Colchester Tornado 100: Backing Up Parameters via RS232

Jason IP2 min read
Other ManufacturerOther TopicTutorial / How-to
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This procedure backs up four data groups from a 1997 Colchester Tornado 100: NC parameters, PMC parameters, NC programs, and offsets. The evidence identifies the panel keys and RS232 transfer method but does not identify the CNC control manufacturer or model. Confirm that the displayed keys and screens match the machine before proceeding.

Prepare the RS232 Receiver

Configure a PC or laptop to receive RS232 data before starting any output operation. The available evidence does not specify the serial port settings, cable pinout, communications software, file names, or restore procedure. Read the working communications settings from the machine or existing documentation rather than guessing them.

Data Sets and Required Screens

Data set Operating mode Screen Output command
NC parameters EDIT PARAMETER Hold EOB and press OUTPUT START
PMC parameters EDIT DIAGNOSTICS Press OUTPUT START
All NC programs EDIT PROGRAM Memory Enter O-9999, then press OUTPUT START
Offsets EDIT OFFSET Press OUTPUT START

Run the Backup Procedure

  1. Start the receiving function on the PC or laptop.
  2. Select EDIT mode. Press PARAM/DGNOS once to display the PARAMETER screen. Hold EOB while pressing OUTPUT START. Confirm that OUTPUT flashes in the lower-right corner while the NC parameters are transmitted.
  3. Remain in EDIT mode. Press PARAM/DGNOS twice to display the DIAGNOSTICS screen, then press OUTPUT START to transmit the PMC parameters.
  4. Set parameter No. 10 bit 4 to 0 to unprotect programs 9000 through 9999. Open the PROGRAM Memory screen and enter:
    O-9999
    Press OUTPUT START to transmit all NC programs.
  5. Open the OFFSET screen in EDIT mode and press OUTPUT START to transmit the offsets.

Verify and Preserve the Backup

Verify that the receiver captured a separate, nonempty output for each of the four data groups. The flashing OUTPUT indication confirms that NC parameter output started, but the evidence does not define a controller-side completion message. Preserve the original received files unchanged and record which file contains each data group.

Parameter No. 10 bit 4 must be 0 during the program export because this exposes programs 9000 through 9999. The evidence does not state its original value or instruct whether to restore it afterward; record the value before changing it and consult the machine documentation before making any post-backup change.

FAQ

How do I back up NC parameters on a 1997 Colchester Tornado 100?

Start the RS232 receiver, select EDIT mode, press PARAM/DGNOS once, then hold EOB while pressing OUTPUT START. OUTPUT should flash in the lower-right corner during transmission.

How do I export programs 9000 through 9999?

Set parameter No. 10 bit 4 to 0, select EDIT mode and the PROGRAM Memory screen, enter O-9999, and press OUTPUT START.

What must be included in a complete Tornado 100 backup?

Capture NC parameters, PMC parameters, all NC programs, and offsets as four identifiable data sets. Confirm that the PC or laptop received a nonempty output for each set.

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