# General Chat **URL:** https://forum.avidcnc.com/c/general-chat/1.md [Latest](https://forum.avidcnc.com/latest.md) · [Categories](https://forum.avidcnc.com/categories.md) · [Tags](https://forum.avidcnc.com/tags.md) --- ## [Welcome to the general chat forum!](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/welcome-to-the-general-chat-forum/26)
**Author:** [@Eric](https://forum.avidcnc.com/u/Eric)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [August 18, 2022, 1:58am UTC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/welcome-to-the-general-chat-forum/26 "2022-08-18T01:58:14Z")
Chat about all things CNC and topics related to CNC. If you have some topics related to anything in the list below, please post in those categories. Build Logs Projects Made Buy & Sell Plasma Off Topic If you’re looki… --- ## [ATC - Plastic Tool Holder Question](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/atc-plastic-tool-holder-question/6666)
**Author:** [@ckporto123](https://forum.avidcnc.com/u/ckporto123)\ **Replies:** 43\ **Last updated:** [October 21, 2026, 12:09am UTC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/atc-plastic-tool-holder-question/6666 "2026-10-21T00:09:36Z")
Hey Folks: I’m having an occassional issue with the ISO30 being pushed through the Plastic Tool Holder on the ATC Rack. It is kind of a bummer when tool meets floor. I broke another one. I’m sure I could overcome this… --- ## [Non-Subscription Cabinet Software for Small Shops with Modest Budgets](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/non-subscription-cabinet-software-for-small-shops-with-modest-budgets/6671)
**Author:** [@webbmeister25d](https://forum.avidcnc.com/u/webbmeister25d)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [October 20, 2026, 9:58am UTC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/non-subscription-cabinet-software-for-small-shops-with-modest-budgets/6671 "2026-10-20T09:58:57Z")
I’m not sure where I came across this, but it was enticing enough that I went ahead and bought it. When it downloaded, there were several interface issues which the owner/developer resolved within a few hours with a patc… --- ## [Tramming Issue Help](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/tramming-issue-help/6674)
**Author:** [@Kow](https://forum.avidcnc.com/u/Kow)\ **Replies:** 3\ **Last updated:** [October 17, 2026, 3:33pm UTC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/tramming-issue-help/6674 "2026-10-17T15:33:40Z")
Tramming Issues I am attempting to tram the spindle on my 4896 with Nema 34s and the 4 hp Hiteco spindle. I have done this numerous times in the past with no issues. I have a 12" x 9" granite surface plate and the Edg… --- ## [VFD Fault Signal Active](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/vfd-fault-signal-active/6670)
**Author:** [@scfarrell](https://forum.avidcnc.com/u/scfarrell)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [October 16, 2026, 6:38pm UTC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/vfd-fault-signal-active/6670 "2026-10-16T18:38:51Z")
Folks, i am getting a VFD Fault Signal after homing/loading a G-code file. I am upgrading with the Avid VFD Controller along with the Hiteco/Avid 4HP spindle and am now just loading a file for test cut. Mach 4 software… --- ## [5.42 testers needed!](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/5-42-testers-needed/6603)
**Author:** [@Eric](https://forum.avidcnc.com/u/Eric)\ **Replies:** 39\ **Last updated:** [October 15, 2026, 7:55pm UTC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/5-42-testers-needed/6603 "2026-10-15T19:55:16Z")
Hi all! We’re working two new exciting things: A new Centroid profile based on 5.42 (their latest release) and we have a new backup and restore utility that makes moving profiles WAY easier than it used to be. If anyone… --- ## [Rotary Milling via Fusion MCP + Claude/ChatGPT (without Manufacturing Exten$ion)](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/rotary-milling-via-fusion-mcp-claude-chatgpt-without-manufacturing-exten-ion/6665)
**Author:** [@graysenKobi](https://forum.avidcnc.com/u/graysenKobi)\ **Replies:** 15\ **Last updated:** [October 14, 2026, 11:30pm UTC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/rotary-milling-via-fusion-mcp-claude-chatgpt-without-manufacturing-exten-ion/6665 "2026-10-14T23:30:00Z")
Hello - I’ve been a little disappointed in the rotary feature inside of Vcarve and have been reluctant to use F360 due to the high cost of the manufacturing extension. However, my trusty AI seems to think there is a way … --- ## [Fault 327. Just assembled new machine](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/fault-327-just-assembled-new-machine/6659)
