TNC 128
The Compact Straight-Cut
Control for Milling, Drilling,
and Boring Machines

05/2020

The functions and specifications describedin this brochure apply to the TNC 128 withNC software 771841-07.

2

Contents

The TNC 128...
Where can it be used?

Compact and convenient

4

Intuitive and user-friendly

6

Minimize setup and non-machining time

8

Programming, editing, testing

10

Programming in the shop

12

Open to outside information

16

Positioning with an electronic handwheel

17

Workpiece measurement

18

Tool measurement

19

Overview

20		What does it look like?

		What can it do?

		How is it programmed?

		
		
		
		
		
		
What accessories
are there?

		
		
		

... At a glance

		
		
		

The control for simple milling, drilling, and boring machines
The TNC 128 in dialog with the user
The TNC 128 makes setup easy

A full range of possibilities with the TNC 128
Graphical support in any scenario
Practical cycles for recurring operations
Reusing programmed contour elements
Rapid availability of all information
Fast data transfer with the TNC 128
Fine motion control of axes

Setup, preset setting, and measuring with touch trigger probes
Measuring length, radius, and wear inside the machine
User functions
Options and accessories
Specifications

3

Compact and convenient
The control for simple milling, drilling, and boring machines

Controls from HEIDENHAIN have been
proving their reliability on various types ofmachines for over 40 years. In the earlydays of CNC machining, most operations
were performed with simple CNC millingmachines that were capable of cuttingwith no more than three servo-controlledaxes at only moderate traversing speeds.
Nowadays complex machining centers arein operation, CNC machines are linked
together, and machine tools are equippedwith automated loading systems. Less
complex operations continue to be
performed on simple CNC millingmachines. The TNC 128 straight-cut control
was conceived for exactly this purpose.
Its scope of functions is perfectly tailoredto simple CNC machines, and it is suitable
for machines with central drive as well as
those with independent drive.

4

Shop-oriented programming
Shop-oriented programming is an
important attribute of the TNC 128,
particularly since the TNC controls arerooted in the shop floor.
In the past years, machining processes
have become more complex, and themachines themselves more powerful.
Throughout, the fundamental operating
concept of the TNC controls has remained
the same despite their continued
development and improvement.
The proven operation is also the basis
for the user-friendly programming of the
TNC 128, since it assists you during
program creation with help graphics,
practical prompts, fixed cycles, andcycles for coordinate transformation.

Easy to operate
For simple work, such as face milling, youneed not write a program on the TNC 128.
That’s because it makes manual control
equally easy—either by means of the axis
keys or, for maximum sensitivity, with anelectronic handwheel.
Offline programming
The TNC 128 is easy to program remotely
as well. Its Gigabit Ethernet interface
ensures extremely short upload times,
even for long programs.

The TNC 128 is compact and easy toread
The TNC 128 is a compact but versatilestraight-cut control for three servo axes
and servo spindle. A further servo axis is
an option. Thanks to its simple operationand scope of features, it is especially well
suited for use on universal milling, drilling,
and boring machines for the following
possibilities:• Series and single-part production• Machine building• Prototypes and pilot plants• Repair departments• Training and education facilities
It also offers the applicable features bothnecessary and helpful for:
Universal milling machines• Milling cycles for rectangular pockets,rectangular studs, and face milling• Rapid preset setting with HEIDENHAIN
touch probes
Drilling and boring machines• Drilling and boring cycles• Cycles for point patterns on a circle
and lines

5Intuitive and user-friendly
The TNC 128 in dialog with the user

The screen
In a clear format, the 12.1-inch TFT color flat
screen displays all of the information you
need for programming, operating, andchecking the control and the machine,
including program blocks, tips, and error
messages. More information is provided
through graphic support during program
entry, test run, and actual machining.
You can also use a split screen to display
your NC blocks on one side and thegraphical image or the status display
on the other.
While the program is running, status
displays are available that inform you about
the tool position, current program, active
cycles, coordinate transformations, andmore. The TNC 128 even displays thecurrent machining time.

