05 - Setting Your Preferences

Table of Contents
Setting Your Preferences ................................................................................................ 1
Setting Your Preferences: Introduction ........................................................................ 1
A Note on Storing Settings for Multiple Users .......................................................... 2
Switching Between Machine Profiles ....................................................................... 2
Selecting Setup Options .............................................................................................. 2
Setup Options: General tab...................................................................................... 3
Setup Options: Part/Machine tab ........................................................................... 38
Setup Options: Dimension tab................................................................................ 46
Setup Options: ID Setup tab .................................................................................. 58
Setup Options: Laser Sensor tab ........................................................................... 63
Setup Options: Sound Events tab .......................................................................... 63
Setup Options: Animation tab................................................................................. 65
Modifying Report and Motion Parameters ................................................................. 69
Parameter Settings: Dimension tab........................................................................ 70
Parameter Settings: Clearance Plane tab .............................................................. 75
Parameter Settings: Probing tab ............................................................................ 81
Parameter Settings: Motion tab .............................................................................. 84
Parameter Settings: Rotary Table tab .................................................................... 92
Parameter Settings: Acceleration tab ..................................................................... 96
Parameter Settings: Probe Options tab.................................................................. 97
Parameter Settings: Probe Trigger Options tab ................................................... 103
Parameter Settings: I/O Channels tab.................................................................. 108
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Table of Contents
Parameter Settings: Clear Point tab ..................................................................... 109
Setting Up the Edit Window ..................................................................................... 110
Defining Edit Window Colors ................................................................................ 110
Defining the Edit Window Layout ......................................................................... 114
Setting Up the Probe Readouts Window ................................................................. 117
Feature Area ........................................................................................................ 118
Probe/Hit Area...................................................................................................... 119
Coordinates Area ................................................................................................. 120
Axis to Display Area ............................................................................................. 120
Colors Area .......................................................................................................... 121
Screen Counters Area.......................................................................................... 121
Tracker Area ........................................................................................................ 122
Graphical Representation Area ............................................................................ 122
Distance Target Area ........................................................................................... 123
Prompt History Area ............................................................................................. 138
Always Track FOV Center.................................................................................... 139
Setting Up Multiple Arms ......................................................................................... 139
Defining the Rotary Table ........................................................................................ 139
Difference between a Stacked and Dual Rotary Table......................................... 142
Calibrate Rotary Table ......................................................................................... 145
Setting Up Probe Changer Options ......................................................................... 150
Managing Multiple Probe Changers......................................................................... 150
Background on TP2 ............................................................................................. 150
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Setting Your Preferences: Introduction
Background on ACR1 .......................................................................................... 151
Background on TP20 and TP200 ......................................................................... 151
Background on the SP600 Analog Probe............................................................. 152
Configuring Multiple Racks .................................................................................. 152
SP25 Probe/Stylus Change system ..................................................................... 154
Loading the Active Probe......................................................................................... 158
Examples of Working with Single and Multiple Probe Changers ............................. 159
Generating a Debug File.......................................................................................... 168
Compensating for Temperature (Legacy) ................................................................ 171
Using STP Files ................................................................................................... 171
Available Input Parameters .................................................................................. 172
TEMPCOMP/ORIGIN Command in the Edit Window........................................... 179
Controller Support ................................................................................................ 180
Local Temperature Settings ................................................................................. 181
Using Simplified Temperature Compensation ......................................................... 181
Using Simplified Temperature Compensation ...................................................... 181
Temperature Compensation Setup ...................................................................... 182
Temperature Compensation................................................................................. 185
TEMPCOMP/METHOD Command in the Edit Window ........................................ 190
Variable for Part Temperature in Temperature Compensation Command ........... 191
Automatic Insertion of Temperature Compensation Command............................ 192
Temperature Compensation Dimensioning .......................................................... 193
Thermal Expansion Origin Command .................................................................. 193
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Table of Contents
Temperature Gage .................................................................................................. 193
Editing Part Materials and Coefficients .................................................................... 199
Changing OpenGL Options ..................................................................................... 204
Setting Up Sensor Mapping ..................................................................................... 215
Setting Import Options ............................................................................................. 215
Understanding File Locations .................................................................................. 217
Fixturing Files ....................................................................................................... 220
Understanding Data Files ........................................................................................ 220
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Setting Your Preferences
Setting Your Preferences: Introduction
PC-DMIS allows you to set personal preferences that tailor the form and function of PC-
DMIS to meet individual specifications. Using this chapter, you will be able to control
output format, screen graphics, machine parameters, and other options.
The main topics in this chapter include:
• Selecting Setup Options

• Modifying Report and Motion Parameters
• Setting Up the Edit Window
• Setting Up the Probe Readouts Window
• Setting Up Multiple Arms
• Defining the Rotary Table
• Setting Up Probe Changer Options
• Managing Multiple Probe Changers
• Loading the Active Probe
• Examples of Working with Single and Multiple Probe Changers
• Setting Up the Machine Interface
• Compensating for Temperature
• Using Simplified Temperature Compensation
• Temperature Gage
• Editing Part Materials and Coefficients
• Specifying Search Paths
• Changing OpenGL Options
• Using the Measurement Strategy Editor
• Setting Up Sensor Mapping
• Setting Import Options
• Understanding File Locations
• Understanding Data Files
The following paragraphs describe the various system options and their functions.
A Note on Storing Settings for Multiple Users
Switching Between Machine Profiles
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A Note on Storing Settings for Multiple Users

Any changes made to PC-DMIS's settings, parameters, or user-interface customizations
are now stored for each user. This is controlled internally by using Windows user
permissions. Logging onto the operating system by your specific user name
automatically recalls your settings. These are stored inside named sub directories at the
location where you installed PC-DMIS.
Switching Between Machine Profiles
Your license must have the IP Measure option for the Save Machine Profile
and Recall Machine menu items to appear.
These two menu items let you easily switch between machine profiles when you create
measurement routines in Offline mode.
Edit | Preferences | Save Machine Profile - This menu item displays a Save As dialog
box that asks for a file name. It records all the current settings for the virtual machine in
a file with an "mpl" file name extension. PC-DMIS saves the following into the file for
later recall:
• Loaded machine model

• Loaded tool changer model
• Rotary table settings
• Mount orientation for the probe
• Starting default probe component (PH10, CW43, and so on)
• Active probe file
• Any "fixed" quick fixture components
• Machine's speed settings and limits
Edit | Preferences | Recall Machine - This menu item lets you restore a machine's
settings that were stored in an .mpl file. PC-DMIS displays an Open dialog box. Once
you select the file to open, PC-DMIS restores the settings.
Selecting Setup Options

Selecting the Edit | Preferences | Setup menu option accesses the Setup Options
dialog box. Use the tabs in this dialog box to alter the form and function of PC-DMIS.
The tabs include the following:
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• Setup Options: General tab

• Setup Options: Part/Machine tab
• Setup Options: Dimension tab
• Setup Options: ID Setup tab
• Setup Options: Laser Sensor tab
• Setup Options: Sound Events tab
• Setup Options: Animation tab
For information on how the OK and Defaults buttons work, see the Command Buttons
topic in the "Navigating the User Interface" chapter.
Setup Options: General tab

Click on any of the sections in the image below to display information on its
functionality.
Setup Options dialog box - General tab
To access the General tab, click on the General tab in the Setup Options dialog box
(Edit | Preferences | Setup). You can use this tab to change various functions that
control the measurement process.
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Program Area
The edit boxes in the Program area of the General tab allow you to edit the following
options:
Measured Circle default hits
The Measured Circle default hits box allows you to set the default number of hits PC-
DMIS will take while learning circles using CAD data. The minimum number of hits that
may be entered is three. It only changes the number of hits for circles about to be
programmed, not for circles that have already been programmed.
The entry in the PC-DMIS Settings Editor for this option reads: AutoCirHits= [number
of hits]. For information on modifying registry entries, please view the "Modifying
Registry Entries" chapter.
Measured Line default hits
The Measured Line default hits box allows you to set the default number of hits PC-
DMIS will take while learning lines using CAD data. The minimum number of hits that
may be entered is two. It only changes the number of hits for lines about to be
programmed, not for lines that have already been programmed.
The entry in the PC-DMIS Settings Editor for this option reads: AutoLineHits= [number
of hits]. For information on modifying registry entries, please view the "Modifying
Hits in U
The Hits in U box indicates the minimum number of rows that must be taken when
scanning.
Hits in V
The Hits in V box indicates the minimum number of hits per row that must be taken
when scanning.
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The Hits in U and Hits in V scanning options are only active when used with the
Curves and Surfaces options.
Check Boxes for the General tab

The General tab of the Setup Options (Edit | Preferences | Setup) dialog box lets you
turn on or off a variety of different options. This is useful because you can customize the
way much of PC-DMIS operates in order to fit your specific needs.
Press End Key
The Press End Key check box controls whether or not PC-DMIS waits for you to press
the END key before it accepts the last hit taken. Selecting this check box allows you to
preview the last hit before you accept it. If you don't select this check box, the current hit
that you take with the jog box is not stored in the hit buffer, but automatically becomes
the last hit for the feature, even if you take the hit at the wrong spot.
Find Nominals
The Find Nominals check box controls how PC-DMIS treats hits. When selected, PC-
DMIS will then automatically consider each probe touch, finding the closest CAD
nominal for that touch. It will continue to accumulate hits until the END key is pressed.
The feature type will then be calculated and the CAD nominals applied.
Once selected, the Find Nominals Tolerance box becomes available. See "Find
Nominals Tolerance".
Point Only Mode
The Point Only Mode check box controls how PC-DMIS responds to each probe hit.
When selected, PC-DMIS automatically considers each probe hit to be a single point
measurement and automatically creates an Auto Vector Point. If the check box is not
selected, PC-DMIS will accumulate probe hits until the END key is pressed. Only then
will it determine the type of feature just measured.
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When you select this check box, the Thickness for Point only Mode Points check box
becomes available. See "Thickness for Point Only Mode Points".
Edge Point Only Mode
The Edge Point Only Mode check box controls how PC-DMIS responds to each set of
probe hits. In this case, a set is defined as two singular probe hits. The first hit should
always be taken on the surface. The second hit should always be taken on the edge.
When this check box is selected, PC-DMIS automatically considers each set of probe
hits to be a single point measurement and automatically creates an Auto Edge Point. If
the check box is not selected, PC-DMIS will accumulate probe hits until you press the
END key. Only then will it determine the type of feature just measured.
PC-DMIS uses the options as displayed in the Hits, Auto, and Misc areas of the Edge
Point dialog box when creating the Edge Point (see the "Creating Auto Features"
chapter).
CAD nominals are applied if the Find Noms option is checked.
Ignore Motion Errors
You can also access the Ignore Motion Errors option by selecting Insert | Parameter
Change | Probe | Ignore Motion Errors.
This option does not apply to all machine types. Some machines can utilize this option, while on
others it will have no effect. For those machine types where it does have an effect, the exact
nature of the effect may also depend on the machine type.
Selecting the Ignore Motion Errors check box tells PC-DMIS to try to avoid stopping
from a motion error during movement when the ignore request is active. If you select
this check box and click OK, PC-DMIS inserts an IGNOREMOTIONERRORS/ON
command into the Edit window.
When PC-DMIS executes the IGNOREMOTIONERRORS/ON command, the command

enables a state where PC-DMIS will try to avoid stopping due to motion errors, if
possible, when it enters DCC motion. The exact manner of implementation may vary by
machine type.
On traditional CMMs with contact probes, the most common implementation is through
disabling the probe. However, if PC-DMIS disables the probe during a move, normally it
does need to re-enable the probe to take a measurement. This may result in a repeating
sequence where PC-DMIS disables the probe for transitional moves between
measurements but then re-enables the probe when it actually takes the measurement.
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You can use this command to prevent problems from spurious vibration or acceleration-
induced triggering, or both.
Automatically Adjust Probe Head Wrist
If you select the Automatically Adjust Probe Head Wrist check box, then during
execution when the software reaches a TIP command, it will, based on the geometry,
automatically select the tip for which the IJK of the tip shank most closely approximates
the IJK on the TIP command. The IJK on the TIP command is relative to part
coordinates so the tip actually selected can vary based on the part alignment.
WARNING: If you want PC-DMIS to recalculate the wrist angles in the face of
a change in the workpiece alignment, you must ensure that the Automatically Adjust
Probe Head Wrist check box is selected before you execute the measurement routine.
The TIP commands in the measurement routine will be updated with the new angles at
each execution.
How it Works with Non-Mapped Wrists
For non-mapped wrists, PC-DMIS returns the closest theoretical position. If there is a
calibrated tip that matches this theoretical position, PC-DMIS uses that calibrated tip. If
PC-DMIS can find calibrated tips that fall within the angle tolerance defined in the Wrist
warning delta box on the Part/Machine tab, it’ll use those tips over non-calibrated tips
that have closer angle matches. (For more information about the tab, see "Setup
Options: Part/Machine tab").
If PC-DMIS cannot find what it thinks is a theoretical match, it gives the error "Illegal TIP
command or TIP not qualified".
If PC-DMIS found a good theoretical match but that tip doesn't exist or isn't yet
calibrated, it will wait until the machine catches up to the TIP statement, so that no
machine motion is in progress. The software then asks you if it should use the closest
calibrated tip.
• If you select YES, PC-DMIS uses the calibrated tip.

• If you select NO, PC-DMIS adds a tip object to match the best theoretical fit and
halts, but does not cancel, the execution. A message appears on the PC-DMIS
status bar to press continue when you're done calibrating the new probe. At this
point, you should access the Probe Utilities dialog box (Insert | Hardware
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Definition | Probe), perform any calibration work as needed, and then click
Continue.
If you select the Automatically Adjust Probe Head Wrist check box and
click the Mark Used button in the Probe Utilities dialog box, PC-DMIS may not select
all the probe tips for calibration. For more information about the Mark Used button, see
the "Mark Used" topic in the "Defining Hardware" chapter.
How it Works with Mapped Wrists
With an infinite wrist that is actually mapped (and therefore calibrated), PC-DMIS
automatically returns the best matching tip position and proceeds using that position.
Other Notes
If you want PC-DMIS to continue to use the original tips during any execution of the
measurement routine, then clear the Automatically Adjust Probe Head Wrist check
box.
Ignore CAD to Part
Each time you create an alignment (saved or otherwise), PC-DMIS creates two
transformation matrices.
1. Machine to part transformation matrix - Computed from the input features'

measured values stored internally in machine coordinates.
2. CAD to part transformation matrix - Computed from the input features'
theoretical values stored internally in CAD coordinates.
When you don't have available CAD data, theoretical data usually comes from the
measured values of the learned features. It is difficult to get consistent results using
theoretical values. This can happen when some of these values are edited, while others
are not.
If you have selected the Ignore CAD to Part check box when you save an alignment,
PC-DMIS ignores the CAD to part matrix and instead only saves the machine to part
alignment. All theoretical values will now be in the same coordinate system.
Generally, if you are not using CAD data, select this check box.
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Effects on CAD Equals Part
If you want to execute an alignment from features measured without CAD data in
DCC mode and you will be using the CAD Equals Part menu option (or CAD =
Part button), be sure to select the Ignore CAD to Part check box prior to setting
the CAD equal to the part. For information on setting the CAD equal to the part,
see the "CAD Equals Part" topic in the "Creating and Using Alignments" chapter.
Theoretical Values for Copied Features
• If you clear this check box and copy a feature to a new location in the Edit
window, the theoretical values of the feature will be associated with the alignment
at the feature's original location.
• If you select this check box and copy a feature to a new location in the Edit
window, the theoretical values of the feature will be associated with the alignment
at the feature's new location.
See "Changing Alignment Nominal Values" in the "Creating and Using Alignments"
chapter.
Reset global settings when branching
If you select the Reset global settings when branching check box, PC-DMIS resets
the global values for state commands after encountering a branching statement. See
the list of affected commands below. (For information on branching, see the "Branching
by Using Flow Control" chapter.) Any state commands jumped over, because of a
branching statement, are not executed. This allows you to skip over sections of the
measurement routine without having these settings change.
For example, suppose your measurement routine has the following:
TIP /T1A0B0
MYLABEL=LABEL/
Measurements etc...
TIP/T1A90B90
GOTO/MYLABEL
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If you mark the check box, when PC-DMIS reads the GOTO statement, it jumps to
MYLABEL. It then searches up, using the first encountered TIP/ command:
TIP/T1A0B0
When returning from subroutines, any global setting modified by the

subroutine is not affected by the Reset global settings when branching flag. See
"Pass Back Settings from Subroutine" for more information.
If you clear the check box, when PC-DMIS reads the GOTO statement, it jumps to
MYLABEL. PC-DMIS does not reset global settings when encountering a branching
statement. Instead, it uses the last executed TIP/ command:
TIP/T1A90B90
PC-DMIS defaults to marking the check box.
Commands Reset After Branching:
• Start/align
• Recall/align
• Mode/
• Rmeas /
• Workplane/
• Tip/
• Loadprobe/
• Retract/
• Check/
• Touchspeed/
• Movespeed/
• Polarvectorcomp/
• AutoTrigger/
• Triggerplane/
• TriggerTolerance/
• Videosetup/
• Displayprecision/
• ManRetract/
• Scanspeed/
• Prehit/
• Clamp/
• Clearp /
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• Format/
• 132column/
• Gaponly/
• Retrolinearonly/
• Probecom/
• Array_indices/
• Fly/
• Positivereporting/
• Ignoremotionerrors/
Move Feature to Reference Plane
If you select the Move Feature to Reference Plane check box, PC-DMIS automatically
projects the measured feature to the workplane. In general, this works for any of the
following feature types as long as they use the best fit functionality internally:
• Circles
• Ellipses
• Lines
• Polygons
• Slots
For a detailed explanation on reference types, see the description of "Reference

Feature area" in the "Using the Quick Start Dialog Box" topic in the "Using Other
Windows, Editors, and Tools" chapter.
Show Extended Sheet Metal Options
If you select the Show Extended Sheet Metal Options check box, PC-DMIS displays
all of the available Sheet Metal options in the Auto Features dialog box. (See the
various extended sheet metal topics in the "Creating Auto Features" chapter.)
For this option, the ShowExtendedSheetMetal registry entry in the PC-DMIS Settings
Editor reads 0 or 1. For information on modifying registry entries, see the "Modifying
Registry Entries" appendix.
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Fixed Dialog Positions
If you select the Fixed Dialog Positions check box, PC-DMIS displays dialog boxes in
their default positions. If this check box is cleared, PC-DMIS displays each dialog box
where it was last positioned.
The DialogFixedPosition registry entry in the PC-DMIS Settings Editor for this
option is set to 0 or 1. For information on modifying registry entries, see the "Modifying
Registry Entries" appendix.
Lock Marked Sets
If you select the Lock Marked Sets check box, PC-DMIS will prevent users from
accidentally deleting or otherwise modifying the current mark set configurations. PC-
DMIS will only allow you to execute and activate marked sets. You must clear this check
box to add or delete features from a marked set.
Automatically Scale to Fit
If you select the Automatically Scale to Fit check box, PC-DMIS automatically scales
the screen every time a feature is measured.
For this option, the AutoScaleToFit registry entry reads 0 or 1 in the PC-DMIS
Settings Editor. For information on modifying registry entries, see the "Modifying
Show Hit Deviations
If you select the Show Hit Deviations check box, PC-DMIS will draw an arrow
whenever a hit is taken to show the measured value minus the nominal deviation.
Use Circular Moves on Round Features
If you select the Use Circular Moves on Round Features check box, and if you are
"learning" a measurement routine by taking hits on the part, PC-DMIS automatically
places circular move commands into the inside circular features as well as into the
outside of circular features. This includes Circles, Cylinders, Cones, and Spheres. This
state, however, is only relevant during learn mode. Once the circular/move commands
are present inside features, they remain there unless directly removed by the user.
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The UseCircularMoves registry entry in the PC-DMIS Settings Editor for this option is
set to either 0 or 1. For information on modifying registry entries, please view the
"Modifying Registry Entries" chapter.
Thickness for Point Only Mode Points
When you select this check box, you can apply thickness to points created with Point
Only Mode. Selecting this check box makes the Thickness box in this same dialog box
available for editing. You can then type a thickness and apply that thickness to points
created using Point Only Mode.
For additional information, see "Point Only Mode" and "Thickness".
Allow fine tuning of Alignment
Whenever you change an alignment, PC-DMIS asks if it should update the commands
below with the changed alignment. If you have this check box selected, and you click
the NO button at this prompt, PC-DMIS changes the MACHINETOPART transformation
if required. If deselected, the MACHINETOPART transformation does not change.
Use CAD Provided IDs for Features
The Use CAD Provided IDs for Features check box allows you to import feature IDs
from a CAD file. When you select this check box, PC-DMIS automatically inputs the
given CAD ID into the Auto Feature dialog box when the CAD feature is selected with a
left mouse click. If you decide to keep this value, then the feature created will have the
given ID.
Find Nominals During Execution
If you select the Find Nominals during Execution check box, new nominals are found
for both Surface and Vector points during measurement routine execution. See
"Execution FindNoms Tolerance" to define the tolerance values PC-DMIS will use. Also,
see "Find Nominals Tolerance".
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Auto Continue Execution if FindHole Fails
If you select the Auto Continue Execution if FindHole Fails check box, PC-DMIS
allows you to automatically continue executing a part if the Find Hole option found on
the Auto Feature dialog box fails to find a hole.
In the past, when the Find Hole option failed, PC-DMIS prompted you to place the
probe in the center of the hole to continue running the measurement routine. However,
with the Auto Continue Execution if FindHole Fails check box selected, PC-DMIS
automatically prints an error message to the report and continues running the remaining
measurement routine.
For more specific information on Find Hole, see the "Working with Contact Find Hole
Properties" topic in the "PC-DMIS CMM" documentation.
Show Startup Dialog
The Show Startup Dialog check box allows you to determine whether or not PC-DMIS
shows the Open File dialog box each time you start PC-DMIS. This dialog box shows a
listing of available measurement routines to open.
When you clear the check box, PC-DMIS will disable this startup dialog.
See "Opening Existing Measurement Routines" in the "Using Basic File Options"
chapter for additional information on the Open File dialog box.
Automatic Label Positioning
The Automatic label positioning check box tells PC-DMIS to automatically position
feature labels around the part. Thereafter, feature ID labels will be repositioned
whenever you perform pan, zoom, or rotate operations on the part model.
You can also turn on Automatic Label Positioning by right-clicking on a feature ID label
and selecting Label Processing | Automatic Label Positioning from the shortcut
menu.
Animate Probe during Program Mode
The Animate probe during Program Mode check box activates probe animation
during Program Mode. When you select this check box, the probe will animate the
taking of hits in the Graphic Display window as the hits are generated from CAD.
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Show Icon in Text Boxes
The Show icon in text boxes check box allows you to determine if icons depicting the
feature or dimension type should appear in text boxes and inside feature ID labels. The
text boxes include feature ID, dimension info, and point info text boxes.
For information on text boxes see "Text Box Mode" in the "Editing the CAD Display"
chapter.
Save Measurement Routine on Execute
The Save Measurement Routine on Execute check box tells PC-DMIS

to automatically save the current measurement routine whenever it's executed.
Use DMIS Button in Edit Window
The Use DMIS Button in Edit Window check box determines whether or not PC-DMIS
displays the DMIS mode icon on the Edit Window toolbar.
Patch Scans Maintain Last Increment
The Patch Scans Maintain Last Increment check box forces each new line of the
patch scan to use the last increment from the previous line. If you deselect this check
box, the scan will revert to the minimum scan increment when taking the first hit on each
line.
Use Automotive Deviation Letters
The Use Automotive Deviation Letters check box causes PC-DMIS to add a letter
after the deviation number in Location and Position dimension reports. PC-DMIS inserts
the letter
• F when the feature deviates in the direction of the front of the car.
• B when the feature deviates in the direction of the back of the car.
• I when the feature deviates towards the centerline of the car (meaning the
car is too narrow).
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• O when the feature deviates away from the centerline of the car (meaning
the car is too wide).
• H when the feature deviates towards the top of the car.
• L when the feature deviates towards the bottom of the car.
Map of Automotive Deviation Letters
These letters are added to the Location and Position dimensions just following the
deviation numbers reported. These deviation letters also appear inside the Report
window for the appropriate dimensions.
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Automotive Deviation Letters in Command Mode
Automotive Deviation Letters in Report Window
Use Find Nominals Override for Scans
The Use Find Nominals Override for Scans check box allows you to override found
nominals when searching for nominal values for a scan's measured points when it
executes.
The execution must fail to find at least one of the measured nominal point
values for you to override the found nominals.
See "Overriding Found Nominals" in the "Editing a Measurement Routine" chapter.
Use ONLY Priority Surfaces for the Find Nominals During Scans
The Use ONLY Priority Surfaces for the Find Nominals During Scans check box
causes PC-DMIS (during measurement routine execution) to search for nominal values
for a scan's measured points on only the priority surfaces set in the Edit CAD Elements
dialog box.
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See "Editing CAD" in the "Editing the CAD Display" chapter.
Display Outline of Plane
The Display Outline of Plane check box determines whether or not PC-DMIS, when it
creates new measured or constructed plane features, displays actual plane outlines in
the Graphic Display window instead of the small symbolic triangle symbol typically used.
For example, if you select this check box and measure three points to construct a plane,
the symbolic triangle for the plane is sized so that its vertices are exactly where the
measured points are.
Example of a constructed plane displayed with this check box selected
Whether you select or clear this check box, existing outlines aren't redrawn; only
planes created from that point are affected. To change existing outlines, you have to do
it manually.
To switch the display of existing planes:
1. Access the Edit window.

2. Place it in Command mode.
3. Go to the command for the plane's display you want to change. For example:
PLN1 = FEAT/PLANE,RECT,TRIANGLE
4. Press the TAB key until you highlight the TRIANGLE or OUTLINE field.
5. Press F7 or F8 to switch between the available values for this field.
• TRIANGLE displays the plane as a triangle.
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• OUTLINE displays the plane as an actual outline of the points making up the
plane.
• NONE hides that specific drawing of the plane.
See "Using the Display Area" under the "Constructing a Plane Feature" topic for an
example of these display types.
6. Press the TAB key to see the result in the Graphic Display window.
Alternately, you can right-click and choose Edit, and make the change on the plane's
dialog box itself.
This setting corresponds with the DisplayOutlineOfPlane registry entry in the

Option section of the PC-DMIS Settings Editor.
Treat Theo Values As if Stored in Part Coordinates
The Treat theo values as if stored in part coordinates check box causes PC-DMIS to
treat theoretical values as if they're stored in part coordinates. This check box was
added for cases where measurement routines perform loops and the alignments are
changing within the looping code.
The offset parameters of the LOOP/START command take care of this issue
automatically. This is for looping measurement routines that don't use the LOOP/START
and LOOP/END commands, such as a WHILE - END/WHILE loop.
Consider this sample pseudo measurement routine:
ASSIGN/COUNT=4
ASSIGN/I=1
WHILE/I<4
LOOPALIGN=START/ALIGN
ALIGN/TRANSLATION OFFSET,X,50
END/ALIGN
MYCIRCLE=MEAS/CIRCLE
THEO/0,0,0
ASSIGN/I=I+1
END_WHILE/
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You would expect that each time through the loop the X value would shift by 50 since
the alignment is shifting by 50 each time. However, since PC-DMIS doesn't store
feature data in part coordinates but in CAD and Machine coordinates, the effect is that
the feature doesn't actually move in this situation even though the alignment is changing
each time through the loop. This is because the CADTOPART and PARTTOMACHINE
transform matrices of the alignment are both altered in the same way, the net effect is
that the CADTOMACHINE transform remains unchanged. This means, by default (when
this check box is not selected), PC-DMIS ends up measuring in the same spot all four
times through the loop.
If PC-DMIS stored coordinates in part coordinates internally, then this would work as
expected. This is where this check box comes into play. When you select this check
box, PC-DMIS keeps track of the alignment that was used during the initial
measurement. On subsequent measurements of a feature, it checks to see if the current
alignment differs from the alignment used on the first pass. If it does, then PC-DMIS
calculates the differences and shifts the feature by that difference, causing this to
function as expected.
Rather than simply changing how PC-DMIS does things internally, this functionality was
provided as a check box to preserve existing measurement routines.
Update Theoretical Values in While Loops
When you use a while loop to measure features multiple times in your measurement
routine, during the execution, the software creates multiple copies of those features.
The Update theoretical values in while loops check box updates the theoretical
values for the copied features, so that even if the CAD to part coordinate system
changes during execution, the features' CAD values are modified so that they are in the
original part coordinate frame used before execution.
Make Variables Globally Visible
Usually, when a subroutine is called, all variables go "out of scope" and are unavailable.
The Make Variables Globally Visible check box makes any variables globally "visible",
or usable, throughout the entire measurement routine.
By default, this check box isn't selected so that variables in a subroutine won't replace
data stored in variables with the same name in the main measurement routine.
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ASSIGN/V1=1
C1=CALLSUB,MYSUB
.
.
.
SUBROUTINE/MYSUB
COMMENT/OPER,V1
END/SUB
• If you deselect this check box, variables are not globally visible. The
OPER comment shows a value of 0 since V1 cannot be seen from inside the
subroutine.
• If you select this check box, variables are globally visible. The OPER comment
shows a value of 1 since V1 can be seen from inside the subroutine.
For information on variables, see the "Using Expressions and Variables" chapter.
Use DMIS Polar Convention
With this option selected, polar angles will follow standard DMIS Polar Convention.
• XY Plane (PLUS Z or MINUS Z) coordinate 'a' is the angle from the x-axis
towards the y-axis.
• YZ Plane (PLUS X or MINUS X) coordinate 'a' is the angle from the y-axis
towards the z-axis.
• ZX Plane (PLUS Y or MINUS Y) coordinate 'a' is the angle from the z-axis
towards the x-axis.
Pass Back Settings from Subroutine
This check box determines whether or not global settings applied within a subroutine
are changed permanently for the remainder of the measurement routine when the
execution flow returns out of the subroutine.
• If you select this check box, any global settings within the subroutine are "passed
back" and used for the remainder of the measurement routine.
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• If you clear this check box, any global settings within the subroutine only apply
while within that subroutine. When the execution flow returns out of the
subroutine, the previous settings are restored.
For example, suppose you have a SCANSPEED/10 statement before your subroutine
and a SCANSPEED/5 statement somewhere within your subroutine. If you select this
check box, when the execution flow leaves the subroutine, the scan speed of 5 is
passed back and used for the remainder of the measurement routine. If you don't select
this check box, the scan speed will automatically return to its original value of 10 after
the execution flow leaves the subroutine.
Use Program Layout for Execution
Selecting this check box lets you use the same window layouts at execution time as you
have for program time.
Force Part Alignment in Car Body
The Force Part Alignment in Car Body check box forces your alignment to be in car
body alignment. If you select this check box, no matter what alignment method you
choose, the alignment will always match that of the CAD. Selecting this check box acts
as a secondary transformation after the initial alignment.
For example, if you translate to the center hole on the Hexagon test block and select
this check box, the origin will still be in the corner, but when you report on that hole, it
will be perfect since you used it to set your origin.
Alignment before using this check box
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Alignment after using this check box
Keep Existing Dimension's Axes
The Keep Existing Dimension's Axes check box keeps existing axes for dimensioned
features from getting updated even if you switch a dimensioned feature to a different
feature type. If you don't select this check box, the related dimension axes will update
according to the selected feature.
By default this is not selected.
Select Alignment to Export
This check box determines whether PC-DMIS displays a dialog box to select the
alignment to export as a .gds file.
If you select this check box, PC-DMIS lets you choose an alignment to export to a
.gds file.
If you don't select this check box, PC-DMIS exports the last used alignment
automatically.
For more information on how to export to a .gds file, see the "Exporting to a Gds File"
topic in "Using Advanced File Options".
Gap Only
This check box sets the default value for the Gap Only check box used in new Location
dimensions for the current measurement routine.
• If you select Gap Only then, when the measurement routine next starts, the
GAPONLY/ON command gets added into the Edit window. In addition, the
Feature Location dialog box (Insert | Dimensions | Location) for Location
dimensions automatically has its Gap Only check box selected by default
whenever you create a new Location dimension.
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• If you deselect Gap Only then the Feature Location dialog box has its Gap
Only check box also deselected whenever you create a new Location dimension.
Show tracker parameters in offline
If you use a portable Leica Tracker device in Online mode to generate feature
commands, PC-DMIS automatically inserts the following information into the Edit
window inside those feature commands:
• RMS - Root Mean Squared value of each hit.

