Zeroing Methods
AxioCNC supports several ways to set work zero: manual, touch plate, edge finder, BitZero, BitSetter, and custom. Choose the method that matches your hardware and workflow.
Overview
| Method | Typical use | Axes |
|---|---|---|
| Manual | Jog to a reference, then Set Zero | X, Y, Z |
| Touch plate | Electrical touch plate; one axis per method | X, Y, or Z |
| Edge finder | Mechanical edge finder | X, Y |
| BitZero | Contact-based probe for XYZ | X, Y, Z |
| BitSetter | Tool-length / Z probe; often used at tool change | Z |
| Custom | User-defined procedure | Configurable |
BitSetter is aimed at tool changes: you touch off each tool to set its length. Configure it under Settings → Zeroing and Tool Changes (Tool changes during job) in the Tool changes during job dropdown.
Manual zeroing
- Jog the tool to your reference (e.g. corner of part, top of stock).
- Use Set Zero for the axes you need (X, Y, and/or Z).
- Work zero is set. No extra hardware.
Touch plate zeroing
- Attach a conductive touch plate to the workpiece or table. Connect it to the controller’s probe input.
- In Settings → Zeroing Methods, add or edit a Touch Plate method. Set Plate thickness (e.g. mm).
- In Setup, use Set up job or the Probe panel’s quick action for your touch plate (X, Y, or Z). Follow the prompts: the tool moves until it touches the plate, then that axis’s zero is set using the plate thickness.
Spindle must be off when probing. Ensure the touch plate is wired correctly and the probe input is configured in firmware.
Edge finder zeroing
- Use a mechanical edge finder in the spindle. Jog to the edge (X or Y).
- Use the edge-finder zeroing workflow (if available) or manual Set Zero after positioning. The workflow may use a known edge-finder diameter to compute the edge position.
BitZero zeroing
BitZero-style probes provide a known reference (e.g. corner block). Use the BitZero zeroing workflow to set X, Y, and Z from that reference. Configure the method in Settings → Zeroing Methods and follow the on-screen steps.
BitSetter (tool change)
BitSetter is used when you change tools: you touch off each new tool to set its length (Z). Configure it under Settings → Zeroing and Tool Changes (Tool changes during job). When the job hits an M6, you’re prompted to change the tool and run the BitSetter procedure before resuming.
Choosing a method
- Manual — No hardware; good for quick setup when a visual reference is enough.
- Touch plate — Fast, repeatable Z (and optionally XY). Common for wood and aluminum.
- Edge finder — Accurate X/Y edges; manual Z or touch plate for Z.
- BitZero — Full XYZ from a fixed reference.
- BitSetter — Tool-length at tool change; use with BitZero or similar for initial zero.