected, the
system sends the 'ASCII Rewind Character' to the tape reader instructing it to rewind the
tape. The specific character used to initiate a tape rewind depends on the specific tape
reader and is set in the AUX/SETUP/LINK menu. For information on setting the 'ASCII
Rewind Character', refer to the system User's Manual. The system stops rewinding the tape
upon receipt of a '%' character, but will also stop rewinding when the tape runs out.
When a Miscellaneous Function M65 (Program End with Auto-Reload Active) is detected,
the system immediately sends an XOFF («DC3» = ASCII 19) character from the RS-232C
port to stop the tape reader. Padding characters should be added after the Miscellaneous
Function M65 to allow the tape reader to stop. The number of padding characters required
depends on how fast the tape reader responds to the XOFF but normally 5 to 10 characters
is adequate. Padding characters may be any characters that are ignored by the system,
including nulls (leader), rubouts, spaces, and carriage returns. Refer to 'Auto-Reload' for
more information.
1.3.4 Punching A Part Into Paper Tape
To punch a part onto paper tape, first make sure that the tape punch is properly configured
and connected to the system. Then press the function key directly under PUNCH in the
Remote menu. If you are uploading a Teach/Trace part, the system displays Part
Designation? asking you to enter a part number designation. Use the numeric keypad and
other keys on the front panel to enter the desired part number or other identifying
designation and then press the ENTER key. The part number designation is automatically
enclosed within parenthesis.

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The system then sends a «DC2» code (ASCII 18) to the punch to enable it and displays
Uploading EIA RS-274D... At this point the system sends the EIA RS-274D program
blocks to the RS-232C port. For formatting purposes, a Carriage Return character (ASCII
13) is appended to each block following the Line Feed End-of-Block character. When the
complete EIA RS-274D program has been sent out the system sends a «DC4» code to the
tape punch to turn it off.
1.3.5 Dialog Mode Protocol
Dialog Mode allows for sophisticated interaction between a host computer of CAD system
and the machine operator via the RS-232C port. It allows the host computer to interactively
communicate with the operator through the display and keypad. This is useful for
prompting the operator for various CAD system options, selecting a program to
upload/download, or specifying various parametric values such as kerf width, etc., to the
host system.
A Link program, running on the host computer, must be installed to utilize the Dialog
Mode. Contact Northrop Grumman-Canada, Ltd. – Linatrol Division for additional
information on this Link program.
To use Dialog Mode, the 'Character Code' and Dialog parameters (Dialog Start, Dialog
Prompt, Dialog Acknowledge, and Dialog Done) in the AUX/SETUP/Link menu must be
set properly. Character Code' must be set to 'ASCII' (Dialog Mode does not work with S-
244B codes). Any legal ASCII value (0 through 127) can be used for the four Dialog
parameters with the exception of Carriage Return (ASCII 13), Line Feed (ASCII 10), Tilde
(ASCII 126), and SUB (ASCII 26) which have defined functions in the Dialog Mode
protocol.
A recommended list of Dialog parameters is shown in the table below:
Recommended Dialog Parameters
Prompt Value Character
Dialog Start? 33 !
Dialog Prompt? 3 ETX
Dialog Acknowledge? 62 >
Dialog Done? 42 *
For information on setting these parameters, refer to the system User's Manual.
The information displayed on the system when using Dialog Mode is determined by the
software in the CAD system or host computer. Consult the manuals for the program you are
using to determine the correct data to enter for uploading and downloading part programs.
1.3.6 Downloading A Part Program
To download a part program from a CAD system or host computer using Dialog Mode.
press the function key directly under DNLOAD in the Remote menu. The system then sends
the pre-defined 'Dialog Start' character followed by a capital 'S' (ASCII 53) to the RS-232C
port and displays Dialog Mode... on the system 's front panel display.

