Version 5.100b

Release Date: 21 October 2023

 

INFORMATION: Please read these release notes carefully before updating.

 


WARNING: This is an unstable BETA release that introduces new features.

 


Introduction

This BETA release is the first in a new feature development series for MASSO G3 controllers.

 

Unlike version 5.04b (bug-fix only), v5.100b introduces new functionality that will be delivered in phases:

 

  • Phase 1: Initial feature release (this version)

  • Phase 2, 3, etc.: Additional features and improvements

     

If a feature you are looking for is not included, please wait for a future phase.

 


CAUTION: Sherline users with PID spindle control must not install or use this version. 

 


WARNING: This BETA release is unstable and should only be used by users who wish to test new features. It must not be used on production machines under any circumstances. 

 


INFORMATION: This is a Phase 1 feature release. Additional features will be added in later phase releases.

 


CAUTION: Before updating, you must make a full backup of your current controller settings. 

 

https://docs.masso.com.au/wiring-and-setup/save-and-load-settings

 


CAUTION: Before updating, save and print a copy of your Printable File and use it to verify all settings after the update. Settings may change when loading this BETA version. 

 

https://docs.masso.com.au/wiring-and-setup/save-and-load-settings

 


CAUTION: Take screenshots of all controller settings, including setup and calibration data, input and output assignments, and invert status. Loading this BETA software may reset or modify settings.

 

For instructions on backing up settings, creating printable files, and taking screenshots, refer to the Save & load settings documentation.

 

 

 

 


INFORMATION: Rolling back to a previous software version requires loading the backup created before installing this BETA release. Rolling back will erase the current settings.

 


CAUTION: Some tool changers are not supported in this phase, as new tool changer logic is still under development and will be expanded in Phase 2. 

 


CAUTION: This version introduces new Mill Linear Tool Changer logic. All related inputs, outputs, and calibration data must be reassigned in the F1 screen before operating the machine. Refer to the updated MASSO documentation and reconfigure your system as required. 

 


Reporting Software Bugs

If you encounter a bug or would like to suggest improvements, please start a new topic in the MASSO LABS v5.100b.

 

 


New Features (Phase 1)

 


Cutter Compensation

Cutter compensation support has been added using G40, G41, and G42 commands. Z Wear support allows fine tool length adjustment using the Z Wear field in the F4 tool table.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


A & B Axis Slaving Enhancements

The A and B axes can now be slaved to either the X or Y axis. In this version, A and B axes are disabled unless used in a slaved configuration. Full standalone axis support will be restored in later phases.

 


Multi-User Accounts

Support has been added for up to four user accounts per controller, allowing different access levels for operators in shared or educational environments.

 

 

 

 


User Control Rights

Each user account can now have individual access rights, including machine feed limits, tool changer control, and screen function restrictions.

 

 

 

 

 

 


Extended Work Offsets

Support has been added for 100 additional work offsets using G54.1 P1 to G54.1 P100. New G10 parameters allow work offsets to be set directly from G-code programs. 


G10 – Set Work Offset Values

 

 

 

 


High-Speed Tool Changer Support

Support has been added for High-Speed Tool Changers.

 


Flexible Axis Slaving

X and Y axes can now be slaved to either the A or B axis.

 


C Axis Support

The A or B axis can now be configured as a C axis.

 

 

 

 


Easy Cursor Scroll

Holding the spacebar on the on-screen keyboard enables cursor scroll mode, allowing precise cursor positioning by sliding a finger. Releasing the spacebar returns the keyboard to normal operation.

 

 

 

 


M6.1 – Tool Unload Command

Support has been added for the M6.1 Tool Unload command. This is currently available for Linear Tool Changers, with support for additional tool changers planned for later phases.

 


Manual Tool Change Option

New tool change logic allows tools to be marked for manual change instead of automatic tool changer operation. This is useful for oversized tools.

 

 

 

 


New Linear Tool Changer Support

Support has been added for additional linear tool changer types.

 


Feed Override up to 150%

Feed override can now be adjusted in real time up to 150%.

 

 

 

 


Dust Hood Control

New dust hood logic automatically lowers the hood on M3 and raises it on M5. The dust hood can also be disabled from the MDI screen.

 

 

 


Improvements & Bug fixes

 

 


G-code Display Improvements

The currently executing G-code line is now displayed in the centre of the G-code window. G-code lines of any length can now be displayed during machining.

 

 


Spindle Information Display

The spindle display now shows spin-up and spin-down status. In multi-head mode, both the main spindle and current head information are displayed.

 

 

 

 

Thank you for being a BETA tester and helping improve MASSO.