Haas NGC: Next Generation Control Panel Overview 101

10% FEEDRATE

An override key that increases the current feed rate in 10% increments. Together, -10% FEEDRATE, +10% FEEDRATE, and 100% FEEDRATE allow an operator to make feed adjustments during operation.

-10% FEEDRATE

An override key that decreases the current feed rate in 10% increments. Together, -10% FEEDRATE, +10% FEEDRATE, and 100% FEEDRATE allow an operator to make feed adjustments during operation.

10% SPINDLE

An override key that increases the current spindle speed in 10% increments. Together, -10% SPINDLE, +10% SPINDLE, and 100% SPINDLE allow an operator to make adjustments to spindle speed during operation.

-10% SPINDLE

An override key that decreases the current spindle speed in 10% increments. Together, -10% SPINDLE, +10% SPINDLE, and 100% SPINDLE allow an operator to make adjustments to spindle speed during operation.

100% FEEDRATE

An override key that returns the current feed rate to its original setting. Together, -10% FEEDRATE, +10% FEEDRATE, and 100% FEEDRATE allow an operator to make feed adjustments during operation.

100% RAPID

An override key that controls how operators adjust rapid motions. Together, 5% RAPID, 25% RAPID, 50% RAPID, and 100% RAPID allow an operator to make adjustments to rapid rates during operation.

100% SPINDLE

An override key that returns the current spindle speed to its original setting. Together, -10% SPINDLE, +10% SPINDLE, and 100% SPINDLE allow an operator to make adjustments to spindle speed during operation.

25% RAPID

An override key that decreases rapids to 25% of the current rate. Together, 5% RAPID, 25% RAPID, 50% RAPID, and 100% RAPID allow an operator to make adjustments to rapid rates during operation.

5% RAPID

An override key that decreases rapids to 5% of the current rate. Together, 5% RAPID, 25% RAPID, 50% RAPID, and 100% RAPID allow an operator to make adjustments to rapid rates during operation.

50% RAPID

An override key that decreases rapids to 50% of the current rate. Together, 5% RAPID, 25% RAPID, 50% RAPID, and 100% RAPID allow an operator to make adjustments to rapid rates during operation.

active codes

Codes that are currently running in the active part program. Active codes include those that specify feed type, cutter compensation, and work offset, among others.

ALARMS

A display key that allows operators to view information about any current alarms as well as a history of alarms on the control. The ALARMS key brings up a tabbed menu that also includes an alarms viewer, where operators can search a list of alarms by code for more information.

alarms

An automatic warning from the control when a program or mechanical component is not functioning correctly. Operators can view any present alarms as well as a history of alarms on the control by pressing the ALARMS key.

ALL

A mode key that returns all axes to machine zero. Pressing ALL is very similar to pressing POWER UP except it does not cause a tool change.

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.

alphanumeric commands

An instruction containing letters and numbers. Alphanumeric commands, comprised of G codes, are used to direct CNC machine operation.

ALTER

A mode key used to edit part programs. Pressing ALTER replaces highlighted text with text from the input bar or clipboard in edit mode.

ATC FWD

A mode key that rotates the automatic tool changer on a CNC mill. Pressing ATC FWD replaces the current tool with the next sequential tool in MDI mode.

ATC REV

A mode key that that rotates the automatic tool changer on a CNC mill. Pressing ATC REV replaces the current tool with the previous sequential tool in MDI mode.

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.

automation

The use of self-regulated equipment, processes, or systems that meet manufacturing requirements with limited human intervention. Automation, which includes both robotic and CNC-controlled processes, is an efficient means of performing manufacturing processes.

AUX CLNT

A jog key that activates the Through-Spindle Coolant system. Pressing AUX CLNT turns the Through-Spindle Coolant system on and off, and pressing SHIFT then AUX CLNT turns on the through-spindle air, if equipped.

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.

BLOCK DELETE

A mode key used in memory mode to control how a part program runs. Pressing BLOCK DELETE tells the machine to skip a predetermined series of program blocks indicated by a forward slash symbol (/).

