FARO Gage:

Training Workbook
Version 2.0 • June 2011

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Basic Measurement Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage.indb 1 7/15/2011 9:52:52 AM
FARO Gage:
Training Workbook
Version 2.0 • June 2011
 ©FARO Technologies Inc., 2008-2011. All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, or transmitted in any form or by any means without written
permission of FARO Technologies, Inc.

FARO TECHNOLOGIES, INC. MAKES NO WARRANTY, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED
TO ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, REGARDING
THE FAROARM, FARO LASER TRACKER AND ANY MATERIALS, AND MAKES SUCH MATERIALS AVAILABLE SOLELY
ON AN “AS-IS” BASIS.

IN NO EVENT SHALL FARO TECHNOLOGIES INC. BE LIABLE TO ANYONE FOR SPECIAL, COLLATERAL, INCIDENTAL,
OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES IN CONNECTION WITH OR ARISING OUT OF THE PURCHASE OR USE OF
THE FARO GAGE OR ITS MATERIALS. THE SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE LIABILITY TO FARO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.,
REGARDLESS OF THE FORM OF ACTION, SHALL NOT EXCEED THE PURCHASE PRICE OF THE MATERIALS
DESCRIBED HEREIN.

THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE AND DOES NOT
REPRESENT A COMMITMENT ON THE PART OF FARO TECHNOLOGIES INC. ACCEPTANCE OF THIS DOCUMENT
BY THE CUSTOMER CONSTITUTES ACKNOWLEDGMENT THAT IF ANY INCONSISTENCY EXISTS BETWEEN THE
ENGLISH AND NON-ENGLISH VERSIONS, THE ENGLISH VERSION TAKES PRECEDENCE.

FARO®, FARO® Gage, and CAM2® are registered trademarks of FARO Technologies, Inc.

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08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
About this Training
Intended audience: any user who will use FARO CAM2 Gage

Length of Training: One (1) day

Structure: Modules and Lessons.

The training does not intend to cover every menu item of CAM2 Gage. We
have taken the most common applications of CAM2 Gage and developed
a training program that teaches you core principles, measuring strategies,
and tips in a hands-on training format. Our intent is for this training to
provide a strong foundation for you to start using your FARO system in your
environment. Additionally, it will prepare you to learn more advanced features
of the software.

Definition of Terms and styles:

## Information and tips

Caution and Warning statements

General information

Bold Italic Text Indicates directory names, menu names, buttons,

tabs, key names, acronyms, and modes.
Monospaced Text Indicates alpha/numeric characters or values you
enter in a field on the screen. For example, “Type
0.005 for the tolerance setting.”

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 E

1
C P3 8 2 P4 D
9
10
11 F 7 3 12

A P1 P2
B
6 4
5

H
 5 4 3 2 1

65 20
[2.56] [.787]

D .50 167 .50 B D

B [6.575]
130
50 [5.118]
[1.969] 50
20 [1.969]
15 65
[.591] 25 [.787] 20
[2.559]
[.984] 15 [.787]
25 15 [.591] 15 20
[.984] [.591] [.591] [.787]

30
50 [1.181]
65
C [1.969] C
[2.559]
265
160 [10.433]
[6.299] B
4X 5
240
[.197]
[9.449]
170
255 [6.693] 300
[10.04] [11.811]

50
[1.969] B 150
.50 C
[5.906]
B B

100
40
[3.94] 50
[1.575]
.50 A [1.969]
C
60 15 25
[2.362] 15 [.591] [.984]
[.591] EQ. SP. ON A .50
15 8X 20 [0.787] +0.25 A
30 -0.10 140 [5.512] BC
[.591]
[1.181] 30 Ø 1.0 M A B C
[1.181]
15° Ø 0.25 M A
A THIRD ANGLE PROJECTION UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED DIMENSIONS A
THIS DRAWING AND ALL THE INFORMATION THERIN ARE IN MILLIMETERS TOLERANCES ARE:
IS THE PROPERTY OF FARO TECHNOLOGIES, X .X .XX .XXX ANGLE
INCORPORATED. THIS DRAWING IS CONFIDENTIAL ±0.25 ±0.1 ±0.05 ±0.01 ±1°
AND MAY NOT BE MADE PUBLIC OR REPRODUCED
WITHOUT THE EXPRESS PERMISSION OF FARO THREADS IN ACCORDANCE WITH HANDBOOK 28
TECHNOLOGIES, INCORPORATED. THIS DRAWING INTERPRET DRAWING PER DOD-STD-100
Armed with Quality
63 FINSH REQUIRED
SECTION B-B IS LOANED SUBJECT TO RETURN UPON DEMAND AND ASME Y14.5. DO NOT SCALE DRAWING
AND SHALL NOT BE USED DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY TITLE
IN ANY WAY DETRIMENTAL TO THE INTERESTS OF
FARO TECHNOLOGIES INCORPORATED. BASE, DEMO FIXTURE
03FRM049-REV 1
5 4 3 2 1
Table of Contents

Module 1:
Measurement System Overview
Lesson 1: Getting Started 1.3
Setting up the FARO Gage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.3
Installing a Probe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.4
Connecting the FARO Gage to the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.5
Starting CAM2 Gage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.6
Referencing the FARO Gage Encoders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.6
FARO Gage Buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.6

Lesson 2: CAM2 Gage Overview 1.7

Feature-Based Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.7
Screen Layout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.8
CAM2 Gage Help File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.11

Module 2:
Measurement Considerations
Lesson 1: Environment 2.3
Temperature Effect On a Part . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.3
Temperature Effect On the Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.3
Movement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.4
Vibration Effects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.4
Mounting Stability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.4

Lesson 2: Device 2.7

Probe Compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.7
XYZ Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.7
Probe Compensation Error . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.7
Single Hole Compensation Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.8
ACTIVITY: Probe Compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.8
Single Point Articulation Test (SPAT) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2.10
FARO Gage Help File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2.10

Lesson 3: FARO Gage Device Setup Checklist 2.11

Temperature Effect On A Part . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2.11
Temperature Effect On The Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2.11
Movement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2.11
Vibration Effects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2.11
Mounting Stability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2.11 C o n t e n t s

Module 3:
Basic Measurement
Strategy: Basic Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.3

Lesson 1: Measure 3.5

Lesson Objective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.5
Before Measuring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.5
o f

