Best way to control laser power with QtPlasmaC?

Probably also worth adding that we then set the laser power 0-100 as cut_amps in the material setting and we have a script that replaces "M3 $0 S1" with “M3 $0 S#<_hal[qtplasmac.cut_amps-s]>" in gcode files. I'm not at the machine right now but I'll share that script when I can grab it.

Fwiw, a few days ago, I attached a f360 post processor that generates cutting machines with m3 and m67 gcode. This is compatible with light burns linuxcnc gcode. If you are interested in trying it out I can add support for multiple spindles. I'm west of sector67 near cross plains.

I know many plasma users are using sheetcam and other cam. Just another arrow in the quiver.

That's interesting, we've been using sheetcam but it would be great to have a Fusion360 option. If you wanted to add multiple spindles we'd be interested to try it. FWIW we went away from the sed script to replace "S1" and instead implemented a custom_filter.py that adds the commands for laser power as the file is loaded: github.com/Sector67/fiber-laser-control/...fig/custom_filter.py

Nice to meet someone local on the list! You should stop by Sector67 some time if you've never been there. The first Tuesday of every month we have a meeting open to the public at 7 p.m., which happens to be tomorrow (May 7th).

Thanks!

Scott

I've tour'd Sector67 multiple times and occasionally contact with Chris.

I would be interested in seeing you laser work. Maybe I'll stop by when you want to try my latest F360 post processor. I will set up a repo to make it easier to find the latest. github.com/JTrantow/LinuxCNC-F360-Cutting-Post-Processor

I updated the PP to allow for multiple spindles and analog-outs for the M67/M68 method.
I made the spindle-speed a string so you can enter #<_hal[qtplasmac.cut_amps-s]> and it will generate:

M3 $0 S#<_hal[qtplasmac.cut_amps-s]>

Instead of using Sxxx to control my laser, I use M67/M68 so you will see those commands in the gcode.  These should not matter as long as you aren't using the selected motion control analog-out. I may add a checkbox to enable M67/M68.