Universal G-Code Sender: What You Need to Know
Universal G-Code Sender, also known as UGS, is an application for sending commands to CNC machines or 3D printers. It has a simple interface that allows users to quickly and accurately control their machines. Below, we describe the key features of UGS and how it’s possible to get started easily.
Key Features of UGS
UGS offers a variety of features that can help streamline your workflow. These include:
How to Get Started With Universal G-Code Sender
To get started,download Universal G-Code Senderfrom GitHub and install it on your computer. The program can be easily downloaded and set up in just a few minutes. Once you install it, you need to connect your CNC machine (or 3D printer) to allow you to send commands from the user interface of Universal G-Code Sender directly. To do this, you can select your firmware, specify the port, and then connect.
Importing and Working With G-Code in UGS
To import yourG-code fileto Universal G-Code Sender, go to theFilemenu and selectOpen. You will see an option to openAll Files,UGS Design (ugsd), orG-Code (gcode, nc, txt). Choose G-Code, go to where you have stored it on your computer, and import it into the software.
Once you import the file, there is an option to type your commands and even modify your G-code easily. To do this, you can write your code in theCommandsection and then run it, and you will be able to see your file modified. The command option is demonstrated below.
The Visualizer in Universal G-Code Sender
Like many 3D printing software applications, the Universal G-Code Sender software includes a visualizer tool that allows users to view their 3D models in real time. It makes it easy to see how each model layer will look allowing users to make any necessary adjustments before sending their designs to your machine.
The figure below shows a set of chess pieces with their G-code commands before being sent for laser engraving.
Additionally, the visualizer tool provides a convenient way for new users to familiarize themselves with the software and get comfortable with essential editing functions before moving on to more complex design work.
Understanding the Controller State in UGS
Once you import the G-code commands to UGS and modify them based on your needs, the software will store them in the controller state or the part of memory where each machine’s movement is stored until the execution starts.
When you connect your machine to UGS, you see the movement through the controller state in the X, Y, and Z settings. And just below it, you will seeFEED RATEandSPINDLEsettings too, as shown below.
The X, Y, and Z values will tell you the current position of your CNC machine, and you can control them accordingly.
Plugins in UGS
Plugins are an integral part of the Universal G-Code Sender software, providing users with an endless array of possible functions and customizations. Each plugin provides a specific set of capabilities, from optimizing workflow to editing and generating the G-codes.
The first plugin that you will see is theGcode Tiler. It allows you to make multiple copies of your G-code program. As shown below, you can specify the number of copies you need and their spacing by adjusting the X Count, Y Count, and Padding between them.
Once you complete the setting, clickGenerategcode, and you will be able to get the new code.
Another plugin included in the software is theWorkflow Helper, which makes it easier to add and remove files and see the actions you have made on files and completed them.
There is also theDowel Maker, which allows you to make dowels and generate or export their G-codes. you’re able to specify the number you want and other settings, as shown below.
In addition, there is aJog Controllerplugin and an auto-leveler plugin. The Jog Controller helps you control your machine’s movement manually when necessary. At the same time, the auto leveler lets you automatically adjust the height and position of your build platform based on captured scans or measurements taken with precision tools.
Customizing Your Universal G-Code Sender Workspace
To customize your workspace, you can head to theToolssection and selectOptions. You will see several options, such asGeneralsettings for changing things like the proxy option. You can choose whether or not to use a proxy and what type. That is, whether proxy system settings or manual proxy.
There is also an option to test your machine’s connectivity, which can be helpful if you’re experiencing issues.
Next is theEditorsection, where you can choose your language settings and customize things like font and background/foreground colors. TheKeymapsection allows you to modify shortcut keys based on your preferences.
TheAppearancesection lets you set things like what documents are opened by default, where to place the tabs on each window, and how the windows look overall. When you finish customizing the software, clickApply.
Essential Tips To Consider When Using UGS
If you’re looking to use Universal G-Code Sender with your CNC machine or 3D printer, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are some of them:
Work With Your G-Codes Precisely With UGS
If you work with CNC machines, it is essential to use UGS to edit and customize your G-codes and ensure that every step of your CNC machining process is optimized and fine-tuned to achieve the desired results. As we have seen, with this tool at your disposal, you can optimize the entire CNC machining workflow from start to finish, ensuring high precision and efficiency at all times. Just be sure to choose the correct firmware and baud rate to ensure your project is successful.
If you want to cut intricate shapes out of wood or metal, a laser cutter is a very useful tool. Let’s find out more about them.
You can’t call this offline, Notion.
OneDrive is one of the best, but it has a catch.
Who asked for these upgrades?
Unlock a world of entertainment possibilities with this clever TV hack.
If an AI can roast you, it can also prep you for emergencies.
