Haas Next Generation and Classic Controls 111

active pane

A function on a CNC that is currently running. Active pane functions include those that specify feed type, cutter compensation, and work offsets, among others.

active tool display pane

The area of the Haas control display screen that gives information about the current tool in the spindle. Active tool display panes of Haas controls can contain information like tool number, offset number, and tool load.

advanced tool management

ATM. A Haas control feature that enables a CNC to set up a group of duplicate tools for the same or series of operations. When active tool management considers a tool expired, the control then automatically selects a non-expired tool from the group.

alarm status display

The area of the Haas control display screen machine that communicates the reasons for potential systems failure or danger. Alarm status display implies an emergency procedure should be carried out.

alpha keys

The area of the control keypad that allows an operator to enter letters and special characters into the control. Alpha keys are located in the bottom center of the control keypad.

ATC

Automatic tool changer. A CNC mill feature that holds and changes tools during operation. Automatic tool changers reduce cycle times by automatically changing tools between cuts.

automatic tool changer

ATC. A CNC mill feature that holds and changes tools during operation. Automatic tool changers reduce cycle times by automatically changing tools between cuts.

axes

Imaginary lines that pass through the center of a point or object. Axes are used to describe the positions of objects on the Cartesian coordinate system.

axis

An imaginary straight line or circle used to describe the location or movement of an object in three-dimensional space. An axis is used to indicate the direction of motion on CNC machines.

block

A single line of a part program. A block is composed of codes written in numbers and letters.

CHC

Classic Hass Control. A popular model of Haas Automation, Inc. CNC control. The earliest version of the Classic Haas Control was first released in 1988.

Classic Haas Control

CHC. A popular model of Haas Automation, Inc.® CNC control. The earliest version of the Classic Haas Control was first released in 1988.

CNC

Computer numerical control. A self-contained system of computers and precision motors that executes program instructions to guide machine tool components and manufacture parts. A CNC allows operators to program sequences of machining operations.

CNC lathe

A machine tool that uses computer numerical data to control cutting operations on cylindrical workpieces. On a CNC lathe, the cutting tool moves against the rotating workpiece.

CNC mill

A machine tool that uses computer numerical data to control cutting operations on flat, square, or rectangular workpieces. On a CNC mill, the cutting tool rotates against a workpiece that is fixed to a worktable.

computer numerical control

CNC. A self-contained system of computers and precision motors that executes program instructions to guide machine tool components and manufacture parts. Computer numerical control allows operators to program sequences of machining operations.

control keypad

The main part of the Haas control panel consisting of alphanumeric buttons. Control keypads allow CNC operators to input information into the Haas control panel.

control panel

The device on a CNC machine that runs, stores, and edits the commands of a part program and other coordinate information. Control panels, or controls, typically have a keypad and display screen.

coolant

A fluid used to decrease the temperature of a tool and workpiece to prolong tool life. In CNC machines, coolants may also serve other purposes such as helping to flush away metal pieces removed during machining processes.

cursor keys

The area of the control keypad that allows an operator to move through various screens and fields in the control, edit and search for CNC programs, and move the cursor up, down, left, and right through the program or screen options. Cursor keys are located in the center of the control keypad.

customer-level

A CNC machine control function that enables an operator to personalize the machining process. Customer levels on a Haas control panel require no special permission to change.

cutter compensation

An offset used on a CNC mill that accounts for variations in tool diameter. Cutter compensation offsets are necessary only for tools that travel in the X or Y axes.

cybersecurity

Protection against criminal or unauthorized access to computer networks, programs, and data. Cybersecurity has become a major industrial concern as networking and connectivity have increased.

default values

A preexisting setting or variable that is often determined and set by a machine manufacturer. Default values can often be changed when operators enter overrides.

digital security key

Software necessary to complete machine installation and troubleshooting. Digital security keys are used with Haas NGC control panels to unlock specific functions on a control.

direct numerical control

DNC. The management of CNC machine operation by a central host computer. With direct numerical control, programs are run directly from the memory of a host computer and are not stored in the memory of the CNC control panel.

display keys

The area of the control keypad that allows an operator to see different information, such as offsets, machine settings, and the current program. Display keys are located in the top center of the control keypad.

edit mode

The operational mode that allows operators to edit part programs. In edit mode, operators press MEMORY to formally save a part program.