The operating panel
Like all of the TNCs from HEIDENHAIN,
the operating panel was designed withthe programming process in mind.
Program entry is aided by the thoughtfularrangement of keys. Readily understoodsymbols and abbreviations unmistakably
identify the various functions. Certain
functions of the TNC 128 are available
by soft key.
The integrated machine operating panelfeatures readily exchangeable snap-on keys
permitting easy adaptation to the given
machine configuration. With the override
potentiometers, you can make fineadjustments to the feed rate, rapid
traverse, and spindle speed.

6The screen content includes two
operating modes, the program, graphics,
and the machine status
PLC function keys (soft keys) for machinefunctions
Keys for screen management (screen
layout), operating mode, and switching
between soft-key rows

Axis-selection keys and numeric keypad

Ergonomic and elegant, state-of-the-art
and field-proven—controls from
HEIDENHAIN in a modern design. Judgefor yourself:
DurableThe high-quality stainless-steel design of
the TNC 128 features a special protective
coating, making it particularly resistant tocontamination and wear.
SmoothThe rectangular, slightly rounded keys
are pleasant to the touch and reliable inoperation. Their abrasion-resistant labelingcan withstand extreme shop conditions
Versatile
Soft keys for both programming andmachine functions always show only
the currently available selections.

Function keys for programming modes,
machine operating modes, TNC functions,management, and navigation

Sensitive
With the handy control knobs, you canmake fine adjustments to the feed rateand spindle speed.

Machine operating panel withsnap-on keys

Communicative
The fast USB 2.0 interface lets you connect
storage media or pointing devices to theoperating panel simply and directly.

Override potentiometers for feed rate,
rapid traverse, and spindle speed
Self-explanatory function keys (soft keys)
for NC programming

Flexible
The integrated machine operating panelfeatures easily exchangeable snap-on keys.
Reliable
The elevated key bed of the machine
operating panel prevents accidental
actuation.

USB port for additional data storage orother pointing devices

7

Minimize setup and non-machining time
The TNC 128 makes setup easy

Before machining can begin, the workpiecemust first be clamped, the machine must
be set up, the position of the workpiece inthe machine must be determined, and thepreset must be set. Without support fromthe control, this is often a time-consuming
but indispensable procedure because any
error directly reduces the machining
accuracy. Particularly in small and mediumsized production runs, as well as in thecase of very large workpieces, setup times
become a significant factor.
Here the TNC 128 shows its strengths:with its practice-oriented setup features it
supports the operator and helps to reduce
non-machining time. In conjunction withthe touch probes, the TNC 128 offers
numerous probing functions for setting
the preset as well as measuring theworkpieces and tools.
Fine manual axis control
During setup, you can use the axisdirection keys to move the machine axes
manually or with an incremental jog. A
simpler and more reliable way, however,is to use the electronic handwheels from
HEIDENHAIN (see page 17). With thesehandwheels, you are always close to theaction, enjoy a close-up view of the setup
process, and can control the infeed
responsively and precisely.
Adapting the probing speed
In many cases, the workpiece must be
probed at unseen positions or in cramped
spaces, and the standard probing feed rateis usually too fast for this. In such situations
you can use the feed rate potentiometer tochange the feed rate during probing
without affecting the accuracy.

8

Preset setting
A preset allows you to assign a definedvalue displayed by the TNC to any positionon the workpiece. Finding this point quickly
and reliably reduces non-productive timeand increases machining accuracy.
The TNC 128 features probing functions forsetting presets. Ascertained presets can besaved as follows:• Using the preset management• In a datum table• Through direct setting of the display

Setting a preset on a corner, for example, or in
the center of a circular studPreset management with thepreset table
Preset management enables flexible
machining, shorter setup times, and higher
throughput. In other words, setting up yourmachine is greatly simplified.
In preset management, you can saveany number of presets. In order topermanently save fixed presets in themachine’s workspace, you can also writeprotect individual lines. There are two
possibilities for rapidly saving the presets:• Via a soft key in Manual mode
• Via the probing functions

Tool length and radius measurement

Measuring tool wear

Saving datums
Datum tables let you save positions ormeasured values from the workpiece.
Datums are always defined relative to theactive preset.
Tool measurement and automatic tool
data compensation
Together with the TT 160 tool touch probe(see page 19), the TNC 128 lets you
measure tools in the machine. The TNC 128
then stores the determined values, such as
tool length and radius, in its tool memory.
By inspecting the tool, you can quickly
detect wear or breakage for preventing
scrap and rework.