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Displaying Messages - The host computer or CAD system may now send a message to
be displayed on the system's display by sending the appropriate ASCII characters followed
by a tilde (~ = ASCII 126). This message-when received-replaces the 'Dialog Mode...'
display shown above. In fact, depending on how fast the message is sent, the 'Dialog
Mode...' message may be seen only briefly or not at all.
If the system does not receive a character after sending the '«Dialog Start» S' and before the
DNC Timeout time has elapsed, the message Communications Error: Timeout is displayed.
This indicates that the CAD system or remote programming station is not responding. See
the system User's Manual for information on setting the DNC Timeout value.
The tilde character used to terminate messages from the host computer or CAD system also
disables the DNC timeout until the next character of any kind is received. This allows the
host computer or CAD system to search for requested files, etc. without running the risk of
a communications timeout from the system.
Additional messages may be sent (terminated by the tilde character) and they will be
displayed as received.
1.3.7 Prompting The Machine Operator
To prompt the machine operator for a value (kerf width, part number, etc.), send a message
terminated with the pre-defined Dialog Prompt character instead of the tilde. The value
entered by the operator on the system from panel-including any imbedded decimal point-is
transmitted back to the CAD system or host computer in ASCII format followed by a
Carriage Return character («CR» = ASCII 13) when the ENTER key is pressed. If the
ENTER key is pressed without any values having been entered, the system returns only a
«CR» character.
For example, the system displays a file name and gives the operator choices by sending the
message 'filename (0=next, 1=load, 2=name) («ETX» '. This results in the display filename
(0=next, 1=load, 2=name).
If the Operator presses the '0' key to see the next file name, the system returns the string
'0«Carriage Return» ' to the PC which then displays the next available file on the disk by
sending a message like the one above again.
Sending additional messages followed by the Dialog Prompt character may prompt for
additional values. Note that the Dialog Prompt character itself is not displayed, allowing
any ASCII value including control codes to be used. Like the tilde, the Dialog Prompt
character disables the DNC timeout.
Sending the Program - To terminate the dialog with the machine operator and initiate
actual EIA RS-274D program download, send the pre-defined Dialog Done character.
Upon receipt of the Dialog Done character, the system immediately transmits the Dialog
Acknowledge character to signify that it is ready to receive the EIA RS-274D program.
After receipt of a Dialog Acknowledge character, the CAD system or host computer should
transmit the first block of the EIA RS-274D program followed by the Line Feed End-of-
Block character. The system acknowledges receipt of this data by sending another Dialog
Acknowledge character. The CAD system or host computer should then transmit the next
EIA RS-274D program block (terminated with a Line Feed), to which the system responds
with another Dialog Acknowledge character. This process continues until the entire
program has been downloaded.

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If the system does not receive a character after sending the Dialog Acknowledge character
and before the DNC Timeout time has elapsed, the message Communications Error:
Timeout is displayed. This indicates that the CAD system or remote programming station is
not responding. For information on setting the DNC Timeout value, refer to the system
User's Manual.
To conclude the download process after the CAD system or host computer has sent the last
block of the EIA RS-274D program, send a «SUB» character (Control-z=ASCII 26) as an
end-of-program character in response to the Dialog Acknowledge character.
Table 2 illustrates the complete Dialog Mode protocol for downloading a typical EIA RS-
274D program.
Table 2
Dialog Mode Download Protocol
Dialog Mode Protocol for
Downloading a Typical EIA Transmit LINK Transmit (Receive)
RS-274D program
!S Link Here! Download~Mode wait...~
PART0 (0=next, 1=load, 2=name)«ETX»
0«CR» PART1 (0=next, 1=load, 2=name)«ETX»
1«CR» *
> (P100)«LF»
> G91«LF»
> M07«LF»
> G01 X+5«LF»
> Y+2.75«LF»
> X-4.50«LF»
> Y-3.25 M08«LF»
> M02«LF»
> «SUB»
1.3.8 Uploading A Part Ptogram
To upload a part program from the system to a CAD system or host computer using Dialog
Mode, press the function key directly under UPLOAD in the Remote menu. The system
then sends the pre-defined 'Dialog Start' character followed by a capital 'R' (ASCII 53) to
the RS-232C port and displays Dialog Mode... on the front panel display.
Displaying Messages - The host computer or CAD system may now send a message to be
displayed on the system’s display by sending the appropriate ASCII characters followed by
a tilde (~ = ASCII 126). This message-when received-replaces the 'Dialog Mode...' display
shown above. In fact, depending on how fast the message is sent, the 'Dialog Mode...'
message may be seen only briefly or not at all.
If the system does not receive a character after sending the '«Dialog Start» R' and before the
DNC Timeout time has elapsed, the message Communications Error: Timeout is displayed.
This indicates that the CAD system or remote programming station is not responding.
Refer to the system User's Manual for information on setting the DNC Timeout value.
The tilde character used to terminate messages from the host computer or CAD system also
disables the DNC timeout until the next character of any kind is received. This allows the
host computer or CAD system to sear for requested files, etc. without running the risk of a
communications timeout from the system.
Additional messages may be sent (terminated by the tilde character) and they will be
displayed as received.

