# Running a Job

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## Running a Job

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Follow this checklist every time you run a job. Complete [Preparing a Cut File](https://wiki.spen.cc/books/woodworking/page/preparing-a-cut-file) and have your G-code on the shop PC before starting.

#### Before Power-On (Safety-Critical)

- **Install and tighten the bit first** - before any spindle power; see [Hardware and Machine Anatomy](https://wiki.spen.cc/books/woodworking/page/hardware-and-machine-anatomy) for collet and installation details
- Select the correct **ER20 collet** for your bit’s shank diameter
- Use **two wrenches** on the spindle nut; never run with a loose collet
- Clear the spoilboard area and confirm your workholding plan
- Wear safety glasses; hearing protection as needed
- Know the **e-stop** location

#### Power-Up Sequence

1. Verify **e-stop** is released
2. Turn on main machine power
3. Turn on **VFD**; confirm it is in **automatic/remote mode** (NOT manual/local)
4. Boot / wake the dedicated CNC shop PC; launch **RTS-X**
5. Connect to the controller; **home the machine**

<p class="callout warning">**Dust collection not yet installed** - use shop vac for cleanup after cuts. Dust collection is coming soon.</p>

<p class="callout warning">**TBD:** Preferred power-down order (VFD → main power). Shop-specific e-stop / power switch labeling.</p>

#### Job Setup

**1. Secure the workpiece (T-tracks)**

- Use **T-tracks** with appropriate clamps, hold-downs, or toe clamps
- Screwing into the 3/4" spoilboard is acceptable when clamps won’t work - avoid excessive holes
- Keep clamps and track hardware **clear of the toolpath** - check rapids in simulation
- Mind "no-go" zones near table edges where tracks may not reach

**2. Set work zero (WCS)**

Standard practice for most jobs:

- **XY zero:** front-left corner of your workpiece - match the origin you set in VCarve
- **Z zero:** top surface of the material (most common), or spoilboard surface for through-cuts - match your VCarve setting
- In RTS-X: jog the bit to your XY zero point and zero the X and Y axes; lower the bit to just touch the material surface and zero the Z axis
- Use a paper slip or touch-off block for Z precision; avoid crashing the bit into the spoilboard

<p class="callout warning">**TBD:** Document our specific step-by-step touch-off procedure in RTS-X, with screenshots. Spoilboard is **3/4"** thick.</p>

**3. Import G-code** into RTS-X (USB or cloud)

**4. Run simulation/preview in RTS-X**

- Open the file in **RTS-X** and run the built-in preview/simulation before starting
- Confirm the bit does **not plunge through material or into clamps/fixtures** on the first rapid approach
- Verify the toolpath boundaries stay within your workholding setup
- Check that the first plunge point and rapid moves look correct relative to your zeroed position
- Consider watching the first few seconds of the cut at **reduced feed override (e.g. 50%)** until you are confident the job is running correctly

**5.** Position spindle over safe start point; confirm feed/speed in file

#### During the Cut

- **Remain at the machine and supervise the entire job.** Zero tolerance for leaving unattended or leaving the room.
- Keep hands clear; never adjust clamps while the spindle is running
- Be ready to hit **e-stop** or feed-hold

#### Shutdown

1. Stop spindle; return to safe park position if applicable
2. Remove workpiece and clean up
3. Vacuum chips; check spoilboard for damage
4. Power down VFD, then main power
5. Log any issues on Slack

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