How To Measure Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.6

Part Measurement Workflow: Measure or Edit Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.6
Ta b l e

Measure Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.6

Edit Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.6
Feature Details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.7
Digitizing Points . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.9

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 Probe Compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.9
Plane Compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.10
ACTIVITY: Analyze the Print . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.11
Prepare the Measuring Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.11
ACTIVITY: Prepare the Measuring Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.12
ACTIVITY: Measure A Plane to Plane Length . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.12
Percentage Of Measured Feature Vs. Total Feature Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.14
Projection Plane . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.16
ACTIVITY: Measure A Circle to Circle Length . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.17
Renaming a Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.19
ACTIVITY: Renaming A Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.19
ACTIVITY: Measure An Angle Between Two Circles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.19
ACTIVITY: Renaming A Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.21
Measuring a 2D Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.22
ACTIVITY: Measure An Angle Between Two Lines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.22
ACTIVITY: Save an Inspection Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.23
Feature Status Icons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.24

Lesson 2: Construct 3.25

Lesson Objective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.25
Why are Constructions Needed? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.25
Feature Reducibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.26
ACTIVITY: Feature Reducibility Exercise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.27
Point Constructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.28
ACTIVITY: Point By Midpoint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.30
Circle Constructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.31
ACTIVITY: Best Fit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.32
ACTIVITY: Save an Inspection Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.32

Lesson 3: Report 3.33

Lesson Objective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.33
Reporting: Quick and the Tool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.33
ACTIVITY: Quick Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.35
ACTIVITY: Report Tool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.35
ACTIVITY: Save an Inspection Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.36
Opening a Saved Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.36
ACTIVITY: Play an Inspection Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3.36

Module 4:
Coordinate Systems
Lesson Objective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.3
What is a Coordinate System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.4
Why Use a Coordinate System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.4
Feature Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.6
Defining Coordinate Systems Using 3-2-1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.7
ACTIVITY: Measure Datum Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.8
ACTIVITY: Measure Additional Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.10
C o n t e n t s

ACTIVITY: Save an Inspection Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.11

ACTIVITY: Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.12
ACTIVITY: Save an Inspection Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.12
Custom Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.13
ACTIVITY: Custom Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.13

Module 5:
o f

Advanced Measurement
Ta b l e

Strategy: Advanced Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.3

Lesson 1: Measure 5.5

Lesson Objective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.5
Projection Plane . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.5

ii
 Before Measuring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.6
ACTIVITY: Measure Individual Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.6
ACTIVITY: Renaming A Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.8
ACTIVITY: Construct Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.8
ACTIVITY: Save an Inspection Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.9

Lesson 2: Review Activities 5.11

ACTIVITY: Construct Point Two Lines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.11
ACTIVITY: Construct Length Point To Point . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.11
ACTIVITY: Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.11

Lesson 3: Immediate Measurement 5.13

Automatic Feature Recognition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.13
ACTIVITY: Immediate Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.14

Lesson 4: 3D Caliper 5.17

3D Caliper Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5.17

Appendix I:
FARO Gage Device Setup Checklist
Temperature Effect On A Part . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I.1
Temperature Effect On The Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I.1
Movement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I.1
Vibration Effects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I.1
Mounting Stability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I.1

Appendix II:
Hot Keys

Appendix III:
Glossary of Terms

Appendix IV:
Technical Support

C o n t e n t s
o f
Ta b l e

iii

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 Module 1:
Measurement System Overview

In this module, you will become familiar with how the FARO measurement device
and CAM2 Gage software interact with one another to provide accurate 3D
measurements.

XX Module Objectives
You will be able to:
zz Set up the FARO measurement device
zz Navigate the CAM2 Gage user interface

XX Lessons
Lesson 1: Getting Started..............................................................................................1.3
Lesson 2: CAM2 Gage Overview.................................................................................1.7

O v e r v i e w
S y s t e m
M e a s u r e m e n t
1 :
M o d u l e

1.1

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 Lesson 1: Getting Started
Setting up the FARO Gage
To set up the FARO Gage, refer to the FARO Gage Assembly Instructions
booklet included with the FARO Gage. It is very important that you mount
the FARO Gage in a stable relationship to the part (the part should not move
relative to the FARO Gage).

O v e r v i e w
zz Attach the 3.5 inch threaded
ring and surface mount plate to
a stable location. A granite slab,
or acceptably rigid surface, is
recommended.

zz Tighten all mounting bolts to 11.5

S y s t e m
N-m (100-inch pounds).

zz Place the FARO Gage on top of the

3.5 inch threaded ring.

1 : M e a s u r e m e n t
zz Screw the threaded collar clamp
onto the base of the FARO Gage
and the 3.5 inch threaded ring.

zz Use the wrench to tighten the

threaded collar clamp.
M o d u l e

1.3

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 Installing a Probe
The probe attaches to the threaded handle at the end of the FARO Gage. Use
the 12mm wrench in the Probe Case to install the probe. To install a probe
onto the FARO Gage:

## Caution: Only hand-

tighten the probe with the 12mm
1. Hold the button area near the end of the Gage with one hand.

2. Rotate the probe clockwise and thread the probe into the Gage.
O v e r v i e w

wrench. Do not over-tighten the 3. Use the 12mm wrench to hand-tighten the probe.
probe.
S y s t e m
1 : M e a s u r e m e n t
M o d u l e

1.4
Connecting the FARO Gage to the Computer




 
## If an error occurs, contact

 FARO Customer Support. Please have

a written description of the error, the
1. FARO Gage 4. FARO Gage Power Supply
2. Computer 5. Power Outlet order of your procedures just before
3. USB Cable the error occurred, and the FARO Gage
serial number before calling.
To connect the FARO Gage to the computer:

1. Plug the port lock into any USB port on the computer (this authorizes
CAM2 Gage to operate). If you have a printed license key, you will not You can find the

O v e r v i e w
need a port lock. serial number on the base of the
FARO Gage.
2. Connect the FARO Gage to the computer using the USB cable.

3. Connect the FARO Gage to the Power Supply cable.

4. Using the On / Off switch, turn the device on.

## If you are using a
FARO Gage with the FARO Wireless

S y s t e m
On/Off option, follow the procedures found
SWITCH
in the FARO Wireless section of your
USB
PORT
FARO Gage manual.