EMERGENCY STOP

E-Stop. A button or switch that brings a machine to a safe, rapid stop. EMERGENCY STOP is located on the left side of the Haas control panel.

ethernet

A form of computer networking used by modern CNC machines to input part programs from a central server into the machine control unit. Ethernet connections are common on Haas machines and can be used to connect the machine to multiple computers.

factory-level

A CNC machine control function that can only be altered by the Haas corporation. Factory levels on Haas control panels require software patches or downloads to change.

feed rate

The rate at which a cutting tool and/or workpiece move in relation to one another during a machining operation. Feed rates can be adjusted during operation using override keys.

flash drive

A small, portable device that stores data electronically. Flash drives can connect to the Haas Next Generation (NGC) and Classic Haas Control (CHC) via the universal serial bus (USB) port.

floppy disks

A removable 3.5-inch plastic device that stores programs and computer information magnetically. Standard floppy disks hold just over one megabyte (MB) of data.

function keys

The area of the control keypad that allows an operator to perform different functions depending on which display and mode are selected. Function keys are located in the top left corner of the control keypad.

G code

Alphanumeric codes used to direct CNC machine operations. G codes tell the machine what tool to use, the path it takes, and how quickly it moves.

gigabyte

GB. A unit of memory equal to 1 billion bytes. Gigabytes are used to measure the storage capacity of a device.

graphics mode

A function of the Haas control that allows an operator to view a part program's toolpath before actual machining. Graphics mode enables a visual dry run of the part program.

Haas Automation, Inc.

An American machine tool manufacturer. Haas Automation, Inc.® was founded in 1983.

Haas Control Key

Proprietary Haas software necessary to complete machine installation and troubleshooting. Haas Control Keys are used with Haas NGC control panels to unlock specific functions on a control.

Haas portal

A secure proprietary website that requires a username and password to access. The Haas portal is where operators can download software for mills and lathes.

HaasConnect

A proprietary Haas computer application that allows an operator to monitor machine status through a web browser or mobile device. HaasConnect enables operators to select the type of alerts sent to their devices.

hand jog mode

The control mode that allows for the manual operation of steady axes movement using the jog control buttons. Some machines have a combined handle/jog mode.

hardware

Any physical or mechanical component. CNC hardware includes the machine control unit, tape readers, and disk drives, depending on the machine vintage.

installation

The process of setting up a machine for activation. Installation of the Haas Next Generation Control (NGC) requires specific software and often a control key.

jog handle

A dial that is turned by hand in order to manually control CNC machine motions. The jog handle on an NGC panel is located to the left of the keypad.

jog handle

A dial that is turned by hand in order to manually control CNC machine motions. The jog handle on the CHC and NGC control panels is located to the left of the keypad.

jog increment

The increase or decrease in movement of a CNC machine when in HANDLE JOG mode. On a Haas control, jog increments Include .0001/.1; .001/1.; .01/10.; and .1/100.

jog keys

The area of the control keypad that allows an operator to move the tool along a selected axis. Jog keys are located to the left of center on the keypad.

language packs

A set of files or programs designed to enable an operator to interact with a CNC using their own language, which may be different than the language in which the control panel was developed. Language packs on Haas controls translate commands from English into more than fifteen different languages.

machine dashboard

A component of a smartphone application that allows an operator to view multiple HaasConnect-enabled machines from a remote device. Machine dashboards are displayed each time the application is opened allowing an operator to view all events and notifications remotely in real time that occur during machine operation.

machine zero

A default location that is permanently set by the manufacturer of each particular CNC machine. Machine zero typically acts as the home position for a given machine.

main display pane

The area of the Haas control display screen with the most critical information for the operator. Main display panes of Haas controls contain much of the operational activity of the machine.

maintenance

Activities that contribute to the care and upkeep of machines. Operators can view the tabbed menu for maintenance by pressing the DIAGNOSTIC key on the NGC or the PARAMETERS/DIAGNOSTIC key on the CHC.

manual data input mode

MDI mode. The process that allows an operator to manually enter and execute blocks of programming code at the control panel. In MDI mode, code is entered one block at a time, and these blocks delete from the machine as soon as they are executed.