9

Programming, editing, testing
A full range of possibilities with the TNC 128

Besides being universally deployable, theTNC 128 is equally flexible when it comesto programming and machining.
Positioning with Manual Data Input
You don’t need to create a complete
program in order to start machining with
the TNC 128. You can machine a workpiece
step by step using both manual machining
and automatic positioning in any sequence.
Programming at the machine
HEIDENHAIN controls are designed forshop-friendly programming right at themachine. Instead of requiring you to know
G-codes, the Klartext conversational
programming language provides its own
buttons and soft keys, which precisely
indicate the respectively associatedfunction. At the push of a button,
HEIDENHAIN Klartext dialog guidance
opens and actively helps you during
programming on the TNC. Its clear
instructions prompt you to enter all of
the required data.
All interface texts, including Klartext tips,
dialog prompting, program steps, and soft
keys, are available in numerous languages.
Managing programs offline
The TNC 128 is also well equipped forexternal access. Its interfaces allow thecontrol to be integrated into networks inorder to connect with programming
stations or other data storage media.

10Graphical support in any scenario

Programming graphics
The two-dimensional programming
graphics give you additional assurance:
while you are programming, the TNC 128
renders every programmed movement on
the screen. You can opt for a plan view,side view, or front view.
Program verification graphics
For added certainty prior to machining,
the TNC 128 can graphically simulate
the machining of the workpiece. This
simulation can be viewed in different
formats:• Plan view at different levels of depth• Three projections (as in the workpiecedrawing)• 3-D view
Details can be displayed at magnification.
The TNC 128 also displays the calculated
machining time in hours, minutes, andseconds. The 3-D view of the TNC provides
a measuring function. When you move themouse pointer anywhere within the image,the coordinates of that position aredisplayed.
Program-run graphics
The program-run graphics display the
workpiece in real time in order to show you
the machining progress. Direct observationof the workpiece is usually impossible due
to coolant and the safety enclosure. Duringmachining, you can switch between various
operating modes at any time in order tocreate programs, for example. And at thepress of a button, you can cast a glance at
the machining progress while programming.
Help graphics
During cycle programming in Klartext,
the TNC shows a separate illustration foreach parameter. This makes it easier tounderstand the function and accelerates
programming.

11

Programming in the shop
Practical cycles for recurring operations

Fixed cycles for milling, drilling,
and boring
Frequently recurring operations consistingof multiple machining steps are stored as
cycles in the TNC 128. Dialog guidance andhelp graphics illustrating the required input
parameters support you in programmingthem.
Standard cycles
In addition to the fixed cycles for drilling,tapping (with or without floating tap
holder), face milling, rectangular pockets,rectangular studs, reaming, and boring,
there are also cycles for hole patterns andmilling.

12

OEM cycles
Machine manufacturers can incorporate
their specialized production expertise in theform of additional fixed cycles and store
them in the TNC 128. The end user canwrite his own cycles as well. HEIDENHAIN
makes this possible with its PC software
CycleDesign, which allows you to create
input parameters and arrange the
TNC 128’s soft key structure as desired.
Machining with parametricprogramming
Parametric programming also offers youa simple method of realizing operations
for which no standard cycle is available.
At your disposal are basic arithmeticaloperations, trigonometric functions,roots, powers, logarithmic functions,parentheses, and logical comparisonswith conditional jump instructions.
Programming machining patterns withease and flexibility
Positions to be machined are often
arranged in patterns on the workpiece.
The TNC 128’s graphical support helps
you program a wide range of machining
patterns with ease and exceptional
flexibility. You can define as many point
patterns as desired with various numbersof points. During machining, you can thenhave all of the points executed as a unit, or
each point individually.