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1.3.9 Prompting The Machine Operator
To prompt the machine operator for a value of filename, send a message terminated with
the pre-defined Dialog Prompt character instead of the tilde. The value entered by the
operator on the front panel-including any embedded decimal point-is transmitted back to
the CAD system or host computer in ASCII format followed by a Carriage Return character
(«CR» = ASCII 13) when the ENTER key is pressed. If the ENTER key is pressed without
any values having been entered, the system returns only a «CR».
For example, LINK requests a name for the uploaded file by sending the message 'File
name? «ETX» '. This results in the display File name?
IF the Operator enters '123' by pressing the appropriate keys on the front panel, the system
returns the string '123«CR» ' to the PC.
Sending additional messages followed by the Dialog Prompt character may prompt for
additional values. Note that the value including control codes to be used. Like the tilde, the
Dialog Prompt character disables the DNC timeout.
Receiving the Program - To terminate the dialog with the machine operator and initiate
actual EIA RS-274D program upload, send the pre-defined Dialog Done character followed
by the pre-defined Dialog Acknowledge character.
After receipt of a Dialog Acknowledge character, the system transmits the first block of the
EIA RS-274D program followed by the Line Feed End-of-Block character. The CAD
system or host computer should acknowledge receipt of this data by sending another Dialog
Acknowledge character. The system then transmits the next EIA RS-274D program block
(terminated with a Line Feed), to which the CAD system or host computer responds with
another Dialog Acknowledge character. This process continues until the entire program has
been uploaded.
If the system does not receive a Dialog Acknowledge character after sending an EIA RS-
274D program block and before the DNC Timeout time has elapsed, the message
Communications Error: Timeout is displayed. This indicates that the CAD system or
remote programming station is not responding. Refer to the system User's Manual for
information on setting the DNC Timeout value.
To conclude the upload process after the system has sent the last block of the EIA RS-274D
program, it sends a «SUB» character (Control~z=ASCII 26) as an end-of-program character
in response to the Dialog Acknowledge character.
Table 3 illustrates the complete Dialog Mode protocol for uploading a typical EIA RS-
274D program. This example shows the program implementation using the recommended
Dialog Mode characters shown previously.

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Table 3
Dialog Mode Upload Protocol
Dialog Mode protocol for
uploading a typical EIA Transmit CAD Transmit (Receive)
RS-274D program
!R Line Here! Upload Mode~

