What for
With variable text every part is made on its own: job, next row, next job. Output series makes all parts in one go, for example 40 name tags from a list or the serial numbers 1001 to 1050. Texts and codes with placeholders are set for each part's row.
The window opens via File → Output series …, in the Export window and via Output series … at the variable text status (Milling or Laser tab and in the wizards).
Which parts
- All rows of the list: every row of the pasted list is one part.
- Rows from – to: a section, for example rows 11 to 20.
- Number from the current row: without a list, the next numbers, for example 25 pieces from no. 1001.
Below you see the count and the first and last number. If no text and no code has placeholders, the window says so: all parts would be identical.
As ZIP
One G-code file per part in a ZIP, plus a LIESMICH.txt (read me) listing all parts and times. A pattern with placeholders sets the file name, for example sign-{nr} or {Name}-{datum:YYYY-MM-DD}; the extension comes from the controller. If a part needs several bits, there is one file per bit.
One program with pauses
All parts in one file. Between two parts the machine stops with M0; before it a message stands as a comment, by default “Load a new workpiece and check the origin: no. {nr}” with the number of the next part. Continue with cycle start, in the app with Continue in the control panel.
The spindle or laser is off during the pause; every part starts again with spin-up. Projects with several bits cannot be output this way (one program cannot change the bit): use ZIP or side by side on the sheet.
Side by side on the sheet
All parts lie on the workpiece in a grid with spacing and margin, in reading order from the top left. Nest places them closer by their outline, also rotated by 90°. One part is all visible shapes of the drawing. Whatever does not fit goes onto the next sheet; between sheets the program stops (“Load new sheet”). The preview shows the first sheet with numbered parts.
For lasers this is the fastest way: load one sheet, all signs in one job. With several bits you get one program per sheet and bit (ZIP).
Open sheet as project (below the preview; with several sheets you choose one) puts the parts of the sheet into a new project as ordinary shapes, each with the text and code of its row. There you can adjust the layout by hand before lasering or milling, for example move a part around a knot. The previous project stays as it was; if it is unsaved, the app asks first.
Save or send to the machine
- Save G-code or Save ZIP writes in the dialect of the controller from the machine profile (Settings → Machine → G-code files), for example LinuxCNC or Marlin.
- Send to machine (laser: Laser) loads the program with pauses or the sheet into the milling or laser wizard; your own machine always gets Grbl.
At the top the window shows the count, files or sheets and the estimated total time (from the time of the current part, without pauses); when outputting, the app calculates every part exactly.
Log
While a series runs on the machine, the control panel shows “Series: part 3 of 12” and, in the pause, the message for the next part with Continue. The black box records every started part with row and number; the job report lists the rows, the numbers and which parts were finished. A single job with variable text records row and number as well.
After a finished series the variable text (with automatic advance) stands on the row after the last one; the next series starts there.