13

Programming in the shop
Reusing programmed contour elements

Coordinate transformations
If you need a pre-programmed contour atdifferent locations and in different sizes on
the workpiece, then the TNC 128 offers
you a convenient solution in the form of
coordinate transformations.
With coordinate transformation you can,for example, mirror the coordinate systemor shift the datum. With a scaling factor,
you can enlarge or reduce contours toaccount for shrinkage or oversizes.
Program-section repeats andsubprograms
Many machining operations repeat
themselves either on the same workpieceor on different workpieces. Once you haveprogrammed a detail, there is no need toprogram it again. With its subprogram
technology, the TNC can save you a great
deal of programming time.
In program-section repeats, you can labela section of the program, and the TNC will
repeat this section as many times as
required.
You can mark a program section as a
subprogram and then call it at any pointin the program and as often as you want.
With the program call function, you caneven use a completely separate programat any location in your current program.
This allows you to leverage alreadyprogrammed and frequently required
working steps or contours.
Of course you can also combine these
programming techniques.

14

Rapid availability of all information

Do you have questions about aprogramming step but your User’s Manual
is not at hand? No problem: the TNC 128
now features TNCguide, a convenient
help system that displays the user
documentation in a separate window.
You can activate TNCguide simply bypressing the HELP key on the TNC
keyboard or by clicking any soft key whenthe mouse pointer has switched to aquestion mark. This is easily done byclicking the help icon permanently
displayed on the TNC screen.
TNCguide generally displays the information
instantaneously and in the correct context(context-sensitive help), immediately giving
you the information you currently need.
This function is particularly helpful for soft
keys and provides a detailed explanation of
their effects.
You can download the documentation in
the desired language free of charge fromthe HEIDENHAIN homepage and save it to
the appropriate language directory of the
TNC’s memory medium.
CAD viewer (standard)With the integrated CAD viewer, you can
open 3-D CAD models and drawings
directly on the TNC 128. This powerfulviewer is a simple and simultaneously
efficient solution for displaying CAD design
data on the shop floor. Various view options
as well as rotation and zoom capabilities
allow detailed visual inspection andanalysis of your CAD data.
You can also use the viewer to ascertain
position values and dimensions from a 3-D
model. And you can set the preset as
desired and select elements in the model.
The CAD viewer shows the coordinates ofthe selected elements in a window.
The TNC 128 can depict the following fileformats:• STEP files (.STP and .STEP)• IGES files (.IGS and .IGES)• DXF files (.DXF)

15

Open to outside information
Fast data transfer with the TNC

Archiving programs
For well-organized program management
on your control, simply place the individual
files in directories (folders). You can structure
the respective directories through individual
subdirectories.
The exchange of programs and dataarchiving have become a matter ofcourse in modern production. If there
is a production bottleneck on a machine,
the program can simply be run on amachine with sufficient capacity available.
No matter whether job orders repeat
themselves, similar parts need to be
produced, or reworking is necessary during
repairs, the appropriate program is always
at hand.

16

With the TNC 128, you are ideally preparedfor such demands, since the control iseasily connected to a PC or integrated inyour network. Even in its standard version,
the TNC 128 features a Gigabit Ethernet
interface in addition to its RS-232-C/V.24
data interface.
USB interface
The TNC 128 also supports standard
memory media with USB interface. You
can use USB memory media to quickly
and easily save programs and tool data,and exchange these with PCs or othermachines.

Programs for data transfer
With the aid of the free PC software
TNCremo from HEIDENHAIN, you can do
the following (including over the Ethernet
interface):• Transfer remotely stored part programsand tool tables in both directions• Make backups
With the powerful TNCremoPlus PC
software, you can also transfer the screen
contents from the control to your PC using
the live-screen function.

Positioning with an electronic handwheel
Fine motion control of axes

You can set up the workpiece by manuallyjogging the axes with the axis direction
keys, but this task is easier and more finely
controllable with the electronic handwheels
from HEIDENHAIN.
In this method, the axis slides are movedby the feed motor in accordance with the
handwheel’s rotation. For particularly highsensitivity, you can incrementally set theamount of traversing distance for eachhandwheel rotation.
Panel-mounted handwheels
The HR 130 and HR 150 panel-mounted
handwheels from HEIDENHAIN can be
integrated into the machine operating
panel or mounted to a different part of themachine. An adapter permits connection of
up to three HR 150 electronic panelmounted handwheels.