File name? «ETX»
123«CR» *>
(P100)«LF»¯ >
G91«LF» >
M07«LF» >
G01 X+5«LF»¯ >
Y+2.75«LF» >
X-4.50«LF» >
Y-3.25 M08«LF»¯ >
M02«LF» >
«SUB» >
1.3.10 Auto-Reload
The system includes a special feature, called Auto-Reload, which allows cutting of an EIA
RS-274D part of 'unlimited' length without returning to the system keyboard after the initial
setup. Auto-Reload is used with either the Tape Mode or Dialog Mode protocols. This is
useful when the entire part is larger than the system 's memory.
Activating Auto-Reload - To use Auto-Reload, values for the 'Download mem capacity as
%' and 'Auto-Reload point as %' parameters in the AUX/SETUP/LINK menu must be set
properly; refer to the system User's Manual. When these parameters are set, Auto-Reload is
activated automatically whenever a downloaded part exceeds the specified percentage of
the system 's part program memory.
When the downloaded part exceeds the specified percentage of part program memory, the
system automatically inserts a Miscellaneous Function M65 at the next torch off point
(Miscellaneous Function M08). If the Miscellaneous Function M08 is followed by a
Disable Kerf Compensation code (Miscellaneous Function M40), the Miscellaneous
Function M65 is inserted after the Miscellaneous Function M40. The Miscellaneous
Function M65 activates Auto-Reload and the system will load, process, and begin cutting
the next program section immediately upon completion of the present section. This process
continues until a Miscellaneous Function M02 and M30 is received signifying the end of
the part program.
With Auto-Reload active the Cut Speed, F code action, and Dwell Time parameters may be
entered only after the first section has loaded. These values, however, are used throughout
the entire part. In contrast, the Part Programming Options (Shape Repeat, Mirror, Rotate,
and Scale) may also be selected only after loading the first section, but the affect only the
first section of the entire part.
To cut the entire part, press CUT or TRIAL after the first section of the EIA RS-274D
program has loaded- the following sections are loaded, processed, and started automatically
in the same mode (CUT or TRIAL). While cutting with Auto-Reload active, operation of
the Cut Loss Recovery operations in the system are relative to the current section. For
example, pressing PAUSE followed by >START while the second section of the part is
cutting returns the cutting device to the starting point of the second section, not the starting
point of the entire part.

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Specifying the Auto-Reload Point Directly - To specify the Auto-Reload point directly,
the EIA RS-274D part must be divided up into sections; each of which can be handled in a
single 'chunk' by the system. Basically, this means that each section (Chunk) of the part
program should contain an integral number of cut pieces.
Each section (except the last) must end with a Miscellaneous Function M65 code instead of
a Miscellaneous Function M02 or M30. The Miscellaneous Function M65 activates Auto-
Reload and the system will load, process and begin cutting the next program section
immediately upon completion of the present section as explained above. The last section of
the part should end with a Miscellaneous Function M02 or M30.
Cancelling Auto-Reload - Auto-Reload may be cancelled (inhibiting loading of the next

section) by pressing the REMOTE key during the execution of the current section. The
system displays Auto-Reload Cancelled... and the current section completes as if a
Miscellaneous Function M02 had been found at the end of that section. To resume
execution, press REMOTE again to load the next EIA RS-274D program section.
After cancelling Auto-Reload in this manner, the Cut Speed and Dwell Time parameters
must be re-entered, and the cut re-started (CUT or TRIAL). This interruption capability is
useful for repositioning the cutting device after a long stretch of cutting, changing cut speed
or dwell values, reviewing a section, coffee breaks, etc.
Auto-Reload with Tape Mode Protocol - When using the Tape Mode protocol, the tape
reader or remote programming station must stop sending EIA RS-274D program data
immediately upon receipt of the XOFF character. It is highly recommended that the leader
or padding characters (characters ignored by the system) be inserted after all Miscellaneous
Functions M65's. This gives the tape reader time to stop without losing EIA RS-274D
program data due to tape over-run.
The system sends an XON character to the tape reader or remote programming station
when it is ready to receive the next section of the part. The tape reader or remote
programming station must remain ready to send out the new section of the part when it
receives the XON character.
Auto-Reload with Dialog Mode Protocol - When using Dialog Mode protocol, the system
does not send the Dialog Acknowledge character after receiving a Miscellaneous Code
M65. When the current section of the part has completed cutting, the system issues the
Dialog Acknowledge character and expects the first block of the new EIA RS-274D
program block in response. The CAD system or host computer must remain ready to send
out the new section of the part when it receives the Dialog Acknowledge character.
1.3.11 EIA RS-274D Loading Errors
During the loading, translating, and calculating of an EIA RS-274D part, a number of errors
may occur which are indicated on the display. Any of these errors may occur which are
indicated on the display. Any of these errors abort the loading of the EIA RS-274D
program. To recover, press any key to restore the main menu.
Communications Errors - The most common errors during uploading or downloading are
communications errors. These errors occur if the communications link parameters in the
AUX/SETUP/LINK menu are not set properly (baud rate, parity), a character from the RS-
232C port is received incorrectly (parity, framing), or the RS-232C link is not operating
properly (timing error). For more details, refer to the system User's Manual.

