Acu-Rite CNC 3500i User Manual

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Parameters and Variable Registers
A macro is a series of instructions designed to achieve a specific result 
for a given set of constraints. For example, a rectangular pocket of any 
size always has four sides, four corner radii and a depth. Therefore, 
you can cut many pockets of different sizes using a similar tool path 
with longer or shorter moves for the tool path. If a suitable program 
processes the constraints of the pocket, the 3500i calculates a tool 
path to cut a particular pocket. Such a program is called a macro. The 
G78 rectangular pocket cycle is an example of a macro that cannot be 
edited. 
The constraints of the pocket, or the feature required, are its 
parameters. Parameters for any feature vary as dimensions change; 
therefore, the parameters are often called variables. The data for 
each parameter must be stored as an entity, known as a variable 
register, also called variables.
Parameters passed to a macro are called parameters in this manual.
Contents of Variables (PRINT)
Format:  PRINT xxx(variable)
Format:  N (Block number) PRINT xxx(variable)
You can verify the contents of a variable. This is useful when you are 
debugging a program. Use the PRINT command to display the 
contents of a variable on the screen in Manual, Single-Step and Auto 
Modes.
Example 1:  PRINT 200
Displays the contents of the variable (#200).
Example 2:  N180 PRINT 110
To display variable contents during program execution, use the 
PRINT command as part of the program. Example 2 prints the 
contents of variables #110 to the screen.
To display variable contents during program execution, use the 
PRINT command as part of the program. Example 2 prints the 
contents of variables #110 to the screen.
In Manual Data Input Mode, type PRINT 110 then touch Start to 
display the contents on the screen.
The PRINT variable can be abbreviated, as follows: ]P