• Probe Type - The type of probe you use to measure the feature.
• Time Stamp - The time that PC-DMIS executed or learned the feature. PC-DMIS
only updates this time stamp when it actually measures a feature in Online mode.
• Environmental Conditions - Information such as temperature, pressure, and
humidity.
In Offline mode, PC-DMIS behaves differently. These Leica Tracker items only appear
after you select the Show tracker parameters in offline check box, and they only
appear for new feature commands inserted into the measurement routine after you
selected this option. Previously-measured features remain unaffected except for a
permanent structure change that added an empty Tracker Parameter group into each
feature command.
If you select this check box, PC-DMIS permanently changes your

measurement-routine structure for inserted feature commands regardless of whether or
not you later clear this check box. For example, if you clear this check box after you've
already used it for some features, newly-inserted features still contain a Tracker
Parameter group, although that group does not contain any group items.
For information on where and how these items appear in the feature commands, see
the PC-DMIS Portable documentation.
Update Report During Execution
This determines whether PC-DMIS creates the report in the Report window during
measurement routine execution.
• When marked, the Report window sends update requests during execution, and
PC-DMIS generates the report as the execution progresses.
• When cleared, the Report window does not send update requests during or at
the end of execution unless you do any of the following:
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o From the Report window's toolbar, click Redraw the report. This
generates the report in the Report window with the latest data.
o Choose File |Printing| Report Window Print. This generates a report if
you configured a file or printer output.
o Insert a PRINT/REPORT command. This generates a report at the time it
executes the command if you configured a file or printer output.
Update Summary Mode During Execution
This determines whether or not the Summary mode should be updated during execution
or after execution has been completed. When disabled, the Edit window's Summary
Mode will not send requests to be updated during execution.
If marked, information that is typically updated during execution are:
• Measured values on features

• Measured values, deviations, out of tolerance and so forth on dimensions
Clearing this check box may help speed up report generation.
Suppress Vision Load Probe Dialogs
This setting is only used with optical machines. See the "Available Vision Setup
Options" topic in the "PC-DMIS Vision" documentation.
Focus Along Camera Vector
Auto Edge Strength
Clear Input on Execution
When checked, every time the measurement routine is executed, any input field that is
displayed will be empty. If this feature is not checked, any input field that is displayed
will display the contents from the previous input.
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Do Not Display Plane
When measured or constructed plane features are added, PC-DMIS has the option of
displaying a shaded plane as either an outline of the hits comprising the plane or as a
triangle. You can mark this check box to hide the drawn shaded plane at creation so
that it doesn't clutter up the Graphic Display window. This only hides the drawn plane;
the actual plane feature is still created. This setting corresponds with the
DoNotDisplayPlane registry entry in the Option section of the PC-DMIS Settings
Editor.
Print Background Colors
This Print Background Colors check box determines the default state of the Print
background colors check box in the Output Configuration dialog box. See "Output to
the Default Printer" for additional information. This setting corresponds to the
PrintBackgroundColors registry entry in the Printing section of the PC-DMIS
Settings Editor.
Use Legacy Profile 2D
Selecting this option toggles between the legacy version of Profile 2D (selected) and the
latest version of Profile 2D (de-selected).
The legacy Profile 2D has the options of Matching Edge and Under Scan which are no
longer available in the latest version of Profile 2D.
For more information on using the Legacy Profile 2D functionality, see the Vision topic
"Vision Profile 2D".
Move to focus position
This check box controls the stage motion at the end of a focus measurement.
• If this check box is selected, the machine will move back to the focus position at
the end of the focus scanning motion.
• If this check box is cleared, the machine will not move to the focus position if
there is a move or measurement following the focus measurement. Instead, it will
move from the top of the focus scan directly to the next machine position.
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Clearance Cube uses Tip Vector for Start/End Face
If this check box is selected, new features inserted into the measurement routine will
use the probe tip's vector as the default ClearanceCube start face and end face.
Otherwise, the ClearanceCube start face or end face is determined by the feature's
vector.
Start Points Always Track Execution
The Start Points Always Track Execution check box enables start points to always
track the execution of a measurement routine. Specifically, it determines if you created
the start point or if PC-DMIS created it because the Cancel button in the Execution
dialog box was selected.
If the check box is selected:
• If you select Cancel to stop the execution, PC-DMIS adjusts the insertion point in
the Edit window to be at the lowest arm number start point that it inserted.
• If you do not select Cancel, and the execution successfully completed, PC-DMIS
checks the start points. If PC-DMIS inserted them because Cancel was
previously selected, PC-DMIS clears them. In this case, it restores the insertion
point back to where it started from before you executed the measurement
routine.
• If you select Cancel, PC-DMIS inserts the start point.
If the check box is cleared:
• If you select Cancel to stop the execution, and PC-DMIS inserted the start
points, PC-DMIS adjusts the insertion point to be at the lowest arm number start
point that it inserted.
• If you do not select Cancel, and the execution successfully completed, PC-DMIS
checks the start points. If PC-DMIS inserted them because Cancel was
previously selected, it clears them. In this case, the insertion point is restored
back to where it started from before you executed the measurement routine.
• If you select Cancel, PC-DMIS inserts the start point if there are no start points
on an arm, or if it inserted them because Cancel was previously selected. If you
inserted the start point, PC-DMIS does not adjust it.
For more information about start points, see "Setting Start Points".
Use Scanning Strategies for QuickAlign
The Use Scanning Strategies for QuickAlign check box determines whether or not
the DCC mode features during a QuickAlign operation are created using the scanning
27
strategy that is defined in the .ipd (inspection plan defaults) file. However, if you modify
that auto feature type and choose a new strategy prior to generating the alignment, it
remembers and uses the newer strategy and no longer uses the defaults in the .ipd file.
The scanning strategies are used for a QuickAlign operation, if the following conditions
are true:
• This check box is marked.

• The features in the manual alignment are Auto features.
• The probe type is a scanning probe.
If this check box is unmarked, PC-DMIS uses the default touch trigger strategy.
For information on strategies, see "Working with Measurement Strategies" in the PC-
DMIS CMM documentation.
For information on QuickAlign, see "About QuickAlign" in the "Creating and Using
Alignments" chapter.
Open report file when generated
The Open report file when generated check box determines whether or not any
generated .pdf, .rtf, or xls report files are opened once the measurement routine finishes
executing. If marked, PC-DMIS marks the Show Report check boxes on both the
Report and Excel tabs of the Output Configuration dialog box. For more information
on the Output Configuration dialog box, see the "Printing the Report Window" topic
and its sub topics.
Send skipped items to statistics
The Send skipped items to statistics check box determines whether or not features
that are skipped during execution are sent to any defined statistics database or output
files. By default, this is marked and the software sends the skipped features to the
database and output files.
Looped Analysis Commands use same CAD Alignment
You may have one or more ANALYSISVIEW commands inside of a LOOP/START and
LOOP/END command block. This check box determines if those ANALYSISVIEW
commands all use the same alignment.
If marked, the commands use the same alignment.
28
If cleared, the commands may use different alignments based on your measurement
routine.
29
Suppose your measurement routine has this sequence of commands:
A1 ALIGNMENT
CIR1
CIR2
CIR3
DIM1
DIM2
DIM3
LOOP/START 1 to 3
A2 ALIGNMENT
ANALYSISVIEW, DIM1, DIM2, DIM3
LOOP/END
Suppose the loop runs three times. Also, suppose that with each loop, A2 changes the
origin to reference a different circle. So that:
• Loop #1 - A2 uses CIR1

If you mark this check box, the ANALYSISVIEW command uses the alignment that
points to CIR1. It does this for all three iterations.
If you clear this check box, the ANALYSISVIEW command uses the three different
alignments.
Auto Insert Temperature Compensation in New Routine
You can choose to either automatically insert the TEMPCOMP temperature compensation
command into a measurement routine or not insert it. For details, see "Automatic
Insertion of Temperature Compensation Command".
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Use Characteristic ID Naming
This check box determines how PC-DMIS names features that you import from
embedded CAD GD&T callouts (PMI).
• If you mark this check box, PC-DMIS uses the characteristic IDs from the native
CAD model for the feature naming.
• If you clear this check box, PC-DMIS uses its default feature naming.
For information on importing CAD GD&T callouts, see "Importing CAD GD&T Callouts"
under "Working with CAD GD&T Callouts" in the "Editing the CAD Display" chapter.
Don't confuse this characteristic ID naming with characteristic IDs used by

Show Characteristic IDs on the Graphic Items toolbar. The IDs from the toolbar come
from an entirely different source. For information on the Graphic Items toolbar see,
"Graphic Items Toolbar" in the "Using Toolbars" chapter.
Use Measurement Strategy Widget
This check box determines whether the measurement strategy widget appears when
you create a QuickFeature or a feature for a GD&T callout. By default, PC-DMIS marks
this check box for CMM configurations. For portable configurations, PC-DMIS clears this
check box.
• If you mark this check box, the widget always appears when you click on the
feature.
• If you clear this check box, the widget does not appear when you click on the
feature. PC-DMIS still creates the feature, but it does not show the widget.
For more information on this measurement strategy widget, see "Using the
Measurement Strategy Widget" in the "Creating Auto Features" chapter.
This check box determines whether to enable or disable the Measurement Strategy
Editor (MSE) application. By default, PC-DMIS marks this check box for CMM
configurations. For portable configurations, PC-DMIS clears this check box.
• If you mark this check box, the MSE appears when you select the Edit |
Preferences | Measurement Strategy Editor menu.
31
• If you clear this check box, the Edit | Preferences | Measurement Strategy
Editor menu turns gray and you can no longer select it.
For more information on the Measurement Strategy Editor, see "Using the
Measurement Strategy Editor" in this chapter.
Show Home Page
This check box determines whether to show the Home page if you don't load any
measurement routines. If you clear this check box, the Home page does not appear,
and it shows the gray screen from versions before 2019 R2.
For more information on the Home page, see "The Home Page" in the "Navigating the
User Interface" chapter.
Show Peek Window
This check box determines whether to enable or disable the Peek window. The Peek
window is enabled by default.
• If you mark this check box, the Peek window displays a command's information
when you point to the command in the Edit window in Summary mode.
• If you clear this check box, the Peek window does not display a command's
information when you point to the command in the Edit window in Summary
mode.
For more information on the Peek window, see "Using the Peek Window" in the "Using
the Edit Window" chapter.
Warnings
The Warnings button on the General tab of the Setup Options dialog box (Edit |
Preferences | Setup) displays the Warnings Display Options dialog box.
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Warnings Display Options dialog box
You can use this dialog box to tell PC-DMIS to re-display warnings that you have
already switched off as well as change the default actions for warning messages that
are turned off. By default, this dialog box is empty. When a warning message appears,
PC-DMIS gives you the option of not receiving that warning again. When you choose to
not receive the warning, the warning ends up in this dialog box.
If you need information on specific warnings, consult the "Warn(Option)" topic in the
Option section of the PC-DMIS Settings Editor documentation.
Warning messages only appear in this interface in the Warnings Display

Options dialog box once you have turned them off. If no warnings have been turned off,
the dialog box remains empty.
To start receiving a warning message again:
1. Access the Warnings Display Options dialog box. It shows any warnings that
you have turned off.
2. Select the warning and clear its check box.
3. Click OK to remove the warning. PC-DMIS starts displaying that warning
message again.
33
The Clear List button clears all the check boxes for all items, thereby
returning PC-DMIS to its default mode of displaying all the warning messages.
To change the default action for a warning message:
1. Make sure you have clicked the Don't ask me again check box when the
warning appears. This causes it to go to the Warnings Display Options dialog
box. T
2. Access the Warnings Display Options dialog box. It shows any warnings you
have turned off.
3. Double-click on the warning message whose default action you want to change.
PC-DMIS displays the warning, allowing you to select the new default action.
4. Select the new default action to update the list with the new action.
5. Click OK to save your choice.
Password
The Password button allows you to password protect access to the Setup Options
dialog box.
To password protect your setup options:
1. Access the Setup Options dialog box (Edit | Preferences | Setup).

2. Select the General tab.
3. Click the Password button. The Options Password dialog box appears.
Options Password dialog box
34
4. In the New Password box, type the desired password.

5. In the Repeat entry box, re-type the same password to confirm your entry.
6. Select the Use Password check box.
7. Click OK.
The next time you attempt to access the Setup Options dialog box, you will be asked to
type the password before proceeding. The password is case-sensitive.
Even if you don't have password access to edit the settings, you can always view the
available settings by using the Show Options button. This displays the Setup Options
dialog box, but you are unable to make any changes.
The Protected Mode password supersedes and overwrites any other password
you have defined. This means if you have password protection enabled for the Setup
Options dialog box or for an .ipd file, you need to use the password defined when
Protected Mode was enabled.
Other Edit Boxes for the General tab

Use the other boxes on the General tab to edit the following options:
Scale factor box
The Scale factor box scales the measured data by whatever factor is entered. For
example, if a circle is measured and has a diameter of 1.0 inches and the scale factor is
0.95, then the measured value will be reported as 0.95 inches.
35
Find nominals tolerance box
This box becomes available when you first select the Find Nominals check box. See
"Find Nominals".
Use the Find nominals tolerance box to type the amount of tolerance that PC-DMIS
uses when finding the nominals. The default is 10 mm.
When you initially set this value and click OK (and whenever you perform a find
nominals operation in learn mode), PC-DMIS checks this value against the active tip's
radius. If this value is less than the tip's radius, PC-DMIS will change it to match the
diameter of the active tip.
Show deviations tolerance box
Use the Show deviations tolerance box to type the amount of tolerance that PC-DMIS
uses when PC-DMIS is showing hit deviations. This option is only available when you
first select the Show Hit Deviations check box.
Deviation arrow multiplier box
The Deviation arrow multiplier box is only available when you first select the Show
Hit Deviations check box. An arrow appears in the Graphic Display window marking
each hit taken, showing the deviation. The larger the value you enter in this box, the
greater the size of the arrow.
Thickness box
The Thickness box works with the Thickness for Point Only Mode Points check box.
If you select the Thickness for Point Only Mode Points check box, the thickness in
this box will be applied to each point created by Point Only Mode.
See "Point Only Mode" and "Thickness for Point Only Mode Points" for additional
information.
36
Execution Area
Use the items in the Execution area of the General tab to edit the following options:
Any order execute tolerance
In the Any order execute tolerance box, define the tolerance that the hit must be
within for PC-DMIS to measure that feature when executing your measurement routine
in any order execute mode.
If your initial hit is more than the specified tolerance away from the feature, PC-DMIS
searches backwards and forwards through the measurement routine for the closest
feature whose initial hit matches your initial hit and executes that feature instead. For
more information, see "Any Order Execution" in the "Using Advanced File Options"
chapter.
PC-DMIS stores the tolerance value with your measurement routine. This enables you
to have different search zones for different measurement routines if desired.
Execution FindNoms tolerance
In the Execution FindNoms tolerance box, type the amount of tolerance that PC-
DMIS uses when finding the nominals during measurement routine execution.
This box becomes available when you first select the Find Nominals during Execution
check box. For more information, see "Find Nominals During Execution".
Record and display execution time
If you select the Record and display execution time check box, PC-DMIS displays the
remaining execution time for a measurement routine or mini routine in the Execution
dialog box. The time is recorded only for the DCC portion of the execution.
This check box is not available for Portable machines (the execution time applies only to
DCC measurements).
Every time you execute a measurement routine or mini routine, PC-DMIS records and
stores its execution time. The next time you start the execution, the last time that was
recorded appears in the Execution dialog box. This way, if you add or delete features,
or decide to decrease or increase speeds in your measurement routine or mini routine,
PC-DMIS records the change in execution time.
PC-DMIS records the execution time in the <name of measurement

routine>.MiniRoutines.xml file. This file is located in the same folder as the
measurement routine. If a measurement routine is executed when the file does not
37
exist, then PC-DMIS creates the file. For more information about this file, see "Mini
Routines".
You can decide to not record and display the execution time in the Execution dialog
box. For example, the execution time for a machine that operates only in Manual mode
does not need to be recorded and displayed. To not record and display the execution
time, clear the Record and display execution time check box.
Add to execution time (seconds)
The time required to complete a measurement routine may include other actions in
addition to executing the measurement routine or mini routine, such as printing the
measurement results. If you select the Add to execution time (seconds) check box
and enter the time in seconds, PC-DMIS adds the seconds to the actual execution time.
The next time you execute the measurement routine or mini routine, the remaining time
that appears in the Execution dialog box will include this additional time.
Setup Options: Part/Machine tab

functionality.
38
Setup Options dialog box-Part/Machine tab
The Part/Machine tab lets you define the part setup on the CMM (or Machine) by
changing the CAD axes relationship to the machine axes. To access this option, click on
the Part/Machine tab in the Setup Options dialog box (Edit | Preferences | Setup).
This capability is needed when you use PC-DMIS to create a measurement routine, and
the CAD coordinate system differs from the CMM part setup.
A part is set up on the machine with its X+ CAD axis pointing in the same
direction as the CMM's Z+ axis. The Z+ CAD axis is pointing in the same direction as
the CMM's X- axis. This function can be used to create the proper relationships.
To equate the CAD setup to the part’s setup, select the appropriate axes from the drop-
down lists. Once this relationship is established, it becomes easier to create a
measurement routine for the part because PC-DMIS properly displays the probe in
relation to the part.
39
Machine area
Machine area
Probe Head Orientation button
The Probe Head Orientation button allows you to configure the probe head wrist AB
angles for multiple arms.
To configure the AB wrist angles for multiple arms:

2. Select the Part/Machine tab.
3. Click the Probe Head Orientation button. The Probe Head Wrist Angle
Configuration dialog box appears.
4. Select the appropriate axes for the AB angles for the Arm1 and Arm2 arms (if
applicable).
5. Click the OK button.
Fly Mode area
The Fly Mode area provides a way to move the probe around the part in a smooth and
non-stopping motion. You must insert a move point into the measurement routine before
you use this option. (See "Inserting a Move Point Command" in the "Inserting Move
Commands" chapter.) The Fly command can only be inserted before or after any
feature in the measurement routine.
To use the Fly mode:
1. Scroll to the location in the Edit window where you want the Fly command.
2. Select the Active check box.
3. Click the Create button.
The Fly Mode is automatically placed in the current measurement routine at the
designated location. The Edit window command line for this option reads:
40
FLY/TOG1. The TOG1 toggle field switches between either ON or OFF. If ON, PC-
DMIS activates the command. If OFF, PC-DMIS skips the command.
In DMIS mode, the Edit window command line that activates the command is:
FLY/1
If you have selected an illegal position, a message informs you that PC-DMIS cannot
insert at the current line. The message then asks if it should insert the command at the
next legal position.
• If you click the Yes button, PC-DMIS moves the Fly command down to the end of
the current feature in the Edit window.
• If you click the No button, PC-DMIS cancels the Fly command and returns you to
the Part/Machine tab.
Wrist warning delta box
This is a numerical value that defines the minimum change in the wrist angle required
before PC-DMIS proposes a change to the current wrist position. This affects users with
a DCC CMM with all auto wrists.
Manual hit retract box
The Manual hit retract box allows you to type the retract distance the CMM
automatically travels after a manual hit is taken. This value corresponds to the unit type
of the measurement routine (inches or millimeters).
If you change the manual hit retract value from either the default or from the last-used
value, PC-DMIS places a retract command (shown as MANRETRACT/ and then the
value) in the current measurement routine's Edit window at the cursor's location. As
manual hits are taken, the CMM retracts by the new value stated on this command.
For example, if you change the manual hit retract value from the .1 default to .003, the
command MANRETRACT/0.003 appears in the Edit window.
Display absolute speeds box
If you select the Display absolute speeds check box, PC-DMIS displays the speed
values in other dialog boxes as an absolute value instead of a percentage. This value
corresponds to the unit type of the measurement routine (inches or millimeters).
41
Top speed (mm/sec) box
The Top speed (mm/sec) box allows you to reset the top speed that the machine can
travel. The value that you specify cannot exceed the machine's designated top speed.
The value works in conjunction with the Move speed option.
Part Setup area
Part Setup area
The Part Setup area of the Part/Machine tab is useful when you create a
measurement routine and the CAD coordinate system differs from the CMM part setup.
CAD "+X" axis equals list
This drop-down list allows you to set the relationship between the CAD X+ axis and the
machine axis.
CAD "+Y" axis equals list
This drop-down list allows you to set the relationship between the CAD Y+ axis and the
machine axis.
CAD "+Z" axis equals list
This drop-down list allows you to set the relationship between the CAD Z+ axis and the
machine axis.
X offset box, Y offset box, Z offset box
These boxes allow you to enter the distance that PC-DMIS offsets the CAD drawing
along the X, Y, or Z axis. PC-DMIS shifts the CAD drawing along the X, Y, or Z axis the
specified distance. For example, if you enter in .5 in the X field, the entire CAD display
in the Graphic Display window shifts the distance by .5 in the X direction.
42
All features created in the measurement routine do not shift along the axis
with the CAD drawing.
Adjust button
The Adjust button opens the Adjust Part Setup dialog box.
Adjust Part Setup dialog box
You can use this dialog box to rotate or move the CAD in increments about and along
the machine's XYZ axes.
• If you're rotating the CAD, then the values are in angle degrees. A value of 360
has the same effect as 0.
• If you're moving the CAD, then the values are in the units of measurement that
the measurement routine is in. For example, a value of 2 would mean 2 inches or
2 millimeters, depending on the units of measurement used by your
To adjust the CAD along or about an axis:
1. Click on the appropriate box.

2. Type a new value. PC-DMIS dynamically shows the adjustment in the Graphic
Display window.
3. Click OK to accept the values and close the dialog box.
PC-DMIS maintains this adjustment unless you re-import the part's CAD model.
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Auto Position button
The Auto Position button positions the part onto the graphical representation of the
machine's table. Auto position best guesses where to position the part on the graphical
representation. You can either let PC-DMIS determine where to put the part in relation
to the CMM by using this function, or you can type your own positioning using the XYZ
offset fields. (See "Defining Machines" in the "Defining Hardware" chapter for more
information on setting up the graphical representation of the CMM.)
Apply button
When you click the Apply button, PC-DMIS immediately applies any changes made in
the X, Y, or Z Offset fields. It also shifts the drawing along the appropriate axis (axes)
while keeping the dialog box open.
Table Avoidance area
The Table Avoidance area of the of the Part/Machine tab allows PC-DMIS to ascertain
if the probe comes in contact with the table (or set plane) while in DCC mode.
Click the Measure button and PC-DMIS asks you to take a hit where the table surface
is to be defined. This location defines the threshold for the Z axis. The tolerance field
defines a location in the positive Z direction for positive values and in the negative Z
direction for negative values, relative to the set plane.
• If a move goes beyond the indicated tolerance, PC-DMIS will display an error
message indicating the potential danger.
• If a wrist rotation is requested that will pass through the defined zone, PC-DMIS
will display a message alerting you to the error.
Select either Cancel or Continue to terminate or finish the operation.
44
A tolerance field of .25 will alert PC-DMIS to avoid the indicated threshold plus
the tolerance value. If the threshold is on the table surface, PC-DMIS will alert you if the
probe tip comes within one quarter inch (or millimeter depending on the set unit type) of
the table.
The Table Avoidance option is available with certain interface types only
while in DCC mode.
CMM Limits area

The values in the CMM Limits area of the Part/Machine tab in the Setup Options
dialog box enables PC-DMIS to avoid collisions with the legs on Bridge-type CMMs
during the calibration of tactile probes.
When you calibrate a tactile probe with long extensions, collisions may occur when the
probe rotates in the different tip positions. To avoid collisions, you can enable the Leg
Collision check. PC-DMIS runs the check online and just before the probe calibration
routine. The Leg Collision check can automatically add safety movements.
When PC-DMIS connects to a supported Hexagon CMM machine (common controllers

and FDC controllers), it automatically gets the CMM limits. You can manually edit the
CMM limits. This can be useful if you do not have a Hexagon CMM. In addition, you
might want to reduce the limits to avoid collisions with objects located within the
machine volume (tool changers, fixtures, and so on).
To run the Leg Collision check, do the following:
1. If you need to modify or add the limits of the machine, enter the values in the X
Min, Y Min, Z Min, X Max, Y Max, and Z Max boxes in the CMM Limits area.
2. Calibrate the probe tips. For details, refer to the "Calibrating Probe Tips" topic in
the "Setting Up and Using Probes" chapter in the PC-DMIS CMM documentation.
To reset any modified values and obtain the CMM limits from your Hexagon CMM
again, do the following:
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1. Type 0 into the X Min, Y Min, Z Min, X Max, Y Max, and Z Max boxes.
2. Click OK to close the Setup Options dialog box.
3. Restart the measurement routine, or restart your machine.
Default button
The Default button allows you to update the default settings to several of the
Part/Machine tab's options on the Setup Options dialog box (Edit | Preferences |
Setup). When a new measurement routine is created, it reflects any changes made to
the accessible parameters, only if the Default button is pressed. If the OK button is
selected (without the Default button being pressed) the defined parameters will only
apply to the active measurement routine and will not affect PC-DMIS's registry entries.
The default values are stored in the registry. These parameters can be updated in the
appropriate dialog box or by using the PC-DMIS Settings Editor. See the "Modifying
If any of the parameters are changed and the Default button is clicked, PC-DMIS will
update the registry file, redefining the default to the current setting.
Setup Options: Dimension tab

functionality.
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Setup Options dialog box-Dimension tab
The Dimension tab lets you access the dimensional printout parameters.
To access the Dimension tab:

2. Click the Dimension tab.
Apply Defaults Based On
Apply Defaults Based on area
The Apply Defaults Based On area lets you apply default dimension tolerances either
based on feature type or on the number of decimal places displayed.
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• Selecting the Feature Type option enables the Default Feature Tolerance area,
allowing you to define dimension tolerances based on individual feature types.
Whenever PC-DMIS creates a dimension automatically, either because the Auto
option is selected in the Location dialog box (Insert | Dimension | Location) or
because you used the Auto Dimension Setup button, the default dimension
tolerance associated with that feature type is used. See the "Default Feature
Tolerance" topic.
• Selecting the Decimal Place option enables the Default Tolerances area,
allowing you to define dimension tolerances based on the number of decimal
places. This is the old way that PC-DMIS determined dimension tolerances. See
"Default Tolerances" topic.
Default Feature Tolerance
Default Feature Tolerance area
The Default Feature Tolerance area, enabled when you select the Feature Type
option from the Apply Defaults Based On area, lets you define default dimension
tolerances based on individual feature types.
This capability only applies for legacy dimensions.
Whenever you manually create a location dimension or whenever PC-DMIS creates any
dimension automatically (due to the Auto Dimension Setup button), the default
dimension tolerance associated with that feature type is used, unless that same feature
type already exists in the measurement routine. In that case, PC-DMIS instead uses the
tolerance for the existing feature for any new automatic dimensions of that same feature
type. This way you only need to modify the tolerance once for a feature type and PC-
DMIS uses that same tolerance for other features of the same type throughout the rest
of your measurement routine.
Type list
This list displays all the features for which you can set a default tolerance.
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Tolerance box
This box defines the default tolerance used for the feature in the Type list.
Apply All button

This button lets you apply the current tolerance value in the Tolerance box to all feature
types.
Auto Stats
Auto Stats area
PC-DMIS can save statistical data to an output file and then update a database from
that file. You define where to save stats in the STATS/ON command. For more
information on the STATS/ON command, see the "Tracking Statistical Data" chapter.
The check boxes in the Auto Stats area control whether PC-DMIS shows certain
prompts when it executes STATS/ON commands.
ALWAYS Save Stats to File
• If you clear this check box, PC-DMIS asks if it's okay to save the statistics. This
occurs when execution starts and your measurement routine has a STATS/ON
command in it.
• If you mark this check box, PC-DMIS saves the statistical data without asking
you.
ALWAYS Update Database
• If you clear this check box, PC-DMIS asks if you want to update the database.
This occurs after PC-DMIS saves the statistical data to the file and is about to
update a database.
• If you mark this check box, PC-DMIS updates the database whenever it collects
and saves statistical data without asking you.
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For details on the locations of PC-DMIS files, see "Understanding File

Locations".
Features Use Dimension Colors
The Features Use Dimension Colors check box tells PC-DMIS to color features that
have an associated dimension. Features are drawn in the Graphic Display window with
the same colors that the dimension uses to indicate deviation from the theoretical
values.
By default, this only functions with location dimensions. You can use this with non-
location dimensions as well by using the NonLocationDimsSetFeatColor registry
entry in the Dimensions section of the PC-DMIS Settings Editor.
CAD Nominal Places =
The CAD Nominal Places = box allows you to enter a numerical value that defines how
many decimal places PC-DMIS will use before rounding when it uses CAD data. For
example, if a CAD circle has a diameter of 3.9995, and the value is set to 3, PC-DMIS
will round its value to 4.000. This option only affects the way PC-DMIS interprets CAD
data in the SHEET METAL MEASUREMENT mode. If the value is set to 0, PC-DMIS
will not round off any values.
Minus Tols Show Negative
The Minus Tols Show Negative check box controls whether or not the minus
tolerances of the dimensions will be displayed with a minus sign. For example, if the
dimension is specified as 5.0000 +0.3 (upper tolerance), -0.2 (lower tolerance), the
dimension line may be displayed as follows if this check box is selected:
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AX NOM +TOL -TOL MEAS MAX MIN DEV OUT-TOL

Y 5.0000 0.3000 -0.2000 5.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000
If this check box is cleared, the same example may be displayed as follows:
AX NOM +TOL -TOL MEAS MAX MIN DEV OUT-TOL

Y 5.0000 0.3000 0.2000 5.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000 0.0000
This check box does not affect how the values are stored or used in calculations. It only
controls how the values are displayed according to user preference. This check box is
not selected by default.
If you have this check box cleared, you can still have a tolerance with a minus
sign in front of it. Under usual circumstances, your lower and upper limits are on
opposite sides of the nominal. If this check box is not marked, the values are displayed
as positive values. However, if the upper limit and lower limit are both greater than the
nominal - for example, your values actually read +TOL 0.03 and –TOL –0.02 before
using this check box - then your minus tol value shows a positive value when you select
this check box.
Number of Decimal Places
Number of Decimal Places area
The Number of Decimal Places area controls the number of decimal places displayed
in the Edit window and the inspection report.
Choose the desired option to determine the number of decimal places displayed.
Each time this is changed in a measurement routine, PC-DMIS places a command:

DISPLAYPRECISION/ # into the measurement routine. This specifies the precision to
be displayed at this section of the measurement routine. If this command is not used,
then the default value is automatically used. If this command is used, the precision
stays as specified unless changed by another instance of the command.
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• Millimeter measurement routines allow up to six decimal places.