1 : M e a s u r e m e n t

For safety reasons, complete all cable connections before applying

power to the computer and the FARO Gage.
M o d u l e

1.5

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 Starting CAM2 Gage
You can start CAM2 Gage using any of the following methods:

zz Double left-click the CAM2 Gage icon on the Desktop; or

zz Click the Start button, point to Programs, point to FARO, to

CAM2 Gage 2.0, and then click CAM2 Gage 2.0; or

zz Double left-click any previously saved CAM2 Gage file.

After CAM2 Gage finishes loading, you can choose to begin a new Inspection
Plan, or open an existing Plan.

Referencing the FARO Gage Encoders

Each joint of the FARO Gage contains encoders. The FARO Gage electronics
You must properly
must locate and recognize (reference) each encoder before you can collect
connect the FARO Gage to the data. This process is known as “referencing the encoders”. Red arrows in
computer running CAM2 Gage to see the Reference Encoders window indicate that the encoders have not been
the reference window. referenced and you must rotate each axis until each warning clears.
O v e r v i e w
S y s t e m

## When referencing the

1 : M e a s u r e m e n t

encoders and measuring, you may

FARO Gage Buttons
see the End Stop/Stress Warning The FARO Gage has four buttons on the handle.
window. This means that an encoder zz The green FRONT buttons, nearest the probe, collect data.
has reached one end of its rotation, or
zz The red BACK buttons, furthest from the probe, accept data.
there is stress on one of the tubes or
encoder joints. The buttons on either side of the handle accommodate left-handed and
right-handed users.

When you press a button, the LED on the handle lights and the computer
M o d u l e

sounds, to indicate the collecting or accepting of data.

1.6
 Lesson 2: CAM2 Gage Overview
Feature-Based Measurement
CAM2 Gage is feature-based measurement software. A feature is a geometric
attribute or element of a part. You can directly measure some features (e.g.
a circle, sphere, cone); others you cannot directly measure easily, accurately
or repeatedly (e.g. an angle, bolt hole circle, length), and as a result you must
construct or dimension them from elements that you can directly measure.
CAM2 Gage enables direct measurement, constructions, and dimensions. The
Measure, Construct, and Tools menus reflect these capabilities.

Features you can directly Features that you must

measure construct

O v e r v i e w
S y s t e m
1 : M e a s u r e m e n t
M o d u l e

1.7

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 Screen Layout
The CAM2 Gage screen has three sections:

1. Tool Area - shows the details of a command selected in the Inspection

O v e r v i e w

Plan area.

2. Inspection Plan - contains a list of all features in the current Inspection

Plan.

3. Menu - provides a quick and easy way to access FARO Gage and

CAM2 Gage commands.
S y s t e m
1 : M e a s u r e m e n t
M o d u l e

1.8
Tool Area

The Tool area shows the details of a command selected in the Inspection Plan
area. For example, if you select a circle in the Inspection Plan, the Tool area
will display a picture of a circle, markers on the circle identifying locations for
measurement, and form and diameter values of the measurement (once you
have taken the measurements).

Click the slider button (arrow) on the left side of the Tool area to access the
Detailed Tool area containing the picture, properties, and tolerances of a
selected feature.

O v e r v i e w
S y s t e m
1 : M e a s u r e m e n t
M o d u l e

1.9

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 Inspection Plan

The Inspection Plan is a list of all of your measured

and constructed features, and Tools or component
features of Tools.

1. Quick Report - creates a quick report from all

reportable features in the Inspection Plan.

2. Start - starts the Inspection Plan (begin

measuring the features).

3. Properties Indicator - the properties of the

CAM2 Gage Inspection Plan (*.gip). This
shows coordinate system, unit, material, and
temperature compensation information.

4. Gage Status Indicator - provides information

on the device, showing green when you are
connected.

Menu

The Menu, located above the Tool area, contains all the CAM2 Gage
commands.
O v e r v i e w

1. GAGE - contains all the commands for the CAM2 Gage Inspection Plan
(*.gip), Custom Tools, FARO Gage, and CAM2 Gage Preferences and
Session Information.
S y s t e m

2. Save - saves an open CAM2 Gage Inspection Plan (*.gip).

3. Measure - accesses the palette of measurement commands.

1 : M e a s u r e m e n t

4. Construct - accesses the palette of construction commands.

5. Recent Tools - accesses the palette of tools you have most frequently
used or recently created.

6. Tools - accesses the palette of pre-built CAM2 Gage tools (Angles,

Length, Geometry, GD&T, Reporting).

7. My Tools - accesses the custom tools that you have defined.

8. Measure - direct measurement mode, when you choose a command you

M o d u l e

will begin to measure.

9. Edit - deferred measurement mode, when you choose a command it is

added to the Inspection Plan where you can edit the feature and build an
Inspection Plan without measuring.

1.10
10. 3D Caliper - a basic tool to operate as a height gage to measure basic
lengths.

11. Help - accesses help documentation.

CAM2 Gage Help File

The CAM2 Gage Help file is the first place you can look for information.

zz On the Menu, select the Help button.

## Each time you receive
an update to CAM2 Gage, you

zz Use the Contents and Search tabs, on the left side of the window, to should view the What is New topic.
navigate around the file and select and search for topics. This topic describes new functions
and commands that have been
added to CAM2 Gage, as well as the
enhancements made to existing
commands. The What is New topic
is located at the end of Chapter 1:
Introduction to CAM2 Gage.

O v e r v i e w
S y s t e m
1 : M e a s u r e m e n t
M o d u l e

1.11

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 Module 2:
Measurement Considerations

B efore you start measuring, you have to make sure outside factors such as
temperature, vibrations, and mounting instability do not compromise your data.
You also have to make sure that you compensate the probe prior to every measurement
session. In this module, you will learn how to compensate for environmental factors
and prepare for measurement to get the accurate data that you need.

XX Module Objective
You will be able to:
zz Evaluate environmental variables that impact measurement accuracy and take the
appropriate steps to avoid, minimize, or correct the impact.
zz Identify when to use each probe compensation method and perform a probe
compensation.

XX Lessons
Lesson 1: Environment...................................................................................................2.3
Lesson 2: Device................................................................................................................2.7

C o n s i d e r a t i o n s
Lesson 3: FARO Gage Device Setup Checklist..................................................... 2.11

M e a s u r e m e n t
2 :
M o d u l e

2.1

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 Lesson 1: Environment
In addition to the calibration accuracy of your device, environmental factors
play a major role in the accuracy of your measurements.