MDI mode

Manual data input mode. The process that allows an operator to manually enter and execute blocks of programming code at the control panel. In MDI mode, code is entered one block at a time, and these blocks delete from the machine as soon as they are executed.

memory lock

A control panel setting that allows or prevents alterations to programs, settings, parameters, offsets, and macro variables. Memory lock is activated or deactivated depending on the position of its specific keyswitch located on the right side of the Haas control panel.

memory mode

The mode in which part programs are run. Memory mode is activated by pressing the MEMORY button, and operators can adjust how the program runs by pressing other mode keys in the same row.

mode

A programmed function that stays in effect until it is either cancelled or substituted with another function. The modes of motion for CNC machines include rapid positioning, linear interpolation, and circular interpolation.

mode keys

The area of the control keypad that allows an operator to choose a particular operating mode, which in turn indicates what tasks the machine will perform. Mode keys are located in the top right corner of the control keypad.

monitors

The component of a computer that includes the screen. Monitors visually display digital information.

network status icons

An image or picture used to signify a situation. Status icons on CNC control panels can quickly display information about machine modes and networking activity and are listed alongside hazard information.

Next Generation Control

NGC. The latest Haas Automation, Inc.® CNC control. The Next Generation Control was released in 2016.

NGC

Next Generation Control. The latest Haas Automation, Inc. CNC control. The NGC was released in 2016.

numeric keys

The area of the control keypad that allows an operator to enter numbers and special characters into the control. Numeric keys are located in the bottom right corner of the control keypad.

offsets

A measurement recorded by the CNC control that re-positions machine components for different tools and parts. Offsets are used to adjust for differences in tool geometry, part size, tool wear, and any other changing variables that may affect the machining of the part.

operating system

The software on a device that allows files to be created and organized, manages the interaction of different programs, holds data in memory, and performs other functions. Operating systems run the computer.

override keys

The area of the control keypad that adjusts a programmed element of part machining during execution of the part program. Override keys are located in the bottom left corner of the control keypad.

overrides

A control that adjusts a programmed element of part machining during execution of the part program. Overrides can control speed, feed, rapid, and coolant flow.

parameters

The limit or the physical property that can determine the function and operation of a CNC machine. On the NGC, Haas splits parameters into three levels: customer, service, and factory level.

part program

A series of alpha-numeric instructions that direct a CNC machine to perform the necessary sequence of operations to machine a specific workpiece.

pocket

The recessed section at the end of the toolholder. Pockets house different tools enabling quick changes between operations.

position display

A section on the Haas NGC panel that displays the spindle's current machine coordinates, its location in relation to work offsets, and other variables. The position display is shown beneath the work offsets menu when a machinist presses the OFFSET key.

position display pane

A pane on the Haas NGC display screen that shows information about the spindle's current machine coordinates, its location in relation to work offsets, and other variables. The position display is located beneath the work offsets menu when a machinist presses the OFFSET key.

program editor

A function used to change values within existing programs. Program editors can be used with CNC machining.

proprietary

Designed by a specific company for use only with its own systems or devices. Proprietary components include physical hardware, such as programming devices, and software components, such as programming software.

protocol

The standards and rules used by network devices to interact with each other. Protocols are the language that network devices use to communicate.

rapid

Moving machine components at the fastest possible rate of travel. Rapid rates can be adjusted at various levels using overrides.

recovery mode

An operation that displays recovery features on the Next Generation Control. Recovery mode displays the tool change recovery menu on a CNC mill and the tap recovery menu on a CNC lathe.

removable media

A storage device that can be easily inserted into or removed from a computer system. Removable media includes compact discs, flash drives, and memory cards.