Portable handwheels
The HR 510, HR 520, and HR 550 portable
handwheels are particularly helpful when
you work in close proximity to the machine’s
workspace. The axis keys and certain
function keys are integrated into the
housing. In this way, you can switch axes
and set up the machine at any time—
regardless of where you happen to be
standing. The HR 520 and HR 550
handwheels feature an integrated display
for user-friendly remote operation of thecontrol. As a wireless handwheel, theHR 550 is ideal for use on large machines.
If you no longer need the handwheel,
simply attach it to the machine using its
built-in magnets.

Expanded range of functions of the
HR 520 and HR 550• Definable traversing distance per
revolution• Display for operating mode, actual
position value, programmed feed rate,
spindle speed, and error message• Override potentiometers for feed rateand spindle speed• Selection of axes by means of keys andsoft keys• Keys for continuous traverse of the axes
• Emergency stop button• Actual position capture• NC start/stop• Spindle on/off• Soft keys for machine functions to be
defined by the machine manufacturer

HR 51017

Workpiece measurement
Setup, preset setting, and measuring with touch trigger probes

Workpiece touch probes* from
HEIDENHAIN help you keep costs
down: when used in conjunction with
the TNC 128’s probing cycles, they enable
the execution of setup, measurement, andinspection functions.
Upon contact with the workpiece surface,
the stylus of a TS touch trigger probe isdeflected. In that instant, the TS generates
a triggering signal that is transmitted bycable to the control.
The touch probes are inserted directly into
the machine tool spindle and can beequipped with various taper shanks
depending on the machine. The ball tips,
which are made of ruby, are available indifferent diameters and stylus lengths.
The TNC 128 primarily uses touch probeswith signal transmission by cable formachines with manual tool change:
TS 260
KT 130*	The touch probes must be interfaced to the TNC 128
by the machine manufacturer.

KT 130TS 260More information about workpiece touchprobes is available on the Internet atwww.heidenhain.de or in the ProductOverview Touch Probes – New
Generation.

18

Tool measurement
Measuring length, radius, and wear inside the machine

A key factor in obtaining consistently highproduction quality is, of course, the tool
itself. This requires exact measurement of
the tool dimensions and periodic inspectionof the tool for breakage, wear, and tooth
shape. A suitable touch trigger probe fortool measurement is the TT 160*. This
touch probe is installed directly within themachine’s workspace, where it permits
tool measurement either before machining
or during interruptions.
The TT 160 tool touch probe measures thetool length and radius. During probing of
the rotating or stationary tool, such as forindividual tooth measurement, the contact
plate is deflected and a trigger signal istransmitted directly to the TNC 128.
*	The touch probe must be interfaced to the TNC 128
by the machine manufacturer.

TT 160More information about tool touchprobes is available on the Internet atwww.heidenhain.de or in the ProductOverview Touch Probes – New
Generation.

19

Overview
User functions

Standard
OptionUser functions

Short description

Basic version: 3 axes plus closed-loop spindle
0 1st additional axis for 4 axes plus open-loop or closed-loop spindle
1 2nd additional axis for 5 axes and open-loop spindle

Program entry

HEIDENHAIN Klartext conversational programming language

Position entry

Nominal positions for straight lines in Cartesian coordinates
Incremental or absolute dimensions
Display and entry in mm or inches

Tool tablesMultiple tool tables with any number of tools

Cutting data

Automatic calculation of spindle speed, cutting speed, feed per tooth, and feed per revolution

Program jumps

Subprograms
Program-section repeat
Any program as a subprogram

Fixed cycles









Cycles for drilling, pecking, reaming, boring, counterboring, conventional and rigid tapping
Clearing of level surfaces
Rectangular pockets
Face milling
Full-surface machining of rectangular pockets
Point patterns on a circle and lines
Integratability of OEM cycles (special cycles developed by the machine manufacturer)

Coordinate transformation 

Shifting, mirroring, scaling (axis-specific)

Q parameters
Programming with variables

Mathematical functions =, +, –, *, /, sin , cos , angle  from sin  and cos , tan , arc sin,n n
arc cos, arc tan, a , e , In, log, √a, √a2 + b2
Logical operations (=, = /, <, >)Calculating with parentheses
Absolute value of a number, constant , negation, truncation of digits before or after thedecimal point
Functions for calculation of circles

Programming aids








Calculator
Complete list of all current error messages
Context-sensitive help function for error messages
TNCguide: the integrated help system; user information available directly on the TNC 128
Graphical support for the programming of cycles
Comment and structure blocks in the NC program