• Inch measurement routines allow up to seven decimal places.
For example, choosing 6 for an inch measurement routine and clicking OK inserts this
command into the Edit window: DISPLAYPRECISION/6
This causes any dimensions listed below this command to be displayed with six decimal
places, as illustrated in this Location dimension:
DISPLAYPRECISION/6
DIM LOC2= LOCATION OF POINT PNT1 UNITS=IN ,$
GRAPH=OFF TEXT=OFF MULT=10.00 OUTPUT=BOTH HALF ANGLE=NO
AX NOMINAL +TOL -TOL MEAS DEV
OUTTOL
X 2436.427000 0.001970 0.001970 2436.427000
0.000000 0.000000 ----#----
Y 229.658000 0.001970 0.001970 229.658000
0.000000 0.000000 ----#----
Z 849.992000 0.001970 0.001970 849.992000
0.000000 0.000000 ----#----
T 0.000000 0.001970 0.001970 0.000000
0.000000 0.000000 ----#----
END OF DIMENSION LOC2
Default Tolerances
Default Tolerances area
The Default Tolerances area, enabled when you select the Decimal Places option
from the Apply Defaults Based On area, lets you define the default tolerances PC-
DMIS uses when you modify a dimension's nominal value in the Edit window. The
default tolerance used is based on the number of decimal places in the nominal value.
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For example, if you modify a nominal value to read 6.250, PC-DMIS sets the + and -
tolerance to the 3 Places = default tolerance value, because three decimal places were
used. If you instead entered 6.25, PC-DMIS would set the + and - tolerance to the 2
Places = value, because two decimal places were used.
0-6 Places = boxes

These boxes allow you to set different default tolerances that PC-DMIS applies when
you define a nominal value with 0 to 6 decimal places.
Positive Reporting
The check boxes related to the Positive Reporting area control the reporting of
features to the negative side of the origin. With positive reporting, features that would
normally have negative values are always printed with positive values.
• The X, Y, and Z check boxes determine on which axis (or axes) PC-DMIS will
display positive numbers.
• The All Data option tells PC-DMIS to flip the measured and nominal values of
the selected axis (or axes) and to display any negative numbers for nominal axes
as positive numbers.
• The Deviations Only option tells PC-DMIS to flip only the deviations of the
selected axis (or axes) when the nominal values of axes are negative numbers.
When these check boxes are selected, a POSITIVEREPORTING command is inserted

into the measurement routine at the current cursor position. This command has the
following format in the Edit window:
POSITIVEREPORTING/ a, b, c, TOG1
Where:
a = X when the X check box is selected, or blank if the X check box is cleared.
b = Y when the Y check box is selected, or blank if the Y check box is cleared.
c = Z when the Z check box is selected, or blank if the Z check box is cleared.
53
TOG1 = ALLDATA or DEVONLY depending on whether you selected the All Data or
Deviations Only option.
The X, Y, and Z direction may each have positive reporting turned on in any
combination of the three. Multiple POSITIVEREPORTING commands may be used
within the same measurement routine, and any dimensions that are in the measurement
routine are displayed using the POSITIVEREPORTING command that precedes the
dimensions. If no POSITIVEREPORTING command exists in the measurement routine,
all dimensions are reported with the options turned OFF in the X, Y, and Z directions.
The following diagram demonstrates how the tolerances are also affected by the
positive reporting options:
Positive Reporting affecting tolerances
A = 0.3 +tol in X
B = 0.1 -tol in X
C = 0.2 deviation in X
D = Point 1
E = Point 2
F = 1.0 nominal
Purpose of Positive Reporting
Positive reporting allows you to report features in a symmetric manner, so that,

regardless of which side of the origin the feature exists, deviations away from the origin
are considered positive, and deviations toward the origin are considered negative.
Thus, in the diagram above, both Point1 and Point2 will display positive deviations when
positive reporting in the X axis. This also means, however, that:
• plus tolerances are applied away from the origin.
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• minus tolerances are applied toward the origin.
Migrating Older Measurement Routines
When migrating measurement routines from an older version of PC-DMIS (such as 3.7)
to version 4.x or higher, you may have a problem with the tolerance band being flipped
when using Positive Reporting in your dimensions and you are using variables to insert
the tolerance values into the PLUS and MINUS tol fields. The
UseLegacyPositiveReporting registry entry, located in the Option section of the
PC-DMIS Settings Editor, lets you use the legacy positive reporting in these cases,
making it so that the tolerance values are not flipped.
Display Angle Degrees
Display Angle Degrees area
The Display Angle Degrees area allows you to display angle dimensions using
decimal degrees or by degree/minute/second. Simply select the desired option. Any PA
Location axes and Angle dimensions will change to display the selected option.
Angle Degrees
Angle Degrees area
The Angle Degrees area will also allow you to display the angle dimension from 0° -
360° or 0° to +/- 180° for the current measurement routine. Any PA Location axes and
Angle dimensions will change to lie within the selected angle degree range. If you want
to change the default value for all future measurement routines, use the
AngleRange0To360 registry entry in the Option section of the PC-DMIS Settings
Editor.
55
Auto Dimension Setup
The Auto Dimension Setup button from the Dimension tab of the Setup Options
dialog box (Edit | Preferences | Setup) opens the Auto Dimensioning dialog box.
Auto Dimensioning dialog box
This dialog box provides you with several options that allow you to determine whether or
not PC-DMIS automatically dimensions features immediately after creating them and
how it should create those dimensions.
To enable or disable automatic dimension creation, clear or mark the following check
boxes:
Auto Form Dimensions

This check box determines whether or not PC-DMIS automatically creates form
dimensions for feature types that have a form dimension.
Feature Associated Form Dimension

Circle Roundness
Cylinder Roundness
Cone Roundness
Sphere Roundness
Plane Flatness
Line Straightness
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Auto Location/Position Dimensions
This check box determines whether or not PC-DMIS automatically creates location or
position dimensions for feature types that have a location or position dimension.
Create Location Dimensions

If you select Auto Location/Position dimensions, this option button tells PC-DMIS to
create those dimensions as Location dimensions.
Create Position Dimensions

If you select Auto Location/Position dimensions, this option button tells PC-DMIS to
create those dimensions as Position dimensions.
Auto Textual Analysis ON

This check box controls whether or not PC-DMIS automatically creates textual analysis
of the dimension. It is considered ON if the box is marked. See "Analysis Settings" in
the "Using Legacy Dimensions" chapter and "Analysis" in the "Inserting Report
Commands" chapter.
Auto Graphical Analysis ON

This check box controls whether or not PC-DMIS automatically creates a graphical
analysis of any dimension that is created with Auto Create Dimensions or Auto
Roundness. See "Analysis Settings" in the "Using Legacy Dimensions" section and
"Analysis" in the "Inserting Report Commands" chapter.
Auto Dimension Info

This check box controls whether or not PC-DMIS automatically creates a Dimension
Information check box for any dimension created with the Auto Create Dimensions
check box or the Auto Roundness check box. See "Inserting Dimension Info Boxes" in
the "Inserting Report Commands" chapter for information on how to set the default
formats for this Dimension Info boxes.
Multiply
The Multiply value is a scaling factor that magnifies the arrow and tolerance zone for
the graphical analysis mode. If a value of 2.0 is entered, PC-DMIS scales the arrow two
times the graphical image.
The Multiply box is used for viewing purposes only, and is not reflected in the text
printout.
57
PC-DMIS creates dimensions as either legacy dimensions or Feature Control

Frame dimensions. Mark or un-mark the Use Legacy Dimension check box from the
Insert | Dimensions submenu to set the appropriate dimension type.
Setup Options: ID Setup tab

Click on any of the tabs along the top, or buttons along the bottom of the image below,
to display information on their functionality.
Setup Options dialog box-ID Setup tab
It is important to keep track of IDs already set when changing an identification. It is possible to
have ID duplication through multiple changes to this option.
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The ID Setup tab allows you to alter the format used to identify alignments, dimensions,
features, comments, labels, variables, and other items.
To access this option:

2. Select the ID Setup tab.
The default Labeling method is Generic. As each feature is created, PC-DMIS assigns
it an ID beginning with the letter F, followed by a number (incrementally set from the
starting number of one). You may choose to override this setting by selecting options on
this tab.
Feature ID Rules
When modifying IDs, follow these rules:
• Do not use space characters (use an underscore instead).

• Do not duplicate feature names for different features.
• Do not use names that are identical to PC-DMIS keywords or commands
(ALIGN, PROBE, OFFSET, and many more).
• Do not share names between ID types. For example, an alignment ID should not
have the same ID as a feature ID or a label ID.
• All IDs should be alphanumeric. You may use an underscore or a dash.
• IDs should start with a letter.
• Avoid using these miscellaneous characters: @ # $ % & * ( ) + = / \ [ ] { }
While PC-DMIS does not prevent you from changing a feature ID to anything you want,
ignoring these rules may cause problems with expressions, reporting, or how that ID
functions with routines that use other products (like DataPage+, Microsoft Excel, and so
on).
Options in the ID Setup Tab
Labels for - The Labels for drop-down list is used to select the identification used for
these items: (See "Labeling Method".)
Alignments
Generic is the only method available for identifying alignments.
Comments
Generic is the only method available for identifying comments.
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Dimensions
Dimensions can be identified using either the Generic or By Type method. If the
By Type method is used, identifications can be similar to each dimension type, or
different based on individual need.
Features
Features can be identified using either the Generic or By Type method.
If the By Type method is selected, the color used to display the feature ID can
also be altered.
If the Show All ID check box is selected and you click Apply, PC-DMIS displays
all feature ID labels in the Graphic Display window for all features from the current
cursor location to the end of the measurement routine. Newly created features
also show their ID. If this check box is deselected and you click Apply, all features
IDs from current cursor location to the end of the measurement routine are hidden.
Newly created features still get created in the Edit window, but the ID label doesn't
appear in the Graphic Display window.
If the Color option is selected (marked), all features created after the Apply
button is pressed will be affected. (Features created prior to the color change will
not be replaced.)
Labels
Generic is the only method available for identifying labels.
Variables
Generic is the only method available for identifying variables.
Call Subs
Generic is the only method available for identifying Called Subroutines.
Spc Queries
Spc queries can be identified using either the Generic or By Type method.
Feature Control Frames

Feature Control Frames can be identified using either the Generic or By Type
method.
Pointcloud Operators
Pointcloud Operators can be identified using either the Generic or By Type
method. If the By Type method is used, identifications can be similar to each
operator type, or different based on individual need.
Labeling Method - This drop-down window is used to select between By Type and
Generic identification methods.
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By Type
By Type lets you set the identification for each element type (for example: circle,
cone, cylinder, line, plane, point, sphere, and so on).
Generic
Generic will apply the same identification system regardless of feature
(dimension) type.
PC-DMIS has no inherent limit on the number of letters used for identifications.
However, the Graphic Display area and Edit window have limits on the ID length.
Even if the Edit window does not show the complete ID, PC-DMIS internally
keeps track of the complete identification.
Starting Letters - This box determines the first letter(s) used in the identification
process. PC-DMIS always displays the ID using capital letters.
In various dialog boxes where the ID is displayed, if you modify the ID there, PC-
DMIS displays a prompt asking you if you would like to change the default ID for that
item type.
Starting Number - The Starting Number box determines the first number used in the
identification process. Any number between 1 and 9999 can be entered.
In various dialog boxes where the ID is displayed, if you modify only the number
portion of an ID, the counter may be reset to a desired count.
Label length - The Label length check box determines the length of the identification.
Selecting it displays a small edit box, into which you can type a number value. The
check box must be selected in order for this option to be active. If this length is set, PC-
DMIS appends zeros to the ID letters to make up the necessary length.
ID Length = 10, ID Letters = CIRCLE.
PC-DMIS will generate an ID = CIRCLE0001, etc. This is done only if the Length
is set.
Display brackets for feature arrays - The Display brackets for feature arrays check
box determines whether array brackets are displayed with IDs for commands executed
61
more than once. When selected, the inspection report displays which instance of the
command's execution is being referenced.
F1[3]=POINT MEASURED FROM 1 HIT
Shows that the feature, F1, is measured here for the third (designated by the
number three in brackets) time.
The format of the bracketed expression can be controlled using the array_indices
object. See "Array Indices Object" in the "Using Expressions and Variables"
chapter.
Apply - The Apply button applies the changes described in "Labeling Method") to any
feature identifications. These changes only apply to feature IDs. If the Apply button is
not pressed, PC-DMIS will continue to assign feature identifications using the previous
method listed.
If duplicate IDs are assigned, PC-DMIS notifies you that you must have a
unique ID for any feature, dimension etc.
Default - The Default button allows you to update the default settings to all of the ID
Setup parameters. When a new measurement routine is created, it will reflect any
changes made to the parameters, only if te Default button is clicked. For additional
information on Default buttons, see the "Default" topic in the "Navigating the User
Interface" chapter
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Always press the Apply button after a change is made (before you press the OK
or Default buttons).
Setup Options: Laser Sensor tab
The Laser Sensor tab only appears when you have are licensed with the
Laser option and when using a laser probe. See the "Step 3: Define Setup Options for
the Laser Sensor" topic discussing the Laser Sensor tab in the "PC-DMIS Laser"
documentation for additional information on this tab.
Setup Options: Sound Events tab

Click any of the tabs along the top, or the buttons along the bottom, of the image below
to display information on their functionality.
63
Setup Options dialog box-Sound Events tab
The Sound Events tab (Edit | Preferences | Setup) contains a list of application
events that you can associate with a sound file of your choice. When the event occurs,
PC-DMIS automatically plays the associated sound.
Application Events list

This list shows the application events to which you can associate sound files.
Sounds box
This box lists the path to the sound file for the selected application event.
Play Sound button
This button tests the specified sound file. It is disabled if no sound is associated
with the event.
64
Turn Sound Off button
This button turns off the specified sound file.
Browse button
This button is used for navigating to and selecting a sound file for the selected
application event.
Associating a Sound
To associate a custom sound file with an event:
1. Select the event from the Applications Events list.
2. Click the Browse button ( ).

3. Navigate to the directory containing your sound file. PC-DMIS only supports the
playing of .wav files.
4. Select the .wav file and click Open. The Sounds list box displays the path to the
selected sound file.
5. Test the file by pressing the Play button ( ).
6. Click OK to save your changes.
Turning Off a Sound
You can turn off an associated sound from an event. To turn off a sound:
1. Select the event from the Applications Events list.
2. Click the Sound Off button ( ).
The speaker icon ( ) to the left of the event changes to show a circle with a line
through it ( ), indicating that the event is turned off.
3. Click OK to save your changes. The sound is removed from the event.
Setup Options: Animation tab

functionality.
65
Setup Options dialog box-Animation tab
The Animation tab (Edit | Preferences | Setup) contains offline animation and path
line settings. In versions before PC-DMIS 2010 MR1, many of these settings were
available only in the PC-DMIS Settings Editor.
Scan area
Collision detection percentage animation: - This defines the percentage of probe

animation that occurs during a collision detection operation.
• A value of 100 indicates that the display is redrawn at its maximum rate.
• A value of 0 indicates that the display is not redrawn at all.
• The default value is 50.
Execution percentage animation: - This defines the percentage of probe animation

that occurs during normal measurement routine execution.
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• A value of 100 indicates that the display is redrawn at its maximum rate.
• A value of 0 indicates that the display is not redrawn at all.
• The default value is 50.
Scan animate every NPts: - This limits the number of points that are used for the
animation. For example, if you set this value to 10, PC-DMIS will only take every 10th
point, plus the first and last points. This value is used for probe animation during
execution. The default value is 50.
Scan animate every NPts collision detection: - This limits the number of points that
are used for the collision detection animation. For example, if you set this value to 10,
PC-DMIS will only take every 10th point, plus the first and last points. This value is used
for probe animation during collision detection.
Execution area
Offline timer milliseconds execute next: - This sets the frequency of how often PC-
DMIS processes commands during execution in Offline mode. This is a number of
milliseconds. The default is 50.
Online timer milliseconds execute next: - This sets the frequency of how often PC-
DMIS processes commands during online execution. This is a number of milliseconds.
The default is 50.
For example if these are set to 1 then PC-DMIS would try to process a command during
execution every millisecond.
Max animation speed (mm/sec): - This lets you define the maximum animation speed
that the animated probe will use in the Graphic Display window during measurement
routine execution. The speed is in mm per second. You may find it useful to alter this
value for complex measurement routines that cause the animation to render too slowly.
To increase the duration between redrawn views of the animation, increase this value.
This will cause fewer animation steps to be drawn.
Animation speed %: - The slider allows you to quickly and easily adjust the actual
percentage used of the Max animation speed value.
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Changing Animation Speeds: If you want to further fine-tune your offline

animation speeds, see the "Executing and Debugging Measurement Routines Offline"
topic in the "Working in Offline Mode" chapter.
Pathlines area
Comment execute override: - This check box determines whether or not COMMENT
commands are executed when you generate path lines. If you mark this check box then
they are executed. This check box is cleared by default.
Create path feature count: - This box is used when you select View | Path Lines from
Cursor. It defines how many features above and below the cursor location are used.
For example, if you set this to 3, PC-DMIS would use three features above and three
features below the cursor location. The default value is 1, which means that PC-DMIS
draws path lines for one feature that precedes the current feature and one feature that
follows the current feature. See "Showing, Animating, and Moving Path Lines" in the
"Editing the CAD Display" chapter.
Path lines color RGB: - This box defines the color for generated path lines in the
Graphic Display window. Clicking on the color opens up the standard Color dialog box,
from which you can choose a new color.
Path line moving enabled: - This check box determines whether or not path-line
moving is enabled. If marked, you can click on a path line to insert a MOVE/POINT
command at that location. See "Moving Path Lines" in the "Editing the CAD Display"
chapter.
Path move increment - This defines the increment distance for moving path lines in the
Move Path Line dialog box. See "Moving Path Lines" in the "Editing the CAD Display"
chapter.
Path move selection distance - This determines the selection distance from a start
and end point of a path line. If the Path line moving enabled check box is marked, and
you click on a path line within the specified distance inside the Graphic Display window,
PC-DMIS searches for an existing MOVE/POINT command to modify instead of
inserting a new MOVE/POINT command that splits the selected path line.
Disable probe movement - This check box is cleared by default, which causes the
probe to move during path line creation. If this box is checked, the probe no longer
moves during path line creation.
Path lines color RGB - This defines the main path line color as a probe moves
between features.
68
Modifying Report and Motion Parameters
Tip rotation color RGB - This defines the color for a probe's path lines as it rotates its
tip to a new angle.
Measure point color RGB - This defines the color for a probe's path lines as it contacts
with the part to measure points that define the feature.
Modifying Report and Motion

Parameters
The Edit | Preferences | Parameters menu option allows you to modify the content,
form, and method of calculation used in any report. Additionally, it allows you to modify
the machine motion parameters of a DCC CMM. This menu option opens the
Parameter Settings dialog box.
In addition to accessing the Parameter Settings dialog box, you can insert the
commands from this dialog box directly into the measurement routine by selecting them
from the Insert | Parameter Change submenu.
The following tabs are available on the Parameter Settings dialog box.
• Parameter Settings: Dimension tab

• Parameter Settings: Clearance Plane tab
• Parameter Settings: Probing tab
• Parameter Settings: Motion tab
• Parameter Settings: Rotary Table tab
• Parameter Settings: Acceleration tab
• Parameter Settings: Probe Options tab
• Parameter Settings: Probe Trigger Options tab
• Parameter Settings: I/O Channels tab
• Parameter Settings: Clear Point tab
69
Parameter Settings: Dimension tab
Parameter Settings dialog box - Dimension tab
Use the Dimension tab to vary the format of the dimension output and alter the printed
report. The settings on this tab apply only to labels in dimension templates.
The reports from DEFAULT.RPT and TEXTONLY.RPT reflect any changes made to
these settings.
To access the Dimension tab:
1. Access the Parameter Settings dialog box (Edit | Preferences | Parameters).

2. Click the Dimension tab.
70
Dimension Output Format
The FORMAT/TEXT command controls the PC-DMIS dimension output format. To

change the format, select the desired check boxes.
Available Formats Description

Displays the nominal values for all
Nominal
dimensions.
Displays the tolerance values for all
Tolerance
dimensions.
Displays the measured values for all
Measured
dimensions.
Displays the maximum and minimum
deviation values from the points that make
up Line Profile and Surface Profile
MaxMin dimensions.
71
Example of MaxMin values on four different profile dimensions

Displays the deviation values for all
Deviation
dimensions.
Displays the out of tolerance values for all
Out of Tol
dimensions.
Displays the deviation angles on the
Dev Angle
Position dimensions.
When switching from box tolerancing to position (and back), it is important to check the format
for correctness.
PC-DMIS offers the same print formats for box tolerancing and positioning tolerancing,
although their columns look slightly different due to additional columns for position
dimensions.
PC-DMIS displays a number to the left of the check box to indicate the order of the
output selection. This enables you to alter the order of the format to meet your needs.
The Edit window command line for this option reads:
FORMAT/TEXT,OPTIONS,HEADINGS,SYMBOLS, SD; "DIMENSION OUTPUT"
DIMENSION OUTPUT = The format of the output is based on the order of selection.
The default output displays the entire selection, in the order indicated.
72
Dimension Text
The Dimension Text check box controls whether or not the dimension text will be
displayed in the Edit window for any dimensions that follow the command.
FORMAT/TEXT, , , , ;NOM,TOL,MEAS,MAXMIN,DEV,OUTTOL,DEVANG
For a description the options on this command, see "Dimension Output Format".
Dimension Options
The Dimension Options check box controls whether or not the dimension options will
be displayed in the Edit window for any dimensions that follow the command.
These options include:
• Units (see "Units" in the "Using Legacy Dimensions" chapter)

• Graphical analysis (see "Analysis Settings" in the "Using Legacy Dimensions"
chapter)
• Textual analysis (see "Analysis Settings" in the "Using Legacy Dimensions"
chapter)
• Arrow multiplier (see "Analysis Settings" in the "Using Legacy Dimensions"
chapter)
• Output options (see "Analysis Settings" in the "Using Legacy Dimensions"
chapter)
The Edit window command line for this check box reads:
FORMAT/OPTIONS, , , , ;NOM,TOL,MEAS,MAXMIN,DEV,OUTTOL
Dimension Headings
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The Dimension Headings check box controls the column headings on the inspection
report. If this check box is not selected, then PC-DMIS will not print any column
headings.
Deviation Symbols
The Deviation Symbols check box shows the deviation within the set range. If the out
of tolerance range is high, PC-DMIS will indicate the deviation using the "greater than"
symbol (>) on the right side of the line. If the out of tolerance range is low, PC-DMIS
indicates the deviation using the "less than" symbol (<).
For example:
Nominal = 0.00
Measured = 0.02
Positive Tolerance = 0.10
Negative Tolerance = 0.20
Total Tolerance Range = (.10 - (-.20)) = .30
Percentage = 100*(.02 - (-.20))/.3 = 73.3 %
- - - - - - # - - looks at the % and shifts based on the %.
DIM D1= LOCATION OF CIR F5 GRAPH=OFF TEXT=OFF MULT=1.00
AX NOM +TOL -TOL MEAS DEV OUT-TOL

x 5.0000 0.0100 0.0100 5.0000 0.0000 0.0000 ----#----
y 2.0000 0.0100 0.0100 2.0000 0.0000 0.0000 ----#----
z -0.2500 0.0100 0.0100 -0.2500 0.0000 0.0000 ----#----
d 2.0000 0.0100 0.0100 2.0000 0.0000 0.0000
v i j k
END OF DIMENSION D1
74
Standard Deviation
The Standard Deviation check box displays the standard deviation of features.
Parameter Settings: Clearance Plane tab
Parameter Settings dialog box - Clearance Plane tab
The Clearance Plane tab provides the means to define and add clearance planes.
Clearance planes, in essence, create an envelope around a part. The probe stays on
this envelope when it moves from one feature to another.
PC-DMIS moves the probe out from the part at a predetermined distance, relative to the
coordinate system in which it was defined.
After the last hit on the feature is measured, the probe stays at probe depth until called
to the next feature. This can help reduce routine creation time because you don't have
to define as many intermediate moves. In addition, properly-defined clearance planes
can help protect your probe from accidental collisions with the part.
75
A sample part with an imaginary envelope from clearance planes
To use clearance planes:
1. Access the Parameter Settings dialog box (Edit | Preferences | Parameters)

and then select the Clearance Plane tab.
2. Select the clearance plane through the Active plane and Pass through plane
areas, and specify the clearance distances using the respective Value boxes.
3. Click OK to finish defining the clearance plane. PC-DMIS inserts a CLEARP

command containing the clearance plane information into the Edit window. The
finished command looks something like this:
CLEARP/ACTIVE_PLANE, n, PASS_THROUGH_PLANE, n,TOG1
• ACTIVE_PLANE and PASS_THROUGH_PLANE refer to the axes selected.

