PDFThis document describes the setup of the machine, some of its dimensional limits, use of the Roland SRP Player software (for generating toolpaths from STL files), and some aspects of the process whereby an .RML file from MasterCAM is used. Harvard GSD Guide to Roland MDX-40-A.pdf Edit the NC FileThe .RML file that is generated by MasterCAM needs to be edited before it can be run on the Roland. Do this within MasterCAM's code editor or a text editor of your choosing. - Replace:
- the first line of the file, "!1", with "!MC 1"
- the last line of the file, "!0", with "!MC 0"
- Save the file with an extension of .RML (some text editors will save it with a .NC or a .TXT, which might have to be removed)
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Alternatively, replace the ROLAND MDX40 3 AXIS MILL INCH.PST file that is saved to C:\Users\Public\Documents\shared mcamx9\mill\Posts with the one that can be found on goliath: Z:\Software\Mastercam\Folder_Migrate_MCX_X9\put_contents_in_shared Mcamx9-mill-Posts |
Template FileBelow is an empty MasterCAM template file with a few toolpaths included within it (Rough Parallel, a few Finish Parallel options, and a 2D Contour toolpath). The settings assume that 2" foam material is being used, so changes would be necessary for other material characteristics. Only one tool is definedROLAND_TEMPLATE.MCX-7, so if using a different tool, a new tool will have to be defined. It is necessary that toolpaths using different tools be posted separately so that each tool can be calibrated on the machine between toolpaths. Roland Template File | Note |
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| Presently (Summer 2015Fall 2016), the post for MasterCAM does not write out drill DRILL toolpaths correctly for the Roland Mill, so do not use these types of toolpaths. Contours and Surface-based toolpaths seem to be fine. Sales representative for MasterCAM has been contacted regarding the issue, but no solution was provided. For Drill toolpaths, the units are written in inches instead of being converted to millimeters (X,Y, and Z coordinates of drill points). |
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