Teach-inApplication of actual positions directly in the NC program






20

Standard
OptionUser functions

Program verificationgraphics
Display modesGraphical simulation of the machining operation, even while another program is being executedPlan view / projection in three planes / 3-D view / 3-D line graphics
Detail zoom

Programming graphics

Rendering (2-D pencil trace graphics) of entered NC blocks in Programming and Editing mode,even while another program is being executed

Program-run graphics
Display modesReal-time graphical simulation during execution of the program
Plan view / view in three planes / 3-D view

Machining timeCalculation of machining time in the Test Run operating mode
Display of the current machining time in the Program Run operating modes

Returning to the contourMid-program startup at any block in the program and movement to the calculated nominal position
for continuation of the machining operation
Program interruption, contour departure, and return

Preset managementFor storing any presets

Datum tablesMultiple datum tables for storing workpiece-specific datums

Touch probe cycles

Touch probe calibration
Preset setting

Conversational languages

English, German, Czech, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Swedish, Danish, Finnish, Dutch,
Polish, Hungarian, Russian (Cyrillic), Chinese (traditional, simplified), Slovenian, Slovak,
Norwegian, Korean, Turkish, Romanian

CAD viewer



Display of CAD models on the TNC

21

Overview
Options and accessories

OptionnumberOptionWith NC
software771841-xx
or laterID

Comment01

Additional Axis

01

354540-01
353904-01• Additional control loop 1• Additional control loop 2

17

Touch Probe
Functions

01

634063-01

Touch probe cycles• Preset setting• Tool measurement• Touch probe input enabled for non-HEIDENHAIN touch probes

18

HEIDENHAIN DNC

01526451-01

Communication with external Windows applications overCOM component

46

Python OEM Process 01

579650-01

Python application on the TNC

137

State Reporting

1232242-01 State Reporting Interface (SRI): provision of operating conditions

07

Accessories
Electronic handwheels• HR 510 FS portable handwheel, or• HR 520 FS portable handwheel with display, or• HR 550 FS portable radio handwheel with display, or• HR 130 panel-mounted handwheel

Workpiece measurement• TS 260 touch trigger probe with cable connection, or• KT 130 simple touch trigger probe with cable connection

Tool measurement• TT 160 touch trigger probe

Software for PCs• TeleService: software for remote diagnostics, monitoring, and operation• CycleDesign: software for creating your own cycle structure• TNCremo: software for data transfer—free of charge• TNCremoPlus: software for data transfer with live-screen function

22Specifications

Specifications
Components• Main computer with TNC keyboard and integrated 12.1-inch flat-panel display with soft keys

Operating system• HEROS real-time operating system for machine control

Memory• 1.8 GB (on CFR compact flash memory card)

Input resolution anddisplay step

• Linear axes: down to 0.1 µm• Rotary axes: down to 0.0001°

Input range• Maximum 99 999 9999 mm or 99 999 9999°

Block processing time

• 6 msAxis feedback control• Position-loop resolution: signal period of the position encoder/1024• Position controller cycle time: 3 ms

Spindle speed• Maximum 100 000 rpm (analog speed command signal)

Error compensation• Linear and nonlinear axis error, backlash, thermal expansion, reversal error• Static friction, sliding friction

Data interfaces• RS-232-C/V.24 max. 115 kbit/s• Extended data interface with LSV2 protocol for remote operation of the TNC 128 over the data interface
with the TNCremo or TNCremoPlus software from HEIDENHAIN• Gigabit Ethernet interface 1000BASE-T• 3 x USB (1 x front USB 2.0; 2 x back panel USB 3.0)

Diagnostics• Fast and simple troubleshooting through integrated diagnostic aids

Ambient temperature• Operation:	  +5 °C to +40 °C• Storage: –20 °C to +60 °C

23

Mastering nanometer accuracy

DR. JOHANNES HEIDENHAIN GmbH
Dr.-Johannes-Heidenhain-Straße 583301 Traunreut, Germany +49 8669 31-0
 +49 8669 32-5061
info@heidenhain.dewww.heidenhain.com
827137-27 · 2 · 05/2020 · H · Printed in Germany

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