• n refers to the offset distances specified.
• TOG1 is an ON/OFF toggle field that determines whether the clearance
plane is active and automatically used for newly-created Measured and
Auto Features.
4. You can then insert MOVE/CLEARPLANE commands into your measurement

routine. A MOVE/CLEARPLANE command does not in itself create motion to move
the probe to the clearance plane. Rather, when PC-DMIS encounters a
MOVE/CLEARPLANE command during execution, that command essentially gives
permission to move to the predefined clearance plane on the next move,
measure, tip selection, or auto feature command. When one of those motion
commands is about to be executed, the probe moves to the specified distance
away from the selected active plane.
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5. If a new CLEARP command is defined, the very next MOVE/CLEARPLANE moves

first to the old clearance plane, then to the Pass Through plane, and then to the
new clearance plane.
To display the current clearance plane as a translucent image in the Graphic

Display window, from the Graphic Items toolbar, select the Show Clearance Plane
icon ( ). For more information, see "Viewing Clearance Planes" in the "Editing the
CAD Display" chapter.
Active Plane Area
The Active Plane area defines the plane (or axis) in which features lie when they are
measured. The Value box defines the clearance plane as an offset distance in the
current units of measurement away from the specified plane. To define a clearance
plane, select the plane from the Axis list and then enter a new value in the Value box.
Pass Through Plane Area
The Pass Through Plane defines a clearance plane that the probe moves to and then
passes through to get to the next active clearance plane after a probe's TIP command.
The new CLEARP definition command must immediately follow the TIP command to
properly define the pass through plane. When PC-DMIS encounters the next
MOVE/CLEARPLANE command, it moves to the pass through plane and remains at that
offset distance until it reaches the next active clearance plane.
Clearance Plane Active (ON) Check Box
If you select the Clearance planes active (ON) check box, PC-DMIS will automatically
insert a MOVE/CLEARPLANE command before any Measured Features or Auto Features
inserted into the Edit window from that point on.
Notes on Clearance Planes
Be aware of the sign of a clearance plane when entering its distance value. The sign
must correspond to the positive or negative end of the normal axis defining the plane.
77
For example, to define a top clearance plane, enter a positive value, and to define a
bottom clearance plane, enter a negative value.
Movement from one clearance plane to another affects the position of the probe. Make
sure that the set clearance plane is sufficient to clear the part.
A clearance plane is defined relative to the current coordinate system and part origin.
Therefore, you must be careful when you define a clearance plane to ensure adequate
clearance around the part.
Clearance Plane example
Using the above drawing, suppose your part is ten inches long, and it is lined up close
to the machine axes with the X origin at the bottom left-hand corner. You can set a one-
inch clearance from the right side of the part by setting the XPLUS clearance plane to
11 inches.
Always define clearance planes relative to the current coordinate system. When you
create a new coordinate system, the clearance planes still relate to the first alignment. If
you wish to associate the clearance planes with the new coordinate system, they must
be redefined.
Clearance planes are not used when taking sample hits. It is therefore important
when measuring pins to set the spacer value to a distance that will allow the probe to
move around the pin.
For a clearance plane example, see "Clearance Plane Example".
Clearance Plane Example

TIP/T1A0B0, SHANKIJK=0, 0, 1, ANGLE=0
CLEARP/ZPLUS,2,ZPLUS,0,ON (New clearance plane
defined)
PLN1 =FEAT/PLANE,CARTESIAN,TRIANGLE
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THEO/<0.3597,0.3544,-0.8268>,<0,0,1>
ACTL/<0.3597,0.3544,-0.8268>,<0,0,1>
MEAS/PLANE,3
MOVE/CLEARPLANE (Probe moves to the defined
clearance plane)
HIT/BASIC,NORMAL,<0.2346,0.6411,-
0.8268>,<0,0,1>,<0.2346,0.6411,-0.8268>,USE THEO = YES
0.8268>,<0,0,1>,<0.2034,0.2502,-0.8268>,USE THEO = YES
0.8268>,<0,0,1>,<0.6412,0.172,-0.8268>,USE THEO = YES
ENDMEAS/
CON2 =FEAT/CONE,CARTESIAN,IN
THEO/<8.9134,0.4921,-0.9193>,<0,0,-
1>,0.3964,0.5906,0.5906
ACTL/<8.9134,0.4921,-0.9193>,<0,0,-
1>,0.3964,0.5906,0.5906
MEAS/CONE,8
clearance plane)
HIT/BASIC,NORMAL,<9.2087,0.4921,-0.9193>,<-
1,0,0>,<9.2087,0.4921,-0.9193>,USE THEO = YES
HIT/BASIC,NORMAL,<8.9134,0.7874,-0.9193>,<0,-
1,0>,<8.9134,0.7874,-0.9193>,USE THEO = YES
0.9193>,<1,0,0>,<8.6181,0.4921,-0.9193>,USE THEO = YES
0.9193>,<0,1,0>,<8.9134,0.1969,-0.9193>,USE THEO = YES
HIT/BASIC,NORMAL,<9.2087,0.4921,-1.3158>,<-
1,0,0>,<9.2087,0.4921,-1.3158>,USE THEO = YES
HIT/BASIC,NORMAL,<8.9134,0.7874,-1.3158>,<0,-
1,0>,<8.9134,0.7874,-1.3158>,USE THEO = YES
1.3158>,<1,0,0>,<8.6181,0.4921,-1.3158>,USE THEO = YES
1.3158>,<0,1,0>,<8.9134,0.1969,-1.3158>,USE THEO = YES
ENDMEAS/
CIR1 =FEAT/CIRCLE,CARTESIAN,IN,LEAST_SQR
THEO/<6.0827,3.1693,-0.012>,<0,0,1>,0.5906
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ACTL/<6.0827,3.1693,-0.012>,<0,0,1>,0.5906
MEAS/CIRCLE,4,WORKPLANE
clearance plane)
HIT/BASIC,NORMAL,<6.378,3.1693,-0.012>,<-
1,0,0>,<6.378,3.1693,-0.012>,USE THEO = YES
HIT/BASIC,NORMAL,<6.0827,3.4646,-0.012>,<0,-
1,0>,<6.0827,3.4646,-0.012>,USE THEO = YES
0.012>,<1,0,0>,<5.7874,3.1693,-0.012>,USE THEO = YES
0.012>,<0,1,0>,<6.0827,2.874,-0.012>,USE THEO = YES
ENDMEAS/
CLEARP/YMINUS,-3,ZPLUS,2,ON (New clearance plane
defined, this time with a pass through plane)
TIP/T1A90B-180, SHANKIJK=0, -1, 0, ANGLE=180
CIR2 =FEAT/CIRCLE,CARTESIAN,IN,LEAST_SQR
THEO/<4.8819,0,-0.5906>,<0,1,0>,1.2362
ACTL/<4.9445,15.8342,-0.5906>,<0,0,1>,31.4282
MEAS/CIRCLE,4,WORKPLANE
MOVE/CLEARPLANE (Probe travels through the Pass
Through Plane in ZPLUS to the YMINUS clearance plane)
HIT/BASIC,NORMAL,<4.8819,0.0623,-0.8406>,<-
0.9999185,-0.012768,0>,<4.8224,0.0025,-0.8406>,USE THEO = YES
MOVE/CIRCULAR
HIT/BASIC,NORMAL,<5.1319,0.0623,-0.5906>,<-
0.9999279,-0.012008,0>,<5.0733,0.0026,-0.5906>,USE THEO = YES
MOVE/CIRCULAR
HIT/BASIC,NORMAL,<4.8819,0.0623,-0.3406>,<-
0.9999185,-0.012768,0>,<4.8224,0.0025,-0.3406>,USE THEO = YES
0.5906>,<0.9999071,0.0136308,0>,<4.69,0.0041,-0.5906>,USE THEO =
YES
ENDMEAS/
MOVE/CLEARPLANE
80
Parameter Settings: Probing tab
Parameter Settings dialog box - Probing tab
The Probing tab displays the current probe file, active tip, and probe port (if being
used). It also allows you to set the Hard Probe Scanning Minimums for time delta and
distance delta, select the Probe compensation active (ON) check box, and select the
Polar vector compensation.
The Hard Probe Scanning Minimums area is disabled for trackers that do
not support this functionality.
To access the Probing tab:
1. Open the Parameter Settings dialog box (Edit | Preferences | Parameters).

2. Select the Probing tab.
Active Probe Information area

Active Probe
81
This line on the Probing tab displays the current probe file. See "Probe File Name" in
the "Defining Hardware" chapter for more information on selecting a different probe file
or creating a new probe file name.
Active Tip
This line on the Probing tab displays the current and active tip. See "Active Tip List" in
the "Defining Hardware" chapter for more information on the values and selecting,
creating, and deleting tips.

TIP/active_tip_name
Probe in Port #
This line on the Probing tab indicates the port number on the probe changer of the
probe or stylus that you are currently using. This option is only available if you set up a
probe changer.
If you aren't using a probe changer, or if your current probe isn't in a probe changer,
then PC-DMIS displays text informing you that your current probe or stylus isn't in the
probe changer or that a probe changer isn't being used.
See "Ports Tab" in the "Setting Up Probe Changer Options" topic for information on
adding probes or styli to a probe changer.
Hard Probe Scanning Minimums Area
The Hard Probe Scanning Minimums area is disabled for trackers that do
not support this functionality.
Time Delta (sec) box
This value allows PC-DMIS to reduce the amount of points that are scanned by deleting
hits that are read in faster than the specified time delay in milliseconds.
82
Distance Delta box
This value allows you to reduce the measured data by deleting hits that are closer than
the distance specified in millimeters. The reduction of hits happens as data comes from
the machine. PC-DMIS only keeps the points that are set apart by more than the
specified increments.
Compensation Options area

Probe Compensation Active (On)
The Probe Compensation Active (On) check box allows PC-DMIS to compensate for
the probe radius. If marked, and you click OK, this inserts a PROBECOM/ON command
into the Edit window. PC-DMIS will compensate for the probe radius on each feature it
measures. If cleared, then the command is set to PROBECOM/OFF in the Edit window. If
you're using a Portable device, you can use Insert | Parameter Change | Probe |
Probe Compensation to toggle this on or off as well.
Polar Vector Compensation
The Polar Vector Compensation drop-down list allows the measurement of Vector and
Surface points to always be compensated along a Polar vector. The following options
are available:
• OFF - Vector and Surface points behave normally.

• XYPL - Vector compensations for each Vector and Surface point will be 2D in the
XY plane along a vector from the point to the current origin.
• YZPL - Vector compensations for each Vector and Surface point will be 2D in the
YZ plane along a vector from the point to the current origin.
• ZXPL - Vector compensations for each Vector and Surface point will be 2D in the
ZX plane along a vector from the point to the current origin.
• 3D - Causes a polar vector compensation along a 3D vector from the point to the
current origin.
The Edit window command lines for these options read:

POLARVECTORCOMP/ OFF
POLARVECTORCOMP/ XYPL
83
POLARVECTORCOMP/ YZPL
POLARVECTORCOMP/ ZXPL
POLARVECTORCOMP/ 3D
Parameter Settings: Motion tab
Parameter Settings dialog box - Motion tab
The Motion tab allows you to change the distances that the probe is allowed to travel
when taking a hit. It also allows you to set the speed that PC-DMIS uses to take a hit
and move from point to point.
To determine whether the speed boxes (Move Speed, Touch Speed, and
Scan Speed) list the values as either mm/sec or as a percentage of the total allowed
speed, select or clear the Display Absolute Speeds check box on the Part/Machine
tab in the Setup Options dialog box.
To edit information in the Motion tab:

2. Click on the Motion tab. You'll see a variety of boxes.
3. Highlight the value you want to change.
4. Type a new value.
84
5. Click Apply or OK. PC-DMIS inserts any changed command into your
To reset the motion values to the original factory setting, press the Recall button. The
Recall button returns the displayed motion values to the values stored in the PC-DMIS
Settings Editor. If the Defaults button is selected, the displayed values are saved to the
Settings Editor. For information on the PC-DMIS Settings Editor, view the "Modifying
Registry Entries" section.
Changing Animation Speeds: If you want to modify your offline animation

speeds, see the Execution area on the General tab in the Setup Options dialog box
(Edit | Preferences | Setup). In addition, see the "Executing and Debugging
Measurement Routines Offline" topic in the "Working in Offline Mode" chapter.
Prehit Distance
The Prehit Distance box lets you enter the value for the machine prehit distance. This
value determines the distance away from the theoretical hit location on the surface
where PC-DMIS starts searching for the part. The machine travels at touch speed while
traversing this distance to search for the part.
If necessary, PC-DMIS can automatically change this when the software takes hits
within an arc or circle.

PREHIT/nnn.nnnn
Where nnn.nnnn is a number value for the distance.
For an example of how Prehit Distance and Check Distance work together, see the
example in the "Check Distance" topic.
85
The Probe Readout window shows the probe location based on the probe's
center. However, the machine uses the outer diameter of the probe to drive to the
surface. This means the values in the Probe Readout always show a probe radius less
than what you might expect when it moves to this distance.
Retract Distance
The Retract Distance box lets you enter the distance the probe retracts from the
surface after taking a hit. If necessary, it can be automatically changed by PC-DMIS
when taking hits on an arc or circle.

RETRACT/nnn.nnnn
Where nnn.nnnn is a number value for the distance.
Some controllers do not retract on their own. In these cases, PC-DMIS issues
the move to do the retract, and the distance is based on ball surface to the part's
theoretical hit location. If the controller does do the retract, the distance may be
calculated either from the ball surface or the ball center to either the theoretical or
measured hit location, depending on the particular controller.
Check Distance
The Check Distance box defines the distance past the theoretical hit location that the
machine continues to search or check for the surface of the part. This distance is after it
traverses the Prehit Distance value. The default value is zero.
• If this is zero, after the prehit distance, the machine searches to a maximum
distance of three times the Prehit Distance value. For example:
86
A - The theoretical surface location. B - The prehit distance. C - The check

distance it moves is three times the prehit.
• If this is a positive, non-zero number, after the prehit distance, the machine
searches to a maximum distance of the Check Distance value. For example, if
you specify a Check Distance of 2 the probe moves by a value of two units:
A - The theoretical surface location. B - The prehit distance. C - The check

distance it moves is the specified Check Distance value, in this example, two
units.
87
The Probe Readout window shows the probe location based on the probe's
center. However, the machine uses the outer diameter of the probe to drive to the
surface. This means the values in the Probe Readout always show a probe radius less
than what you might expect when it moves to this distance.
The measurement units for the distance depends on the measurement system used for
the part

CHECK/distance,percentage
Percentage Movement During Find Hole Operations
When defining the check distance for a Find Hole operation, you can tell PC-DMIS to
move by a percentage of the check distance.
To do this:
1. Access the Edit window and place it in Command mode.

2. Click on the CHECK command in the Edit window.
3. Press the Tab key to move to the second number.
4. Type a new percentage value. The default value is 1 which means 100% of the
check distance. Thus .1=10%, .2=20%, .3=30% and so on.
For example, in the following code, the .3 value represents 30% of the total check
distance of twenty units:
CHECK/20,.3
For information on the Edit window command see "Check Distance" in the "Using the
Edit Window". chapter.
For additional information on Find Hole, see the "Working with Contact Find Hole
Properties" topic in the "PC-DMIS CMM" documentation.
Check Percent
The Check Percent value determines the percent of the total distance moved when
performing a Find Hole operation. Be aware that if you type 1, the value is equal to 100
88
percent. Thus, 100% would be entered as 1, 25% would be entered as .25, and 10%
would be .10.
Move Speed %
The Move Speed box lets you change the point to point positioning speed of the CMM.
Depending on the state of the Display absolute speeds check box in the
Part/Machine tab of the Setup Options dialog box, this will either be an absolute
speed (mm/sec) or a percentage of the machine's defined top speed.
(See the "Measure" topic under "Defining Probes" in the "Defining Hardware" chapter
for information regarding the move speed option and probe calibration.)

MOVESPEED/ nnn.nnnn
Where nnn.nnnn is a number value for the speed.
Touch Speed %
The Touch Speed box lets you change the speed at which the CMM takes hits.
Part/Machine tab of the Setup Options dialog box, this is either be an absolute speed
(mm/sec) or a percentage of the machine's defined top speed. This cannot exceed
twenty percent.

TOUCHSPEED/nnn.nnnn
89
To understand the effects of changing either PREHIT or RETRACT distances

and MOVE or TOUCH SPEED, it's important to understand how the options interact
during DCC feature measurement. The order of events is that the machine moves
toward the feature at MOVE SPEED. When it reaches PREHIT distance, it approaches
the feature at TOUCH SPEED to take the hit. After it takes the hit, it backs away at
TOUCH SPEED until it reaches the RETRACT DISTANCE. At this point, it proceeds to
the next location at MOVE SPEED.
Clamping Value
The Clamping Value only works with the Leitz controller and the Leitz brand TTP. This
value tells the controller how firmly to hold the probe on a Leitz CMM.
Depending on the weight of the probe tips, you may need to increase or decrease the
clamping value.
• For a large tip weight, you may need to increase the clamping value.
• For a small tip weight, you may need to decrease the clamping value.
Scan Speed %
The Scan Speed box lets you change the speed at which the CMM will scan the part.
Part/Machine tab of the Setup Options dialog box, this will either be an absolute
speed (mm/sec) or a percentage of the machine's defined top speed.

SCANSPEED/nnn.nnnn
When scanning using the DEFINED mode of execution (see "Defined" discussed in the
"Exec Controls area" topic in the "Scanning your Part" chapter), Scan Speed plays an
important role in getting back data at increments specified by you. When you specify a
90
very high Scan Speed, the CMM may execute the scan at the speed you requested, but
the data from the CMM may not be spaced at the increments you specify.
Assume the CMM gathers data at the rate of one Hit per 20 milliseconds in the
DEFINED mode. If you specify an increment (minimum distance between hits) of 0.5
mm and a Scan Speed of 75 mm/sec, the CMM would give back points at every 1.5
mm. To avoid this you could reduce the Scan Speed to 15 mm/sec or 20 mm/sec
which, at the rate of 1hit/20ms, would satisfy your requirements.
PC-DMIS will warn you about this case by displaying a message informing you that the
supplied increment couldn't be measured at the specified scan speed. You will then be
required to reduce your Scan Speed or increase the increment.
You can then select the Scan Speed setting and change to a suitable scan speed.
Wrist Speed %
The Wrist Speed box lets you change the speed your measuring machine will use
when rotating a probe's wrist (such as a CW43L). Depending on the state of the
Display absolute speeds check box in the Part/Machine tab of the Setup Options
dialog box, this will either be an absolute speed (mm/sec) or a percentage of the
machine's defined top speed.

WRISTSPEED/ nnn.nnnn
91
Parameter Settings: Rotary Table tab
Parameter Settings dialog box - Rotary Table tab
The Rotary Table tab allows you to rotate the current active rotary table by a defined
angle and direction. You can also use it to automatically set the rotation based on a
specified feature or alignment; or, you can combine the two and rotate to a specific
feature or alignment and then rotate a relative angle on an offset based on the feature
or alignment.
The Rotary Table tab becomes available when you select Single Rotary
Table, Dual Rotary Tables, or Stacked Rotary Tables from the Rotary Table Setup
dialog box. See "Defining the Rotary Table".
To insert a MOVE/ROTAB command that rotates the table, follow this procedure:

2. Select the Rotary Table tab.
3. Choose to rotate by a specific angle or to rotate to a feature (or both).
• If you want to rotate by a specific angle, complete the Rotary Table W or
Rotary Table V areas, and define the Angle and the Rotation Direction.
• If you want to rotate to a specific feature or alignment, complete the Angle
Offset Base Feature area.
92
4. If you want to combine the individual movements of the W (rotary axis) and V
(swivel axis) axes of a stacked rotary table into a single joint movement, select
the Simultaneous Move check box.
5. If you want to rotate the table immediately, select the Rotate the Table(s) check
box.
6. Click the Apply button. PC-DMIS inserts a MOVE/ROTAB command into the Edit
window.

MOVE/ROTAB, angle, DIRECTION,feature
If you have a stacked configuration, the Edit window command line for this option reads:
MOVE/ROTAB, angle, DIRECTION, angle2, DIRECTION2,feature
Additionally, the Rotary Table Setup menu option is only available if your LMS license
or portlock is programmed for rotary tables.
Rotary Table W / Rotary Table V
Rotary Table W area and Rotary Table V area
The Rotary Table W area and the Rotary Table V area let you control up to two rotary
tables, table W and table V. PC-DMIS activates the area associated with the currently
active rotary table. If you have a stacked rotary configuration, PC-DMIS activates both
areas allowing you to type the angle and define the rotation direction for both tables at
the same time. See "Defining the Rotary Table".
These areas contain the same options:
Angle box
This defines the angle of the table's rotation.
Rotation Direction list

In the Rotation Direction drop down list you can select the direction you want the table
to rotate. Available options are:
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Clock Wise: Rotates the table in a clockwise direction until it reaches the angle
entered in the Rotate Table Angle box.
Counterclockwise: Rotates the table in a counterclockwise direction until it

reaches the angle entered in the Rotate Table Angle box.
Shortest: Rotates taking the shortest route (either Clockwise or

Counterclockwise) until it reaches the angle entered in the Rotate Table Angle
box.
Angle Offset Base Feature
Angle Offset Base Feature area
The Angle Offset Base Feature area lets you select a feature or alignment from the
Feature ID list. The angle where the feature normal matches the machine Z (or where it
matches as closely as possible for the hardware configuration) will become the 0 angle
on the rotary table. This allows you to rotate to the desired feature or alignment without
defining an initial angle. You simply specify the desired feature or alignment. The
selected feature or alignment becomes the base feature (or the 0 angle) from which PC-
DMIS rotates the table by a relative angle. Relative measurements like these are
especially useful in camera-based vision environments where initial starting angles may
not be known.
This works for both single and stacked rotary tables.
Feature ID list
This contains all the features and alignments in the measurement routine. It allows you
to choose a feature or alignment to which the table will rotate.
Clear
This clears the selected feature or alignment.
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You can use the MOVE/ROTAB command to rotate the table to the feature or alignment
during measurement routine execution. See "Inserting a Move Rotary Table Command"
in the "Inserting Move Commands" chapter.
Simultaneous Move
The Simultaneous Move option allows you to combine the individual movements of the
W (rotary axis) and V (swivel axis) axes of a stacked rotary table into a single joint
movement.
The result is a faster positioning and thus an overall faster processing of the
This option is only available if you have an FDC and an activated stacked rotary table.
If you select the Simultaneous Move check box, the individual paths of the W and V
axes must both have either the SHORTEST direction selected or not selected for the
simultaneous movement of the tables. That is, if the Simultaneous Move check box is
selected, but one of the axis has the SHORTEST direction selected and the other axis
has CLOCKWISE or COUNTERCLOCKWISE direction selected, PC-DMIS executes
the rotary table moves one at a time.
If you do not select the Simultaneous Move check box, the software executes the
rotary table moves individually.
The V axis (swivel axis) can not rotate 360° due to the software limitations in the FDC
configuration. This restriction does not always allow clockwise or counterclockwise
movement.
Rotate the Table(s)
The Rotate the Table(s) check box enables you to activate the current table's rotation
by the specified Angle value once you select the Apply or OK button.
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Parameter Settings: Acceleration tab
Parameter Settings dialog box - Acceleration tab
The Acceleration tab displays additional editing capabilities for both CMM and Table
motion.
To access the Acceleration tab:
1. Access the Parameter Settings dialog box from the main menu (Edit |
Preferences | Parameters).
2. Select the Acceleration tab.
CMM Acceleration
The CMM Acceleration area of the Acceleration tab allows you to change the
maximum acceleration (at mm/sec2) along the X, Y, or Z axis of the CMM. Available
options are:
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Maximum X Axis Acceleration

The number in this box represents the maximum acceleration that the CMM will take
when traveling along the X axis.
Maximum Y Axis Acceleration

when traveling along the Y axis.
Maximum Z Axis Acceleration

when traveling along the Z axis.
Parameter Settings: Probe Options tab
Parameter Settings dialog box - Probe Options tab
The Probe Options tab gives you additional capabilities for controlling analog probes.
These capabilities include the following probing-related values:
• Max force
• Low force
• Upper force
• Trigger force
• Number Return data
• Return speed
• Positioning accuracy
• Probing accuracy
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• Probing mode
• Manual fine probing
It also includes the following scan-related values and general purpose buttons:
• Point density
• Offset force
• Acceleration
• Default button
• Recall button
• Clear button
Each of these is described below in greater detail.
To access the Probe Options tab:
1. Access the Parameter Settings dialog box from the main menu (Edit |
Preferences | Parameters).
2. Select the Probe Options tab.
The values on the Probe Options tab are machine-specific. With the
exception of the Manual fine probing check box and the Point density box, they
generally shouldn't be changed. Check with your machine's manufacturer before you
make changes.
Click Apply or OK to insert an OPTIONPROBE command into the Edit window.
For information on using the OPTIONPROBE command with analog probes during
calibration, see the "Notes on SP600 Upper Level Matrix (Regular Calibration)" topic in
the CMM documentation.
Max Force
The Max Force box allows you to enter the maximum force that a probe will take before
an error occurs, thus stopping measurement.
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A "newton" is a unit of force. One newton is the force needed to accelerate a mass of 1 kilogram
to a speed of 1 meter per second per second.
During an analog probing cycle, when the probe first touches the part it continues to
move into the part until it reaches this Max Force value. It then reverses direction and
moves away from the part. This movement into the part, after touching the part, is
sometimes referred to as the contact force. The value is specified in newtons. In a
normal deflection mode (DFL) probing cycle, the controller collects data as the probe
moves away from the part.
Low Force
The Low Force box allows you to enter the minimum force required to determine when
the machine is in contact with the object being measured.
For a normal deflection mode (DFL) probing cycle, this is the force at which the
controller stops collecting data. The value is specified in newtons.
Upper Force
The Upper Force box is the upper limit for a measurement. When this force is reached
the machine moves back, away from the object being measured.
For a normal deflection mode (DFL) probing cycle, this is the force at which the
controller starts collecting data. The value is specified in newtons.
Trigger Force
The Trigger Force box allows you to enter the force at which a measurement reading is
taken.
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For a normal deflection mode (DFL) probing cycle, this is the force at which the Actual
Point (APT) will be calculated and returned to PC-DMIS. The value is specified in
newtons. Not all analog probes/controllers use this input.
# Return Data
The Number Return data box allows you to enter the number of readings taken when
the machine is moving away from the object being measured.
This value defines the minimum number of data to be collected within the Probe
Options tab defined by the Upper Force and Lower Force values.
Return Speed
The Return Speed box allows you to set the value, which determines the speed at
which the probe comes off the object being measured. This is specified in mm/sec.
Positioning Accuracy
The Positioning Accuracy box is a parameter specific to the Leitz interface. The value
submitted tells the CMM how carefully it should remain on the approach vector as the
probe is moved into the part for a measurement.
With smaller values the difficulty for the machine to acquire the desired location
increases. However, using a smaller value provides a more accurate measurement.
This value is always in millimeters.
This should normally be left at the default value.
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Probing Accuracy
The Probing Accuracy box allows you to determine the accuracy required to take a
measurement. If this value is not met, then no measurement is taken, and an error is
given. It is specified in mm and should normally be left at the default value.
Probing Mode
This box specifies the type of probing cycle used. The most common cycle is deflection
mode (DFL). Other cycles, such as soft probing (SFT), may also be supported by some
analog probes/controllers. In some cases, the probe /controller may not have multiple
modes, and this value is ignored.
Type or select the probing cycle that you want to use.
Manual Fine Probing
If the Manual Fine Probing check box is selected, then when a manual probing point is
taken, the controller automatically switches to DCC mode while moving away from the
part in order to use the normal deflection probing cycle. This may result in slower
manual probing but improves accuracy.
While recent machines with analog probing systems may support Manual Fine
Probing, not all analog probes/controllers support this mode of manual probing. In
those cases, PC-DMIS ignores this check mark. Your CMM controller's manufacturer
will know if your controller supports this option.
Point Density
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The Point Density box allows you to set the number of readings to take per millimeter
of measurement during a scan.
If you give a scan increment smaller than the Point Density defined in the registry entry
in the Settings Editor, PC-DMIS displays a warning explaining that the minimum
increment is smaller than Point Density for scans. You are then asked to verify
increment settings in the dialog box.
You can then change the scan's Point Density value to a suitable number.
Offset Force
This allows you to specify what level of force to maintain during a scan. The value is
specified in newtons.
Acceleration
This allows you to specify what acceleration to use during a scan. The value is specified
in mm/sec/sec.
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Parameter Settings: Probe Trigger Options tab
Parameter Settings dialog box - Probe Trigger Options tab
The Probe Trigger Options tab allows you to determine tolerance zones and then
insert POINT AUTOTRIGGER, PLANE AUTOTRIGGER, and POINT MANUAL TRIGGER
commands into the Edit window. These commands trigger a hit when certain conditions
are met.
Only manual CMM machines with certain interfaces support these probe trigger
options. These interfaces include Faro, Romer, Garda, Leica, Polar, and SMXLaser.
To access this tab:
1. Select Edit | Preferences | Parameters to display the Parameter Settings

dialog box.
2. Select the Probe Trigger Options tab.
Supported Features
These trigger commands function with these supported features:
• Auto Features: Circle, Ellipse, Edge Point, Round Slot, Square Slot,
Notch Slot, and Polygon
• Measured Features: Circle, Line, and Round Slot
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In addition, the POINT AUTOTRIGGER command supports the Auto Vector Point and
Measured Point features.
Point AutoTrigger area
With the Point AutoTrigger area, you can insert POINT AUTOTRIGGER/ commands
into the Edit window with a tolerance zone.
The POINT AUTOTRIGGER/ command tells PC-DMIS to automatically take a hit when
the probe enters a tolerance zone at a specified distance from the original hit location.
For example, if the tolerance zone, the Radius value, is set to 2 mm, a hit is taken when
the probe is within 2 mm of the hit location.
You can use this option with manual machines; instead of pressing a button to take a
hit, you can place POINT AUTOTRIGGER/ commands at any standard location in the
Edit window.
On
Selecting the On check box activates the point auto trigger command. Commands in the
Edit window that follow the inserted POINT AUTOTRIGGER/ command and require you
to take a hit will then have the hit automatically taken when the probe enters the defined
tolerance zone. The Trigger Radius capability is disabled until the option is turned on.
If you do not select this check box and you click the Insert Command button, PC-DMIS
inserts the command line into the Edit window, but it doesn't activate the command.
Beeping On
Selecting the Beeping On check box activates a beeping sound associated with your
POINT AUTOTRIGGER/ command. The closer you get to the target, beeps are heard
more frequently.
Trigger Radius
The Trigger Radius box allows you to type a tolerance zone value. When the probe
moves into this tolerance zone, it automatically and immediately takes a hit.
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Insert Command
Clicking the Insert Command button inserts the POINT AUTOTRIGGER/ command into
the Edit window for the current measurement routine. This command line reads:
POINT AUTOTRIGGER/ TOG1, TOG2, RAD
TOG1: This toggle field corresponds to the On check box. It displays either ON or
OFF.
TOG2: This toggle field corresponds to the Beeping On check box. It displays
either ON or OFF.
RAD: The radius field contains the value for the tolerance zone, and it
corresponds to the Trigger Radius box. This value is the distance from the actual
point that PC-DMIS takes the hit.
Plane AutoTrigger area
With the Plane AutoTrigger area, you can insert a PLANE AUTOTRIGGER/ command
into the Edit window. The PLANE AUTOTRIGGER/ command tells PC-DMIS to
automatically take a hit when the probe passes the plane defined by the surface normal
of a supported feature at the level of the defined depth. For auto features, this defined
location is adjusted based on options such as sample hits or RMEAS features. As the
probe center passes from one side of the plane to the other, the probe triggers and the
hit is taken.
You can use this command with manual machines; instead of pressing a button to take
a hit, you can place PLANE AUTOTRIGGER/ commands at any standard location within
the Edit window.
This command only works in Online mode. If you use the POINT AUTOTRIGGER/
command, it takes precedence over the PLANE AUTOTRIGGER/ command.
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As defined above, PC-DMIS automatically takes a hit when the probe passes
the plane. However, if you are using a Faro or a Romer machine, the probe does not
trigger again until you press the Accept or Release button. You must press this button
after each registered hit to continue.
On
Selecting the On check box activates the PLANE AUTOTRIGGER/ command.