Temperature Effect On a Part

Changes in temperature may cause a part to expand or contract, affecting
measurement accuracy.

 nvironment vs. Part Temperature: If the part is warmer or cooler than the
E
surrounding environment, it will expand or contract while being measured.
Measurements taken earlier may not equal measurements taken later. To
minimize the impact of air temperature on the part:

zz Let a part “soak” in the inspection environment to adjust to the air

temperature prior to taking measurements. Generally, the larger the
part, the longer it will take to adjust.

zz Avoid taking measurements where the air temperature will vary

widely; e.g. don’t take measurements where doors will be opened to
warmer or cooler air (near a furnace, garage door, etc.)

Temperature Effect On the Device

The FARO Gage compensates for temperature variations.

C o n s i d e r a t i o n s
Environment vs. Device Temperature: The FARO Gage compensates for
temperature variations; however, if the difference in temperature between
the FARO Gage and the air results in the FARO Gage changing more than
three degrees Celsius within five minutes, a warning appears on the
computer screen. At this point, to ensure accuracy, you cannot take any
readings until the FARO Gage temperature has stabilized.

 o avoid warnings: Always let the FARO Gage temperature stabilize before

T
taking measurements. As described above, avoid places where there will tend
to be wide temperature variations.

2 : M e a s u r e m e n t
L ight: Light, especially sunlight, generates heat. When exposed to light
unevenly, a large part can heat up and expand or contract unevenly. To
ensure accurate readings, make sure the part you are measuring has even
exposure to light.
M o d u l e

2.3

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 Movement
Movement always affects accuracy. Movement resulting in no change in
the FARO Gage’s position relative to the part will have the least impact
on measurement accuracy. To avoid the impact of movement choose a
measurement spot where the part and device can be fastened and stationary.

Vibration Effects
Vibration can cause inaccuracies. People putting heavy parts on your surface
plate, forklifts driving by, and stamping machines are some of the causes of
vibration.

Mounting Stability
Mounting stability is key to accurate measurement.

Tripods

FARO sells two types of tripods: Folding and Brunson. While tripods provide
mobility and allow multiple device positions, you must be careful to ensure
mounting stability. For detailed instructions, refer to the manual that came
with the tripod you purchased.

Magnetic Mount

The Magnetic Mount is another portable option when mounting to most

metal surfaces. To ensure proper mounting with the Magnetic Mount, follow
C o n s i d e r a t i o n s

the detailed instructions provided with the mount.

Vacuum Mount

You can use the Vacuum Mount to secure the FARO Gage to a granite or
machined metal surface. To ensure stability with the vacuum mount, follow
the detailed instructions in the Accessory Manual provided with your device.

C-Clamps

You can use C-clamps to secure the FARO Gage to a variety of surfaces. When
2 : M e a s u r e m e n t

using C-clamps to increase stability:

zz Make sure you arrange the clamps on opposite sides of the base - 180
degrees from each other. Less than 180-degree separation creates
the risk of flexing the bottom surface off the table/plate, which could
cause the FARO Gage to pivot on the plate.

zz Clear the surface of any debris which can cause the base to rock.
M o d u l e

2.4
Custom Plates

You can use custom plates to secure the FARO Gage when standard mounts
are not practical. To ensure stability with custom mounts:

zz Make sure the plate is large enough to mount the FARO Gage using
the Magnetic Mount or C-clamps.

zz Make sure the plate is thick enough to prevent flexing.

zz Make sure to mount the plate securely to the part/fixture.

zz While using the FARO Gage, use a dial indicator to determine if the

mount is flexing. If it is, use a thicker plate.

C o n s i d e r a t i o n s
2 : M e a s u r e m e n t
M o d u l e

2.5

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 Lesson 2: Device
In addition to the environment and the device mounting, using proper
methods and techniques to compensate the probe ensures system accuracy.

Probe Compensation
The FARO Gage collects data by touching the part with a probe attached to
the end of the handle. Once the probe is attached, you must determine the X,
## Check for proper probe
installation and check the condition of
Y, Z location of the probe tip, relative to the FARO Gage’s coordinate system,
prior to measuring. Since all data is taken at the center of the probe, we have the probe for cracks or chips.
to “find” that center before measuring.

Compensate the probe prior to every measurement session; or, if you are
using several probes, compensate each probe any time you switch. While it is
true that a straight probe can be removed and replaced very accurately, it is
still good practice to perform the probe compensation.

Probe compensation is the most critical task performed during any

measurement session. If the probe compensation passes, the measurements
will be accurate. If the probe compensation fails, the measurements will not
be accurate.

There are two acceptable methods to compensate a probe:

zz the Single Hole Compensation method, which is recommended for

standard ball probes, and

C o n s i d e r a t i o n s
zz the Sphere Compensation method, which is recommended for touch
trigger probes and point probes.

In this lesson, we will present the Single Hole Compensation method.

XYZ Location
The last axis of the FARO Gage has its own coordinate system. The location of
the center of the ball probe will be reported in this coordinate system. Using

2 : M e a s u r e m e n t
the same probe, the FARO Gage should be able to repeat this value with
better results than the single-point accuracy of the device.

Probe Compensation Error

A PASS condition indicates a result with a low compensation error
((max-min)/2) value equals or below device specification). A FAIL condition
indicates a result with a high compensation error ((max-min)/2) value above
device specification).
M o d u l e

2.7

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 Single Hole Compensation Method
The Single Hole compensation is performed using the FARO probe
compensation cone or a 5mm machine drilled hole. The hole does not have
to be exactly 5mm, but it must be smaller than the probe’s diameter with
a smooth seat. All of the points in this method will be collected by holding
down the FRONT button. The FARO Gage will collect points as fast as
possible (scanning) until you release the FRONT button.

ACTIVITY: Probe Compensation

For this activity, you will compensate a probe using the Single Hole Compensation
method.

1. Probe Management At the top of the CAM2 Gage screen, click the

GAGE menu and choose Manage Probes from
the GAGE drop-down menu.
C o n s i d e r a t i o n s

2. Choose probe In the Current Probe list, select 6mm Ball Probe.
3. Guidance off Click the Edit button and make sure that the

##
Guidance check box is clear.
4. Start Hole Click the Hole Compensation button.
Compensation
2 : M e a s u r e m e n t

For best results,

5. Position #1 Place the ball probe in the cone in the upright
keep the elbow position #1.
of the FARO Gage
on the same side
for the entire
compensation
process.
M o d u l e

6. Start point collection Press and hold the FRONT button.

2.8
 7. Sweep down Sweep the handle down to horizontal position.
Be sure that the ball probe remains seated in the
hole. Release the FRONT button.