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Several errors specific to the EIA RS-274D download may also occur. These are explained
below:
Memory Overflow!!! - This error occurs if the part being downloaded is too large to fit in
the system 's memory. The part should be broken down into smaller sections using
Miscellaneous Code M65s. See 'The Auto-Reload Function' above for more information on
this feature.
EIA Part Too Large!!! - This error occurs if the EIA RS-274D part is small enough to fit in
ASCII or RS-244 form in the system, but is too large to be translated into the internal 'work'
format. These errors may be corrected by using the MDI and editing capabilities described
earlier in this section.
No End of Program Found!!! - Occurs if the program does not contain a Miscellaneous
Function M02, M30, or M65 code to indicate the end of program.
Bad Arc - This error occurs when the radius of the arc at the starting point and the radius of
the arc at the ending point have a discrepancy of more then 1.27mm (0.05").
1.4 KERF COMPENSATION

The fully intelligent kerf compensation system provided in the system allows an EIA RS-
274D part to be programmed in terms of the desired dimensions of a finished part. The
system automatically computes the part path corrected for kerf width. The programmer is
spared the complicated job of re-dimensioning to account for the kerf.
The programmed cutting path is a sequence of arcs and lines, referred to as segments, which
are entered into the system either manually (using the front panel keypad) or from a tape
reader, remote programming station, CAD system, or host computer. If kerf compensation
is not used, a kerf width of zero is used, the cutting device follows the programmed path.
If kerf compensation is used, the cutting device follows a path that lies a distance of one-
half the specified kerf width away from the programmed path (measured perpendicular to
the programmed path at any point along it). This is the kerf compensated path. The
compensated path may be programmed to lie either to the left or to the right of the
programmed path, as shown in Figure 5.
Figure 5
Kerf Compensation

LINATROL
1.4.1 Adding Kerf Compensation To A Part
If the EIA RS-274D part is being loaded via the RS-232C port (DNC), the operator is
prompted to enter a value for kerf width; otherwise, the kerf value is entered via
EDIT/EIA/PARAMS. Once a kerf width value has been entered, the system translates,
calculates, and kerf compensates the part. Messages appear in the display, telling the
operator what the system is doing. On short parts, the messages may appear too briefly to
be visible.
If the EIA RS-274D part is entered directly using from the front panel using Manual Data
Input (MDI), there is no automatic prompting for kerf value. The last kerf value selected for
any part remains in effect when the new part is entered. When the part editing is complete,
the system translates, calculates, and kerf compensates the part using this kerf value. If the
kerf value in effect is 0, the part is not kerf compensated.
To enter a new kerf value, press EDIT, EIA, and the PARAMS. After entering the desired
kerf width, the system re-calculates the part geometry for the new kerf value. The kerf value
selected for a part load from the RS-232C port via DNC may also be changed in this
manner.
1.4.2 Using Kerf Compensation
In EIA RS-274D, kerf compensation is regulated using the three Preparatory Functions
shown below:
EIA RS-274D Kerf Compensation Preparatory Functions
Preparatory Description
Description
G41 Enable Left Kerf Compensation