CANCEL

A numeric key on the control keypad. Pressing CANCEL deletes the last character and exits some prompts.

chip auger

A rotating shaft with a helical blade that removes chips from the machine. The chip auger is controlled using CHIP jog keys.

CHIP FWD

A jog key that initiates the chip removal system on a CNC mill or lathe. Pressing CHIP FWD moves chips in the forward direction out of the machine.

CHIP REV

A jog key that reverses the direction of the chip removal system on a CNC mill or lathe. Pressing CHIP REV may be used to prevent the chip removal system from jamming.

CHIP STOP

A jog key that stops the chip removal system on a CNC mill or lathe. Pressing CHIP STOP halts the conveyor from moving chips out of or back into the machine.

Classic Haas Control

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

CLNT DOWN

A jog key that adjusts the position of the programmable coolant nozzle on a CNC mill. Pressing CLNT DOWN incrementally lowers the coolant nozzle.

CLNT UP

A jog key that adjusts the position of the programmable coolant nozzle on a CNC mill. Pressing CLNT UP incrementally raises the coolant nozzle.

CNC

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

commanded position

A programmed coordinate location. A commanded position is the reference point by which distance to go, one of four positions displays, is determined.

computer numerical control

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

control panels

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.

controls

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

COOLANT

A mode key that turns the coolant on. Pressing COOLANT again turns the coolant off.

coordinate system

A system used to describe the location of an object in three-dimensional space. A coordinate system expresses the distance of any point from the origin, or the fixed intersection of axes.

CURRENT COMMANDS

A display key that shows various information about the current state of the machine. The CURRENT COMMAND key displays tabbed menus for timers, macros, active codes, Advanced Tool Management, and more.

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.

CYCLE START

The button used to begin a program or continue a program previously stopped. CYCLE START is located on the left side of the NGC control panel.

DELETE

A mode key used to edit text. Pressing DELETE erases the highlighted item or selected block.

devices

Machine components an operator can manually command. Devices include the spindle and probe arm.

DIAGNOSTIC

A display key that shows information about the machine that is vital to routine maintenance. The DIAGNOSTIC key takes operators to a tabbed menu that includes Diagnostics, Maintenance, and Parameters.

diagnostics

Information about the machine that is vital to routine maintenance. Operators can view a tabbed menu of diagnostics by pressing the DIAGNOSTIC key.

dimensioning system

A measurement system that defines the length, width, and height of an object in space. Operators can set the dimensioning on the NGC to inch or millimeter.

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.

distance to go

One of the positions displays on the Next Generation Control. The display tab for distance to go shows the distance between the current axis position and a commanded position, or a known position the machine is programmed to reach.

EDIT

A mode key used to edit part programs. Pressing the EDIT key displays a tabbed menu containing the program editor, where operators can edit the active part program, and the Visual Programming System (VPS), which operators can use to create part programs using templates.

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 NGC control panel.

END

A cursor arrow key that places the cursor at the bottom of most displays. The END key moves the cursor to the last item of a table or the end of a scrollable page.

ENTER

A numeric key on the control keypad. Pressing ENTER submits characters typed in the input bar into the control.

ERASE PROGRAM

A mode key that deletes a part program. Pressing ERASE PROGRAM removes the highlighted program from NGC memory.

fault

A problematic condition that interferes with a component or system’s ability to function as intended. Faults occurring in a control are often the result of a G code error or improper offset values.

feed

Movement of the workpiece or machine component from one point to another. Feed typically refers to the linear or circular movement of the tool during cutting.

FEED HOLD

The control button used to pause a program. FEED HOLD halts tool feed but does not stop spindle rotation.

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.

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.

FWD

An override key that controls the spindle direction. Pressing FWD directs the spindle to rotate forward to the right.

G codes

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.

gauges

A device, or instrument, that measures variables and reports information about how a machine or system is functioning. Operators can view gauges from the Diagnostics tabbed menu.

Haas Automation®, Inc.