Commands in the Edit window that follow the inserted PLANE AUTOTRIGGER/
command and require you to take a hit then have the hit automatically taken when the
probe center passes the plane defined by the surface normal and depth of the feature.
inserts the command line into the Edit window but doesn't activate the command. The
PLANE AUTOTRIGGER/ command does not function until the option is turned on.
Beeping On
Selecting the Beeping On check box activates a beeping sound associated with your
PLANE AUTOTRIGGER/ command. The closer you get to the target, the more
frequently your computer emits beeps.
Insert Command
Clicking the Insert Command button inserts the PLANE AUTOTRIGGER/ command into
the Edit window for the current measurement routine.
PLANE AUTOTRIGGER/ TOG1,TOG2
TOG1: This toggle field corresponds to the On check box. It displays either ON or
OFF.
TOG2: This toggle field corresponds to the Beeping On check box. It displays
either ON or OFF.
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Point Manual Trigger area
With the Point Manual Trigger area, you can insert a POINT MANUAL TRIGGER/
command into the Edit window.
The POINT MANUAL TRIGGER/ command tells PC-DMIS to only accept a manual hit
when it is within the specified tolerance zone.
You can use this option with manual machines; when PC-DMIS prompts you to take a
hit, trigger the probe as you wish. Each trigger will be evaluated to see if it is within the
cylindrical trigger tolerance zone. If it is not, you will receive an error in the Machine
Errors list of the Execution dialog box. PC-DMIS will then ask you to take the hit again.
You can place POINT MANUAL TRIGGER/ commands at any standard location within
the Edit window.
This option works only in Online mode.
On
Selecting the On check box activates the POINT MANUAL TRIGGER/ command.
Commands in the Edit window that follow the inserted POINT MANUAL TRIGGER/
command and require you to take a hit will then only accept the hit when the probe
enters the defined tolerance zone. The Trigger Radius capability is disabled until the
option is turned on.
inserts the command line into the Edit window but doesn't activate the command. Insert
Command
Clicking the Insert Command button inserts the POINT MANUAL TRIGGER/ command
into the Edit window for the current measurement routine with the following options.
POINT MANUAL TRIGGER/ TOG1, RAD
TOG1: This toggle field corresponds to the Use Trigger Tolerance check box. It
displays either ON or OFF.
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RAD: The radius field contains the value for the tolerance zone. This corresponds
to the Trigger Radius box. This value is the distance from the actual point that
PC-DMIS accepts the hit.
Trigger Radius
The Trigger Radius box allows you to type a tolerance radius value. When the probe is
triggered, PC-DMIS will check to see if the probe is within this tolerance zone. If it is, the
hit will be accepted. It is it not, you will be asked to take another hit.
Parameter Settings: I/O Channels tab
Parameter Settings dialog box - I/O Channels tab
Currently, the options on the I/O Channels tab only function on DEA machines. Other machine
types may be added in the future.
With the I/O Channels tab, you can select options related to the use of controller I/O
channels and place an IOCHANNEL/ command into the Edit window that define the
state of the controller.
Some machine controllers are equipped with I/O channels that can be SET to an ON
state (a value of 1) or RESET to an OFF state (a value of 0). The IOCHANNEL/
command tells PC-DMIS to set the state as specified.
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To edit information in the I/O Channels tab:

2. Click on the I/O Channels tab.
3. Make any changes.
4. Click Apply or OK.
Channel - Specifies the channel number that you will Set or Reset.
Set - Inserts an IOCHANNEL/SET command into the measurement routine. When PC-
DMIS executes this command, the state of the specified channel number is set to 1.
Reset - This option inserts an IOCHANNEL/RESET command into the measurement

routine. When PC-DMIS executes this command, the state of the specified channel
number is set to 0.
Parameter Settings: Clear Point tab
Parameter Settings dialog box - Clear Point tab
The Clear Point tab lets you define a single move point position in machine
coordinates, called a clear point, for your machine. This causes your machine to move
the end of the arm to the defined position. This is intended to be a safety position the
arm moves to when using a probe changer. This differs from standard MOVE/POINT
command in that it uses Move Sequence list to specify the form of the move and the
move position is absolute to the machine.
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Position area - The XYZ boxes define the location of the move point. When the Read
button is clicked, the machine's current position is read and the coordinates are entered
into the XYZ fields.
Move Sequence list - This list lets you choose the form of the move to take to arrive at
the clear point. It contains these options:
1: XYZ - The machine moves in a straight line to to the clear point position.
1: X 2: YZ - The machine first moves the X axis and then the YZ axis.
1: Y 2: XZ - The machine first moves the Y axis and then the XZ axis.
1: Z 2: XY - The machine first moves the Z axis and then the XY axis.
To insert this command, select the Insert | Move | Clear Point menu item. PC-DMIS
inserts a MOVE/CLEARPOINT command in the Edit window. When this command is
executed, PC-DMIS moves to the defined clear point using the selected move
sequence.
Setting Up the Edit Window

PC-DMIS lets you determine the Edit window's appearance as well as what information
to display within some of the Edit window's modes.
Defining Edit Window Colors
Color Editor dialog box
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The Edit | Preferences | Edit Window Colors menu option displays the Color Editor
dialog box. You must be in Command mode or DMIS mode to select this menu item.
The Color Editor dialog box allows you to define the colors used for the Edit window
text and background when you have the Edit window in Command and DMIS modes.
You can also export your color scheme to use on different computer systems or import
external color schemes.
The Color Editor dialog box only specifies the colors in textual modes of the
Edit window such as the Command and DMIS.
There are four principal colors that can be configured for all commands or for individual
commands. You can determine whether to show these colors as a highlighted
background color or as text color by selecting or clearing the Enable Background
Highlighting check box. These are listed in the four boxes in the Command Text
Colors area.
• Marked
• Unmarked
• Step Mode
• Error
By default, the Enable Background Highlighting check box is selected, making the
boxes appear with the following colors:
If you clear this check box to enable text coloring instead, PC-DMIS shows the boxes as
follows:
Principal Colors
Marked - This color is used on any feature that is marked for execution. Some
features such as alignments are always executed and therefore always show up in
the Marked color.
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Unmarked - This color is used for unmarked features. This color is the default
color. If no other condition is present then the default color is used.
Step Mode - This color is used when highlighting the line upon which execution
next occurs when executing a measurement routine using breakpoints.
Error - This color shows commands that are in error or measurements that are
outside of their tolerance limits. For example, if a tip is recalled but is not defined
in the probe database, this tip text is colored with the error color.
You can also change background colors for the Edit window, dimensions, and the
highlight color.
Background Color - This sets the background color used in the Edit window.
Dimension Background Color - This sets the background color for a dimension's
reporting boxes.
Highlight Background Color - This sets the background color when dragging the
mouse to select a command or group of commands.
Related Topics:
Understanding the Default Edit Window Colors and Formatting
To change the command text colors used

1. Select Edit | Preferences | Edit Window Colors from the menu bar. The Color
Editor dialog box opens.
2. Click the Auto Preview check box. This allows you to preview your changes
inside the Edit window as you make them.
3. Select a specific command or a parent command from the list of commands in
the Command Text Colors area. Click on the plus signs to expand the list to
view additional sub commands. This allows you to set the principal colors
(Marked, Unmarked, Step Mode, and Error) for specific commands or parent
commands. To set the changes for all command text, select Default from the top
of the list.
4. Simply click the Edit button for the text or background color in the Command
Text Colors area. A Color selection box appears.
5. Select the new color, or customize a color by selecting the Define Custom
Colors button.
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6. Click the OK button. The Color selection box closes. If you selected a parent
command, PC-DMIS presents you with an option to set all child commands under
the parent command to use the same color as well. Select either Yes or No at
this prompt.
7. When finished defining your colors, click the Apply button to see the changes
without closing the Colors dialog box.
8. Click the OK button to apply the changes and close the Color Editor dialog box.
The color changes are immediately made.
To change the background colors used

2. Click the Auto Preview check box. This allows you to preview your changes
inside the Edit window as you make them.
3. Simply click the Edit button for the background or highlight color from the
Background Color area. A Color selection box appears.
4. Select the new color, or customize a color by selecting the Define Custom
Colors button.
5. Click the OK button. The Color selection box closes.
6. When finished defining your colors, click the Apply button to see the changes
without closing the Colors dialog box.
7. Click the OK button to apply the changes and close the Color Editor dialog box.
The color changes are immediately made.
To export a color scheme

2. Make changes to your color scheme as needed.
3. Click the Export button. A Save As dialog box appears. This dialog box allows
you to store your Edit window color scheme as a color file (a file with a .clr
extension).
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Save As dialog box
4. Navigate to where you want to store this file.

5. Type a name for the stored color file in the File name box.
6. Click Save.
To import and use a color scheme

Editor dialog box opens. Click the Auto Preview check box. This allows you to
preview your changes inside the Edit window once you select the color scheme.
2. Click the Import button. An Open dialog box appears.
3. Navigate to the color scheme file (a file with a .clr extension).
4. Select the file and click Open. The Open dialog box closes.
5. Click Apply and then OK to use the color scheme you just imported.
Defining the Edit Window Layout

The Edit | Preferences | Edit Window Layout menu option displays the Edit Window
Layout dialog box. The dialog box contains these tabs:
• Command tab - This tab lets you hide or show certain commands in the Edit
window. For more information, see "Command Mode Display Options".
• HyperReport tab - This tab usually does not appear, but it might for some older
measurement routines. It determines if PC-DMIS automatically loads a legacy
HyperView report once a measurement routine finishes execution. For more
information, see "Hyper-Report Configuration Options".
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Command Mode Display Options
Edit Window Layout dialog box-Command tab
The Command tab of the Edit Window Layout dialog box (Edit | Preferences | Edit
Window Layout) allows you to choose which of the following display options are
available for Command mode.
Show Features
This option displays the features measured by the measurement routine.
Show Alignments
This option shows alignment changes as they occur during the measurement
routine. It displays all alignment changes that occur in the dimension or feature
lists.
Show Moves
This option shows any moves that have been added to the measurement routine.
Show Comments
This option shows any comments that have been added to the measurement
routine. (See "Inserting Programmer Comments" in the "Inserting Report
Commands" chapter for additional information.)
Show Dimensions
This option displays the specified dimension for the features inspected by PC-
DMIS. It is displayed in the selected format using the FORMAT command described
in the "Dimension Format" topic in the "Using the Edit Window" chapter.
Show Hits
This option displays each hit.
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Show Header / Footer

This option displays the header / footer from the LOGO.DAT, HEADER.DAT, and
ELOGO.DAT files. (See "Modifying the Edit Window's Headers and Footers" in the
"Using the Edit Window" chapter for information on altering these files.)
Show Tips
This option displays the tip file names used to inspect the part.
For information on working with Command mode, see the "Working in Command Mode"
topic in the "Using the Edit Window" chapter.
Hyper-Report Configuration Options
Edit Window Layout dialog box—Hyper-Report tab
This older tab remains to support legacy HyperView reports. It only appears if
the Auto Load Hyper-Report check box is marked. Once you clear that check box, the
tab never reappears for the current measurement routine.
The Auto Load Hyper-Report check box tells PC-DMIS to load a specific legacy
HyperView report (.rpt) as soon as execution finishes.
The current purpose of this tab is to let you clear the Auto Load Hyper-Report check
box so that the legacy HyperView report no longer opens for the measurement routine.
If you need information on the other options on this tab or on HyperView reports, see
"Working with Legacy (HyperView) Reports" in the "Reporting Measurement Results"
chapter.
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Setting Up the Probe Readouts Window
For information on current reporting practices, see the "Reporting Measurement

Results" chapter.
Probe Readouts Setup dialog box
The Probe Readouts Setup dialog box (Edit | Preferences | Probe Readouts Setup)
allows you to select the desired format of the Probe Readouts window. Select the check
boxes that meet your probe readout needs. When you next access the Probe Readouts
window, it will reflect the chosen format.
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A sample Probe Readouts window
You can also access the Probe Readouts Setup dialog box by right-clicking on
the Probe Readouts window and clicking Setup.
For information on using the Probe Readouts window, see "Using the Probe Readouts
Window" in the "Using Other Windows, Editors, and Tools" chapter.
Feature Area
Feature area
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Show Feature ID check box

If in Learn Mode and there are CAD elements, this shows the text label of the nearest
CAD element.
If in Execute Mode and PC-DMIS is executing sequentially through the measurement

routine, this shows the ID of feature being executed. If PC-DMIS is executing in any
order, and the Closest Feature option is selected from the Distance Target area, it will
show the ID of the closest feature.
Show Feature Type check box

If in Execute Mode and PC-DMIS is executing sequentially through the measurement
routine, this displays the executing feature type. If PC-DMIS is executing in any order
this displays the feature type of the closest feature.
Probe/Hit Area
Probe/Hit area
Probe Position check box

When you select the Probe Position check box, PC-DMIS displays the current position
of the probe. The Probe Readouts window displays the probe's position in the active
coordinate system.
Last Hit check box

When you select the Last Hit check box, PC-DMIS displays the location of the last hit
taken with the probe. If this option is not selected, PC-DMIS displays the current
position of the probe.
Display error of last measured feature check box

When you select the Display error of last measured feature check box, PC-DMIS
displays any deviations along the XYZ coordinates (and D for circular features) for the
last measured feature in the Probe Readouts window. Even if the deviation is 0 then
only 0 is displayed.
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Display form error of current feature check box

When you select the Display Form error of current feature check box, PC-DMIS
displays the form error for the feature being learned or executed.
If the feature has a valid form dimension (circularity, straightness, flatness, or

cylindricity), then PC-DMIS displays the appropriate GD&T symbol near the value.
Otherwise, PC-DMIS displays the Greek letter Sigma indicating standard deviation.
If there are not enough hits to calculate a form value, PC-DMIS displays a line of
dashes for the value until sufficient hits are processed.
Coordinates Area
Coordinates area
Machine Coordinate System (MCS) check box

When you select the Machine Coordinate System (MCS) check box, PC-DMIS
displays the information in the machine's coordinate system, not the part coordinate
system. This check box switches between these coordinate systems. Deselecting it will
once again display the information in the part's coordinate system.
Use Polar Coordinates check box

When you select the Use Polar Coordinates check box, PC-DMIS switches between
rectangular and polar coordinates. When polar coordinates are used, the normal
direction of the workplane is also displayed.
Axis to Display Area
Axis to display area
Check Box Description
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X This hides or displays the X axis in the Probe Readouts window.

Y This hides or displays the Y axis in the Probe Readouts window.
Z This hides or displays the Z axis in the Probe Readouts window.
Colors Area
Colors area
Background list - This sets the background color of the Probe Readouts window.
Text list - This sets the text color of the Probe Readouts window.
Screen Counters Area
Screen Counters area
Show CAD check box

This check box hides or displays the CAD X, Y, Z, I, J, K information for the CAD
element at the mouse pointer's location in the Probe Readouts window. The origin is
based off of the CAD model.
Show Part check box

This check box hides or displays the Part X, Y, Z, I, J, K information for the CAD
element at the mouse pointer's location in the Probe Readouts window. The origin is
based off of the current part alignment.
See "Displaying Mouse Coordinates in Screen Counter Text" in the "Editing the CAD
Display" chapter.
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Tracker Area
Tracker area
Show RMS check box

This check box shows the RMS value in the Probe Readouts window if the measure
machine is a portable tracker device.
Inspect or Build option

These options determine whether or not the information in the tracker is reported
according to the Inspect mode or Build mode.
See the PC-DMIS Portable documentation for more information.
Graphical Representation Area
Graphical Representation area
Show current probe position on screen check box

The Show current probe position on screen check box shows a graphical
representation of the probe on screen, relative to the machine when you move the
probe's position using the jog box. This is helpful when you work in Online mode. When
you use the jog box to move the probe, a graphical representation of the probe also
moves on the PC-DMIS Graphic Display window. This only functions when you run PC-
DMIS in Online mode connected to a physical machine and the measurement routine
has an alignment.
Show deviation arrow on screen check box

The Show deviation arrow on screen check box shows a 3D arrow in the Graphic
Display window, which indicates the direction of deviation during execution. The With
Auto Zoom check box in the Distance Target area must be marked.
Center probe in graphic window check box

The Center probe in graphic window check box shifts the display in the Graphic
Display window so that the animated probe always appears centered in the window
whenever PC-DMIS executes motion commands or takes hits on the part. This is useful
when you want to keep your view zoomed in close to your part model during execution
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yet visually follow the probe's progress. This functions only if PC-DMIS is not in
Program mode.
Distance Target Area
Distance Target area
Distance to target check box

When you select the Distance to target check box, and the Display distance to
closest CAD check box is not checked, PC-DMIS displays the distance of the probe to
the target point depending on the Distance to setting. Otherwise, PC-DMIS always
displays the distance to the closest CAD.
The probe's position is displayed in the active coordinate system. Manually drive the
probe to the keyed in location. When the target point is reached, the Probe Readouts
window will display 0,0,0.
A red line also appears on the Graphic Display window from the probe tip to the target,
indicating the next feature to measure.
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Red Line Pointing to the center of the PLN6 Feature
The target is based on the combination of options specified in the Distance to and
Target areas of the dialog box. See a description of these options below and in the
"Description of Target for T Value" topic.
With Auto Zoom check box

When you select both the Distance to Target check box and With Auto Zoom check
box, PC-DMIS also displays the distance of the probe to the target point. The probe’s
position is displayed in the active coordinate system. As the probe is manually driven to
the keyed in location, PC-DMIS makes the target point the center of the screen and
zooms in on the point in the Graphic Display window.
Distance area
This area contains these two option buttons to further define the target:
• Executing feature defines the target as the next executing feature.

• Closest feature defines the target as the feature closest to the probe.
You can determine the exact location on the target feature (either the centroid or the
closest surface/edge point) by selecting the desired option from the Target area.
Target area
This area contains two option buttons to determine the exact target location to use:
• Surface/Edge defines the target as either the closest point on the feature or the
next expected point based on what you selected from the Distance area:
o If you selected Closest feature, the target is the closest point on the
feature.
o If you selected Executing feature, the target is the next expected point to
take on the feature.
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As shown in the above image, for example, while measuring the circle (CIR1), the
Surface/Edge option causes the Probe Readouts window to show the distance to
the actual target point at location A.
• Centroid calculates the distance to the feature's centroid.
As shown in the above image, for example, while measuring the circle (CIR1), the
Centroid option causes the Probe Readouts window to show the distance to the
feature's centroid at location B, instead of the actual target point.
• Vector calculates the distance from the probe's center to the nearest point on the
feature's vector.
Display distance to closest CAD check box

Marking this check box has several effects. When marked, the target becomes the
closest point on the nearest CAD surface. The red line connects the probe tip to this
target.
Also, PC-DMIS displays a ‘T’ (CAD) value, or total deviation value, in the Probe
Readouts window. See the "Description of Target for T Value" topic for information on
exactly what the distance is used for each feature's T value.
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This setting overrules the Distance to Target setting during execution.
Apply dimension color check box

This check box changes the colors of the deviation values (Distance to Target values) to
match the out of tolerance dimension colors.
Closest CAD tolerance field

This is the field to enter the tolerance (in current units), which is used to determine the
maximum distance the software tries to locate the surface to compare the current probe
position to. Beyond this distance, no distance to CAD will be returned.
Description of Target for T Value

The T Value is always the magnitude (or length) of the vector from the probe tip to a
target point. The target point is determined by the Centroid, Surface/Edge, or Vector
option buttons located in the Target area of the Probe Readout Setup dialog box (Edit
| Preferences | Probe Readout Setup).
• If you selected Centroid or Vector, PC-DMIS uses the distance from the probe's
center point.
• If you selected Surface Edge, PC-DMIS uses the probe-compensated distance.
During Execution with "Closest Feature" and "Centroid" Selected and

Closest Distance to CAD Not Selected
The Centroid is the feature's center. While this makes more sense for some features
than others, all features have a center. For the nine basic feature types, the center for
each is defined below with illustrations where necessary.
• Point
The T value is the distance to the point itself.
• Line
The T value is the distance to the midpoint between the two outermost hits
on the line segment.
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• Plane
The T value is the distance to the center of the plane. The center is the
midpoint of the polygon defined by the bounding hit points defining the
plane.
• Circle
The T value is the distance to the circle's centroid.
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• Round and Square Slots
The T value is the distance to the midpoint of the slot’s plane.
• Sphere
The T value is the distance to the center of the sphere.
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• Cylinder
The T value is the distance to the center of the top of the cylinder:
• Cone
The T value is the distance to the cone's vertex.
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During Execution with "Closest Feature" and "Surface/Edge" Selected and

When locating the surface/edge, the target for the T value is the point on the feature
that is closest to the probe. For 3D features, the closest point is on the surface of the
feature; for 2D features, it is on the edge. For the nine basic feature types, the center for
each is defined below with illustrations where necessary.
• Point
The T value is the distance to the point itself.
• Line
The T value is the distance to the closest point on the line defined by two or
more hits. This is not a line segment but a true geometric line. The example
below shows two different cases.
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• Plane
The T value is the distance to the closest point on the geometric plane
defined by the three or more hits.
• Circle
The T value is the distance to the closest point on the circle's edge.
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The T value is the distance to the closest point on the slot's edge.
• Sphere
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The T value is the distance to the closest point on the sphere's surface. The
illustration below shows the point on the surface of an outer feature, but an
inner feature works the same and uses an inner surface.
• Cylinder
The T value is the distance to the closest point on the surface of the
cylinder. The illustration below shows the point on the surface of an outer
feature, but an inner feature works the same and uses an inner surface.
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• Cone
The T value is the distance to the closest point on the surface of the cone
(not the geometric cone). The illustration below shows the point on the
surface of an outer feature, but an inner feature works the same and uses
an inner surface.
During Execution with "Closest Feature" and "Vector" Selected and

When locating the vector, the target for the T value is the point on the feature vector
closest to the probe. For the nine basic feature types, the center for each is defined
below with illustrations where necessary.
• Point
The T value is the distance to the closest point on the point's hit vector.
• Line
The T value is the distance to the closest point along the line's vector.
• Plane
The T value is the distance to the closest point on the plane's normal vector
that is anchored to the plane's center (see the Plane Centroid example
above for a description of the plane's center).
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• Circle
The T value is the distance to the closest point on circle's normal vector
that is anchored to the circle's center point.
The T value is the distance to the closest point on the normal vector of the
slot's plane. The plane is defined by the slot's hit points. See the Plane
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Vector example above. As with that example, the normal vector is anchored
to the center point of the slot's plane.
• Sphere
The T value is the distance to the closest point on the sphere's normal
vector. The vector is the same as the defined workplane or reference plane.
• Cylinder
The T value is the distance to the closest point on the cylinder's central axis
vector:
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• Cone
The T value is the distance to the closest point on the cone's central axis
vector:
No Execution or Execution with "Closest CAD" Selected and a CAD File

Loaded
The T value appears as T (CAD) and refers to the closest point on the CAD. The DX,
DY, and DZ are the vector components of the T (CAD) value. There must be surface
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CAD data, and you must set your view to Surface Mode for this to work. If no CAD is
loaded, the T, DX, DY and DZ values refer to the Distance to Target setting, which is
only active during execution.
During Execution with "Executing Feature" and "Surface/Edge" Selected
This mode is for backwards compatibility and is the original functionality. In this state,
the target point is the distance to the next hit on the feature.
During Execution with "Executing Feature" and "Centroid" or "Vector"

Selected
If you selected Centroid or Vector, these options behave as the "Closest Feature"
examples above, but they show distances to the next executing feature.
Prompt History Area
When you select the Display prompt history check box, PC-DMIS displays the new
Probe Readouts comment type inside the Probe Readouts window.
• Using the Display lines at a time box, you can specify how many lines PC-DMIS
should set apart for these comments on the Probe Readouts window.
• When the Automatically resize font button is marked, PC-DMIS automatically
resizes the font size for the Operators Comments in Report Commands based on
the value for the ReadoutDisplayFont_AutoHistoryFontSizeRatio
registry entry in the PC-DMIS Settings Editor. For details, see
"ReadoutDisplayFont_AutoHistoryFontSizeRatio" in the PC-DMIS Settings Editor
documentation.
• Using the Select Font button, you can also specify the font type and size for
these comments on the Probe Readouts window.
For information on inserting comments, see "Inserting Programmer Comments" in the

"Inserting Report Commands" chapter.
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Setting Up Multiple Arms
For information on displaying the Probe Readouts window, see "Using the Probe
Readouts window" in the "Using Other Windows, Editors, and Tools" chapter.
Always Track FOV Center

If this item is selected, PC-DMIS displays the FOV center of a non-contact video probe.
This item only appears if you have a non-contact video probe defined.
Setting Up Multiple Arms

See the "Using Multiple Arm Mode" chapter for information regarding setup procedures
for multiple arms.
Defining the Rotary Table

Select the Edit | Preferences | Rotary Table Setup menu option to open the Rotary
Table Setup dialog box.
Rotary Table Setup dialog box
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PC-DMIS disables rotary table motion when ClearanceCube motion is active.
This dialog box allows you to define the rotary table. You can only accept one option per
category.
1. Select the type of table being used. If you select Dual Rotary Table or Stacked
Rotary Tables, indicate the active table (Table W or Table V). If you select Dual
Rotary Tables or Stacked Rotary Tables, PC-DMIS also displays the Active
Rotary Table toolbar once you click the OK button. This toolbar contains two
icons that allow you to select which rotary table is active.
2. Select either Table is Index Type or Table is Infinite Type option to define if the
table is an indexable or infinite type.
Index type rotary tables have a finite number of specific angles to which
they can be positioned. Generally, they have a fixed increment (in degrees of
rotation) from a given position to the next available position. The incremental
amount varies based on your specific table. Please consult your rotary table
documentation if necessary. Infinite type rotary tables accept any position (in
degrees).
3. Select either the Table is Manual or Table is DCC option to define if the table is
a manual or DCC table type.
4. From the Axis for Table list, select the machine axis closest to the axis of
rotation for the table.
5. From the Direction of Positive list, select whether or not the table has a positive
rotation about the chosen axis in either the CLOCKWISE direction or the
COUNTERCLOCKWISE direction. The reference point of view for the direction is
the perspective of looking down the axis for the table towards the origin.
6. If known, type the XYZ and IJK values. For PC-DMIS NC, the approximate
location of the table center (within the probe's prehit distance) must be included
because the entire calibration is done under DCC control.
7. Click Calibrate to begin the calibration process.
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WARNING: When you do this, the machine moves. To avoid injury, stay
clear of the machine. To avoid hardware damage, run the machine at a slower
speed.
The Rotary Table Setup menu option is available only if your PC-DMIS
license is configured to accept rotary tables.
ROTABSPEED Command
When you define a Move/Rotab command, the command uses the speed value set in
the Rotary Table tab of the Parameter Settings dialog box (Edit | Preferences |
Parameters). You can override this value to slow down or speed up the rotary table
with the ROTABSPEED command.
For example:
STARTUP=ALIGNMENT/START,RECALIBRATE:USE_PART_SETUP,LIST=YES
ALIGNMENT/END
MODE/DCC
MOVESPEED/ 96
FLY/ON
FORMAT/TEXT,OPTIONS,,HEADINGS,SYMBOLS,;NOM,TOL,MEAS,DEV,OUTTOL
,,
LOADPROBE/X5HD
TIP/X5HD, SHANKIJK=0,0,1, ANGLE=90
MOVE/ROTAB,30,SHORTEST,
.
.
.
ROTABSPEED/ 72
.
.
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.
.
.
.
ROTABSPEED/ 20
.
.
.
.
.
.
In this example, the last five lines show the insertion of the ROTABSPEED command.
The first instance speeds up the rotary table to 72 degrees per second, possibly to
speed up the measurement process for a small part. The second ROTABSPEED
command slows the rotary table down to 20 degrees per second, possibly for a larger
part.
If you use the default value of 0 (zero) for the ROTABSPEED command, the rotary table's
speed is proportional to the value set for the MOVESPEED command. This is necessary
for backward compatibility prior to the implementation of the ROTABSPEED command.
For systems with stacked rotary tables, you need to account for both tables in the
ROTABSPEED command, ROTABSPEED <wspeed>[,<vspeed>] where <wspeed>
is table one and the optional <vspeed> is table two.
ROTABSPEED/ 50,40
An example of a system with a stacked rotary table is the Optive CMM for Vision
systems.
Difference between a Stacked and Dual Rotary Table

Stacked Rotary Table
Stacked rotary tables provide the ability of rotating a part or calibration artifact beyond
the standard XYZ axes.
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A stacked table system has two tables stacked on top of each other. The bottom table is
typically labeled "A" and the top table is typically labeled "C".
A - Table A, bottom table
C - Table C, top table
Details of a stacked rotary table
In this scenario, the "C" table rotates about the Z axis and the "A" table rotates about
the X axis.
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Table rotation directions
The following four images show a real-world example of the A table on a stacked rotary
table as it rotates 90 degrees.
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Example of a stacked rotary table as it rotates 90 degrees
Dual Rotary Table
A Dual Rotary Table configuration consists of a large machine that holds two
independent stacked rotary tables. The tables within the machine must lie some
distance apart from each other to provide the necessary operating space.
You can only have one table active at a time. You can select the active table from the
Active Rotary Table toolbar. Once you activate a table, it remains active for the entire
length of the measurement program. The other table stays inactive.
You can calibrate and use the active table just as you would a single table system.
Calibrate Rotary Table

The Edit | Preferences | Rotary Table Setup menu item accesses the Rotary Table
Setup dialog box.
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Rotary Table Setup dialog box
Depending on the options selected Table Type area of the Rotary Table Setup dialog
box (see "Defining the Rotary Table"), one of two dialog boxes opens when you click
the Calibrate button.
• Selecting the Table is Infinite Type option and clicking the Calibrate
button opens the Calibrate Infinite Rotary Table dialog box.
• Selecting the Table is Index Type option and clicking the Calibrate
button opens the Calibrate Indexable Rotary Table dialog box.
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Calibrate Indexable Rotary Table
Calibrate Indexable Rotary Table
Using the Calibrate Indexable Rotary Table dialog box you can select the options PC-
DMIS uses to calibrate the selected table. Once the options within the dialog box are
satisfactory, click the Calibrate button to start the rotary table calibration process.
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WARNING: When you do this, the machine moves. To avoid injury, stay clear
of the machine. To avoid hardware damage, run the machine at a slower speed.
Usage Requirements: The indexable rotary table calibration must include the 0
position. Additionally, all the angles used in a measurement routine must also be
calibrated. This calibration procedure calculates and stores a transformation for all other
angles relative to the 0 position.
Calibration Requirements: The indexable rotary table calibration procedure requires a

valid XYZ, IJK for the table in order to run properly. This can be accomplished in two
ways:
1) If the values are known, they can be manually typed into the Rotary Table Setup
dialog box. This is usually not the case.
2) Initially select the Table is Infinite Type option and complete an infinite rotary table
calibration, which calculates and saves the XYZ, IJK. Then select the Table is
Indexable Type and perform the indexable rotary table calibration. This is normally only
an issue during the initial software installation/setup or if the rotary table has been
moved or if something has happened to significantly alter the origin of the machine
coordinate system. Once the XYZ, IJK is determined closely enough that the indexable
rotary table calibration procedure can run successfully it is not necessary to go back
and re-run the infinite rotary table calibration in order to re-run the indexable rotary table
calibration.
Add Rotab Angles
The Add Rotab Angles area allows you to define the list of table angles that are
included in the calibration. You can define one angle at a time, or you can define an
incremented range of angles. Defined angles are then placed in the Angles to
Calibrate list. When you click Calibrate, PC-DMIS then calibrate the rotary table using
the defined angles.
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If you want to calibrate all the angles between 5 and 95 degrees with a 10 degree
increment between each angle, you would fill in the Start Angle, End Angle, and
Increment boxes with 5, 95, and 10 respectively, and then click the Equally Space
button.
Angles to Calibrate List
This list contains all the table angles for the calibration. You can add angles to this list
from the Add Rotab Angles area. The Angles to Calibrate list must use the zero
angle.
Other Dialog Box Parameters
This dialog box also contains many of the same options described in the "Defining
Hardware" chapter.
• For information on Number of Hits, Prehit / Retract, Move Speed, Touch