CAUTION: The probe must be well-

seated in the hole when digitizing all
compensation points. Even one or two
poorly digitized points significantly affects
the optimization process, which in turn
effects the accuracy of the FARO Gage.
8. Position #2 Place the ball probe in the cone in the upright
position #2.

9. Start point collection Press and hold the FRONT button.

10. Sweep down Sweep the handle down to horizontal position.
Be sure that the ball probe remains seated in the

C o n s i d e r a t i o n s
hole. Release the FRONT button.
11. Position #3 Place the ball probe in the cone in the upright
position #3.

2 : M e a s u r e m e n t

12. Start point collection Press and hold the FRONT button.
13. Sweep down Sweep the handle down to horizontal position.
Be sure that the ball probe remains seated in the
hole.
14. End point collection Press the BACK button.
M o d u l e

2.9

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 15. View results before Check the Compensation Status.
clicking OK or Retry
zz If Compensation Status = Passed, click
OK.

zz If Compensation Status = Failed,

click the Retry button and repeat the
compensation.

☛☛Ensure that you have collected at least 200

points.

Single Point Articulation Test (SPAT)

C o n s i d e r a t i o n s

The Single Point Articulation Test (SPAT) test checks the repeatability of the
FARO Gage’s X, Y and Z coordinates. Refer to the FARO Gage Help File for the
procedure.

FARO Gage Help File

You can access the FARO Gage Help file by clicking the Help button in any
FARO Gage driver command. These commands are found in the GAGE menu.
2 : M e a s u r e m e n t

Use the Contents, Index and Search tabs, on the left side of the window, to
navigate around the file.
M o d u l e

2.10
 Lesson 3: FARO Gage Device Setup Checklist
Temperature Effect On A Part
❐❐ Part has been allowed to soak in the inspection environment to
adjust to the air temperature.

❐❐ Measurements will be taken where the air temperature is relatively

constant.

❐❐ The part is evenly exposed to light.

Temperature Effect On The Device

❐❐ The device temperature has been allowed to stabilize.

Movement
❐❐ The device and part are fastened and stationary.

Vibration Effects
❐❐ Vibrations (forklifts driving by, stamping machine movement etc.)
have been avoided.

Mounting Stability

C o n s i d e r a t i o n s
❐❐ Detailed instructions provided with mount (tripod, magnetic, or
vacuum) were carefully followed.

If Using C-Clamps:

❐❐ The surface is clear of any debris which can cause the base to rock.

❐❐ Clamps are arranged on opposite sides of the base - 180 degrees

from each other.

If Using A Custom Mount:

2 : M e a s u r e m e n t
❐❐ The plate is large enough to mount the FARO Gage using the
Magnetic Mount or C-clamps.

❐❐ The plate is thick enough to prevent flexing.

❐❐ The plate is securely mounted to the part/fixture.

❐❐ A dial indicator has verified the rigidity of the plate.

M o d u l e

2.11

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 Module 3:
Basic Measurement

I n this module, you will become familiar with the CAM2 Gage Tools and Construct
menus.

You will also be introduced to a Basic Measurement Strategy, which will get you
thinking about what you need to include in the final report and how you can obtain
that information before you begin measuring. You will see the process of how you think
about a project vs. how you actually do a project.

Let’s begin!

XX Module Objective
You will be able to:
zz Use the Basic Measurement Strategy to plan and complete a measurement job using
the Tools and Construct menus.

XX Lessons
Lesson 1: Measure............................................................................................................3.5
Lesson 2: Construct....................................................................................................... 3.25
Lesson 3: Report............................................................................................................. 3.33

M e a s u r e m e n t
B a s i c
3 :
M o d u l e

3.1

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 Scenario: First Article Inspection
You enter your boss’ office. The boss says, “Using our new FARO Gage and CAM2 Gage,
I need you to do a first article inspection on this part. We need to finish our part
inspection by the end of the day if we are going to meet our delivery schedule. Here
is the blueprint… get to work.” You return to your workstation, look at the blueprint
and the part, and think about how to tackle this job.

“What is the most effective way to provide what the boss is

asking for? I need to think about the measurement strategy
and begin with the end in mind.”

Strategy: Basic Measurement

Look at what you need to measure and consider the following
questions:

zz What should you include in the formal Report?

zz Can you use any of the CAM2 Gage Tools?

zz Which features (geometric elements) do you need to capture?

”” Which features can you measure directly using tools (e.g. lengths,
angles, geometries, etc.)?

”” Which features do you need to construct (e.g. points, bolt hole

M e a s u r e m e n t
circle)?

zz What logical sequence should you use to move around the part and
capture the features? (i.e., left to right, top to bottom, or measure all
planes first, then circles, etc.)
3 : B a s i c
M o d u l e

3.3

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 How you Think About your measurement project
(Basic Measurement Strategy)

Can I ...

zz Use Tools?
Report Analyze Print zz Measure Features
Requirements
Directly?

zz Construct/
Dimension?

How you DO your measurement project

Analyze Print Measure Construct

Dimension
Report
M e a s u r e m e n t
3 : B a s i c
M o d u l e

3.4
 Lesson 1: Measure

Analyze Print Measure Construct

Dimension
Report

Before you can apply the Basic Measurement Strategy to a complete

measurement job, you need to know the capabilities of the CAM2 Gage
menus (Construct, Tools). The first menu we will present is Tools. You will
learn to measure features correctly, analyze the data for the feature, and edit
feature name.

Lesson Objective
You will be able to use the functions within the Tools and Construct menus. This
means you will be able to:

zz Use the Tools menu to capture data.

zz Use the Construct menu to create features.

zz Determine the optimal number of points to collect and distribution of

those points on a feature.

zz Save and open files.

zz Rename features.

M e a s u r e m e n t
Before Measuring
Before you begin measuring features, make certain that you use the correct
probe. On the GAGE menu, click Manage Probes. Check the Current Probe
listed in the Probe section. If you need to change the probe, select it in the
Current Probe drop-down window.

Once you determine that you are using the correct probe, make sure to
3 : B a s i c

compensate the probe.