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

HANDLE FEED

An override key that controls how operators adjust feedrates. Pressing HANDLE FEED allows operators to adjust the feed rate in 1% increments using the jog handle.

HANDLE JOG

A mode key that initiates jog mode. Pressing HANDLE JOG allows operators to jog using the jog handle or jog keys and displays various axis positions at the bottom of the control screen.

HANDLE SCROLL

A mode key that turns on handle scroll mode. Pressing HANDLE SCROLL lets operators scroll through menus using the jog handle while the control is in jog mode.

HANDLE SPINDLE

An override key that controls how operators adjust spindle speed. Pressing HANDLE SPINDLE allows operators to adjust spindle speed in 1% increments using the jog handle.

HELP

A display key that allows operators to view helpful information. Pressing the HELP key displays information that is specific to the active page or takes users to the general help menu to select among topics or use the search function.

HOME

A cursor arrow key that places the cursor at the top of most displays. The HOME key moves the cursor to the first item of a table or the beginning of a scrollable page.

HOME G28

A mode key that returns all axes to machine zero in rapid. Pressing HOME G28 will also zero return one axis if the axis letter is entered in the input bar.

input bar

A blue box in the bottom left corner of the Next Generation Control screen. The input bar is where alpha and numeric characters appear when typed using the keypad.

INSERT

A mode key used to edit part programs. Pressing INSERT enters text from the input bar after the current cursor location.

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 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.

JOG LOCK

A jog key that initiates constant jog motion along a specified axis on a CNC mill. Pressing JOG LOCK activates the feature and selecting an axis from the jog key pad sets the machine to move in that axis until JOG LOCK is pressed again or upon reaching the axis travel limit.

JOG LOCK

A jog key that initiates constant jog motion along a specified axis on a CNC mill. Pressing JOG LOCK activates the feature and selecting an axis from the jog keypad sets the machine to move in that axis until JOG LOCK is pressed again or upon reaching the axis travel limit.

jog mode

The operational mode that allows for manual control of steady axis movement. Jog mode can be operated using the jog keys and jog handle.

limit switches

A mechanical switch that is triggered when it detects the physical presence or absence of an object. Limit switches are used return the machine to the home position with zero return buttons ALL and SINGLE.

LIST PROGRAM

A mode key that allows operators to load and save part programs. Pressing LIST PROGRAM brings up a tabbed menu that includes a directory of loaded programs.

M01

A miscellaneous code that signals an optional program stop. M01 will not cause an optional stop if option stop mode has been manually turned off.

machine

One of the positions displays on the Next Generation Control. The display tab for the machine shows the current axis positions relative to machine zero.

machine zero

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

machine zero

The built-in origin on a CNC machine. Machine zero is set by the machine manufacturer during assembly.

maintenance

Activities that contribute to the care and upkeep of machines. Operators can view the tabbed menu for maintenance by pressing the DIAGNOSTIC key.

Manual Data Input

MDI. The operational mode that allows an operator to manually enter and execute blocks of programming code at the control panel. In Manual Data Input mode, operators can run blocks of code at the control without creating and saving a formal part program in Memory.

MEMORY

A mode key used to run part programs stored in the control. Pressing MEMORY selects memory mode, and other keys in the row control how the program is run.

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.

messages

A note or instruction left on the control. Operators can view and leave messages on the messages page accessed from the ALARMS menu.

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.

modes

A number of possible settings that determines the way a CNC machine executes manual and automatic commands. The main operation modes are edit, memory, MDI, and jog mode.

Next Generation Control

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

NEXT TOOL

A function key used when setting tool offsets on a CNC mill or lathe. Pressing NEXT TOOL selects the next sequential tool from the automatic tool changer.

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.

OFFSET

A display key that shows tabbed menus for tool and work offset tables. The OFFSET key allows operators to enter tool length geometry and part zero locations.

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.

operator

One of the positions displays on the Next Generation Control. The display tab for the operator shows the distance the machine has jogged after being zeroed by the ORIGIN key.

