I was trying to make two simple pieces 1.5 x 8 with names on them. Machine was set, zero set, everything looks good then right at the start, the cutter head moves off the material.
STOP. RESET. Think a little. Both Carbide Motion and Carbide Create are open, so I look at the source file. Art looks good, material dimensions are good. Switch back to Carbide Motion, re-Initialize the machine and try again. SAME problem.
I ran this routine two more times before realizing the problem was in my mirror. Seems I had made an adjustment or two to the source file without Saving it. So the older version is what Carbide Motion was using. Even when reloading the file, it went to the original. Once I Saved the updated file and ran through my usual routines, things ran smooth.
I often have my CC file open while the machine runs as it lets me know which toolpath is coming next and what to keep watch for. This time I outsmarted myself.
To my credit, I never jumped to any major damage control arm waving or employ any of those Navy words I learned so long ago. There will be some head shaking at family dinner tonight.
