What step am I missing in changing bits?

CNC Machines Shapeoko 5 Pro
1

I have a Shapeoko 5 pro and run Carbide Create software. Still fairly new at it.

My problem is running jobs that require a bit change, like changing from a pocket routing bit to a 60 degree V bit. What I think the machine/software SHOULD do is stop and alert me to change the bit for the next tool path. What it DOES it stop after completing the first tool path and raise slightly and continue to spin. Nothing further and no alert on my computer screen. My only option is to force a work STOP and reinitialize the machine. Of course, this ruins the XYZ zero settings.

2

That’s odd. I have the Shapeoko 5 pro also, with bitsetter. This is how it goes down with a project requiring an endmill and V-bit: hit “start job”, machine moves to front right, asks for end mill, probes bit length, turns on spindle, makes wood chips, moves up, turns off spindle, moves front right asks for new tool, probes bit length, turns on spindle, makes more wood chips, job done, moves up, turns off spindle, moves back.

What is your setup? 5 pro, but do have router or spindle? bitsetter? Maybe you made some wrong selections in CM setup?

3

Double check your post processor in CC.

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Sounds like something is missing in your gcode. Maybe run the setup again as well and make sure the BitSetter is set on. You do that by powering up the Shapeoko and start CM. Connect but do not initialize. There is a button at the bottom to run the setup.

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4

I have a spindle and bit setter. Wrong selections in CM are entirely possible.

5

You’ll have to bear with me. I have never run across the Select Post Processor screen that you are showing. I don’t know what it does or how to navigate to it.
But, I will run through the set up process again tomorrow as well as rewatch some of the introductory tutorials.

6

The Edit | Select post-processor option is only necessary if writing out G-code from Carbide Create Pro.

To confirm, you have enabled and configured the BitSetter and selected VFD spindle?

https://carbide3d.com/hub/docs/shapeoko-setup/

7

Yes I have configured the BitSetter and spindle. I have already done several projects that do not require a bit change.

8

In that case, the way it should work is:

  • initialize machine — it will home and move to the front
  • set zero, including Z — it will measure the current tool at the BitSetter
  • load a file and run it — it will prompt for a tool change, then measure the new tool and begin cutting

If you’ll let us know step-by-step:

  • what you did
  • what you expected
  • what actually happened

we can walk through this with you

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9

So, I found the answer. Sort of. Contained in this very short YouTube video by AE Timber & Pine:

How to Get Tool Change Prompt In Carbide Motion | Beginner CNC Tips | Carbide Motion Beginner Tips

Selecting “Carbide 3D Shapeoko” under EDIT OPTION > Selectin Post Processor.

HOWEVER, that created an entirely NEW problem. Now the spindle doesn’t spin at all. It simply drags my bit along the surface of the wood.

FML.

10

In Carbide Motion have you configured for a spindle or BitRunner or Carbide Compact Router?

https://my.carbide3d.com/docs/shapeoko-setup/

11

I have the VFD spindle configured.

12

Is the spindle powered up and the buttons/switches enabling it on?

Please check in at support@carbide3d.com

13

I finally got everything working as it should. When I looked at the VFD control box, the white power light was on which means the box was receiving power BUT the red light needed to be on, meaning it was sending power to the spindle. My inexperience with the system was the problem.
Thank you for your assistance. I would not have been able to troubleshoot this otherwise.

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14

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