SheetCam TNG: Installing, Changing, and Using Post Processors

Overview

SheetCam TNG uses post processors (posts) to translate toolpaths into machine-specific G-code. Each machine or controller type (Mach3, CommandCNC, Masso, LinuxCNC, etc.) may require a different post. Understanding how to install, switch, and configure posts is essential for generating reliable programs.

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Installing a New Post Processor

1. Download or Obtain the Post File

   • Post processors usually come as .scpost files. Below links are .txt, after downloading change the file extension to .scpost before importing in sheetcam.

   •  StarLabRotaryFTLES2.scpost

   • CandCNCPlasmaLLCNC-REV31.scpost

2. Locate the Posts Folder

   • In Windows:

      

     C:\Users\<YourUser>\Documents\SheetCam TNG\Posts

   • On Linux:

      

     ~/SheetCamTNG/Posts

   • (Path may vary depending on installation directory.)

3. Copy the Post File

   • Move or copy the .scpost file into the Posts folder.

   • Restart SheetCam TNG if it was already running.

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Changing to a Different Post

1. Open SheetCam TNG.

2. From the top menu, go to:
   Options → Machine → Post Processor

3. In the dropdown list, select the desired post processor.

   • Example: Mach3 Plasma, CommandCNC with DTHC, Masso Plasma, etc.

4. Click OK to apply.

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Configuring a Post

Some posts include settings that affect code output. To configure:

1. After selecting the post, click the Options → Machine → Post Processor → Edit Post button.

2. A configuration window may appear (if the post has adjustable parameters).

   • Typical settings: output units (inch/mm), arc handling, THC (torch height control) options, M-codes, spindle/plasma on/off commands.

3. Adjust only what you understand; incorrect values can cause dangerous machine behavior.

4. Save changes and re-generate toolpaths.

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Using Multiple Posts

You may need more than one post if:

• You run both plasma and router on the same table.

• You cut parts on different machines (e.g., one Mach3 table, one LinuxCNC table).

• You want to test custom G-code outputs.

Recommended Workflow:

1. Duplicate Job Files: Save separate .job files for each machine setup.
   Example: Part123-Mach3.job and Part123-Masso.job.

2. Switch Posts as Needed:

   • Use the dropdown under Options → Machine → Post Processor.

   • Re-post your toolpaths after switching.

3. Verify Output:

   • Always open the G-code file and confirm headers, units, and motion commands match your machine requirements.

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Auto-Switching with Desktop Icons

SheetCam can be launched with different configurations tied to custom icons. Each configuration remembers its own machine settings and post processor, so you can auto-switch by simply clicking the right shortcut.

Setup Steps:

1. In SheetCam, go to Options → Machine → Save Current Machine.

   • Give the machine a clear name (e.g., Plasma_Config, Router_Config).

2. Close SheetCam.

3. Create a new shortcut (desktop icon) for SheetCam.

4. Edit the shortcut Target field and append:

    

   -c Plasma_Config

   Example full path:

    

   "C:\Program Files\SheetCam TNG\sheetcam.exe" -c Plasma_Config

5. Repeat for each machine or post setup you want.

   • Create separate icons: SheetCam Plasma, SheetCam Router, SheetCam Rotary.

6. Now clicking an icon will open SheetCam directly into that config with its assigned post processor.

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Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Post Not Showing in List

  • Ensure the .scpost file is in the correct Posts folder.

  • Restart SheetCam.

• G-code Not Matching Machine

  • Double-check you selected the correct post.

  • Edit post settings or request a modified version from your supplier.

• Errors When Posting

  • The post may not support a feature (like rotary cutting).

  • Try another post or look for a specific rotary version.

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Best Practices

• Keep a Backup: Store a copy of known-good posts in a safe folder.

• Label Clearly: Rename posts for clarity (e.g., CommandCNC_DTHC.scpost).

• Use Version Control: If you edit posts, save dated versions to track changes.

• Test Safely: Always test new posts with the machine air-cutting (torch off / spindle off) before running production.

• Use Icons for Operators: Simplify training by giving operators labeled icons that load the correct config automatically.

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Summary

• Posts are the “translator” between SheetCam and your CNC machine.

• Install by placing .scpost files in the Posts folder.

• Switch posts under Options → Machine → Post Processor.

• Configure posts as needed, but verify carefully.

• Use desktop icons with configs to make switching seamless for different machines or operations.