OPTION STOP

A mode key that controls how a program runs in memory mode. Pressing OPTION STOP tells the machine to stop machine movement when a part program reaches M01 commands.

ORIGIN

A mode key that resets or clears a selected value. Pressing ORIGIN resets highlighted values, such as an axis location, to zero.

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.

PAGE DOWN

A cursor arrow key that places the cursor one page down in most displays. The PAGE DOWN key moves the cursor to the bottommost item of the items currently displayed, and pressing the key again moves the cursor to the bottommost item on the next set of items below the current set.

PAGE UP

A cursor arrow key that places the cursor one page up in most displays. The PAGE UP key moves the cursor to the topmost item of the items currently displayed, and pressing the key again moves the cursor to the topmost item on the next set of items above the current set.

parameters

Limits or physical properties that determine function and operation of a CNC machine. Operators can view the tabbed menu for parameters by pressing the DIAGNOSTIC key.

part programs

A series of alphanumerical instructions that guides the movements of a CNC machine. A part program directs a CNC machine to perform the necessary sequence of operations to machine a specific workpiece.

part zero

The starting point of X, Y, and Z coordinates for a part program. Part zero acts as a reference point for all part dimensions.

PART ZERO SET

A function key used to set work offsets during setup on a CNC mill. Pressing PART ZERO SET establishes part zero by recording a Z axis location for part height and an X and Y axis location on the part edge.

POSITION

A display key that selects the positions display among several options. POSITION will display work, distance to go, machine, and operator axis locations.

POWER UP

A function key that initializes the machine control. Pressing POWER UP zero returns all axes or prompts operators to set the axis zero return order.

PROGRAM

A display key that shows the active part program. PROGRAM will display the active part program in the top left pane on screen.

RAPID

A jog key that initiates rapid motion in a selected axis. Pressing RAPID with a selected axis key held moves the machine in that axis at maximum jog speed.

rapid

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

RECOVER

A function key that displays recovery features on the Next Generation Control. Pressing RECOVER will display the tool change recovery menu on a CNC mill and the tap recovery menu on a CNC lathe.

remote jog handle

A detachable device that allows CNC operators to manually control machine axis motions while away from the machine. The remote jog handle on the Next Generation Control includes some other basic features, such as cycle start and feed hold.

RESET

A function key that clears any alarms or text from the input bar. Pressing RESET also stops all motion of the axis and spindle.

REV

An override key that controls the spindle direction. Pressing REV directs the spindle to rotate in reverse to the left.

run-stop-jog-continue

A feature of the Haas Next Generation Control that allows operators to jog away from a part between starting and stopping a part program. To initiate run-stop-jog-continue, press FEED HOLD to stop axis motion, type an axis using the alpha keys, press HANDLE JOG, then use the jog handle to jog away from the part; to resume the program press MEMORY then CYCLE START.

SELECT PROGRAM

A mode key that activates a part program. Pressing SELECT PROGRAM makes the highlighted program the active program.

SETTING

A display key that allows operators to adjust user settings on the control. The SETTING key brings up a tabbed menu that also includes Network, Rotary, and User Positions settings.

setup mode

A control panel setting in which all safety features are enabled and most machine functions disabled in the locked position. Unlocking setup mode disables some safety features, enables most machine functions, and allows operators to perform manual setup procedures.

SHIFT

An alpha key on the control keypad. Operators must first press SHIFT to enter special characters using the alpha and numeric keys.

SINGLE

A mode key that returns one axis to machine zero. Pressing SINGLE with an axis letter entered in the input bar returns that axis to machine zero.

SINGLE BLOCK

A mode key used in memory mode to run only one block of a part program each time operators press CYCLE START. Pressing SINGLE BLOCK turns single block mode on and off.