G42 Enable Right Kerf Compensation
G40 Disable Kerf Compensation
Preparatory Code G41 and G42 turn kerf compensation ON using the current kerf width
value and generate offset segments from the programmed path to the compensated path
(kerf-on segment). Preparatory Code G40 turns kerf compensation OFF and generates an
offset segment from the compensated path back to the programmed path (kerf-off segment).
These kerf-on and kerf-off offset segments are included to get the cutting device back onto
the programmed path, and to ensure the cutting device on and off points are at known
positions regardless of the kerf width value.
The Preparatory Functions turning kerf compensation on and off should only be used in
conjunction with the Miscellaneous Functions which turn the cutting device on and off.
Kerf Preparatory Functions need not be used in a program if kerf compensation is not
desired.
Use with Cut Control Codes - It is important that the cutting device be off during the kerf-
on and kerf-off segments, so that the area cut out does not extend beyond what is necessary.
To accomplish this, place the kerf Preparatory Functions 'outside' those turning the cutting
device on and off. Figure 6 and Figure 7 on the following page illustrate both the correct
and incorrect placement of the kerf Preparatory Functions relative to the cutting device
on/off Miscellaneous Functions.

LINATROL
Figure 6
Correct Kerf Function Use with
Cut Control
Figure 7
Incorrect Kerf Function Use with
Cut Control
Use with Rapid Traverse Segments - In addition, kerf compensation should never be left
on outside a cut piece or during rapid traverse segments. For example, Figure 8 shows both
correct and incorrect placement of the kerf Preparatory Functions relative Rapid Traverse
segments.
If the kerf control Preparatory Functions are placed outside the Rapid Traverse segments
(incorrect), the angles between the traverse segments and the first and last segments of the
rectangular piece are very sharp. In this case, the part may not kerf compensate correctly, or
else the first and last segments of the piece may be shortened by compensation to the point
where the rectangle does not close.
Placing the kerf control Preparatory Functions inside the rapid traverse segments (correct)
effectively isolates the first and last segments of the rectangle and the sharp angles between
the traverse segments and the rectangle cannot cause a problem. The kerf-on and kerf-off
offset segments assure that the cut path-from the beginning to the end of the cut piece-is
sensible and predictable.

LINATROL
Figure 8
Use of Kerf Functions with Rapid
Traverse
1.4.3 Geometric Considerations
To understand the principles of kerf compensation, it is helpful to think of the cutting

device as forming a circular hole of constant diameter in the material. As the cutting device
moves, it is this diameter which determines the kerf, and which therefore equals the kerf
width.
In general, the compensated or actual path corresponds to the programmed path on a

segment-for-segment basis. On each segment of the compensated path, the cutting device
travels in the same direction as it would on the corresponding segment of the programmed
path. However, the number of segments in the compensated path is greater than in the
programmed path, because a short offset line is added each time kerf compensation is
turned on or off, and 'patch arcs' are added to connect segments on the compensated path.
This of course has direct implications on the amount of part program memory required.
The system kerf algorithm creates a compensated path by either shortening the length of
line segments, reducing the radius or arcs, or adding patch arcs. In general, line lengths are
shortened or arc radii reduced when compensating the path 'inside' an angle of intersection
of less than 180 degrees. Patch arcs are used to compensate the path 'outside' of the
intersection angles of greater than 180 degrees. This applies for line-to-line, line-to-arc, and
arc-to-arc, type segment intersections.
The use of patch arcs rather than elongating line lengths or increasing the arc radii is
advantageous from the standpoint of plate or workpiece usage. Consider the case of kerf
compensating outside a sharp (small-angled) vertex of a part. The intersection point of the
shifted segments could jut out considerable from the programmed part, which could gouge
a neighbouring part on the work piece. By generating patch arcs, the system provides
stricter dimensional control than would otherwise be possible. When planning work piece
usage, the programmer need only worry about leaving a 'buffer zone' around the outside
dimensions of a part, a kerf width or so wide.
Kerf compensation is inherently limited by the fact that the cutting device forms a hole that
is approximately circular. The wider the kerf width, the less possible it is to cut an intricate
part and have it come out with the programmed form and dimensions. For example, in
cutting a rectangular hole, there is no way to cut all the way into each corner without
gouging the edge of the rectangle. Thus, 'fillets'-small rounded areas of material not cut out
in the corners of parts-are unavoidable as long as there is a non-zero kerf width
programmed.