Speed, Manual / DCC, List of Available Tools, Add Tool, and Delete
Tool, see the "Measure" topic in the "Defining Hardware" chapter.
• For information on Active Probe File and Active Tip, see the "Defining Probes"
topic in the "Defining Hardware" chapter.
Calibrate Infinite Rotary Table
Calibrate Infinite Rotary Table dialog box
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For information on many of the options on this dialog box, see the "Calibrate Indexable
Rotary Table" topic.
The Calibrate Infinite Rotary Table dialog box differs from the Calibrate Indexable
Rotary Table dialog box in these areas:
• Instead of the Angles to Calibrate list, the dialog displays the Table Angles list.
• You don’t have to use the 0.0 angle in the Table Angles list.
• Instead of three calibration tools, the dialog box only displays one calibration tool.
Once the options within the dialog box are satisfactory, click the Calibrate button to
start the rotary table calibration process.
WARNING: When you do this, the machine moves. To avoid injury, stay clear
of the machine. To avoid hardware damage, run the machine at a slower speed.
Setting Up Probe Changer Options

Use the Probe Changer dialog box to set up various options that you can use on a
probe changer. To display the dialog box, select Edit | Preferences | Probe Changer.
For complete information, see "Defining Probe Changers" in the "Defining Hardware"
chapter.
Managing Multiple Probe Changers

The topics below discuss the more popular probing systems used today (the TP2,
ACR1, TP20 and TP200, and the SP600). The "Configuring Multiple Racks" and "SP25
Probe/Stylus Change system" topics then provide detailed examples of how to work
with multiple probe changers.
Background on TP2
When Renishaw developed the small touch trigger probe (TP2), it attached to the CMM
ram via a probe head with a threaded M8 connection in line with the probe body itself.
However, this design required a probe recalibration whenever it was removed or
reattached.
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To alleviate this need to recalibrate, Renishaw developed a quick-connect adapter

(termed QuickConnect) which used a ¼ turn of a key to lock and unlock the adapter
from the CMM. The TP2 screwed into this adapter. This adapter could be detached and
re-attached very quickly and repeatably without the necessity of always recalibrating.
Background on ACR1
The ACR1 was the first probe changer introduced by Renishaw. It held up to eight of the
quick-connect extensions, each with a separate TP2 probe body. Once the probes were
qualified and placed into the rack, they could be automatically dropped off and picked
up by the CMM with simple move commands and coordinated with the locking/unlocking
mechanisms of the rack. A software module was eventually developed which controlled
the rack operations.
Background on TP20 and TP200

Over time, design evolution and electronic developments paved the way for alternatives
to the TP2 probe body. In addition, for some customers, purchasing up to eight probe
bodies proved prohibitive. New probe body designs were developed, which allowed for
removal and attachment of new stylus adapters. These took the place of the quick-
connect joints. Individual stylus assemblies could then be removed and re-attached
repeatedly and inexpensively.
Two of the better-known probe bodies of this design from Renishaw include the TP20
and the TP200. The TP20 uses a magnetic coupling, which allows the exchange of
multiple probe modules. You can store the individual modules in the TP20 probe rack,
which is actually called the MCR20 (where "MCR" is Module Change Rack).
Each probe body is roughly equivalent to the TP2 in size and shape, but there are two
main differences:
• Due to their enhanced electronics, they can hold more weight and still produce
more accurate and repeatable results.
• They are designed with a magnetic "split" between the upper probe body and the
lower stylus holder. This allows them to be used with their own stylus change
rack systems: the MCR20 and the SCR200, respectively.
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Background on the SP600 Analog Probe

Another improvement is the popular SP600 analog probe. This probe can perform
analog scans as well as touch trigger measurements. While its body design is much
larger than the TP series of probes, a magnetic stylus holder can separate from the
body. Accordingly, it also has its own rack system, the SCR600 tip changer.
Configuring Multiple Racks

While there are other probing systems on the market, the four most popular probing
systems, as discussed, are the TP2, TP20, TP200, and SP600 systems. Each has its
own rack system which can function on its own as a single rack. Alternately, you can
use more than one rack with a CMM. The PC-DMIS software has the ability to move
between the racks to drop off and pick up probes and stylus holders as needed.
Important Notes:
• Each rack has its own calibration method in PC-DMIS. While they share a lot of
commonality, for calibration purposes, they are completely independent of each
other.
• The clearance move point for each rack is only related to that rack, except that
some consideration must be given to where to will travel next. For this reason,
the clearance move should be at such a location to allow free travel to any other
rack which may be involved. Even when using a single rack, this clearance move
must be sufficient to travel from and return to the part inspection operations.
• Defining the ports' contents for multiple racks is the most critical part of
configuring multiple racks for simultaneous use. Since each port may contain
multiple probe references (the contents of the port can be used with multiple
probes) each port must identify all of the probes it will potentially use.
Example of Multiple Probe References

Suppose you have these three probes configurations:
PROBE_01 PROBE_02 PROBE_03

QuickConnect AutoJoint QuickConnect AutoJoint QuickConnect AutoJoint
TP2 TP20 TP20
3mmx10mm stylus 2mmx10mm stylus 4mmx20mm stylus
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The ACR1 will switch between the TP2 and the TP20 probes. The MCR20 will switch
between the styli associated with the TP20 probe system(s).
A typical port definition might look like this:
ACR1 MCR20
Port 1 Port 2
Probe_01 Probe_02
Probe_03
In operation, suppose the system is using PROBE_01 and it needs to switch to

PROBE_02. The system would:
• Pause the measurement routine.

• Travel to the clearance location for the ACR1.
• Return the currently loaded probe to port #1 of the ACR1.
• Move to port #2 of the ACR1 and pick up the TP20 body for PROBE_02.
• Use the respective Safety/Clearance points and move to the MCR20.
• Move into port #1 of the MCR20 to attach the stylus adapter with the desired
stylus.
• Return to the MCR20’s Clearance point.
• Continue with the measurement routine.
Suppose after measuring some features, the system then needs to use PROBE_03.
The system would:
• Pause the measurement process.

• Travel to the clearance location for the MCR20.
• Move into port #1 to drop off PROBE_02’s stylus.
• Travel out, over, and into port #3 to pick up the stylus required for PROBE_03.
• Travel to the clearance location.
• Continue with the measurement routine.
Now, suppose the system needs to switch from PROBE_03 (the TP20 with the
4mmx20mm stylus) back to Probe_01 (the TP2 with the 3mmx10mm stylus). The
system would:
• Pause the measurement routine.

• Move to the clearance point for the MCR20.
• Go into port #2 and drop off the stylus assembly.
• Return to the MCR20’s clearance location
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• Move to the ACR1’s clearance location.

• Go into port #2 to drop off the TP20 assembly.
• Move out and return to port #1 to pick up the TP2 assembly (the TP2 probe
already has the stylus attached).
• Move to the clearance point for the ACR1.
• Continue the measurement routine.
Note that in this example, you only need one TP20 probe body. You use the MCR20 to
switch between two different probe stylus assemblies for varied measurement
requirements.
SP25 Probe/Stylus Change system

The SP25 rack is an extension of the same procedures used in other racks. This
discussion covers the ARC1 and TP20 racks and then branches out to describe the
SP25 rack system.
Understanding the ACR1 Rack

When using the ACR1, the system uses the Quickened joint between the probe head
and the probe body. All of the ports in the ACR1 are identical, so if you had an SP600 in
port 1, it would connect directly to the probe head. If you wanted to put a TP2 into port
2, you would need to mount an adapter to the TP2 (as with TP20 and TP200 probing
systems).
With this configuration in mind, you only need to define one probe name for each port.
Technically, the ACR1 is a probe changer, and each probe would have a stylus already
attached to it when it sits in the rack.
Suppose you want to assign these probes to the ACR1 rack: "SP600", "TP2", "TP20",
and "TP200". The port definitions in the ACR1 rack would be:
PORT 1 PORT 2 PORT 3 PORT

SP600 TP2 TP20 TP200
Understanding the ACR1 with a TP20 Stylus Changer

Now, if you want to combine the ACR1 with a TP20 rack (a stylus changer), things get
slightly more complicated. The ACR1 will switch between the SP600 and the TP20
probe bodies. Once the system picks up the TP20, it will go to the MCR20 rack to pick
up an appropriate stylus for it.
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Suppose you have 3 separate styli that you wanted to use with the TP20 and that the
SP600 is used as a single probe (no stylus changing).
When you define the ports, you might call the SP600 probe "SP600_1", and the TP20
probes with the varied styli attached, you might call "TP20_1", "TP20_2", and "TP20_3".
The ports in the ACR1 probe changer would be defined as:
PORT 1 PORT 2 PORT 3 PORT 4

SP600 TP2 TP20_1 TP200
TP20_2
TP20_3
The ports in the TP20 stylus changer would be defined as:
PORT 1 PORT PORT 3 PORT 4

TP20_1 TP20_2 TP20_3 empty
Understanding the SP25 Rack System

You can extend the logic from the above topics to the SP25 rack system. This rack can
hold two different types of probe components. For one type the port is calibrated empty,
and for the other type a port is calibrated with an insert.
This discussion will abandon the previous references to SP600, TP2, TP20, and TP200
since the SP25 rack system uses these components instead:
• SP25M
• SM25-x
• SH25-x
The SP25M system can adapt to any of five different SM25 modules for varied styli
lengths and weights, and a sixth module for use with the TP20. They all use the same
SP25M probe body.
• SM25-1 module - This module accepts only the SH25-1 stylus holder. It is used
for styli lengths between 20 mm and 50 mm.
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• SM25-5 module - This module accepts only the SH25-5 stylus holder. It supports
straight styli lengths of approximately the same range as the SM25-2. However, it
is specially designed for improved handling of perpendicularly attached styli (that
is, crank styli configurations). The maximum length of a crank stylus depends on
how far down from the stylus holder it is attached. The maximum crank stylus
length forms an approximately conical shape varying from 105 mm at 15 mm
down to 20 mm at 80 mm down.
• TM25-20 module - This module can only accept TP20 touch trigger probes and
therefore does not support scanning.
Any of the SM25-x modules above are capable of individual touch probing as well as
scanning.
Example of SP25 with Multiple Probes
Suppose your SP25 rack has these six probe assemblies that are always attached to
the probe head:
P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6
SP25M SP25M SP25M SP25M SP25M SP25M
SM25-1 SM25-1 SM25-2 SM25-3 TM25-20 TM25-20
SH25-1 SH25-1 SH25-2 SH25-3 TP20 TP20
2mm by 4mm by 6mm by 8mm by 2mm by 4mm by
20mm 30mm 80mm 100mm 20mm 20mm
stylus stylus stylus stylus stylus stylus
You would define the ports in the FCR25 rack to hold components making up the
various probe configurations. This first table shows the ports that hold components for
the above probe configurations.
PORT 1 PORT 2 PORT 3 PORT4 PORT5 PORT6

P1 P1 P2 P3 P4 P5*
P2
In detail, the ports would hold these components:
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PORT
PORT 2 PORT 3 PORT4 PORT5 PORT6
1
SM25-
SH25-1 SH25-1 SH25-2 SM35-3 TM25-20
1
2mm by 4mm by 20 6mm by
SH25-3 TP20*
20mm stylus mm stylus 80mm stylus
8mm by 100 2mm by
mm stylus 20mm stylus*
• Slot 1 contains the SM25-1 module only. It uses no insert for this. This
component attaches directly to the SP25 and requires the addition of the SH25-1
with the 2mm stylus found in Slot 2 or the SH25-1 with the 4mm stylus found in
port 3.
• Slot 2 contains the SH25-1 stylus holder with an attached 2mm by 20mm stylus.
This component requires an insert in the port to adapt the physical characteristics
of the port for this component. This component requires an SM25-1 module
(found in port 1). Once it picks up the SM25-1, the probe assembly is complete.
• Slot 3 contains the SH25-1 stylus holder with an attached 4mm by 30mm stylus.
This component requires an insert in the port to adapt the physical characteristics
of the port for this component. This component requires an SM25-1 module
(found in port 1). Once it picks up the SM25-1, the probe assembly is complete.
• Slot 4 contains the SH25-2 stylus holder and an attached 6mm by 80mm stylus.
It uses no insert for this. Once this is picked up, the probe assembly is complete.
• Slot 5 contains the SM25-3 with the SH25-3 stylus holder and an attached 8mm
by 100mm stylus. It uses no insert for this. Once this is picked up, the probe
assembly is complete.
• Slot 6 contains the TM25-20 module only. It uses no insert for this. This
component attaches directly to the SP25M.
* When used with a single stylus, the TP20 probe module and stylus can be
attached to the TM25-20 module while in the port, and requires no additional rack
system. However, when used with multiple styli (as in this example), the TM25-20
module has no other components attached while it sits in the port, but requires the
use of additional FCR25 ports with adapters specifically for the purpose of holding
the TP20 module/stylus combinations. For this example, the added three ports
would look like this:
PORT 7 PORT 8 PORT 9

P5 P6 empty
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PORT 7 PORT 8 PORT 9

TP20 TP20 empty
2mm by 20mm stylus 4mm by 20mm stylus
• When using P1, the CMM would drop off any existing components. Then it
would pick up the SM25-1 found in port 1 of the FCR25 and proceed to pick up
the SH25-1 found in port 2 of the same rack.
would pick up the SM25-1 found in port 1 of the FCR25 and proceed to pick up
the SH25-1 found in port 3 of the same rack.
would pick up the SM25-2 and SH25-2 combination found in port 4. With this, the
probe assembly is complete.
would pick up the SM25-3 and SH25-3 combination found in port 5. With this, the
probe assembly is complete.
• When using P5, the CMM would drop off any existing components. It would then
pick up the TM25-20 body in port 6 of the FCR25 and proceed to pick up the
TP20 module/stylus combination in port 7 of the FCR25.
• When using P6, the CMM would drop off any existing components. It would then
pick up the TM25-20 body in port 6 of the FCR25 and proceed to pick up the
TP20 module/stylus combination in port 8 of the FCR25.
As with other tool changers and probe assemblies, components are dropped off in
reverse order from how they are picked up.
Loading the Active Probe

The Operation | Load Active Probe menu option loads the active probe required by
the measurement routine. While in Learn mode, use the Probe Utilities dialog box
(Insert | Hardware Definition | Probe) to change the loaded probe file or files.
Use the Probe Changer dialog box (Edit | Preferences | Probe Changer) to define the
appropriate probe configurations for each port that is used. You can then use the Load
Active Probe option to tell the machine to exchange the necessary probe configuration
or configurations.
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Examples of Working with Single and Multiple Probe Changers
Examples of Working with Single and

Multiple Probe Changers
A probe changer is a mechanical rack system that changes components at the
kinematic joint. This topic shows examples of working with single and multiple probe
changers in the same measurement routine after calibration.
The "Defining Probe Changers" topic in the "Defining Hardware" chapter

provides you with a step-by-step description of how to set up and calibrate a probe
changer. It also describes how to display an existing probe changer inside the Graphic
Display window.
The examples use the TP20, which is a single probe, and the LSPX1. Also, in these
examples, the kinematic joint is the Autojoint. The Autojoint is the connection where a
key is used to engage the male and female halves of this coupling. For systems with no
probe racks, the operator manually uses a key to engage and disengage the autojoint.
For rack systems, this is done with a rack and pinion style device to turn the key.
Example - Working with a TP20 Probe
In this example, you would do the following:
1. Set up the TP20 in the Probe Utilities dialog box. For example:
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TP20 setup in Probe Utilities dialog box
2. Select Edit | Preferences | Probe Changer. The Type tab in the Probe
Changer dialog box appears:
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Type tab in Probe Changer dialog box
To use different modules for the TP20 probe and load them automatically, you
would use a probe changer. In this case, it is referred to as the "TP20" probe
changer in the Active probe changer list. The example above shows that the
TP20 probe changer (and others) has already been configured.
3. Select TYPE= TP20.

4. Select the Ports tab:
Ports tab
5. To define the port contents for the TP20 probe changer, click the plus sign (+) to
the left of the port number and then assign a probe file to each port from the list
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that appears. (For help with assigning probe files, see "To Define the Probe
Configuration for Each Port".) Repeat this procedure for each port, until you have
defined all of the ports that you need to use. For example:
Ports tab with assigned probe files for TP20
You should assign each probe file to only one port. If you are using a
single probe changer, and the name of one of the probe files appears in multiple
ports, PC-DMIS may not perform as you would expect.
6. Click Apply, and then click OK to close the dialog box.

7. Use the probes in your measurement routine. To do this, you only need to
include the LOADPROBE command in your measurement routine where you want
to use that probe. When PC-DMIS encounters this command, it moves the
machine.
speed.
The machine does the following:
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 It drives from the current position on the table to the probe changer’s
mount point.
 It proceeds to drop off the current probe and then to pick up the new one.
 It returns to the mount point for that probe changer.
Your measurement routine must contain the necessary Move Point and
Clearance Plane commands to ensure safe travel between the last position, the
mount point, and the next position in the measurement routine. For more
information about these commands, see "Inserting Move Commands".
Example - Working with Two Different Probes
Suppose you have two different probes, and you want to use them in the same
measurement routine. This example uses the TP20 and LSPX1. The LSPX1 also has its
own probe changer.
In this example, you would do the following:
1. Set up the LSPX1 in the Probe Utilities dialog box. For example:
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LSPX1 setup in Probe Utilities dialog box
2. Select Edit | Preferences | Probe Changer. The Type tab in the Probe
Changer dialog box appears.
3. Select TYPE= LSPX1.
4. Select the Ports tab to define the port contents for the LSPX1 probe changer.
For example:
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Ports tab with assigned probe files for LSPX1
At this point, you could have a measurement routine that uses each probe from the
LSPX1 rack and picks them up automatically. However, suppose that you want a
measurement routine that uses a combination of the TP20 and LSPX1 probes. When
the changeover occurred, the measurement routine would stop and prompt you to
remove one probe and attach the other one. It would then continue to drop off and pick
up modules specific to that probe.
To automate this process, you could use a third, intermediate rack. In this example, the
third rack is the TESASTAR-R / HR-R. The challenging task is to define the port
contents for the TESASTAR-R / HR-R probe changer. In the previous example, the
TP20 probe changer has two defined probes: PROBE_A and PROBE_B. In this
example, the LSPX1 probe changer has three defined probes: PROBE_C, PROBE_D,
and PROBE_E.
The TESASTAR-R / HR-R does not hold any of the individual modules for the other two
probes; it holds only the probe bodies. The body is the upper part of the probe from the
kinematic joint down to the magnetic probe coupling. The probe body for the TP20 is
associated with two different modules (PROBE_A and PROBE_B). The probe body for
the LSPX1 is associated with three other modules (PROBE_C, PROBE_D, and
PROBE_E) for that probe.
Therefore, you would define two of the probes in one port and the remaining three
probes in the other port, as shown in the example below:
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Ports tab with first port for TP20 probe body
In this case, you have selected the first port of the TESASTAR-R / HR-R probe changer
to hold the probe body for the TP20. You have selected the second port to hold the
probe body for the LSPX1:
Ports tab with the second port for LSPX1 probe body
Physically, there is only one part in the port. Logically, that one part is associated with
multiple probe assemblies. In this example, the TP20 body is used with two other
modules and the LSPX1 probe body is used with three other probes. You can have
more entries in the port than this example shows; the example is just a guide to explain
how the multiple racks interact with each other.
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One way to think about this is the following: If any piece of the probe assembly is in that
port, you must select the probe file name (of the entire probe assembly) for that port. It
is feasible to find the same probe file name in two or more ports because a piece of the
probe assembly can be found in that port.
If you had PROBE_B loaded (TP20) and you want to use PROBE_D (LSPX1) when you
execute the measurement routine, and PC-DMIS encounters the LOADPROBE
command, this is what would happen next:
speed.
1. The CMM moves to the mount point for the TP20 rack, drops off the PROBE_B
module, and then returns to the mount point for this same rack.
2. The CMM then moves to the mount point for the TESASTAR-R / HR-R rack and
drops off the TP20 body.
3. From there, the CMM picks up the LSPX1 probe body and returns to the mount
point for this rack.
4. The CMM moves to the mount point for the LSPX1 rack, picks up the PROBE_D
assembly, and then returns to the mount point for this rack.
5. The CMM continues with the part inspection from there.
If the probes and ports have been properly set up, PC-DMIS drops off the current probe,
loads the new probe, and continues executing the measurement routine. This process
does not require any operator intervention.
Configuration Error
If PC-DMIS stops DCC execution with a prompt to either unload the current probe or
load the probe that you expected to be loaded automatically, a configuration error may
have occurred. Possible causes are:
• The same probe is defined in too many ports, and PC-DMIS may not know how
to deal with it.
• The probe in question has not been assigned to any port.
• You are using a probe that is incompatible with the probe rack where it is
defined.
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The Edit | Preferences | Machine Interface Setup menu option opens the Machine
Options dialog box for your machine interface. The Machine Interface Setup option is
only available when you work in Online mode.
In most cases, you should not change any of the values in the Machine
Options dialog box. Some items in this dialog box, such as the items in the Mechanical
Offsets area, permanently overwrite values stored for your machine on the controller's
hard drive. For questions on how and when to use the Machine Options dialog box,
please contact your local service representative.
For information on this dialog box, please refer to the "Machine Options Dialog
Box" topic in the Machine Interface Installation Manual (MIIM). The MIIM is typically
used only by Hexagon service engineers.
You can access the MIIM help file in the folder where you installed the PC-DMIS Help.
Generating a Debug File

You can tell PC-DMIS to generate a debug file. This special text file contains all of the
communication data between PC-DMIS and the CMM during measurement routine
execution. A debug file can help Hexagon Technical Support resolve certain problems
that involve your CMM.
The debug file lists all of the commands that PC-DMIS sends to the CMM, the
responses it receives, and the error messages that the controller generates. If you
encounter repeatable problems that involve the movement of your CMM in Online
mode, you may want to submit that to Hexagon Technical Support.
To generate a debug file, follow this procedure:
1. From the Machine Options dialog box (Edit | Preferences | Machine Interface
Setup), select the Debug tab:
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Generating a Debug File
Machine Options dialog box - Debug tab when connected to non-Vision machines
Be sure to modify only the Debug tab. The other tabs on the Machine
Options dialog box are used by service personnel to set up your machine.
2. Select the Log check box.

3. Type a name for the debug file in the box next to the Log check box. The default
file name is debug.txt. You can also precede the file name with a full path to
specify the drive and directory where PC-DMIS should send the debug file.
4. Click Apply and then OK. The dialog box closes.
5. Execute your measurement routine. When you encounter the error, immediately
exit PC-DMIS.
6. Navigate to the directory that contains your debug file.
7. Rename the debug file. If you don't rename the debug file, the next time you start
PC-DMIS, it automatically overwrites all existing data in the debug file. This
results in a loss of data that may be necessary for debugging purposes.
8. Send the debug file, measurement routine file (.prg), probe file (.prb), and any
other necessary files to Hexagon Technical Support.
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By default, PC-DMIS sends the debug file to the ProgramData directory. This
is typically "C:\ProgramData\Hexagon\PC-DMIS\<version>", where <version> is the
version of PC-DMIS you're running.
For details on the default locations for PC-DMIS files, see "Understanding File
Locations".
Starting a Fresh Debug File
You can use the DebugLogReset registry entry in the Settings Editor application to
specify whether to overwrite all existing data in the debug file or append new data to the
file each time you execute a measurement routine. For details, refer to
"DebugLogReset" in the "Option" section in the Settings Editor documentation.
Setting Additional Debug Options
You can control the type of debug information that PC-DMIS logs and where it is sent.
• Window check box: To display debug information in a window for review, select
this check box and enter a name for the window in the box.
• Position reports list: To log position reports from PC-DMIS, select None, Both,
Log, or Window.
• From machine list: To log debug information that your machine sends to your
computer, select None, Both, Log, or Window. Some machine interfaces do not
support this option.
• From CPU list: To log debug information that your computer sends to your
machine, select None, Both, Log, or Window. Some machine interfaces do not
support this option.
Vision Machine Focus Debug Option
When connected to a Vision machine, the Focus mode option is available. For
details, see "Machine Options: Debug Tab" in the PC-DMIS Vision documentation.
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Compensating for Temperature (Legacy)
Temperature Compensation Setup dialog box
To open the Temperature Compensation Setup dialog box, select Edit | Preferences
| Temperature Compensation Setup.
To set up temperature compensation for your system as shown in this legacy

section, you need to start PC-DMIS as an administrator. In addition, the value for the
UseTemperatureCompensationV2 registry entry must be False.
This dialog box enables you to compensate for room and part temperature, which
increases the accuracy of the inspection process.
To compensate for temperature during multiple arm calibration, see "Using Temperature
Compensation with Multiple Arm Calibration" in the "Using Multiple Arm Mode" chapter.
To use advanced options for temperature compensation, see "Using Advanced

Temperature Compensation" in the Toolkit Modules documentation. Advanced options
enable you to use the continuous temperature compensation ability of the Firmware
Distributed Controller (FDC) and Hexagon B3C controller.
Using STP Files

Each CMM uses machine-specific parameters for temperature compensation for each
axis, such as thermal coefficients and sensor assignments. These parameters, along
with embedded code that tells PC-DMIS if the file is a structural or linear compensation
file, are stored inside special STP files (named for the .stp extension) created by your
CMM vendor.
171
PC-DMIS requires these STP files to compensate for temperature.
Prior to compensating for temperature, ensure that these STP files reside in the
appropriate locations on your hard drive:
• The DEA Structural Thermal Compensation method expects to find the Serv1.stp
file in the C:\Thermal_OCX directory.
• The DEA Linear Thermal Compensation method expects to find the Serv1.stp file
in the C:\Program Files\Thermal_OCX directory.
Linear and Structural Temperature Compensation

Linear compensation = (Thermal Coefficient of Expansion) X (Displacement + Change
in Temperature of Each Axis and the Part). If multiple temperature sensors exist on an
axis, PC-DMIS averages the readouts to find the temperature change.
Structural compensation recognizes that a CMM's various material components may

have different temperatures (a single axis of the machine, for example, may have
several different temperatures, which cause bending, bowing or skewing of the machine
in some way). Structural compensation, then, applies the temperature corrections for
specific areas of the CMM. When you select Edit | Preferences | Temperature
Compensation Setup, the Structural Thermal_OCX gets called, and PC-DMIS
calculates a new temporary volumetric compensation map.
Available Input Parameters

The following parameters are in the Temperature Compensation Setup dialog box
(Edit | Preferences | Temperature Compensation Setup):
Sensor numbers boxes

The Sensor numbers boxes contain a list of one or more sensor numbers to be used
for the given axis or part. These values are very important when reading temperatures
from the controller because they must correspond to how the sensors are actually
configured.
• Each sensor is a number in the range of 1 to 32.

• Items in the list can be either a single number or a range from first to last.
• Items are separated by commas or left blank.
• The input allows up to 32 values for any axis or the part.
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For "manual" mode, these numbers are relatively meaningless, but at least one sensor
number must be assigned for each axis and the part.
Material coefficient boxes

The Material coefficient boxes contain numbers that reflect the material property. They
are the fractional change in length per unit change in temperature.
• The values vary depending on what type of material was used to make the
scales on the machine axes and on the part's material.
• The units are meter per degree C.
A scale with a coefficient of 11.5 microns is written as 0.0000115 Meters/Degree/C.
Acceptable Part Values on Leitz Machines
If you are using a Leitz machine, PC-DMIS forces you to use an acceptable material
coefficient value in the Part box. An acceptable value lies within the range of -0.001
through 0.001 Meters/Degrees/Celsius.
• If you enter a value outside of this acceptable range in the Temperature

Compensation Setup dialog box, a warning message appears, and the value in
the Part box is reset to 0.0.
• If you open a measurement routine created from an older version of PC-DMIS
that permitted unacceptable values, a message box now informs you of the
unexpected material coefficient value, and PC-DMIS resets the value to 0.0.
• If you attempt to manually edit the TEMPCOMP/ORIGIN command to use an
unacceptable value, PC-DMIS displays an error message in the Execution
dialog box during execution. The message informs you that the part material
coefficient value is out of range. The only option is to click Cancel, and modify
the command to contain an acceptable value.
Part material coefficients list

The Part material coefficients list contains a list of standard material types. Selecting
one of these materials automatically puts its associated coefficient in the Material
coefficient box.
Part materials and coefficients are stored in the MaterialCoefficients.xml file. You can
use a text editor or the Material Coefficients Editor to modify this file. For information,
see "Editing Part Materials and Coefficients".
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Current temperature boxes

The Current temperature boxes contain the current temperatures in the appropriate
units. You can either type them or read them in from the controller depending on the
type of machine available and the selected options.
Previous temperature boxes

The Previous temperature boxes always contain the previously-read temperatures. If
no temperatures were previously read in, these values are either zero or left blank.
Reference temperature boxes

The Reference temperature boxes contain the reference temperature from which
temperature compensation adjustments need to be applied.
• The amount of correction to be applied is based on multiplying the material

coefficient by the difference between the current and reference temperatures.
Amount of Correction = Material coefficient x (Current temperature –
Reference temperature)
• If the current temperature is the same as the reference temperature, the net
effect is that no thermal compensation adjustment is applied.
• The value in these boxes is almost always 20 degrees C, or the Fahrenheit
equivalent.
High threshold boxes

The High threshold boxes contain an upper limit (in the appropriate units) on the
current temperature above which no further thermal compensation will be applied. PC-
DMIS doesn't display any warning or error message.
174
With a reference temperature of 20 degrees C, a current temperature of 35 degrees C,

and a high threshold of 30 degrees C, the amount of correction actually applied would
be based on a difference of (30 – 20) instead of (35 – 20) because the current
temperature exceeded the upper limit.
Low threshold boxes

The Low threshold boxes is conceptually like the high threshold except it provides a
lower limit on the current temperature below which no further thermal compensation will
be applied.
Origin boxes
The Origin boxes in the Temperature Compensation Setup dialog box (Edit |
Preferences | Temperature Compensation Setup) determine the length of the item to
which thermal compensation is being applied.
Length Value = Current Position Value – Origin Value
The X, Y, and Z values in the Origin boxes are zero most of the time. However, some
types of machines do not use zero for the origin of their scales.
Typically, the Part value is also zero unless there is some special type of fixture
constraint. The part origin coordinates can be inserted into the coordinate system for a
machine or an active alignment. The type of coordinate system depends on where the
temperature compensation command (TEMPCOMP) is inserted into the measurement
routine:
• If you insert a TEMPCOMP command before an alignment, the part origin

coordinates are expressed in the machine's coordinate system. For example:
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• If you insert a TEMPCOMP command after an alignment, the part origin

coordinates are expressed in the alignment's coordinate system. For example:
Show temperatures in celsius check box

The Show temperatures in celsius check box affects both the temperatures and the
material coefficient.
• If you select this check box, the display will use degrees Celsius.
• If you clear this check box, PC-DMIS will use degrees Fahrenheit.
Temperature compensation enabled check box

The Temperature compensation enabled check box tells PC-DMIS to use
temperature compensation.
176
• If cleared, PC-DMIS does not perform any temperature compensation, and the
TEMPCOMP command (if present in the measurement routine) has no effect.
• If marked, PC-DMIS behaves according to the input parameters.
If you mark this check box and choose one of the compensation methods
where PC-DMIS does the part compensation rather than the machine controller, the
diameter for probes on non-portable machines in the Edit Probe Data dialog box may
vary with the current part temperature. See "Edit Probe Data" in the "Defining
Hardware" chapter.
Compensation method list

Following are the compensation methods and their respective processes in PC-DMIS.
For Sheffield controllers, you must define the Material coefficient and
Reference temperature boxes and then click Default, regardless of the compensation
method you are using.
Manual
• Compensation is manual (controlled by your input) with no involvement from the

machine controller.
• PC-DMIS performs all compensation calculations.
• During measurement routine execution, the Temperature Compensation Setup
dialog box opens. You can edit the current settings before you proceed with the
rest of the measurement routine.
Read Temperatures from Controller
• When you use a machine that supports this option, PC-DMIS reads the current
temperatures from the controller automatically rather than you supplying the
data.
• PC-DMIS performs all compensation calculations. The controller only provides
the current temperatures.
dialog box does not open.
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• The measurement routine does not pause for your confirmation.
To retrieve the CTE (Coefficient of Thermal Expansion) values for the axes for
Sheffield controllers, click the Get Current Temperatures button.
Controller Compensates Axes Only
• The controller performs compensation of the machine axes itself.

