Manual

ACU-RITE 3500i 401
11.4 Advanced Programming
Parameters and Variable Registers
A macro is a series of instructions designed to achieve a specific result
for a given set of constraints. For example, a rectangular pocket of any
size always has four sides, four corner radii and a depth. Therefore,
you can cut many pockets of different sizes using a similar tool path
with longer or shorter moves for the tool path. If a suitable program
processes the constraints of the pocket, the 3500i calculates a tool
path to cut a particular pocket. Such a program is called a macro. The
G78 rectangular pocket cycle is an example of a macro that cannot be
edited.
 The constraints of the pocket, or the feature required, are its
parameters. Parameters for any feature vary as dimensions change;
therefore, the parameters are often called variables. The data for
each parameter must be stored as an entity, known as a variable
register, also called variables.
 Parameters passed to a macro are called parameters in this manual.
Contents of Variables (PRINT)
Format: PRINT xxx(variable)
Format: N (Block number) PRINT xxx(variable)
 You can verify the contents of a variable. This is useful when you are
debugging a program. Use the PRINT command to display the
contents of a variable on the screen in Manual, Single-Step and Auto
Modes.
Example 1: PRINT 200
 Displays the contents of the variable (#200).
Example 2: N180 PRINT 110
 To display variable contents during program execution, use the
PRINT command as part of the program. Example 2 prints the
contents of variables #110 to the screen.
 To display variable contents during program execution, use the
PRINT command as part of the program. Example 2 prints the
contents of variables #110 to the screen.
 In Manual Data Input Mode, type PRINT 110 then touch Start to
display the contents on the screen.
 The PRINT variable can be abbreviated, as follows: ]P