Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Touch Screen Moniters with Flashcut?

Patrick,
Most of us have decided to use an inexpensive programmable keyboard
device like "X-Keys". http://www.xkeys.com/
You can get them from $79-$99 from various places, I think Tigerdirect
even has them.

This is a two level keypad which is rather unique because you can
program it to use one level for all the typical Jog/Setup functions and
the other stuff on the other level.
You can hold it in your hand and not have to be looking at the screen to
make things happen. The only complaint with the off the shelf model is
tactile feedback of the switches. Some have just used the circuitry and
their own switches to make a handheld pendant. They even sell the
Circuitry by itself if you want.

I had always used one with Flashcut V1, but have been so busy around
here, I have not had time to set it up for Version 2 yet ! I had placed
a template and programming example in the files section of this group
long ago (but it is for Version1).

Others have pulled apart a USB keyboard and made their own unique
devices for better control or a PC based control..... I know Jens Swales
has a real nifty little Cherry style X-Y handle tied to a USB keyboard
circuit on one of his machines.

So, if the Touchpad falls thru, You might consider the above techniques
to rid yourself of the painful to use on a PC Control mouse.

====================
One final little Flashcut "Control Hint".... Use the built in windows
"Sticky Keys" program ( add new programs>accessability options) to make
things easier.
==========================
A double press on the CTRL key "locks" it on so you can just use your
arrow keys to jog. Additionally, you can just use the "T" "D" and "W"
without any other key to change jog speeds ! It effectively takes the
two key commands and turns them into one. Cool trick. I guess I have
gotten so used to using just the keyboard with "Sticky Keys" I have not
overwhelmingly missed my X-Keys unit, though I have picked up a really
nice "T" shaped handheld project box that I would like to build a new
pendant in. In my spare time. Ya Right..

Chris L


Patrick wrote:

>I'm wondering if anyone on the list is successfully using a touch
>screen moniter for machine control in the shop. I've just started
>using FC (I'm very pleased with the software) and it seems that
>having a touch screen would make the system easier to use. I realise
>that I'll have to be careful about chips and oil, are there any other
>glaring impracticalities that I'm missing?
>
>Any brand/model recommendations?
>
>Thanks,
>
>Patrick
>
>
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