Mach3 2010 Screenset ⭐ 🆒
This guide covers installation, layout, key features, setup, and usage.
Pros (What’s Excellent)
Step 2 – Back Up Your Existing Mach3 Setup
- Navigate to your Mach3 folder (e.g.,
C:\Mach3). - Copy the following files to a backup folder:
*.set(your current screen)*.xml(your machine profile)*.dat,*.txt(tool files, macros)
Router vs. Plasma Version
| Feature | Router Version | Plasma Version | |------------------------|----------------|----------------| | Probing routines | Yes (4+ types) | No | | Torch height control | No | Yes (with indicators) | | Automatic tool zero | Yes | No (uses floating head) | | Manual torch firing | No | Yes | | Cut rule display | No | Yes | | Spindle speed control | Yes | No (torch on/off) |
The screenset includes both versions in the download. You simply load the appropriate .set file for your machine type.
Verdict: 4.5/5
Worth every penny if you already use Mach3 and find the stock interface frustrating. It modernizes Mach3 significantly, particularly for tool changes and zeroing. However, if you’re building a new CNC machine in 2024+, consider moving to Mach4, UCCNC, or LinuxCNC instead — but for existing Mach3 users, this screenset is a no-brainer upgrade.
Tip: Watch a video on YouTube (search “Mach3 2010 Screenset setup”) before buying to see the workflow in action.
The Mach3 2010 Screenset is widely regarded as a major efficiency upgrade for CNC router users, primarily because it simplifies the user interface and automates complex tool-change procedures. Key Features
Clean Interface: Replaces the cluttered standard Mach3 screens with a single-page layout that groups common controls into a "Windows-like" application feel.
Semi-Automatic Tool Changer: Its standout feature. It allows you to zero an initial tool using a "Simple Auto Zero" (movable plate) and then automatically references subsequent tools against a "Fixed Plate" mounted on the machine. Mach3 2010 Screenset
Automated Probing: Includes built-in macros for finding edges, centers, and corners, which drastically reduces setup time compared to manual jogging.
Multi-Unit Support: Seamlessly supports both Imperial and Metric units. Workflow Overview
Initial Zero: Use the Initial Auto Zero button to set the location of your fixed plate and reference your first tool to the material surface. During G-code: When the machine hits a tool change (
), it moves to a predefined tool-change position and pauses.
New Tool Referencing: After swapping the tool, the machine automatically moves to the fixed plate to calculate the height difference and resumes cutting without manual re-zeroing. Installation & Setup Machsupport Forum - Mach3 2010 Screenset - Now available
Mach3 2010 Screenset , created by Gerry (ger21), is a popular replacement interface for Mach3 CNC software designed to simplify the user experience by mimicking a standard Windows program. The CNC Woodworker Key Features Streamlined Interface
: Unlike the standard Mach3 layout, which uses multiple distinct pages, the 2010 screenset features a single "main" screen This guide covers installation, layout, key features, setup,
with the most common controls and small tabs for specialized functions. Probing Macros
: It includes advanced automated tool-zeroing and probing features, including edge probing that adjusts based on feed rates and probe diameters. User Safety
: The screenset incorporates safety checks to prevent unwanted machine movement, though it requires accurate user input for Digital Readouts (DROs) and checkboxes. Customization
: It offers a "Diagnostics" screen with extra space for user-customizable LEDs. Artsoft- Mach Setup & Installation Run Installer
: The installation process typically starts with a dedicated installer. Copy Macros
: After installation, users must manually copy the specific "2010" macros into their current Mach3 profile folder (e.g., C:\Mach3\macros\YourProfileName Enable Brains : To function correctly, the Axis Scale Brain Offset LED Brain must be enabled via the Operator > Brain Control menu in Mach3. Load Screen : To activate it, go to View > Load Screens in Mach3 and select the Important Operational Commands : Moves the machine to a user-defined "Park Position". Initial Auto Zero
: Crucial for setting the location of a fixed plate before running G-code that includes tool changes. Diagnostics : Accessed by pressing the three times. Artsoft- Mach For detailed technical guidance, you can reference the Mach3 2010 Reference Manual Probing Manual provided by the developer. Artsoft- Mach for your machine? Machsupport Forum - Mach3 2010 Screenset - Now available Pros (What’s Excellent) Step 2 – Back Up
The Mach3 2010 Screenset is a popular third-party interface for Mach3 CNC software, designed by Gerry (ger21) to modernize the user experience with a clean, Windows-like look and advanced automation features. You can find detailed information and purchase options on The CNC Woodworker. Key Features of the 2010 Screenset
Clean Interface: Replaces the cluttered standard Mach3 screens with a single "Main" page for common tasks and smaller tabs for specialized functions.
Auto Zero Macros: Includes ready-to-run macros for simple Z-axis auto-zeroing and automatic tool zeroing after a tool change.
Semi-Automatic Tool Changes: Simplifies the process for machines without automatic tool changers by guiding the user through manual swaps with automated offsets.
Widescreen Support: Designed to run optimally in a 1024x768 window, which fits well on modern widescreen displays despite not being a native "widescreen" resolution. Installation and Requirements
Cost: It is available as a paid download (historically around $20) from The CNC Woodworker.
Compatibility: Recommended for use with Mach3 version 3.42.040, as newer "lockdown" versions (like 3.43.022) have been reported to freeze during tool changes.
Setup: After installation, users should uncheck "Boxed DRO's and Graphics" in the General Config to ensure the display looks as intended. Community and Support
For troubleshooting or custom macro modifications (like editing the M881 or M889 probing code), the Machsupport Forum hosts a massive dedicated thread with over a decade of community advice and direct support from the developer. Mach3 2010 Screenset Tool Change