**Author:** [@DDumanov](https://forum.avidcnc.com/u/DDumanov)\ **Replies:** 13\ **Last updated:** [October 14, 2026, 8:29pm UTC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/fault-327-just-assembled-new-machine/6659 "2026-10-14T20:29:33Z")
Could you please tell me what the problem might be? I keep getting an error, and I can’t start the machine. Could there be something wrong with the connection? Thank you. --- ## [Z axis beyond safe limit](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/z-axis-beyond-safe-limit/6656)
**Author:** [@SkyScraperGuitars](https://forum.avidcnc.com/u/SkyScraperGuitars)\ **Replies:** 18\ **Last updated:** [October 14, 2026, 5:14pm UTC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/z-axis-beyond-safe-limit/6656 "2026-10-14T17:14:12Z")
I keep getting an error that my TAP file exceeds the z limit and the program will not run. The Z depth is -.810" and the material I am using is .765" thick so I can have a .045" break through on my brad point drill. I … --- ## [Hey guys do you put a maker's mark or logo on your projects?](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/hey-guys-do-you-put-a-makers-mark-or-logo-on-your-projects/6658)
**Author:** [@JeffsDesign](https://forum.avidcnc.com/u/JeffsDesign)\ **Replies:** 3\ **Last updated:** [October 13, 2026, 11:20pm UTC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/hey-guys-do-you-put-a-makers-mark-or-logo-on-your-projects/6658 "2026-10-13T23:20:29Z")
I know some of you have logos or maker mark. But I was wondering if you would be interested in putting them up here? I have designed a few very basic design but not sure whether I should put a date on them or what --- ## [Relief plaque of my dad's old fishing boat from one side-on photo: stacked 2.5D or true 3D?](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/relief-plaque-of-my-dads-old-fishing-boat-from-one-side-on-photo-stacked-2-5d-or-true-3d/6663)
**Author:** [@Lochlan.Akuma](https://forum.avidcnc.com/u/Lochlan.Akuma)\ **Replies:** 4\ **Last updated:** [October 13, 2026, 7:21pm UTC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/relief-plaque-of-my-dads-old-fishing-boat-from-one-side-on-photo-stacked-2-5d-or-true-3d/6663 "2026-10-13T19:21:03Z")
Hey everyone. I’ve got a 4x8 Pro that mostly does cabinet parts and the odd V-carved sign, so 3D carving is new to me. My dad retires in December and I’d like to make him a plaque of the boat he fished on for 20 years. … --- ## [Anybody doing signmaking?](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/anybody-doing-signmaking/6660)
**Author:** [@brettbond](https://forum.avidcnc.com/u/brettbond)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [October 13, 2026, 7:14am UTC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/anybody-doing-signmaking/6660 "2026-10-13T07:14:02Z")
I’ve been getting questions on signmaking boards about how to trace letters say to replace trim-capped faces. But I’m not really a sign-maker, so I have a rough idea of what they want to do but not exactly. I figure peop… --- ## [Rehoming after a restart of the UI](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/rehoming-after-a-restart-of-the-ui/6655)
**Author:** [@PaulC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/u/PaulC)\ **Replies:** 5\ **Last updated:** [October 12, 2026, 2:38pm UTC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/rehoming-after-a-restart-of-the-ui/6655 "2026-10-12T14:38:30Z")
I have an ex system with servos. If I have a homed system, exit the ui and restart the ui, after I hit reset, I try to home but the box says that it is already homed. Then it says to hit reset twice if I really want to … --- ## [Cannot Reset the Top Graph view In Centroid](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/cannot-reset-the-top-graph-view-in-centroid/6652)
**Author:** [@Bob\_Kennedy](https://forum.avidcnc.com/u/Bob_Kennedy)\ **Replies:** 3\ **Last updated:** [October 12, 2026, 12:13am UTC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/cannot-reset-the-top-graph-view-in-centroid/6652 "2026-10-12T00:13:32Z")
I have screwed up the top view of the graph view. I cannot figure out how to reset it so that you can see the entire sheet instead of the side. (Sorry for the dust) Bob --- ## [Laser setup warnings/thoughts](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/laser-setup-warnings-thoughts/6629)