• The inputs for the axes are not used.
• Part input parameters apply since PC-DMIS still performs compensation for the
part.
Controller Comps Axes and Part

• The controller performs compensation of both the machine axes and the part.
• The inputs for the axes are not used.
• PC-DMIS does not perform any compensation calculations.
• The input for the part for the material coefficient, reference temperature, and
origin must still be supplied because PC-DMIS must pass that information down
to the controller.
For Sheffield controllers, you do not need to enter the CTE values for the
axes.
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Time remaining display

The Time remaining display shows the time remaining before the temperature reading
takes place. This only displays if you set up a delay period for execution. See "Delay
Before Reading Part".
Delay before reading part temperature box

The Delay before reading part temperature box enables you to specify a period that
PC-DMIS will wait during measurement routine execution before reading the sensors to
obtain the current temperatures. If you enter zero, then there is no pause.
Reset to Defaults button

The Resets to Defaults button updates any previously modified values with the
previously saved values. If this is on a DEA machine and a serv1.stp is available, then
PC-DMIS reads that file.
Get Current Temperatures button

If you select the Read Temperatures from Controller method in the Compensation
method list, and if you use a machine that supports this option, the Get Current
Temperatures button causes PC-DMIS to read the current temperatures from the
controller and display them in the Temperature Compensation Setup dialog box.
TEMPCOMP/ORIGIN Command in the Edit Window

When you click the OK button to accept the inputs in the Temperature Compensation
Setup, PC-DMIS inserts a TEMPCOMP/ORIGIN command into the measurement
routine. Here is the same command in both Edit window modes:
Command Mode
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Summary Mode
Normally, a measurement routine only uses one TEMPCOMP command. The

TEMPCOMP command should be placed near the top of the measurement routine prior to
any measurements. When you execute the measurement routine, it executes according
to the various input parameters.
Controller Support
Not all compensation methods are supported by all controllers. The following are the
supported controllers for the different compensation methods. For detailed information
about compensation methods, see "Compensation method list".
Compensation
Supported Controllers
Method
All since there is no controller involvement with this
Manual
method.
Read Temperatures DEA (only with DEAC family controllers), and Sharpe32z
from Controller with the Leitz protocol.
Controller
Sharpe32z with the Leitz protocol, and dual-arm
Compensates Axes
configurations with an FDC interface.
Only
Controller Comps Sharpe32z using the Leitz protocol, Sheffield, stand-alone
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Using Simplified Temperature Compensation
Axes and Part configurations with an FDC interface, and single-arm

configurations with an FDC interface.
Local Temperature Settings

When it opens a measurement routine containing a TEMPCOMP command, PC-DMIS
verifies the part sensor number with the local settings.
• If the values differ, PC-DMIS automatically updates the command to reflect the
current settings, and a comment is inserted into the measurement routine
reflecting the old and new values.
• If no local setting is available for the part sensor, PC-DMIS marks the
TEMPCOMP command RED in the Edit window.
Using Simplified Temperature

Compensation
Simplified temperature compensation is available for machines that are connected to
Hexagon controllers. Currently, only stationary products, Leica Trackers and Romer
Portable Arms are supported.
You can access Simplified Temperature Compensation through the menu (Edit |
Preferences | Temperature Compensation Setup).
The following product lines and machine types are not supported. They must use the
original temperature compensation command.
• PC-DMIS NC
• Non-Hexagon controllers and equipment
• Controllers that do not support temperature sensors
• Controllers with the Sheffield interface
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If you use a controller with the Sheffield interface, the

UseTemperatureCompensationV2 registry entry in the Option section must be
False. If it is set to True, that registry entry may affect your measurement routine's
move points in unexpected ways.
Temperature Compensation Setup

To set up your system, select Edit | Preferences | Temperature Compensation
Setup.
To set up temperature compensation for your system as shown in this topic, you
need to start PC-DMIS as an administrator. In addition, the value for the
UseTemperatureCompensationV2 registry entry must be True.
Hexagon Systems
For a machine that is connected to a Hexagon controller, the following options appear in
the Temperature Compensation Setup dialog box:
Hexagon system
Allow Manual Method check box:
• In special cases, if you would like to manually enter the part temperature, select
this check box. Both the automatic and manual methods of temperature
compensation become available.
• If you clear this check box, only the automatic method of temperature
compensation becomes available in the Temperature Compensation dialog
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box. By default, the check box is cleared. Hexagon recommends use of only the
automatic method where available.
Temperature Units - Select degrees Celsius or degrees Fahrenheit.
Default Part Sensor list - Most machines are supplied with one part temperature
sensor. This list displays the sensor number with which it is connected to the controller
when the machine is online.
Some machines have multiple part temperature sensors. If your system is configured
with multiple sensors, multiple sensor numbers appear in this list.
Select a sensor number that you want to designate as the default number. The
advantage of using a default sensor number is portability of the measurement routine to
another system with a different default sensor number.
If PC-DMIS is connected to a Leica Tracker device, the default part sensor displays as
Tracker.
OK button - To save your settings, click OK.
Non-Hexagon Systems
For a machine that is connected to a non-Hexagon controller, the following options

appear in the Temperature Compensation Setup dialog box:
Non-Hexagon system
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Allow Manual Method check box - It may or may not be possible for PC-DMIS to get
the temperature of axes and parts from the controller. When PC-DMIS cannot
automatically read the temperatures, the only temperature compensation option is the
manual entry of temperatures. This check box is selected by default. You must enter the
CTE values for the scale of each axis to compensate for temperature of scales.
You need to enter the temperature of the X scale, Y scale, Z scale, and part at the time
of measurement routine execution.
In some cases, it may be possible for PC-DMIS to read the temperature from the
controller. In these cases, enter the sensor numbers and CTE values for the scale of
each axis and part.
Default Part Sensor list - This list, and the Part Sensor area in the Temperature
Compensation dialog box, display Third Party.
OK button - To save your settings, click OK.
Changeable or On-Head Part Temperature Sensor
If PC-DMIS determines that a changeable or on-head temperature sensor is mounted

on the probe head, it displays that information in the Default Part Sensor area of the
dialog box:
Changeable or on-head sensor
For more information on changeable or on-head sensors, see "Temperature

Compensation".
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PC-DMIS does not support a changeable or on-head part temperature sensor

and a magnetic sensor on the same machine.
Temperature Compensation with a Multiple Arm CMM
If PC-DMIS is connected to a multiple arm CMM, the default part sensor is one of the
part sensors attached to Arm 1. Multiple Arm mode allows the use of part sensors
attached to Arm 1 only.
Multiple arm
For a multiple arm CMM, note the following:
• Part sensors attached to Arm 1 can only be used to measure the temperature of
the part.
• Each arm compensates for its own axis. PC-DMIS compensates for the part.
• You must ensure that the arms are synchronized before and after temperature
compensation. To synchronize the arms, insert MOVE/SYNC commands before
and after the TEMPCOMP command.
For more information about multiple arms, see the "Using Multiple Arm Mode" chapter.
Temperature Compensation
To compensate the measurement for a temperature other than 20 °C as required by
ISO-1, select Insert | Parameter Change | Temperature Compensation. The
following dialog box appears:
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Temperature Compensation dialog box
Method list - From the list, select the temperature compensation method:
• Automatic - The automatic method is the default method. It is available for most
machines that are connected to a Hexagon controller. These controllers can
measure the temperature using a sensor that is mounted on scales and has one
or more sensors that can be attached to a part.
If you select this method, PC-DMIS reads the temperatures from the controller.
You do not need to enter any temperatures.
• Manual - Third-party equipment (non-Hexagon controllers) may not support the

automatic method of temperature measurement. For these controllers, only the
manual method is available. For this method, you measure and enter the
temperature at the time of measurement routine execution.
The manual method is available if the Allow Manual method check box is
selected in the Temperature compensation setup dialog box.
If you select this method, the Manual Temperature dialog box appears during
measurement routine execution:
Manual Temperature dialog box
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• For a Hexagon CMM, PC-DMIS reads and enters the X scale, Y scale,
and Z scale temperatures from the controller. You cannot change the
temperatures.
• You must use a custom sensor to measure the part temperature. Enter the
temperature in the Part box.
• If the controller does not support a temperature sensor, you must enter the
X scale, Y scale, Z scale, and part temperatures.
To continue with measurement routine execution, click OK.
If you are using a Leica Tracker device, select the appropriate temperature
compensation method:
• If your Tracker device is equipped with a part temperature sensor that can read
the part temperature, you can select either the automatic or manual
compensation method. If you select the automatic method, PC-DMIS reads the
temperature as measured by the Tracker’s part temperature sensor. Ensure that
the part temperature sensor is connected to your Tracker and is in contact with
the part during measurement.
• If your Tracker device is not equipped with a part temperature sensor, only the
manual compensation method is possible. During measurement routine
execution, you will need to enter the current part temperature in the Part box in
the Manual Temperature dialog box. You can use any external device to
measure the part temperature.
Part Sensor - The option that appears in this area depends on the type of part sensor:
• One part temperature sensor - Usually, a controller is equipped with only one
part sensor. This sensor appears in the dialog box as Default. You cannot cancel
the selection of this sensor.
• Multiple part temperature sensors - Some controllers support multiple part
sensors. If your controller is equipped with multiple part sensors, each part
sensor number appears in this area. For example:
Multiple part sensors
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Select the sensor or sensors that are connected to the part being measured.
Ensure that you select the correct sensor number. If you select multiple sensors,
PC-DMIS uses the average temperature for thermal compensation.
• External temperature sensor - You may need to use an external sensor to

measure the part temperature. In this case, you can use a variable to determine
the temperature of a part. This sensor appears in this area as follows:
For more information, see "Variable for Part Temperature in Temperature

Compensation Command".
• Changeable or on-head part temperature sensor - The Hexagon FDC and Leitz
controllers on fixed-head CMMs can be equipped with a changeable or on-head
part sensor that is mounted on the probe head. The controller can also be
equipped with a probe-like sensor that can measure the part temperature by
probing a point on the part. These sensors appear in this area as follows:
Changeable or on-head part sensor
PC-DMIS can determine whether the part sensor on the Leitz controller is a
changeable or an on-head part sensor. For the FDC controller, the
UseChangeableTemperatureProbes registry entry in the PC-DMIS Settings
Editor must be set to True.
For information about creating and using a changeable temperature probe file, see
"Working with Temperature Sensors" in the PC-DMIS CMM documentation.
• For a machine that is connected to a non-Hexagon controller, the sensor appears

as Third Party. For more information, see "Temperature Compensation Setup".
Part Material list - From the list, select the material of the part. The material's coefficient
of thermal expansion (CTE) appears in the CTE box.
Part materials and coefficients are stored in the MaterialCoefficients.xml file. You can
use a text editor or the Material Coefficients Editor to modify this file. For complete
information, see "Editing Part Materials and Coefficients".
CTE (Coefficient of Thermal Expansion) - This is a unique value. When you select a
part material, the coefficient value appears in the CTE box. You cannot modify this
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value in the dialog box, but you can change it in the Edit window. When you modify the
CTE value in the Edit window and press Tab, PC-DMIS attempts to find a matching
material. It searches through the available materials in the MaterialCoefficients.xml file.
It then displays the material that corresponds to the typed value. If it cannot find a
corresponding material, PC-DMIS sets the MATERIAL field in the Edit window to
"Custom Material". When you next open the Temperature Compensation dialog box,
you will see "Custom Material" in the Part Material list. You can select any other
material from the list.
The CTE field in the Edit window also supports variables. If you use a variable in this
field, PC-DMIS uses the current variable value during execution. If you type a variable
name for the CTE field in the Edit window, the material appears as "Variable". If you
press F9 to edit this command, the material appears as "Variable", and the CTE is the
current value of the variable. You cannot select another material in the Part Material
list. To change the material, you need to remove the variable name from the CTE field
in the Edit window.
The CTE value's units is in micron per meter per degree C (or µm·m-1·°C-1).
Before version 2017 R2, this was in meter per degree C. This means, for example, that
a previous value of 0.0000115 now appears as 11.5.
The CTE value must be a unique value. If you have two or more materials that have the
same CTE value, you must enter them on the same row in the Material Coefficients
Editor separated by a forward slash.
For example, if Material1 has the same CTE value as Material2, you must enter
"Material1/Material2" in the Materials column. In the corresponding Coefficients
column, you would enter the CTE value.
For information on how to use the Material Coefficients Editor, see the "Editing Part
Materials and Coefficients" topic.
Based on the CTE value, PC-DMIS will search for the corresponding material in the
MaterialCoefficients.xml file.
Set Warning Limits check box - The TEMPCOMP command displays a warning if the
temperature of the X scale, Y scale, Z scale, or part is outside of the limit.
The TEMPCOMP command also supports the "Temperature Outside Limits" error type.
You can use the options in the On Error dialog box to control the measurement only if
the specified temperature conditions are met. For detailed information about setting up
the options in the dialog box, see "Branching on an Error".
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Minimum and Maximum boxes - These boxes display temperatures as follows:
• If you select the Set Warning Limits check box, PC-DMIS sets the suggested
minimum temperature to 18 °C and the maximum temperature to 22 °C. You can
modify the values.
• If you clear the Set Warning Limits check box, the minimum temperature is set
to 10 °C and the maximum temperature is set to 40 °C. You cannot modify the
values.
You can input temperature values between 50°F (10°C) and 104°F (40°C).
You can also use variables in the Edit window for the MINIMUM and MAXIMUM fields.
Ensure that the Minimum value is less than the Maximum value.
TEMPCOMP/METHOD Command in the Edit Window

When you click OK, PC-DMIS inserts a TEMPCOMP/METHOD command into the
measurement routine. Here is the same command in both Edit window modes:
Command Mode
Summary Mode
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Normally, a measurement routine only uses one TEMPCOMP command. The

TEMPCOMP command should be placed near the top of the measurement routine prior to
any measurements. When you execute the measurement routine, it executes according
to the various input parameters.
Variable for Part Temperature in Temperature

Compensation Command
You can use a variable to determine the temperature of a part.
You cannot use variables for scale temperatures.
If it is not feasible to attach a sensor to the part, you may want to use an external sensor
to measure the part temperature. You can update the variable with a measured part
temperature value and use the variable to execute the temperature compensation
command. For example, this is useful when you place a part on the CMM, and the
temperature of the part is measured through an external method.
To use a variable for the temperature of the part:
1. Create the variable in the measurement routine.

2. Update the Part Temp parameter in the Edit window with the name of the
variable.
In this code, V1 contains the temperature and is assigned to Part

Temp:
TEMPCOMP/CTE=10.4,Lo Threshold=18,Hi Threshold=22,PART

SENSOR NUM=V1,X Axis Temp=,Y Axis Temp=,Z Axis Temp=,Part
Temp=V1
3. Press F9 on the TEMPCOMP command.
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The sensor appears as a variable in the Part Sensor area in the Temperature
Compensation dialog box. For example:
Temperature Compensation dialog box
Automatic Insertion of Temperature Compensation

Command
For many types of machines, PC-DMIS automatically inserts the TEMPCOMP
temperature compensation command when you create a measurement routine. This
provides you with the opportunity to set up a measurement routine for temperature
compensation. The Temperature Compensation dialog box appears, and you need to
select the material of the part.
If you want PC-DMIS to automatically insert the temperature compensation command

into a new measurement routine, select the Auto Insert Temperature Compensation
in New Routine check box on the General tab in the Setup Options dialog box (Edit |
Preferences | Setup).
If you do not want PC-DMIS to automatically insert the temperature compensation

command into a new measurement routine, clear this check box.
PC-DMIS does not automatically insert the temperature compensation command into a
new measurement routine for the following items:
• PC-DMIS NC software application

• Dual-arm CMMs
• Portable equipment
• Non-Hexagon controllers
• Machines with controllers that do not support temperature sensors
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Temperature Gage
Temperature Compensation Dimensioning

The Temperature Compensation command can report the temperature of the scale and
part that you are using for compensation. The Temperature Gage command dimensions
the Temperature Compensation command when you place the Temperature Gage
command immediately after the Temperature Compensation command. There should
be no other command between the Temperature Compensation command and the
Temperature Gage command.
For more information about the Temperature Gage command, see "Temperature
Gage".
Thermal Expansion Origin Command

The default setting for the origin of the thermal expansion is the machine zero point. In
some cases, you may want to set the origin at the location on the part. For example,
you may want to set the origin when the part is clamped down on the center location
and the part will not expand at that point.
To set the origin of the thermal expansion:
1. Select Insert | Parameter Change | Thermal Expansion Origin. The Thermal

Expansion Origin dialog box appears.
2. Enter the X, Y, and Z values in the current coordinate system.
3. To insert the THERMALEXPANSIONORIGIN command into the Edit window, click
OK. To cancel your changes and close the dialog box, click Cancel.
If you want to set the thermal expansion origin at a location other than the machine
origin, then you must insert the thermal expansion origin command above the
temperature compensation command or above the advanced temperature
compensation command.
• For more information about the temperature compensation command, see

"Temperature Compensation".
• For more information about the advanced temperature compensation command,
see "Creating an Advanced Temperature Compensation Command".
Temperature Gage
You can create a Temperature Gage command that reads the temperature of the X
scale, Y scale, Z scale, and part without starting temperature compensation.
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Temperature Gage Command
The Temperature Gage command reads the temperature of the X scale, Y scale, Z
scale, and part.
To create a Temperature Gage command:
1. Select Insert | Gage | Temperature to open the Temperature dialog box.
You can also access the Temperature dialog box from the QuickMeasure
toolbar. Click the Gage drop-down arrow, and then click the Temperature
button.
2. Complete the Properties tab and Reporting tab.
Properties Tab
Use the Properties tab to set the ID, sensor numbers, and other parameters.
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Temperature Gage
Properties tab - Temperature dialog box
ID box - Type the ID of the Temperature Gage command.
Part Sensor option - Usually, a machine is equipped with only one part temperature
sensor. This sensor appears as Default. You cannot cancel the selection of this sensor.
If your machine is equipped with multiple part sensors, they appear in this area. For
example:
Part Sensor area
Select the sensor or sensors that are connected to the part being measured. Ensure
that you select the correct sensor number. If you select multiple sensors, PC-DMIS uses
the average of two measured values.
Temperature Units area - The X Scale, Y Scale, Z Scale, and Part boxes display the
current temperatures as measured. You cannot change the values. The temperature
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units and the default sensor number are as selected in Edit | Preferences |
Temperature Compensation Setup.
Show in Dimension/Hide in Dimension - This button shows ( ) or hides ( )

the temperature units in the command. You need to show at least one
temperature unit or axis.
OK button - To save your settings and insert the Temperature Gage command into the
Edit window, click OK.
Cancel button - To close the dialog box without applying any changes, click Cancel.
Reporting Tab
Use the Reporting tab to set tolerances and the type of report output.
Reporting tab - Temperature dialog box
Tolerances area:
• Plus box - Type the plus tolerance. You can change the plus tolerance for each
axes and/or part.
• Minus box - Type the minus tolerance.
• Nominal box - Type the nominal value. The default nominal temperature is 20°C.
The same nominal and tolerance values apply to scale and part temperatures.
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Temperature Gage
If necessary, you can change the nominal temperature and tolerances for each axes
and/or part in the Edit window.
Report and Statistics area - In the list, choose how to send the output of the command
when it is executed:
• STATS - Sends the output to a statistical file.

• REPORT - Sends the output to an inspection report.
• BOTH - Sends the output to both an inspection report and statistical files.
• NONE - Does not send the output anywhere.
Edit Window
The Edit window displays the command as a dimension. It appears in Summary mode
as shown below:
Summary mode
It appears in Command mode as shown below:
Command mode
The command appears according to the format statement in your measurement routine.
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If the controller is equipped with only one part temperature sensor, the PART SENSOR
NUM field appears in the Edit window. If your controller is equipped with multiple part
sensors, and you selected a part sensor number in the Part Sensor area in the
Temperature dialog box, the number appears in the Edit window.
Expressions
The Temperature Gage command supports expressions, like in this example:
ASSIGN/V1=READTEMP1.M.Meas
To create an expression:
1. Press F2 on the ASSIGN statement in the Edit window to open the Expression
Builder dialog box.
2. From the Expression Element Type list, select "Temperature". All of the
Temperature Gage commands that are in the measurement routine appear in the
ID list.
3. From the Extension list, select the temperature of the X, Y, Z, or M (part). Select
them as required to build an appropriate expression.
4. From the Second Extension list, select the type of value you want to store, such
as deviation, maximum, measured, and so forth.
For details about expressions, see "Using Expressions and Variables". For details about
the Expression Builder dialog box, see "Creating Expressions with the Expression
Builder".
Temperature Compensation Dimensioning
The Temperature Compensation command can report the temperature of the scale and
part that you are using for compensation. For details, see "Temperature Compensation
Dimensioning".
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Editing Part Materials and Coefficients
Offline Mode and Non-Hexagon CMM
Temperatures cannot be read in Offline mode. Therefore, in Offline mode, the

measured value shows as 20 °C.
Similarly, the temperature shows as 20 °C if the controller of the machine to which you
are connected does not support defining and reading the temperature sensor.

Part materials and coefficients for temperature compensation are stored in a
MaterialCoefficients.xml file. You can find this file in your system's hidden data path
(where your computer stores program data files). For more information about file
locations, see "Understanding File Locations" in the "Setting Your Preferences" chapter.
You can use the Material Coefficients Editor to modify this .xml file. After you make any
changes, you must reopen the Temperature Compensation Setup dialog box or
Advanced Temperature Compensation dialog box to see any changes that you made
to the file.
All coefficient values must include a decimal point. The Material Coefficients
Editor displays a message about a wrong input if you don't include a decimal.
To use the Material Coefficients Editor, run the MaterialCoefficientsEditor.exe utility.

This utility is located in the folder where you installed PC-DMIS.
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Material Coefficients Editor
This editor lists the materials and their corresponding coefficients. It also provides
buttons for you to edit the materials and values.
For the Material Coefficients Editor dialog box, the entered values are
evaluated to n X 10-6.
For example, iron has a coefficient of 11.3 in the example above. The software would
evaluate this to 0.0000113.
For the NewCoefficient dialog box (see the Edit option below), you must enter
temperature values in Celsius units.
This is very important when you edit an existing material coefficient value or add a new
one.
PC-DMIS Version - This list defines the PC-DMIS version that is affected by the
changes you make; it lists the versions of PC-DMIS that you have installed. Select a
version from this list to pull in that version's materials and coefficients.
200
Edit - This button enables you to edit a selected material. It displays the dialog box,
where you can edit the material name or its coefficient value.
Add - This button enables you to add a new material and coefficient to the list. It
displays the Add Coefficient dialog box, which is similar to the NewCoefficient dialog
box discussed for the Edit button.
Delete - This button removes the selected row from the list of materials.
Close - This button closes the editor and displays a message that asks if you want to
save your changes. To make the change to the .xml file, click Yes. To close it without
saving any changes, click No, or select the red X at the top right of the editor to close
the editor.
Search Path dialog box
The Edit | Preferences | Set Search Path menu option displays the Search Path
dialog box. You can use this dialog box to define the directories PC-DMIS uses when:
• Exporting CAD data or measurement routine data

• Importing CAD data or measurement routine data
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• Loading and saving measurement routine files (.prg)

• Loading probe files (.prb)
• Recalling alignments (.aln)
• Calling subroutines
See the "Understanding File Locations" topic for information on where PC-DMIS stores
specific settings and files.
Available Dialog Box Options
Search for - This list contains all the different items that you can associate directories
with. The rest of the dialog box changes based on your selection. When PC-DMIS
needs to find one of these file types or perform an action, it uses the directory
associated with the selected item. These are the items in this list:
Default Export Directory - PC-DMIS exports CAD data or measurement routine

data into the directory defined here.
Default Import Directory - PC-DMIS imports external CAD or measurement

routine data into PC-DMIS from the directory defined here.
Default Measurement Routine Directory - PC-DMIS stores and loads

measurement routine files from the directory defined here.
Probe Directory - PC-DMIS locates and stores probe files from the directory
defined here.
Recall Directory - PC-DMIS recalls saved alignment files from the directory
defined here.
Subroutine Directory - PC-DMIS loads measurement routine files and the

subroutines stored within them from the directory tied to this item.
These check boxes may become available for selection based on what you choose
above:
Search current directory - When marked, the software searches within the same
directory where your current measurement routine resides.
Search current directory first - When marked and if both the Search current
directory and the Search specified directory check boxes are selected, the software
searches in both the current measurement routine's directory and the user specified
directory. The order of the search depends on whether or not this check box is selected:
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• If marked, PC-DMIS first accesses the same directory where your current
measurement routine resides and then it accesses the user specified directory.
• If cleared, the search order is reversed, accessing first the user specified
directory and then second the directory where your current measurement routine
resides.
Search specified directory - When marked, this check box searches in a directory you
specify. The pathway for the directory you specify appears in the box just below the
check box. If no pathway is defined, you can type a full system pathway, or you can use
the ... button to choose a directory from your system's directory structure
To specify a new default directory to use:
1. Choose Edit | Preferences | Set Search Path to access the Search Path dialog
box.
2. From the Search for list choose an item for which you want to define a pathway.
3. Mark any check boxes as needed.
4. Type the directory pathway in the box (or use the ... button to browse to and
select a directory).
5. Click Apply.
6. As needed, repeat the above steps to set additional search paths for other items.
7. Click OK.
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Changing OpenGL Options
CAD and Graphic Setup dialog box - OpenGL tab
The Edit | Graphic Display Window | OpenGL menu option displays the OpenGL tab
of the CAD and Graphic Setup dialog box. This allows you to change the OpenGL
options that affect the display of the model in solid view mode. To change the part to
solid view, see "Setting Up the Screen View" in the "Editing the CAD Display" chapter.
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Desktop Settings area
There can be different OpenGL options for each desktop display setting. The Desktop
Settings area shows what the current desktop settings are.
Resolution Ratios of Different Monitor Sizes
Wide screen monitors need a 1.6 ratio instead of a 1.3333 ratio used by normal
monitors. For example, a resolution of 1200x1600 has a 1.3333 ratio (1600/1200) and
works well for a normal-size monitor, while a resolution of 1680x1050 has a 1.6 ratio,
good for a wide screen monitor. If you use a wide screen monitor and your screen
appears stretched (perhaps your circle features appear as ellipses in the Graphic
Display window), use a 1.6 resolution ratio to resolve this problem.
Options area
The Options area displays information about the system's video card:
• Video Accelerator - Video card description

