Re: G-Code Syntax Question

--- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@yahoogroups.com, "caudlet" <info@t...> wrote:

> I am changing the g-code post (driver) in my sign cutting software

to

> be able to do plasma cutting. They use an .INI file to define the
> actions of the post.
>
> It appears that I can use different commands for the Z motion (UP
> DOWN and for the M commands to turn the unit on and off. The

problem

> lies in the fact that on a plasma torch the torch (M5) needs to be
> turned off BEFORE the head starts to move up.
>
> What are the syntax limitations on mixing commands on a line?
>
> Does the following line move the Z THEN turn off the torch?
>
> G1Z1.00F50M05
>
> or read the speed and execute the m command first?

How's this for self service! I looked up the NIST technical
documents and found two things.

The order in which you put commands on a line does not matter. The
interpreter reads the entire line and then does things in a specific
sequence. The actual move is one of the last.

I could find no rule where a block (line) has to start with a G
command if there is one in the line.

I gather from this that the spindle off command would occur prior to
the Z axis move happening.