M o d u l e

3.5

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 How To Measure Features
1. Choose a Part Measurement Workflow

2. Add Feature(s) to your Inspection Plan

3. Measure your part

Part Measurement Workflow: Measure or Edit Mode

##
Measure Mode.
The default mode is
There are two workflows for measuring your part in CAM2 Gage.
Sometimes you may want to take measurements immediately as you are
inspecting a part (Measure Mode); other times you may want to plan an
entire measurement process before you actually take any measurements
(Edit Mode).

Measure and Edit Mode Icons

Measure Mode
To measure features in Measure mode:

1. On the toolbar, select the Measure icon.

2. On the Measure, or Tools menu, click the feature you want to

measure (e.g. Plane).

3. In the Tool Area the measurement aid appears and you can start
digitizing points (measurement points).
M e a s u r e m e n t

Edit Mode

## The sequence in which

you click the features is the sequence
In Edit mode, you first create the features that you will want to measure. To
create these features:

in which you are prompted to measure

1. On the toolbar, select the Edit icon.
the features. 2. On the Measure, or Tools menu, click the feature you want to
3 : B a s i c

measure (e.g. a plane). The feature is added to the Inspection Plan.

The feature name appears in gray, indicating that the feature has not
been measured and is not "solved" yet.

To measure in the Edit mode:

M o d u l e

1. In the Inspection Plan, select an existing feature to measure.

2. You can select features one at a time, or, to select multiple features,
press the CTRL key on the keyboard while clicking each feature with
the mouse.
3.6
 3. At the bottom of the Inspection Plan, click the Start button.

4. In the Tool Area the measurement aid appears and you can digitize
points (measurements) to each feature.

Feature Details
In the Tool area, the details for each feature are slightly different depending
on the feature type (measured or constructed) and workflow mode.

Measured Features

If you select a measured feature in the Inspection Plan, you will see the
feature's details.

In Measure mode, each green ball icon will change showing the minimum
number of points to measure in each feature. After you digitize the minimum
number of points, the Form value of the feature automatically calculates and
updates as you digitize another point.

M e a s u r e m e n t
3 : B a s i c

In Edit mode, a single image show the minimum number of points to

measure in each feature.
M o d u l e

3.7

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 Constructed Features

If you select a constructed feature in the Inspection Plan, you will see the
feature's details.

Since constructed features use existing features in your Inspection Plan, the
details consist of drop-down windows to select features.
M e a s u r e m e n t
3 : B a s i c
M o d u l e

3.8
Digitizing Points
Click the green FRONT button to collect a measurement point for a feature.
Click the red BACK button to accept the collected measurement points.
## The position of the probe
when pressing the BACK button is
Probe Compensation critical for accurate measurements.

When measuring with a ball probe !, the location of the center of the probe
records as a point each time you press the FRONT button. Because each
probe has a known diameter, there is a known distance between the center
of the probe and the outer edge of the probe. This distance needs to be
specified (projected) for the point to record in the correct location.

The distance between the probe point of contact "with the surface being
measured and the center of the probe # is known as Probe Offset $. This
transfer of the point from the center of the probe to the correct location is
known as probe compensation.

2
1

3
##
M e a s u r e m e n t
To make sure the
compensation for the probe radius

4 calculates correctly, the location of the

probe is extremely important when
you press the BACK button. 3 : B a s i c
M o d u l e

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 Plane Compensation
In this example, you are taking three points to identify a plane on a part.
This plane can compensate in one of two opposite directions. The correct
compensation depends on where you press the BACK button. In this case,
press the BACK button above the plane. The plane then compensates in a
downward direction the distance equal to the probe radius.

In this example, the correct location to accept points is above the plane.
M e a s u r e m e n t
3 : B a s i c
M o d u l e

3.10
 ACTIVITY: Analyze the Print
For this activity, you will analyze the print, determine measuring units, and determine
common tolerances. Remove the print page from the beginning of this book.
5 4 3 2 1

65 20
[2.56] [.787]

D .50 167 .50 B D

B [6.575]
130
50 [5.118]
[1.969] 50
20 [1.969]
15 65
[.591] 25 [.787] 20
[2.559]
[.984] 15 [.787]
25 15 [.591] 15 20
[.984] [.591] [.591] [.787]

30
50 [1.181]
65
[1.969]
C [2.559] C

265
160 [10.433]
[6.299] B
4X 5
240
[.197]
[9.449]
170
255 [6.693] 300
[10.04] [11.811]

50
[1.969] B 150
.50 C
[5.906]
B B

100
40
[3.94] 50
[1.575]
.50 A [1.969]
C
60 15 25
[2.362] 15 [.591] [.984]
[.591] EQ. SP. ON A .50
15 8X 20 [0.787] +0.25 A
30 -0.10 140 [5.512] BC
[.591]
[1.181] 30 Ø 1.0 M A B C
[1.181]
15° Ø 0.25 M A
A THIRD ANGLE PROJECTION UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED DIMENSIONS A
THIS DRAWING AND ALL THE INFORMATION THERIN ARE IN MILLIMETERS TOLERANCES ARE:
IS THE PROPERTY OF FARO TECHNOLOGIES, X .X .XX .XXX ANGLE
INCORPORATED. THIS DRAWING IS CONFIDENTIAL ±0.25 ±0.1 ±0.05 ±0.01 ±1°
AND MAY NOT BE MADE PUBLIC OR REPRODUCED
WITHOUT THE EXPRESS PERMISSION OF FARO THREADS IN ACCORDANCE WITH HANDBOOK 28
Armed with Quality
SECTION B-B TECHNOLOGIES, INCORPORATED. THIS DRAWING
IS LOANED SUBJECT TO RETURN UPON DEMAND
63 FINSH REQUIRED INTERPRET DRAWING PER DOD-STD-100
AND ASME Y14.5. DO NOT SCALE DRAWING
AND SHALL NOT BE USED DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY TITLE
IN ANY WAY DETRIMENTAL TO THE INTERESTS OF
FARO TECHNOLOGIES INCORPORATED. BASE, DEMO FIXTURE
03FRM049-REV 1
5 4 3 2 1

1. Analyze Units This print is dimensioned in Inches and Millimeters, for

this lesson we will work in Millimeters.
2. Set Units In the lower left corner, move your pointer over the
Properties Indicator icon. Then select mm in the Unit
Format drop-down.
3. Analyze Look at the tolerancing information in the print's title
Tolerances block. There are different tolerances based on the
number of decimal places in every dimension.
4. Set Tolerances On the Gage menu, click Preferences. On the left side
of the Preferences dialog box, click Tolerances.

zz Enter 0.05 in the Circle cell and click the Apply to

All button in the lower right corner of the dialog
box.
zz Click Angle and notice that the default tolerance
already matches our print.
zz Click OK.