• Driver version - Video driver version
• Driver date - Video driver date of release
• Video memory - Amount of video card RAM
• OpenGL version - Version of OpenGL supported by the video driver
• Hardware accelerated - Displays Yes or No depending on whether graphics
rendering is hardware accelerated. Hardware acceleration is much faster than
software acceleration.
Antialiasing - The Antialiasing list allows the level of antialiasing by specifying the
number of multisamples. 2x antialiasing samples each pixel twice. 4x antialiasing
205
samples each pixel four times, and so on. When antialiasing is enabled, each pixel is
sampled multiple times at slightly different locations within the pixel. An average color is
computed from these samples to determine the final pixel color. This effectively reduces
the model's jagged edges in the Graphic Display window. Higher antialiasing settings
produce better visual results at the expense of slower system performance.
The capabilities of your video card determine the antialiasing options. Some graphics
accelerators may support 64x antialiasing while others may only support up to 16x, or
they may not support antialiasing at all. If your graphics accelerator supports
antialiasing, the amount of RAM it possesses, and the resolution of your screen,
determine the default value (with a maximum default value of 4x). If your video card
does not support antialiasing, PC-DMIS sets the default to Off.
The High quality transparency check box controls the HighQualityTransparency

registry entry. By default, PC-DMIS clears this check box. It only functions if your
graphics driver supports OpenGL 4.2 and your video adapter has at least 1 GB of
memory.
Tessellation area
The Tessellation area controls the drawn image by setting a tessellation multiplier in
the Multiplier Value box. PC-DMIS multiplies the Multiplier Value by the tessellation
value for the given CAD system. These values are then used in the generation of the
shaded image.
The tessellation value is the default value used to break up surfaces into
patches for shading.
The tesselation multiplier updates the Graphic Display window immediately once you
click outside of the Multiplier Value box or press Tab to move to a different item on the
dialog box.
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Modifying this tessellation value affects perimeter scans because PC-DMIS

computes the distance around a curved surface edge by adding the segment lengths of
a polyline that represents that edge. The tessellation multiplier changes the length of
each polyline segment (lower tolerances result in smaller segments). While the actual
perimeter points lie exactly on the edge curve, different tessellation tolerances result in
small differences in where each point is located along the edge curve.
The size of the CAD data file and the tessellation multiplier value used affects
the amount of memory needed. These both affect the amount of tessellated facets
needed to display the model. The smaller the tessellation multiplier value used, the
more memory needed for the facets. For large CAD models, this could cause an "Out Of
Memory" error. If this occurs, the current PC-DMIS session is left in an unstable state
and should be terminated.
The default tessellation multiplier value is 1.0. Setting a tessellation multiplier of 0.1
results in a 10 to 20 percent increase in the memory required over the default value of
1.0. Decreasing the tessellation multiplier further to 0.01 results in an additional 50 to 65
percent increase of memory required.
Pointcloud area
The Pointcloud section determines how a pointcloud or a cloud of points (COP) is

drawn in the Graphic Display window. A COP typically is generated from laser probes
that can quickly collect large numbers of points. For more information on clouds of
points, see the "PC-DMIS Laser" documentation.
Always visible - If marked, the COP is always visible, even when the CAD is hidden. If
cleared, the COP is only hidden when the CAD is hidden or if the COP label is set to
Hide Feature.
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Default Display - Sets the default graphical representation of the pointcloud in the
Graphic Display window.
The valid options are:
• Smooth (default)
• Flat
• Two sided
The software uses the display setting each time you create a pointcloud feature. For
details, see "Pointcloud Graphical Representation" in the PC-DMIS Laser
documentation.
Point size - Specifies the pixel size of the points in a pointcloud.
Caliper line thickness - Specifies the thickness of the Caliper gage line, and the
connecting line for thickness colormap annotations when the opposing sides are shown.
The line thickness options are shown below with the default option selected:
Caliper line thickness options
The line thickness options correspond to (from thinnest to thickest) 1, 3, 5, and 7 pixels.
For details on the Caliper feature, see the "Caliper Overview" topic in the PC-DMIS
Laser documentation.
208
Examples that show the smallest (left) to largest (right) Caliper line thickness options
Sphere Diam - Specifies the size of the thickness annotation points when you select
the Show opposing annotation points check box on the Pointcloud Operator or
Mesh Operator dialog box when you select the Pointcloud or Mesh Thickness
Colormap operator. For details, see "Thickness Colormap" in the PC-DMIS Laser
documentation.
Select Edit | Preferences | Measurement Strategy Editor to access the Measurement

Strategy Editor (MSE) application. By default, PC-DMIS shows the MSE for CMM
configurations. For portable configurations, it hides the MSE.
If the MSE is not available, you can enable it with the Use Measurement Strategy
Editor check box from the Setup Options dialog box, General tab. For more
information, see "Use Measurement Strategy Editor" in this chapter.
You can use the MSE to modify the settings for all the auto features. You can store the
modified settings as strategies and as custom groups.
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Measurement Strategy Editor
How the MSE Works
You can use the MSE to modify the settings for all auto feature and then store them as
strategies and custom groups. Strategies are specific to each feature. Groups contain
any modified settings for all the features.
The MSE saves the settings for each custom group in text files. These text files use the
XML format. Each text file has the group name as its name with an .msexml filename
extension. Whenever you delete a group, PC-DMIS deletes the corresponding .msexml
file.
PC-DMIS stores these files in the C:\ProgramData\Hexagon\PC-DMIS\2020 R1 folder.
When you set a group of settings as the default (and at other times discussed in "About
Default Settings" below), the MSE writes those settings into the registry for PC-DMIS
auto features to use.
When you create auto features, PC-DMIS takes into account the current probe mode
(DCC or Manual) and the current sensor type (Touch-trigger or Analog). It then uses the
appropriate settings for that mode or type. For example, a circle feature that you insert
210
after a DCC mode command can have a different number of hits than one that you
insert after a Manual mode command.
Touch-trigger and Analog probes only work in DCC mode. Scan strategies only work in
DCC mode.
The MSE does not yet manage Laser and Vision parameters.
About Default Settings
You can use the MSE to modify the default settings (number of hits, depth, void
detection, strategy types, and so on) for all auto feature types. By default, PC-DMIS
writes these changes to the registry whenever you modify and then save settings in the
Measurement Strategy Editor.
If your default settings don't update, mark the Use Measurement Strategy
Widget check box from the General tab of the Setup Options dialog box (F5). The
measurement strategy widget applies modifications into the registry. If that check box is
cleared, the MSE stores your changes only in the .msexml files. For information, see
"Using the Measurement Strategy Widget" in the "Creating Auto Features" chapter.
PC-DMIS queries the registry and uses those settings when you create an auto feature.
You can also update the registry for a specific setting if you modify that setting in the
Auto Feature dialog box or in the Edit window command.
PC-DMIS updates the registry with the settings stored in the default MSE group
whenever you do one of the following:
• Save a change to the default group of settings with the MSE.

• Change to a new probe mode (such as from Manual to DCC) in the Edit window.
• Change to a new probe type in the Edit window.
How to Use the MSE
1. Select Edit | Preferences | Measurement Strategy Editor to access the

Measurement Strategy Editor application. You can position the application and
resize the window height as needed.
2. Choose the desired Probe Mode and the Sensor Type.
3. From the Unit option, decide the units that you want to see in the application
(mm or in).
211
4. From the toolbar on the left, you can scroll up and down and then select an auto
feature to modify its settings.
5. Modify a feature's default settings for that group. (You can also define strategies.
For information, see "Creating or Modifying Strategies" below.) By default, PC-
DMIS decides what features to send to the Measurement Strategy Widget but
you can override that with the switches to the right of each setting ( ).
6. Once you're done modifying one feature, if you like, click to another feature. The
application temporarily stores your modifications as you click between the
different features.
7. Continue to modify the settings as needed.
8. Save your changes. This also inserts your settings as defaults into PC-DMIS.
• To save the current settings for the feature to the current selected group of
settings, click Save. If you attempt to save the settings in Factory
Defaults, the software opens the Group Name input box. You can type a
name to save your group of settings under a different group name.
• To save your changes to a new group of settings, click Save As. The
software opens the Group Name input box. Type a name to save your
group of settings under the new group name.
9. Save as many groups of settings as you want.
10. From the Group list, choose the group of settings you intend to use most
frequently, and click Set Group as Default. This tells PC-DMIS to use those
settings as the new default settings.
11. Click Close to close the MSE.
12. Create your auto features.
Creating or Modifying Strategies
Each feature in the MSE has one or more internal strategies that come with PC-DMIS.
You can modify settings for these strategies or you can create a custom strategy.
1. From the MSE, under Strategy, choose the strategy to modify. If you want to
create a new strategy for the feature, click New, and type the strategy name.
2. Make modifications as usual to the feature's settings.
3. When you click Save or Save As for the group, PC-DMIS also saves the current
settings for the feature to the current selected strategy.
4. Create as many strategies as you want.
5. From the Strategy list, choose the strategy you intend to use most frequently,
and click Set Strategy as Default.
6. Create your auto features.
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You can select the strategy to use when you create or edit features with the
Measurement Strategy Widget.
How to Attach a Scan Adaptive Strategy to a Supported Feature
1. From the Probe Mode list, choose DCC.

2. From the Sensor Type list, choose Analog.
3. From the toolbar on the left, select the feature to modify (High Point, Circle,
Plane, Line, Cylinder, or Cone).
4. From the Strategy Type list, select the desired internal measurement strategy.
5. Beneath the Strategy Type list, click Set Strategy as Default. Only the strategy
that you set as default is assigned to that feature. If you don't set the strategy as
the default, the software uses TTP_STRATEGY.
6. Click Save to update the .msexml file and to use the defined settings for that
feature.
Description of the MSE
Group - This shows an alphabetized list of all your saved strategies along with the
original settings. When you first use the Measurement Strategy Editor, this list only
shows Factory Defaults because you haven't yet saved any new groups. This list
grows as you use Save As to create more groups. Each group in the Group list stores
its settings in a .msexml file of the same name. The software stores them in the
C:\ProgramData\Hexagon\PC-DMIS\<version> folder, where <version> is your version
of PC-DMIS.
Delete Group ( ) - This button deletes the selected group from the database and
selects the top-most item in the Group list. This also deletes the associated .msexml
file. You cannot delete the Factory Defaults group. A green check mark indicates when
the operation finishes.
Set Group as Default - Sets the selected group as the default group when you next
use the Measurement Strategy Editor. A green check mark appears in the Group list to
indicate the default group. This also sets the default group in the Measurement
Strategy toolbar. For more information see, "Measurement Strategy Toolbar" in the
"Using Toolbars" chapter.
Restore Default Values - Restores the values for the selected group to their stored
defaults. If you add a feature to the Edit window and press F9 on that feature and make
changes to it, the software writes those changes to the registry. This means the
software uses those changes as the new default for that feature type and not what's in
the selected group. The Restore Default Values button restores your default settings
on the feature to match the settings stored within the selected group.
213
Probe Mode - For a traditional CMM, this list shows Manual and DCC (Direct Computer
Control). With this list, you can save settings according to machine type, either a
manual CMM or a CMM capable of DCC motion.
Sensor Type - Determines the type of sensor. The application only shows settings that
the selected sensor type can use. For a traditional CMM, this shows Touch Trigger and
Analog. A touch-trigger sensor or probe records hits based on discrete hits. An analog
sensor or probe remains in contact with the part and records hits based on time and
distance as it scans.
Strategy - Sets the strategy to modify. This list initially shows a default strategy for the
feature and sensor type. A green check mark appears in the Strategy list to indicate the
default strategy. You can select a strategy to modify it, or you can click New to create a
custom strategy. When you save the settings to a group, PC-DMIS also saves the
current settings for the feature to the current selected strategy.
Strategy Type - This list does not appear at first. It only appears if, under Sensor Type,
you choose Analog and then you select a supported feature (High Point, Circle, Plane,
Line, Cylinder, or Cone). It allows you to choose an internal strategy. These strategies
provide predefined ways to measure that feature, and they provide additional
parameters that you can modify. You can select one of these internal strategies and use
it as a base for your own custom strategy. These internal strategies may also hide
parameters that don't make sense in that context (such as Number of Hits for a
continuous contact probe).
Features Toolbar - The toolbar down the left side contains all the auto features. When
you select an auto feature, its settings appear in the window.
Settings - This topic does not cover the individual settings for each auto feature. You
can find those in the Auto Feature documentation. Many auto feature settings have a
switch to the right ( ). You can turn a switch on to have that setting appear in the
Measurement Strategy Widget. You can turn a switch off to hide that setting from the
widget.
Unit - If this shows mm, the application displays values in millimeters. If it shows in, the
application displays values in inches. The server always stores its settings in
millimeters.
Save - This button saves all the defaults settings for all the features in the current group
to the PC-DMIS registry. This also saves the settings for each feature to each feature's
current selected strategy. You cannot overwrite the original factory defaults. If Group
shows Factory Defaults, a Group Name input box appears so you can save the
modifications as a new group of settings.
Save As - A Group Name input box always appears so you can save the group as a
new set.
214
Setting Up Sensor Mapping
Close - Closes the MSE application. If you haven't saved your changes, PC-DMIS asks
if you want to save them.
Related Topics
For information on the different settings in the MSE, see "The Auto Feature Dialog Box"
in the "Creating Auto Features" chapter and "Using the Probe Toolbox" in the "PC-DMIS
CMM" documentation.
For information on the measurement strategy widget, see "Using the Measurement
Strategy Widget" in the "Creating Auto Features" chapter.
For information on measurement strategies in general, see "Working with Measurement

Strategies" in the "PC-DMIS CMM" documentation.
Setting Up Sensor Mapping

You can use the Edit | Preferences | Feature - Sensor Mapping menu item to open
the Sensor Mapping dialog box.
With the Sensor Mapping dialog box open, you can then use QuickFeatures to
populate this dialog box and then map those features to specific sensors (probes).
Once you click Done, the mapped features are added into the measurement routine
with the appropriate LOADPROBE commands.
• For more information on QuickFeatures, see "Creating QuickFeatures" in the

"Creating Auto Features" chapter.
• For more information on sensor mapping, see "Mapping Features to Sensors" in
the "Using Inspection Plans in PC-DMIS" appendix.
Setting Import Options

You can easily set import options to determine the default colors for certain imported
entity types, as well as how PC-DMIS displays imported curves.
To perform these manipulations, select the Edit | Preferences | Import Options menu
item. This menu item displays the Import Options dialog box.
215
Import Options dialog box
This dialog box contains the Default Colors area as well as some check boxes.
Default Colors
This area lets you change the default colors for imported Points, Curves, Surfaces, and
Datum entity types. If the entity types don't already have a defined color, it uses this
default color. To change a color, simply click on a button in this area. A standard Color
dialog box appears, allowing you to select a new color.
Color dialog box
When you import the next feature, PC-DMIS uses the newly-defined colors.
Check Boxes
Explode polylines to points

Usually, when you import curves entities, they appear as individual curves. In reality,
however, each curve is really a polyline, a bunch of lines connected by a series of
points. Selecting this check box makes imported polyline curve entities appear as a
series of points, one point for each polyline vertex. Clearing this check box makes
imported curves appear as normal.
216
Understanding File Locations
Keep polylines
Selecting this check box allows the image to continue to display the original polyline
along with the points when you select the Explode polyline to points check box.
Clearing this check box only shows the series of points.
PC-DMIS uses these settings for all future import operations.

The default file locations (path locations) for various user-specific settings and other
files have changed in PC-DMIS 2010 MR2 and later to comply with newer Windows
operating system standards. Previously, most of this information was stored inside of
the PC-DMIS installation directory. This topic shows where these files are now stored
based on each file's role.
In the descriptions of the file locations, <user name> is the name that you use to log on
to Windows, and <version> is the version of PC-DMIS that you are using.
You can use the PC-DMIS Settings Editor application to back up, restore, or
clear user-specific files and settings. Rather than manually delete or restore individual
files on your own, we recommend that you use the tools that the PC-DMIS Settings
Editor provides. For more information, refer to the PC-DMIS Settings Editor
documentation.
For specific information about data files, see "Understanding Data Files".
Public Documents
These files include measurement routine (.prg), CAD, probe (.prb), and other files.
File location: C:\Users\Public\Public Documents\Hexagon\PC-DMIS\<version>
Public Documents (Reporting Directory)
These files include report template, label template, rule definition, and color definition
files.
File location: C:\Users\Public\Public Documents\Hexagon\PC-

DMIS\<version>\Reporting
217
Public Documents (Demo CAD Files)
File location: C:\Users\Public\Public Documents\Hexagon\PC-DMIS\<version>\CAD
Public Documents (Fixturing Files)
File location: C:\Users\Public\Public Documents\Hexagon\PC-

DMIS\<version>\FIVEUNIQUE
Program Data Files [Hidden]
Hidden program data files include calibration, setup, and other files.
• abcalib.dat
• abcomp.dat
• abcomps.dat
• aboutput.dat
• arm1arm2.dat
• armarm.dat
• ccalib.dat
• ccomp.dat
• ccomps.dat
• changed_probe1.dat
• changed_probe2.dat
• changed_results1.dat
• changed_results2.dat
• ChangeManagerLog?.csv
• cme_existing.xml
• cme_new.xml
• comp.dat
• compens.dat
• ConstructionVersion?.txt
• coutput.dat
• debug.txt
• DMISMODULES.DAT
• dph9.dat
• export.IP
• flextool.dat
• ILLUMINATION.DAT
• localfixturedefs.dat
• MaterialCoefficients.xml
• PROBECHANGER.DAT
218
• RCMATRIX.dat
• RCSPHERE.dat
• rotab.dat
• rotab2.dat
• rotindx.dat
• rotindx2.dat
• startuplog.txt
• tlw_MapResultInfo.txt
• tool.dat
• toolc.dat
• toolcs.dat
• unitcal.dat
• usermachine.dat
• usermodule.dat
• userquickfix.dat
• usrprobe.dat
• wristm.dat
• wrists.dat
• XSTATS11.tmp
File location: C:\ProgramData\Hexagon\PC-DMIS\2020 R1
User Data Files
These files include files for toolbars and menu layouts, lighting and materials settings,
and other files:
• accelerator.dat
• CustomMenuItem.dat
• colors.dat
• executebarstate.dat
• gbarstate.dat
• layouttoolbar.dat
• layout1.dat
• layout2.dat
• layout3.dat
• layout4.dat
• layout5.dat
• layout6.dat
• layout7.dat
• layout8.dat
219
• layout9.dat
• layout10.dat
• menu_chn.dat
• menu_cze.dat
• menu_dch.dat
• menu_eng.dat
• menu_frn.dat
• menu_grm.dat
• menu_ita.dat
• menu_jpn.dat
• menu_kor.dat
• menu_pol.dat
• menu_prt.dat
• menu_rus.dat
• menu_spn.dat
• menu_swe.dat
• menu_twn.dat
• MessageBoxOptions.dat
• ReportingToolbar.dat
• TemplRepPickerList.dat
• toolbar.dat
File location: C:\Users\<user name>\AppData\Local\Hexagon\PC-DMIS\2020 R1
Fixturing Files
File location: C:\Program Files\Hexagon\2020 R1\Models\QuickFix
Understanding Data Files

The registry entries in the PC-DMIS Settings Editor application store most of the
settings in PC-DMIS. However, PC-DMIS also stores information in data files, which
have a .dat extension.
You can edit some of these files in a text editor, but you can only edit many of them
within PC-DMIS. You can delete some data files if you want to return the respective PC-
DMIS functionality to its original state.
The information below details many of the data files that are available, their file
locations, whether you can edit them in a text editor, and where they're stored on the
220
computer. In the descriptions of the file locations, <user name> is the name that you
use to log on to Windows.
PC-DMIS complies with current operating system standards required by

Windows about where it stores user files.
When you first run PC-DMIS, it copies several .dat files from your folder where you
installed PC-DMIS into your AppData user folder. From then on, PC-DMIS uses the
user-specific file in that folder. However, if you have Administrator rights, you can
modify the original factory-based file if needed.
An asterisk character (*) by the file name in the descriptions below indicates that the
original, factory-based file exists in your installation directory.
You can use the PC-DMIS Settings Editor application to back up, restore, or clear user-
specific files and settings. Rather than manually delete or restore individual files on your
own, we recommend that you use the tools that the PC-DMIS Settings Editor provides.
For more information, refer to the PC-DMIS Settings Editor documentation.
Manually moving or copying a data file to a different version of PC-DMIS is not

recommended or supported.
For more information about file locations, see "Understanding File Locations".
colors.dat
This file stores your modified Edit window colors. PC-DMIS generates this file only if you
modified any Edit window colors. When you exit PC-DMIS, it creates this file.
You cannot edit this file in a text editor.
If you delete this file, your Edit window colors revert to their default settings.
For information about how to define colors, see "Defining Edit Window Colors" in the
"Setting Your Preferences" chapter.
221
CustomMenuItem.dat
This file contains information for the default items and user-defined items in the User
Defined Commands list on the Menu tab in the Customize dialog box (View |
Toolbars | Customize).
If you delete both CustomMenuItem.dat and toolbar.dat, PC-DMIS removes any user-
defined customizations made in the Customize dialog box and any custom toolbars.
PC-DMIS regenerates custom items if you load a toolbar.dat file that has custom items.
For more information, see "Customizing the User Interface" in the "Navigating the User
Interface" chapter.
DefaultDimensionColors.dat
PC-DMIS automatically creates and modifies this file whenever you modify the Edit
Dimension Colors dialog box (Edit | Graphic Display Window | Dimension Colors).
This file contains dimension color information that:
• Defines the dimension's color limits

• Determines whether tolerance colors display in two directions
• Defines the colors that PC-DMIS uses for dimensions that are still within
tolerance with percentages from 1 to 40
• Defines the color that displays when a dimension is out of tolerance with a
negative value
• Defines the color that displays when a dimension is out of tolerance with a
positive value
• Determines whether PC-DMIS displays tolerances as a percentage of the
deviation in the Dimension Colors window (color bar)
elogo.dat *
This file controls the format of the Edit window's footer on the last page.
You can edit this file in a text editor.
222
DO NOT DELETE THIS FILE. If you delete this file, PC-DMIS erases the footer from the
last page of the Edit window.
For more information, see "Modifying the Edit Window's Headers and Footers" in the
"Using the Edit Window" chapter.
File location: In the directory where you installed PC-DMIS.
executebarstate.dat
This file contains the layouts of toolbars and dockable windows during measurement
routine execution. PC-DMIS switches back and forth when it reloads these two files
(gbarstate.dat and executebarstate.dat) and when you start and finish measurement
routine execution.
If you delete this file, PC-DMIS restores a default layout.
gbarstate.dat
This file contains the layouts of toolbars and dockable windows within the measurement
routine (but not during execution).
If you delete this file, PC-DMIS restores the default layout.
header.dat *
This file controls the format of the Edit window's header on all pages but the first page.
DO NOT DELETE THIS FILE. If you delete this file, PC-DMIS erases the header from
the affected pages of the Edit window.
223
illumination.dat
This file is used for Vision machines. It stores the defined illumination quick sets.
Illumination quick sets contain information about the machines lamps, which bulbs are
on, and their brightness.
If you delete this file, any custom quick sets are lost, although PC-DMIS recreates this
file with a few default quick sets.
layout#.dat
These files store information about a specific layout stored on the Window Layouts
toolbar. There is one file for each stored layout, similar to the gbarstate.dat file. PC-
DMIS automatically increments "#" for each new layout.
You cannot edit these files in a text editor.
If you delete a specific layout#.dat file, PC-DMIS removes the related layout button from
the Window Layouts toolbar.
For more information, see "Window Layouts Toolbar" in the "Using Toolbars" chapter.
layouttoolbar.dat
This file contains a list of layouts when you use the Window Layouts toolbar to save a
layout.
If you delete this file, PC-DMIS removes your layouts from the Window Layouts
toolbar.
LIGHTINGMATERIALS.DAT
This file defines the relative path to the default system-defined lighting and materials
settings in default.txt. This appears as DEFAULT on the Archive tab in the CAD and
Graphic Setup dialog box (Edit | Graphic Display Window | Lighting, Materials).
Note that default.txt is not human readable.
224
The comments at the beginning of this file explain the file's format. In the file, the
characters "L", "M", and "U" specify the list in which each item appears ("L" for Lighting,
"M" for Material, and "U" for User Recall).
DO NOT DELETE THIS FILE. If you delete this file, it causes the CAD and Graphic
Setup dialog box to not know anything about the lighting or material files. You would
then need to manually recreate the file or reinstall PC-DMIS.
logo.dat *
This file controls the format of the Edit window's header on the first page.
DO NOT DELETE THIS FILE. If you delete this file, PC-DMIS erases the header from
the first page of the Edit window.
MACHINE.DAT *
This file defines virtual machine definitions. Virtual machines are animated in the
Graphic Display window as a representation of the real machine.
DO NOT EDIT THIS FILE. Instead, use the usermachine.dat file to customize
MACHINE.DAT entries.
DO NOT DELETE THIS FILE. If you delete this file, the machine models become
unavailable.
menu_<language>.dat
This file stores customized menus for the user. In the file name, <language> is the
three-letter language code for the language you use to display PC-DMIS.
225
If you delete this file, PC-DMIS removes any customized menus.
MessageBoxOptions.dat
This file stores a list of the warning messages that you have turned off.
If you delete this file, all warning messages reappear.
PROBE.DAT *
This file defines the components that are available in PC-DMIS when you use the
Probe Utilities dialog box (Insert | Hardware Definition | Probe) to create a probe
assembly.
DO NOT EDIT THIS FILE. Instead, use the usrprobe.dat file to create or display
customized probe hardware.
DO NOT DELETE THIS FILE. If you delete this file, those components become
unavailable.
PROBECHANGER.DAT
This file defines virtual probe changer definitions. Virtual probe changers are animated
in the Graphic Display window and appear within the volume space for collision
detection. It is a representation of the actual probe changer.
DO NOT EDIT THIS FILE. Use the tools that PC-DMIS provides to define your
animated probe changer.
DO NOT DELETE THIS FILE. If you delete this file, the probe changer models are
unavailable.
QUICKFIX.DAT *
This file displays all of the quick fixture items that are available to add into the Graphic
Display window.
226
DO NOT DELETE THIS FILE. If you delete this file, PC-DMIS erases the library of
quick-fixture items that are available, which makes it impossible to work with these files.
ReportingToolbar.dat
This file contains a list of the saved report templates and custom reports on the
Reporting toolbar.
If you delete this file, PC-DMIS removes any saved items from the Reporting toolbar.
TablesOnly.dat
This file defines the available virtual tables. It contains a list of tables and defines each
table's width, length, and height, separated by commas. The values are in millimeters.
To edit this value and show the virtual table, see "Defining Machines" in the "Defining
Hardware" chapter.
TemplRepPickerList.dat
This file contains a list of the report templates that you added to the Report Templates
dialog box. To open the dialog box, click the Template Selection icon on the Report
toolbar in the Report window (View | Report Window).
If you delete this file, PC-DMIS removes those templates from the Report Templates
dialog box, but it does not delete the actual report templates.
tool.dat
This file defines the required calibration artifacts when you want to calibrate a probe.
227
toolbar.dat
This file contains all of the customized toolbars definitions (buttons) and names. PC-
DMIS creates this file when you customize or create any toolbars.
If you delete this file, PC-DMIS removes any customized toolbars.
UserLightingMaterials.dat *
PC-DMIS automatically creates this file whenever you use the Archive tab in the CAD
and Graphic Setup dialog box (Edit | Graphic Display Window | Lighting, Materials)
to save a custom user configuration of lighting and material settings. As with the
LIGHTINGMATERIALS.DAT file, it defines relative paths to any custom configuration
settings files that you saved.
usermachine.dat
This file defines custom animated machines. You can also copy machines (listed as
items) from MACHINE.DAT, paste the information into this file, and customize the
machines either directly inside the file or from the Load Virtual Machine dialog box
(Insert | Hardware Definition | Machine). Whenever you access that dialog box later,
PC-DMIS reads this file in addition to the MACHINE.DAT file when it displays the
available machines.
If you delete this file, PC-DMIS removes any custom machines.
For more information, see "Editing the usermachine.dat Data File" in the "Defining
Hardware" chapter.
228
usrprobe.dat *
You must manually create this file. You can then copy the probe information from
PROBE.DAT, paste it into this file, and customize that information as needed. PC-DMIS
then reads both this file and the PROBE.DAT file when it displays probes in the Probe
Utilities dialog box (Insert | Hardware Definition | Probe).
If you delete this file, PC-DMIS removes customized probe information.
userquickfix.dat
This file defines the custom quick fixtures in the Available fixtures list in the Quick
Fixture dialog box (Insert | Hardware Definition | Quick Fixture). You can also copy
fixtures (listed as items) from QUICKFIX.DAT and paste the information into this file.
You can then customize them directly inside the file, or you can use the Quick Fixture
dialog box to create new custom fixtures. Whenever you access that dialog box later,
PC-DMIS reads this file and the QUICKFIX.DAT file when it displays the available
fixtures.
If you delete this file, PC-DMIS removes any custom fixtures.
229

05 - Setting Your Preferences

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05 - Setting Your Preferences

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Table of Contents

Setting Your Preferences ................................................................................................ 1

Setting Your Preferences: Introduction ........................................................................ 1

A Note on Storing Settings for Multiple Users .......................................................... 2

Switching Between Machine Profiles ....................................................................... 2

Selecting Setup Options .............................................................................................. 2

Setup Options: General tab...................................................................................... 3

Setup Options: Part/Machine tab ........................................................................... 38

Setup Options: Dimension tab................................................................................ 46

Setup Options: ID Setup tab .................................................................................. 58

Setup Options: Laser Sensor tab ........................................................................... 63

Setup Options: Sound Events tab .......................................................................... 63

Setup Options: Animation tab................................................................................. 65

Modifying Report and Motion Parameters ................................................................. 69

Parameter Settings: Dimension tab........................................................................ 70

Parameter Settings: Clearance Plane tab .............................................................. 75

Parameter Settings: Probing tab ............................................................................ 81

Parameter Settings: Motion tab .............................................................................. 84

Parameter Settings: Rotary Table tab .................................................................... 92

Parameter Settings: Acceleration tab ..................................................................... 96

Parameter Settings: Probe Options tab.................................................................. 97

Parameter Settings: Probe Trigger Options tab ................................................... 103

Parameter Settings: I/O Channels tab.................................................................. 108

Parameter Settings: Clear Point tab ..................................................................... 109

Setting Up the Edit Window ..................................................................................... 110

Defining Edit Window Colors ................................................................................ 110

Defining the Edit Window Layout ......................................................................... 114

Setting Up the Probe Readouts Window ................................................................. 117

Feature Area ........................................................................................................ 118

Probe/Hit Area...................................................................................................... 119

Coordinates Area ................................................................................................. 120

Axis to Display Area ............................................................................................. 120

Colors Area .......................................................................................................... 121

Screen Counters Area.......................................................................................... 121

Tracker Area ........................................................................................................ 122

Graphical Representation Area ............................................................................ 122

Distance Target Area ........................................................................................... 123

Prompt History Area ............................................................................................. 138

Always Track FOV Center.................................................................................... 139

Setting Up Multiple Arms ......................................................................................... 139

Defining the Rotary Table ........................................................................................ 139

Difference between a Stacked and Dual Rotary Table......................................... 142

Calibrate Rotary Table ......................................................................................... 145

Setting Up Probe Changer Options ......................................................................... 150

Managing Multiple Probe Changers......................................................................... 150

Background on TP2 ............................................................................................. 150

Background on ACR1 .......................................................................................... 151

Background on TP20 and TP200 ......................................................................... 151

Background on the SP600 Analog Probe............................................................. 152

Configuring Multiple Racks .................................................................................. 152

SP25 Probe/Stylus Change system ..................................................................... 154

Loading the Active Probe......................................................................................... 158

Generating a Debug File.......................................................................................... 168

Compensating for Temperature (Legacy) ................................................................ 171

Using STP Files ................................................................................................... 171

Available Input Parameters .................................................................................. 172

TEMPCOMP/ORIGIN Command in the Edit Window........................................... 179

Controller Support ................................................................................................ 180