LINATROL
Even though fillets are unavoidable with many parts the edge of the part that is left after the
cut should run along some portion of every programmed segment. When the kerf is too
wide for this to be possible, some segments are lost (or could only be defined if the desired
edge of the part were gouged elsewhere) and the part cannot be correctly kerf compensated.
1.4.4 Kerf Compensation Errors
Situations can arise in which a part cannot be properly kerf compensated. As the kerf width
is increased, some segments (either arcs or lines) grow shorter, and the radii of some arcs
may grow smaller. These effects depend on the kerf direction (left or right) and the
geometry of the part. However, in general, they are observed when compensating along the
interior of a convex or protruding area of a part.
As segment lengths or arc radii approach zero, a point is reached where the part can no
longer be correctly compensated. One or more compensated segments (corresponding to
programmed segments) disappear or are 'lost'. The kerf width at which this first happens
for any segment or segments in a part, and any wider kerf width, cannot be used with that
particular part.
Be careful that none of the segments of the part will be lost by kerf compensation. If this
situation occurs, gouging of the part or erratic cutting behavior may result. When in doubt,
TRIAL cut may be used to observe the part before cutting it. Using a smaller kerf width
may eliminate the problem.
Note: The point at which an arc or line is lost because it is shortened by compensation is
very much dependent on the part geometry. In general, the programmer should be careful
about short segments found in nooks and crannies in the programmed part into which the
cutter must move. As a rule of thumb, whenever the length of a segment is about the same
as or is shorter than the kerf width, a problem may exist. The rule can be stated more
precisely for changes in the radius of an arc. Whenever the radius of a programmed arc is
(approximately) equal to, or is less than, one-half the kerf width, and the kerf direction is
inside the arc (i.e., the radius would be reduced rather than increased by compensation), the
arc cannot be kerf compensated. Note that an arc can be shortened to the vanishing point
by compensation, even though its radius has not been reduced to zero.
Figure 9 shows how the kerf compensation algorithms add patch arcs and shorten line
segments to achieve kerf compensation.
Figure 9
Full Intelligent Kerf
Compensation

LINATROL
ASCII Keyboard Value Description

NUL CTRL - @ 0 Null
SOH CTRL –a 1 Start Of Heading
STX CTRL –b 2 Start Of Text
ETX CTRL –c 3 End Of Text
EOT CTRL –d 4 End Of Transmission
ENQ CTRL –e 5 Enquiry
ACK CTRL –f 6 Acknowledge
BEL CTRL –g 7 Bell
BS CTRL –h 8 Backspace
HT CTRL –I 9 Horizontal Tab
LF CTRL –j 10 Line Feed
VT CTRL –k 11 Vertical Tab
FF CTRL –l 12 Form Feed
CR CTRL –m 13 Carriage Return
SO CTRL –n 14 Shift Out
SI CTRL –o 15 Shift In
DLE CTRL –p 16 Data Link Escape
DC1 CTRL –q 17 Device Control 1 (Xon)
DC2 CTRL –r 18 Device Control 2
DC3 CTRL –s 19 Device Control 3 (Xoff)
DC4 CTRL –t 20 Device Control4
NSK CTRL –u 21 Negative Acknowledge
SYN CTRL –v 22 Synchronous Idle
ETB CTRL –w 23 End Of Transmission Block
CAN CTRL –x 24 Cancel
EM CTRL –y 25 End Of Medium
SUB CTRL –z 26 Substitute
ESC CTRL –[ 27 Escape
FS CTRL -\ 28 File Separator
GS CTRL -] 29 Group Separator
RS CTRL -^ 30 Record Separator
US CTRL -_ 31 Unit Separator
DEL 127 Delete