M e a s u r e m e n t
Prepare the Measuring Area
One of the first and most important starting points with the Gage system is
to set up the measuring area. This not only includes the Gage, but also your
part. It is important to remember that once you start measuring, any change
in the position of the part or the Gage will alter your results, so make sure
that the Gage and your part are securely mounted on a very stable measuring
surface. Refer to the FARO Gage Manual for instructions.
3 : B a s i c

1. Test your measuring area.

Before continuing, grab the Gage handle and move the probe to all the
areas on your part that you want to measure. Make sure that the probe
can reach everything.
M o d u l e

2. Select a probe.

While testing the measuring area, determine if switching to the 3mm

ball probe is necessary.
3.11

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 ACTIVITY: Prepare the Measuring Area
1. Test your Grab the Gage handle and move the probe to all the
measuring area areas on your part that you want to measure. Make sure
that the probe can reach everything.
2. Select a probe Determine if switching to the 3mm ball probe is
necessary.

Now that you have analyzed your part and measuring area, you are ready to start measuring your part.

Analyze Print Measure Construct

Dimension
Report

ACTIVITY: Measure A Plane to Plane Length

For this activity, you will measure a plane on the top of the demo part with at least three
points and the inspection surface where the part is mounted. Using a tool, CAM2 Gage
M e a s u r e m e n t

automatically calculates the length between the two planes.

3 : B a s i c

1. Select Workflow On the Menu, click the Measure button.

M o d u l e

2. Tools Click Tools command group in the Menu.

commands
3. Length group Click the Length group.

3.12
 4. Plane to Plane Click the icon for the Plane to Plane tool.
tool
5. Measure the Top Measure the top plane with three points. Notice the
green ball icons. Touch the surface of the part with the
probe and press the FRONT button to digitize each
point.

6. Probe Notice the red ball icon. Pull away from the top plane
Compensation and press the BACK button.
7. Measure the Measure the inspection surface with three points. Notice
Inspection the green ball icons. Touch the surface with the probe
Surface and press the FRONT button to digitize each point.

M e a s u r e m e n t
8. Probe Notice the red ball icon. Pull away from the surface
Compensation and press the BACK button.

3 : B a s i c
M o d u l e

3.13

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 9. Length Result In the Inspection Plan, Click the Length 1 feature. In
the Tool area look at your measurement results.
10. Nominal length In the Tool area, enter 25.00 into the Nominal Length
cell and press the Enter key.

Look at the Low Tol, Up Tol, and Out of Tolerance cells for the Length.
CAM2 Gage automatically calculates the differences between the Actual and
Nominal values and shows the Deviation.
11. Results The Deviation value is compared to the Upper and
Lower Tolerance values and the difference is the Out
of Tolerance condition. This is colored Green for in
Tolerance, Red for Out of Tolerance Upper, and Blue for
Out of Tolerance Lower.
M e a s u r e m e n t

Percentage Of Measured Feature Vs. Total Feature Size

Measuring a small percentage of a feature does not provide the most
accurate representation of the feature. Since CAM2 Gage constructs a best-fit
feature from the points you collect, the number of points collected and the
spacing of those points directly impact the accuracy of the measurement
result.
3 : B a s i c

A common principle applies regardless of the feature you measure. The more
points you collect, and the more evenly you distribute them over the part,
the more repeatable your measurement result will be. For optimal results, we
recommend collecting two times the minimum points plus one. (Minimum
number of points x 2 + 1).
M o d u l e

When considering the distribution of the points over the part, remember that
even distribution is best. If there are times when only a portion of the feature
is accessible, then take as many points as you can on that portion. While this

3.14
is not the ideal situation, taking as many points as you can will help ensure a
better representation of the feature.
To solve the feature: For optimal results:
Feature minimum number of suggested minimum
points to collect number of points to collect

3 7
Plane

2 5
Line

3 7
Circle

4 9
Sphere

6 13
Cylinder

6 13
Cone

Examples:
Minimum Minimum: For Optimal Results

M e a s u r e m e n t
3 : B a s i c
M o d u l e

3.15

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 Projection Plane
Plane of Projection for 2D features

In order for CAM2 Gage to determine a 2D feature’s relative position in space,

these features must lay on a plane. This plane is called the plane of projection.

The following 2D features must lay on a plane of projection:

zz Arc

zz Circle

zz Ellipse

zz Line (2D line)

zz Slot (Round and Rectangular)

PLANE OF PROJECTION

Automatic Plane of Projection

With many of the CAM2 Gage tools, a plane of projection feature (Plane) is

automatically added to the Inspection Plan. You will need to measure this
plane before measuring the other features of the tool.
M e a s u r e m e n t
3 : B a s i c
M o d u l e

3.16
 ACTIVITY: Measure A Circle to Circle Length
For this activity, you will measure the length between two circles on the part.

1. Circle to Circle Click the icon for the Circle to Circle (Center) tool.
(Center) tool
2. Measure the Measure the top plane with seven points. Notice the
Top green ball icons. Touch the surface of the part with the
probe and press the FRONT button to digitize each
point.

3. Probe Pull away from the top plane and press the BACK button.
Compensation
4. Measure Use the FRONT button to collect at least seven points on
Circle 3 Circle 3. Notice the green ball icons. Touch the surface of
the circle with the probe and press the FRONT button to
digitize each point.

M e a s u r e m e n t
5. Compensate Pull the probe to the center of the Circle 3 when you
Probe finish collecting points and press the BACK button. 3 : B a s i c
M o d u l e

3.17

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 6. Measure Use the FRONT button to collect at least seven points on
Circle 7 Circle 7. Notice the green ball icons. Touch the surface of
the circle with the probe and press the FRONT button to
digitize each point.

