What is a CNC Control Panel 

The combination of the machine and control panels on a CNC machine. On a control interface, the
machine panel handles manual and automatic operations, while the control panel allows for automated
control when a part program runs in auto mode. CNC controllers are computer numerically controlled
(CNC) devices that control machines and processes. They provide capabilities ranging from simple point-
to-point linear control to highly complex algorithms with multiple axes of control. CNC controllers are
used to retrofit many types of machine shop equipment. The group of controls on a CNC machine that
run, store, and edit the commands of a part program and other coordinate information.

What are the functions of the ff. parts:

    a. soft keys - A softkey often takes the form of a screen-labeled function key located alongside a
display device, where the button invokes a function described by the text at that moment shown
adjacent to the button on the display. Keys located directly below the display screen that have different
purposes depending on which function key has been chosen. The function of each soft key is visible on
the display screen between brackets.
    b. hard keys -
    c. text editing keys - The key on the CNC machine that changes the operation mode to edit. Edit mode
allows an operator to make changes to a part program and store those changes.
    d. display modes - The main screen of the machine that displays important information for the
operator.
    e. Navigation functions keys - Keys located on the MDI keypad that enable the operator to choose
between different tasks.
    f. emergency stops - Used for emergencies only, the control button that automatically shuts down all
machine functions.
    g. spindle and feed overdrive - The control button used to pause a program. Also known as cycle stop,
feed hold pauses tool feed but does not stop spindle movement.
    h. operation mode - The keys located on the operator panel that allow an operator to move tools and
set offsets.
     i. conditional - spindle and motion switches - These on/off switches control how the machine behaves
during automatic and manual operation. They can be toggle switches, locking push buttons, or even set
through the display screen and keyboard. Though the location and style of these switches vary, their
meaning and usage stays amazingly similar from one type of CNC machine to the next. These switches
are very important. If one or another is improperly set, the machine may not perform as expected. The
operator should get in the habit of checking each of these switches before the CNC program is executed.

Dry Run. This conditional switch is most used with the verification of new programs. When this switch is
on, it gives the operator control of the motion rate at which the machine will traverse. This is extremely
helpful during rapid motions. The rapid rate of current CNC machines is very fast, ranging from 100
inches per minute to 800 inches per minute or more. At these extremely fast rates, the operator will not
be able to stop the machine in time in case of a mishap.

Single Block. This conditional switch can be used to force the control to execute one command of the
program at a time. When turned on, the control will stop at the completion of each command. To
execute the next command, the operator must push the cycle start button. This switch is most helpful
during program verification. With a new program, the operator will cautiously check each motion the
machine makes, one at a time.

Machine Lock. This conditional switch keeps all axes of the machine from moving. Many other functions
of the machine will continue to operate. For example, the turret will still index, the spindle will still run,
coolant will still come on, etc. But axis motion will not occur. Machine lock can be used during automatic
operation and manual operation. If a motion of any kind is commanded, the position displays on the
display screen will act as if the machine is moving, but in reality, no motion occurs.

Optional Block Skip (Also Called Block Delete). This conditional switch works in conjunction with slash
codes (/) in the program. If the control reads a slash code at the beginning of any CNC command in the
program, it will look to the position of the optional block skip switch. If the switch is on, the control will
ignore the command in which the slash code is included. If the optional block skip switch is off, the
control will execute the command.

Optional Stop. This conditional switch works in conjunction with an M01 code in the program. When the
control reads an M01 and the optional stop switch is on, the control will halt the execution of the
program. The operator must press the cycle start button to reactivate the program. If the optional stop
switch is off, the control will ignore the M01 and continue executing the program.