Just got my Bitzero and Bitsetter installed. When I set to zero with the probe (corner) my Z is riding high. In looking at previous topics I see that there is a different setting for the z-plus and the HDZ. I selected the HDZ. Can someone tell by the photo of my machine if that is correct?
If the machine has been working properly, then the problem is unlikely to be that setting.
For the BitZero, it is important to place it properly for different kinds of probing.
For corner probing (when you set all three X-Y-Z), you must ‘hook’ the BitSetter over the edge of the stock.
For probing Z only, you must place the BitSetter entirely on top of the material.
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That’s how I’ve been using it in the corner. It is my first time using the Bitzero. Been using the piece of paper method up to now. One strange observation, it works with and without the magnet. It’s always lit green when the machine is powered. Doesn’t the z-plus and hdz have different z step values? I got this machine from a friend years ago and not sure what it has installed.
Working without the magnet means that the machine has continuity for ground through the spindle to the tool — when this happens, it happens until it doesn’t. Do not depend on this working without a ground lead attached.
Yes, the Z-Plus and HDZ have different step values — Z-Plus has a black motor w/ integrated leadscrew, HDZ has a black and silver motor w/ a coupler to a ball-screw.
The others here in the post gave you good advise. However looking at your picture and the material is it possible that your BitZero is not touching the material. The 2 edges extend below the bottom and should not be sitting on the spoilboard. If there is space under the BitZero then your Z will not be right. Thicker material does not have that problem but really thin material can be used for X and Y but the Z should be set separately with the BitZero sitting on top of the material and the CC file having top of material set.
Guy,
Sorry for the misleading photo. I put that out to see if anyone could identify the z truck. When I’m in my shop next I’ll document the steps I’m doing to set my zero. I’m using 3/4 mdf. I’m trying to cut a simple test pattern to use to test the setup of my machine.
Lee
Looks to be an HDZ (gunmetal anodized alu. and black and silver motor, and coupler attaching ball-screw).
Thanks, I ran the setup again and selected it and it resolved the problem. I ran my test carve with multiple endmills using the bitzero at the start and the bitsetter between tool changes. Height was dead on. The only issue I had is after the leaving the bitsetter it goes back to milling so I have to be ready to start the vfd. Is there a way to get a prompt to set the rpm on the spindle?
Thanks again for everyones help.
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