Small improvement requests

Software FireControl
1

I love FireContorl and I believe it’s a very good program. However I would like to suggest few small improvements:

  • Add an option to disable modal dialogs for example at the end of a cut. I would like to be able to move the torch right away at the end of a cut without having to hit “enter”. Same thing when I want to load a new file, I find it infuriating that it asks for confirmation before I can load another one. I am not saying those dialogs shouldn’t be there but I’d like a way to disable them

  • Shortcuts keys to change the speed - many of use use a gamepad to jog around as a sort of pendant. Movements can be mapped with software like antimicro, but there is no way as far as I know to change jog speed. I typically use 100-300IPM to move the torch across the table and then 10-50IPM to do fine positioning, and each time I need to go at the computer to change the speed with the mouse.
    AND/OR

  • Native gamepad support; using the “analog” jog to move the torch with proportional speed

  • Let Firecontrol work (as in allow loading of files to be checked, access configuration etc) also when NOT connected to the Crossfire controller. Sometimes I’d like to load the G-code and make sure Firecontrol likes it even if I’m in the office, not connected to the table.

3 Likes
2

I agree with the last one also. There’s been times where I’ve rushed through sheet cam and when loaded to fire control I could see the error. ( like changing the letters in a sign onto a different layer and forgetting to add that layer to the cut) Would be nice to be able to view the code and preview without the machine connected.

3

These are all good requests. Regarding the first one, if you click any jog button it will clear the ‘program complete’ message similar to selecting ok.

4

Oh I’ll try the movement to clear and jog. Still, the confirmation when I want to open a new file drives me crazy :smiley:

5

I’m using a touchscreen and have touched the jog button but it just makes the “error “ sound and the dialogue box flashes. May just be touchscreen thing.

6

I’ve tried moving the torch after the cut, and the only thing it does is give a error sound. Only by pressing enter key or clicking on the dialog box, I was able to move the torch. Just my two cents.

7

Yeah me too, unfortunately I confirm what @langmuir-daniel has said does NOT work (21.1.2, win10)

8

I tried this myself and you are correct- FireControl used to have this functionality but somewhere along the way it was lost. We’re putting it back in for the next release.

9

I’m still using 20.6.1

And the arrow keys will clear the screen’s message and start moving the torch.

1 Like
10

+1 to the checking files in Firecontrol without being connected to a machine. My machine is at the shop but the majority of my CAD/CAM work I do at home. Just last night I was making some tweaks to a program and wanted to make sure it posted everything correctly (it didn’t) but had to wait until today to get back to the machine to check on it.

11

I found that sheetcam is my best friend when it comes to checking my work.
I can turn on and off toolpaths…see where they might cause problems…and when I need to I can make the material the size I want and make sure it fits…I can even pattern…

as for the gamepad…I just bought a wired numeric keypad…works great for jogging…but I woul dlike shortcut keys for jogging speed…that would be helpful

1 Like