SPACE

A numeric key on the control keypad. Pressing SPACE adds a space between characters.

special characters

Characters that appear in the top left corner of alpha and numeric keys on the control keypad. Operators must first press SHIFT to enter special characters.

tailstock

A component located opposite the headstock that supports the end of longer workpieces. Operators can manually position the tailstock on a CNC lathe using jog keys.

tap

A multi-point cutting tool used to create internal threads. On a CNC lathe, taps are held by the turret.

tap recovery

A special recovery feature on the Next Generation Control that helps prevent damage to the machine tool or part in the event a tap gets stuck or jammed during a tapping cycle. Tap recovery mode is accessed by pressing RECOVER.

through-spindle air

A pressurized air system directed through the spindle. Through-spindle air is activated by pressing shift and AUX CLNT.

through-spindle coolant

A coolant system that flows through the spindle. Through-Spindle Coolant is activated by pressing the AUX CLNT button in MDI and run-stop-jog-continue modes.

timers

A device that counts, calculates, or keeps a record of the number of times something happens. Timers, also known as counters, are accessed via the CURRENT COMMANDS display page on the Next Generation Control.

toggle

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

tool change recovery

A special recovery feature on the Next Generation Control for CNC mills that helps to prevent damage to the machine tool or part in the event of a tool change failure. Tool change recovery is accessed by pressing RECOVER.

tool length offsets

An offset used on a machining center that accounts for variations in tool length along the Z axis. Each tool requires its own offset, which is measured from the tip of the tool to the top of the part.

tool life

The length of time a cutting tool is expected to be operational before it must be replaced. Tool life can be extended through optimized implementation, including having a properly rigid machine setup and using correct tool geometry.

tool offset

An automatic adjustment to account for variations in tool geometry. Tool offsets must be set for every tool loaded in the machine.

TOOL OFFSET MEASURE

A function key used to set tool length offsets during setup on a CNC mill. Pressing TOOL OFFSET MEASURE establishes tool length by recording a Z axis location for a tool.

TOOL RELEASE

A function key used to release tools manually in some operation modes. Operators press TOOL RELEASE to release the tool from the spindle in MDI, zero return, or jog modes.

troubleshooting

A systematic, standardized approach to solving problems 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.

TS

A jog key that controls tailstock movement. Pressing TS [left arrow] moves the tailstock towards the spindle, and pressing TS [right arrow] moves the tailstock away from the spindle.

TS RAPID

A jog key that controls the tailstock rapid speed. Pressing TS RAPID at the same time as another tailstock jog key increases the rapid speed in that direction.

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.

TURRET FWD

A mode key that rotates the tool turret on a CNC lathe. Pressing TURRET FWD replaces the current tool with the next sequential tool in MDI mode.

TURRET REV

A mode key that rotates the tool turret on a CNC lathe. Pressing TURRET REV replaces the current tool with the previous sequential tool in MDI mode.

UNDO

A mode key used to edit part programs. Pressing UNDO reverses changes to text, up to the previous 40 changes, or deselects a highlighted block.

USB

Universal Serial Bus. A connection port on computers that is compatible with many different types of devices, such as flash memory cards and printers. The USB port is located on the right side of the NGC control panel.

user interface

UI. 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 settings

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

work

One of the positions displays on the Next Generation Control. The display tab for work shows the current axis positions relative to part zero.

work offset

An automatic adjustment of machine components to account for program zero. Work offsets change the position of the turret on a lathe or the spindle on a mill to adjust the location of every tool when in use.

X DIAMETER MEASURE

A function key used to set tool length offsets during setup on a CNC lathe. Pressing X DIAMETER MEASURE records X axis positions for tools in the offset table.

X/Z

A function key that selects between axes in jog mode. Pressing X/Z toggles between the X and Z axis during part setup on a CNC lathe.

Z FACE MEASURE

A function key used to set tool length offsets and Z axis work offset during setup on a CNC lathe. Pressing Z FACE MEASURE records Z axis positions for tools in the offset table.

zero

To set an axis value to zero. Operators zero an axis on the control by typing the axis letter, then pressing ORIGIN.

ZERO RETURN

A mode key that initiates zero return mode. Pressing ZERO RETURN displays operator, work (G54), machine, and distance to go axis locations.

zeroed

To set an axis value to zero. Operators zero an axis on the control by typing the axis letter, then pressing ORIGIN.