**Author:** [@lundsys](https://forum.avidcnc.com/u/lundsys)\ **Replies:** 5\ **Last updated:** [October 8, 2026, 11:13pm UTC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/laser-setup-warnings-thoughts/6629 "2026-10-08T23:13:45Z")
I have been working on the EX controller/laser aux box upgrade. Been a little rocky. First issue was ex controller came with the nic card unattached, had a few internal issues on the board so they swapped it out comple… --- ## [Z-Axis will not function with CNC12](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/z-axis-will-not-function-with-cnc12/6645)
**Author:** [@TeachisWhack](https://forum.avidcnc.com/u/TeachisWhack)\ **Replies:** 5\ **Last updated:** [October 8, 2026, 4:31pm UTC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/z-axis-will-not-function-with-cnc12/6645 "2026-10-08T16:31:08Z")
I upgraded my Avid Pro (5x10) to the EX controller this summer. After solving network policy issues, I am now able to get started with this rig. I have the components installed and powered. I am having trouble with the … --- ## [Z position getting lost with audible thunk](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/z-position-getting-lost-with-audible-thunk/6644)
**Author:** [@kardax](https://forum.avidcnc.com/u/kardax)\ **Replies:** 14\ **Last updated:** [October 7, 2026, 4:36pm UTC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/z-position-getting-lost-with-audible-thunk/6644 "2026-10-07T16:36:22Z")
Hi, I bought a used PRO60120 this summer from about 2020. So far it’s been great. But… Yesterday I was running a program and the z position was getting off. The bit was too high, meaning it was not cutting the material … --- ## [Mach 4 not communication with ESS](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/mach-4-not-communication-with-ess/6643)
**Author:** [@JRCrawford](https://forum.avidcnc.com/u/JRCrawford)\ **Replies:** 2\ **Last updated:** [October 6, 2026, 9:43pm UTC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/mach-4-not-communication-with-ess/6643 "2026-10-06T21:43:51Z")
After running SCU and getting pings, I cant get mach 4 to communicate with Ess I have tried setting the IP in the computer, I am using a usb to ethernet adapter --- ## [Need Help Configuring Mach 4 on OTK Retrofit on AVID/ESS](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/need-help-configuring-mach-4-on-otk-retrofit-on-avid-ess/6595)
**Author:** [@foamer](https://forum.avidcnc.com/u/foamer)\ **Replies:** 2\ **Last updated:** [October 6, 2026, 6:12pm UTC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/need-help-configuring-mach-4-on-otk-retrofit-on-avid-ess/6595 "2026-10-06T18:12:20Z")
I removed the router head from my 2017 AVID (CNC Router Parts) 4896 Pro ESS NEMA 23 3/8" shaft router, which I use to cut foam (www.houstoncustomfoam.com ). I installed the Ecocam EOT-4 cutter head, the 4th controller fo… --- ## [Occasional clunk/drive fault on initial Home](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/occasional-clunk-drive-fault-on-initial-home/6642)
**Author:** [@PaulC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/u/PaulC)\ **Replies:** 3\ **Last updated:** [October 6, 2026, 1:30am UTC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/occasional-clunk-drive-fault-on-initial-home/6642 "2026-10-06T01:30:09Z")
Every so often when I have just brought up my machine, I hit reset, then I hit Home. This is sometimes followed by a clunk, or a loud clunk and a fault. I am guessing the Z brake hasn’t disengaged/ disengaged soon enough… --- ## [Problem resuming laser picture after an error](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/problem-resuming-laser-picture-after-an-error/6641)
**Author:** [@RogerW](https://forum.avidcnc.com/u/RogerW)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [October 5, 2026, 8:16pm UTC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/problem-resuming-laser-picture-after-an-error/6641 "2026-10-05T20:16:43Z")
I am working on a large laser picture 52"x29" that the gcode file has over 807 million lines (including comments). After etching 359 million lines, I had a network error that stopped the machine. I have not been able t… --- ## [Circles or squares?](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/circles-or-squares/6634)
**Author:** [@JeffsDesign](https://forum.avidcnc.com/u/JeffsDesign)\ **Replies:** 9\ **Last updated:** [October 5, 2026, 6:25pm UTC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/circles-or-squares/6634 "2026-10-05T18:25:55Z")
Question is are circles better than squares for determining accuracy on your CNC? --- ## [Gratitude for Help](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/gratitude-for-help/6614)