RS-232 port

A serial interface standard specified by the Electronic Industry Association for the interconnection of devices. RS-232 ports on CNC controls can send and receive part programs using RS-232 standard connection cables.

security key system

A password procedure that enables operators to access a restricted or sensitive program. Security key systems are used with Haas NGC controllers.

service technicians

A person who professionally repairs and maintains a machine. Haas service technicians have special training and unique access to Haas CNC machine functions.

service-level

A CNC machine control function restricted primarily to maintenance technicians. Service levels on a Haas control panel require a security key to change.

servomotors

A motor in a CNC machine that powers movement of the machine tool. Servomotors rotate the ballscrew on a CNC machine, causing the table of a mill or the slides of a lathe to move.

setup

The series of tasks necessary to prepare for processing a workpiece. Setup includes preparing machines, adjusting workholding devices or tooling, and safeguarding machine elements to ensure proper and safe operation.

setup mode

A control panel setting which enables or disables safety features and machine functions. Setup mode is activated or deactivated depending on the position of its specific keyswitch located on the right side of the Haas control panel.

short message service

SMS. A text messaging function used to send short messages to a mobile device. Short message services cannot handle image or video attachments.

simulation

A computer re-creation of a physical space and activity. Simulations allow CNC operators to walk a part program through a computerized version of the manufacturing process.

smartphone application

A program on a tablet or smartphone that can access the Haas control remotely through the Internet. Web-based applications are often used to access machine status and alerts managed by the Haas control.

software

The programs and instructions that control how a machine's physical components function and operate. Software for a CNC machine includes the part program or a canned cycle.

software patch

A machine program or instruction installed in a machine or CNC control. Software patches typically update security or correct minor issues relating to an existing operating system.

software update

A program installed in a machine or CNC control to completely replace an older operating system with a new and improved operating system. Software updates often contain enhancements and additional features that were not present in the previous operating system.

speed rate

The rate at which the machine spindle rotates. The speed rate of a spindle affects how fast the cutting tool or workpiece moves at the point of contact.

spindle

A machine tool component that rotates. Spindles on a lathe rotate workpieces, while spindles on a mill rotate cutting tools.

submenu

A term used to describe an index of listings inside a general electronic folder. Submenus are minor menus within the framework of a major menu.

system status bar

A pane on the display screen of a Haas control panel where operators can view information about actions they have taken. System status bars are read-only and located at the bottom, center of the display screen.

toggle

To switch between features. Users can often toggle between display options and settings on the NGC and CHC control panel by navigating a tabbed menu.

tool group

The classification of a machine instrument according to type and style.Tool groups outline the specific tools used in a CNC program.

tool length offsets

A measurement used on a CNC mill and lathe to account for variations in tool length along the Z axis. Tool length offsets are required for each cutting tool.

tool load

The limit a CNC device can manage without causing damage. Tool load limits on CNC machines prevent such things as tool failures and programming errors.

tool turret

A CNC lathe feature that holds and changes tools during operation. Turrets rotate, or index, a carousel of tools to place the desired tool in the cutting position.

troubleshoot

Systematically solving a problem quickly and efficiently. Operators can troubleshoot a part program or blocks of an informal program in MDI mode, and also using SINGLE BLOCK, GRAPHICS, and OPTION STOP in memory mode.

Universal Serial Bus

USB. A small, portable memory card that can be used to store data. Universal Serial Bus drives on CNC machines can store part programs.

USB

Universal serial bus. A small, portable memory card that can be used to store data. USB drives on CNC machines can store part programs.

user interface

Computer hardware and software, usually including graphics, buttons, and information displayed on a screen, that allows someone to interact easily with a machine or computer. The user interface designed for Haas machines is the control panel, consisting of manual controls, a keypad, and display screen.

user setting

A set of changeable aspects about the control a user adjusts according to preference. User settings include the control dimensioning system, coordinate system, and language, among other options.

Wifi

wireless network. A communication web that can send and receive a signal through the air instead of using cable. Wireless networks allow for the use of mobile devices and allows communication in areas that are impractical for cabled networks.

wireless

WiFi. A network that uses radio waves instead of copper or fiber optic cable. In a wireless network, a device transmits a radio signal through an antenna.

X axis

The linear axis representing coordinate positions along a line parallel to the longest edge of the worktable. The X axis usually runs left-to-right.

Z axis

The linear axis representing coordinate positions along a line parallel to the spindle and perpendicular to the worktable. The Z axis usually runs up and down.

zero return mode

An operation that initiates home position or reference return. Zero return mode automatically locates the spindle in the machine zero position.