LINATROL
ASCII Printing Characters

Char Value Char Value Char Value Char Value Char Value
Space 32 3 51 F 70 Y 89 l 108
! 33 4 52 G 71 Z 90 m 109
“ 34 5 53 H 72 [ 91 n 110
# 35 6 54 I 73 \ 92 o 111
$ 36 7 55 J 74 ] 93 p 112
% 37 8 56 K 75 ^ 94 q 113
& 38 9 57 L 76 _ 95 r 114
‘ 39 : 58 M 77 ‘ 96 s 115
( 40 ; 59 N 78 a 97 t 116
) 41 < 60 O 79 b 98 u 117
* 42 = 61 P 80 c 99 v 118
+ 43 > 62 Q 81 d 100 w 119
, 44 ? 63 R 82 e 101 x 120
- 45 @ 64 S 83 f 102 y 121
. 46 A 65 T 84 g 103 z 122
/ 47 B 66 U 85 h 104 { 123
0 48 C 67 V 86 i 105 | 124
1 49 D 68 W 87 j 106 } 125
2 50 E 69 X 88 k 107 ~ 126

For more information about Linatrol products, please contact our Corporate Head Office at:
Northrop Grumman-Canada, Ltd.

A subsidiary of Northrop Grumman
777 Walkers Line
Burlington, ON, Canada L7N 2G1
Tel.: +01-905-333-6000
Fax: +01-905-333-6004
Email: linatrol@ngcan.com
Visit our Website at http://www.ngcan.com/lin

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Manual Number IB 499-303

4. Observe all rules and regulations that

5. For Plasma cutting, a face shield must

1. Assembly, start-up, maintenance and

VOLTAGES EMPLOYED IN THE EQUIPMENT 2. The accident prevention rules and

1. A copy of these safety instructions 2. Protect all unused sockets against

3. The accident prevention rules and

1. Safety devices must not be changed - 1. If an accident involving electricity has

2. If any cables, plugs, switches or other If this is not immediately possible

5. When the master power switch of the

6. Only properly qualified personnel are

Proper Electrostatic Discharge (ESD)

PROTECTIVE CONDUCTOR TERMINAL. This symbol is specifically

ON (supply) Note that this symbol is a bar normally applied in the

WARNING, risk of electric shock

CAUTION, hot surface

CAUTION (refer to accompanying documents). Used to direct

The equipment described in this manual is manufactured to CSA

Any changes made to this equipment may void CSA approval.

The equipment described in this manual meets requirements of the

Any changes made to this equipment may void compliance.

NOTE: Not all systems described in this document are CE

EIA PROGRAMMING GUIDE

The Electronic Industries Association (EIA) RS-274D standard is a general-purpose CNC

1.2 EIA RS-274D PROGRAMMING

1.2.1 EIA RS-274D Program Construction

EIA Programming Guide Rev. A 1

RS-274D Word Address

ASCII ASCII Description

F 70 Feedrate (Cut Speed)

RS-274D Word Address

RS-274D Additional ASCII Characters

ASCII ASCII Description

% 37 Rewind Stop Reference

2 EIA Programming Guide Rev. A

1.2.2 EIA RS-274D Block Format

N4 G02 X+xxxxxxx Y+yyyyyyy I+iiiiiii J+jjjjjj Ffffff M02

1.2.3 Numeric Formats

Fixed Format - In Fixed format, dimensional values are expressed in thousandths of an

EIA Programming Guide Rev. A 3

EIA RS-274D Maximum Field Lengths for Fixed Numeric format

Word Max Field Description

EIA RS-274D Word Address Formats for Floating Numeric Format

Word Format Units Description

F XXX.X IPM Cut Speed

I ±XXXX.XXX Inches X-Axis Integrand

J ±XXXX.XXX Inches Y-Axis Integrand

X ±XXXX.XX Inches X-Axis Endpoint

*X ±X.XX Seconds Dwell Time

1.2.4 Block Numbers (N Codes)

4 EIA Programming Guide Rev. A

(Part Number: 96405

1.2.6 Preparatory Functions (G Codes)

EIA RS-274D Preparatory Functions

G00 Rapid Traverse Linear Interpolation

EIA Programming Guide Rev. A 5

1.2.7 Absolute And Incremental Programming Mode

EIA RS-232C standard interface