**Author:** [@webbmeister25d](https://forum.avidcnc.com/u/webbmeister25d)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [October 4, 2026, 12:58am UTC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/gratitude-for-help/6614 "2026-10-04T00:58:33Z")
Background: Having produced nothing more complicated on a 3d printer than a dachshund that sits on the top of the tube and poops toothpaste; and, wanting a 6 inch dust drop for our Avid, I set out to print Corbin’s ATC d… --- ## [KP-3 Probe Wiring](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/kp-3-probe-wiring/6633)
**Author:** [@BreAly](https://forum.avidcnc.com/u/BreAly)\ **Replies:** 2\ **Last updated:** [October 2, 2026, 11:04pm UTC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/kp-3-probe-wiring/6633 "2026-10-02T23:04:53Z")
I am attempting to make connecting cable for My KP-3 probe. I have the 3.5mm to open end cable that came with the probe. I also have a M12 male to female cable. My question is what do i do with the shielding on the M12 c… --- ## [CNC-12 Spindle wont start (intermitent)](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/cnc-12-spindle-wont-start-intermitent/6635)
**Author:** [@SunCItyJim](https://forum.avidcnc.com/u/SunCItyJim)\ **Replies:** 2\ **Last updated:** [October 2, 2026, 9:05pm UTC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/cnc-12-spindle-wont-start-intermitent/6635 "2026-10-02T21:05:23Z")
We have a Pro 2448 that periodically refuses to start the spindle. Generally a power cycle of the EX and the VFD along with a restart will remedy it … until it doesn’t. It has become more frequent …Any advice? --- ## [Glue gun for attaching stock to the spoilboard? What wizardry is this?](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/glue-gun-for-attaching-stock-to-the-spoilboard-what-wizardry-is-this/6449)
**Author:** [@naPS](https://forum.avidcnc.com/u/naPS)\ **Replies:** 5\ **Last updated:** [September 30, 2026, 2:12pm UTC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/glue-gun-for-attaching-stock-to-the-spoilboard-what-wizardry-is-this/6449 "2026-09-30T14:12:08Z")
Hopefully it starts right where the dude started to do it. But he sets about a 1 ft² 2" thick piece of walnut on the spoilboard and then tacks down the edges with a little bit of glue from a glue gun, and … --- ## [Spindle Warmup with new Ex controller](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/spindle-warmup-with-new-ex-controller/6626)
**Author:** [@docrawfo](https://forum.avidcnc.com/u/docrawfo)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [September 30, 2026, 2:35am UTC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/spindle-warmup-with-new-ex-controller/6626 "2026-09-30T02:35:11Z")
I am towards the end of an ex controls self conversion from Mach4. Is the machine required to be homed before I can run the spindle warm up? I can jumper across relay 5 (configured for spindle fwd) and the spindle runs.… --- ## [Drill Chuck RPM with AV40S](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/drill-chuck-rpm-with-av40s/6623)
**Author:** [@ChrisS2020](https://forum.avidcnc.com/u/ChrisS2020)\ **Replies:** 4\ **Last updated:** [September 29, 2026, 6:30pm UTC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/drill-chuck-rpm-with-av40s/6623 "2026-09-29T18:30:20Z")
Hey, Loving the AV40S and ATC so far. I am looking for info on how to setup drilling operation with the iso30 drill chuck. E.g. At what rpm should I run the AV40S with running the drill chuck with a standard jobber 1/… --- ## [Dead motor controller?](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/dead-motor-controller/6617)
**Author:** [@MarcusinCO](https://forum.avidcnc.com/u/MarcusinCO)\ **Replies:** 3\ **Last updated:** [September 28, 2026, 8:24pm UTC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/dead-motor-controller/6617 "2026-09-28T20:24:23Z")
Hey all, I have about a 9 year old CNC RP pro machine, has been a rock star. Didnt use it for about 3 months, turned it on today and the slave Y was not working. Took a peek, fault light was on the motor driver. powe… --- ## [Clearing current program](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/clearing-current-program/6616)
**Author:** [@PaulC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/u/PaulC)\ **Replies:** 1\ **Last updated:** [September 28, 2026, 1:15am UTC](https://forum.avidcnc.com/t/clearing-current-program/6616 "2026-09-28T01:15:18Z")
A while ago there was a topic, that I can’t currently find, that was asking if there was a way to clear the current program with a button. At the time the consensus was that it wasn’t possible. It turns out that it can … [Next page](https://forum.avidcnc.com/c/general-chat/1.md?page=1)