Lesson 3: G-Code & The Machine Interface
Duration of Days: 5
Lesson Objective
SWBAT:
Interpret basic G-Code commands (G00, G01, G02, G03) and M-codes (M03, M05).
Navigate a CNC controller to jog axes and upload a program via USB or network.
Why is it important for an engineer to be able to read G-code manually if the software writes it for them?
What is the difference between a "Rapid" move and a "Feed" move?
G-Code, M-Code, Controller, Jogging, Post-Processor, Block, Modal, G00 (Rapid), G01 (Linear Feed).
CT-CTE.MFG.G.44 (Explain the basic components of a CNC system); CT-CTE.MFG.G.46 (Demonstrate the ability to edit G-code).
DOK Level: 2 (Application)
Students look "under the hood" of CNC. The purpose is to understand G-Code (the machine's language) and how to use the controller interface to prepare the machine for action.
Misconception: "G-code is a complex programming language like Python."
Correction: G-code is simply a list of coordinates and basic "On/Off" switches for the machine
Support: Provide a "G-Code Cheat Sheet" with the 10 most common codes used in the shop.
Extension: Manually write a 5-line G-code program to mill a perfect 2" square.
The Code Audit: Students are given a short block of G-code and must "hand-draw" the path the tool would take on graph paper