Question

what is the difference between MDI and single cycle node in CNC machine?

Answer 1

MDI is Manual Data Input which is available as a button in CNC machine to write a simple line program manually to run a program.

1. Press MDI/DNC to enter MDI mode.
2. Type program commands in the window. Press CYCLE START to execute the commands.
3. If you want to save the program you created in MDI as a numbered program: Press HOME to place the cursor at the beginning of the program. Type a new program number. Program numbers must follow standard program number format (Onnnnn). Press ALTER.

   The control saves your program to memory and clears the MDI input page. You can find the new program in the MEMORY tab in the Device Manager menu (press LIST PROGRAM).

4. Press ERASE PROGRAM to delete everything from the MDI input page.

Single cycle node is nothing but a Step into button available in CNC machine to run an individual set of program to execute.

When you enter this mode, just a single block of code executes. This means your CNC machine only stops moving on its access. For example, the machine spindle keeps turning, and coolant continues to flow too.