7. Compensate Pull the probe to the center of the Circle 7 when you
Probe finish collecting points and press the BACK button.
8. Length Result In the Inspection Plan, click the Length 2 feature. In the
Tool area look at your measurement results.
9. Nominal In the Tool area, enter 140.00 into the Nominal Length
Length cell and press the Enter key.
M e a s u r e m e n t
3 : B a s i c
M o d u l e

3.18
Renaming a Feature
To rename a feature:

zz Double-click a feature on the Inspection Plan and type a new name.

zz Click the Slider button (arrow) on the left side of the Tool area. Type a
new name in the Properties section.

ACTIVITY: Renaming A Feature

For this activity, you will rename the features in the Inspection Plan:

1. Select Plane 1 Double-click Plane 1 in the Inspection Plan.

2. Type new name Type Top and press Enter.
3. Select Plane 2 Double-click Plane 2 in the Inspection Plan.
4. Type new name Type Table and press Enter.
5. Select Circle 1 Double-click Circle 1 in the Inspection Plan.
6. Type new name Type Circle 3 and press Enter.
7. Select Circle 2 Double-click Circle 2 in the Inspection Plan.
8. Type new name Type Circle 7 and press Enter.

ACTIVITY: Measure An Angle Between Two Circles

For this activity, you will measure the angle between two circles using a third circle as an
apex point.

1. Tools menu Click the Length group icon to return to the Tools

M e a s u r e m e n t
menu.
2. Angle group Click Angles command group in the Menu.
3. Circle to Circle Click the icon for the Circle to Circle to Circle tool.
to Circle tool
4. Measure Circle 2 Use the FRONT button to collect at least seven points
on Circle 2. 3 : B a s i c
M o d u l e

3.19

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 5. Compensate Pull the probe to the center of the Circle 2 when you
Probe finish collecting points and press the BACK button.
6. Measure Circle 4 Use the FRONT button to collect at least seven points
on Circle 4.

7. Compensate Pull the probe to the center of the Circle 4 when you
Probe finish collecting points and press the BACK button.
8. Measure Circle 9 Use the FRONT button to collect at least seven points
on Circle 9.

9. Compensate Pull the probe to the center of the Circle 9 when you
Probe finish collecting points and press the BACK button.
M e a s u r e m e n t
3 : B a s i c
M o d u l e

3.20
 10. Angle Result In the Inspection Plan, click the Angle 1 feature. In the
Tool area look at your measurement results.
11. Nominal Angle In the Tool area, enter 45.00 into the Nominal Length
cell and press the Enter key.

ACTIVITY: Renaming A Feature

For this activity, you will rename the features in the Inspection Plan:

1. Select Circle 4 Double-click Circle 4 in the Inspection Plan.

2. Type new name Type Circle 9 and press Enter.
3. Select Circle 2 Double-click Circle 2 in the Inspection Plan.
4. Type new name Type Circle 4 and press Enter.

M e a s u r e m e n t
5. Select Circle 1 Double-click Circle 1 in the Inspection Plan.
6. Type new name Type Circle 2 and press Enter.

3 : B a s i c
M o d u l e

3.21

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 Measuring a 2D Line
When measuring a 2D line, probe location during the End Click is critical for
correct placement of the line. You should correctly pull the probe away from
the surface that represents the line.

ACTIVITY: Measure An Angle Between Two Lines

For this activity, you will measure the angle between two lines.

1. Line to Line Click the icon for the Line to Line tool.
tool
M e a s u r e m e n t

2. Measure Line 1 Use the FRONT button to collect at least five points on
Line 1.
3 : B a s i c

3. Compensate Pull the probe away from Line 1 when you finish
Probe collecting points and press the BACK button.
M o d u l e

3.22
 4. Measure Line 2 Use the FRONT button to collect at least five points on
Line 2.

5. Compensate Pull the probe away from Line 2 when you finish
Probe collecting points and press the BACK button.
6. Angle Result In the Inspection Plan, click the Angle 2 feature. In the
Tool area look at your measurement results.
7. Nominal Angle In the Tool area, enter 90.00 into the Nominal Length
cell and press the Enter key.

M e a s u r e m e n t
ACTIVITY: Save an Inspection Plan
Save your Inspection Plan to a file on your computer.
3 : B a s i c

1. Save On the Gage menu, click Save. The Save As dialog box
appears.
2. Create new In the My Inspection Plans folder, click the Create New
folder Folder icon. Name the folder [your name]. Then,
M o d u l e

double-click your folder to open it.

3. Type file name In the File name box, type Tools.gip.
4. Save Click Save.

3.23

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 Feature Status Icons
To the right of each feature in the Inspection Plan is a status icon. The status
icon changes color as you take measurements to indicate:

zz You have not taken enough points to define a feature (gray icon)
zz You have taken enough points to define the feature and it is in
tolerance (green checkmark icon)
zz You have taken enough points to define the feature and it is out of
tolerance (red arrow icon or blue arrow icon)
M e a s u r e m e n t
3 : B a s i c
M o d u l e

3.24
 Lesson 2: Construct

Analyze Print Measure Construct

Dimension
Report

Now that you know how to measure features, let’s learn how to construct a
feature. A construction allows you to create features that you cannot measure
directly. Sometimes points or other features are specified on a drawing, but
do not actually exist on the part, e.g. a bolt-hole circle.

Lesson Objective
You will be able to use the functions within the Construct menu. You will be
able to:

zz Identify point-, line-, and plane-reducibility for each feature type.

zz Identify why constructions are needed.

zz Create constructions.

Why are Constructions Needed?

Constructions allow you to create features that you cannot directly measure,
such as a bolt-hole circle.

M e a s u r e m e n t
The activities in this Lesson allow you to practice some commonly used
construction commands.

3 : B a s i c
M o d u l e

3.25

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 Feature Reducibility
Feature Reducibility means that a part of a feature can be used for
constructions and dimensions. For example, a circle has three reducible parts.

A circle is Point-Reducible, which means it can be used like a point for

constructions, or dimensions. The point of a circle is its center point.

A circle is Line-Reducible. The line of a circle is perpendicular to the circle's

plane through the center point.

A circle is Plane-Reducible. The plane of a circle is its plane of projection.

M e a s u r e m e n t
3 : B a s i c
M o d u l e

3.26
 ACTIVITY: Feature Reducibility Exercise
Look at each feature and determine if it is point-, line-, or plane-reducible. Some features
may be reducible to more than one type of feature.
Point Line Plane
Circle

Cylinder

Cone

Ellipse

Line

Plane

M e a s u r e m e n t
Point

Rectangular Slot
3 : B a s i c

Round Slot

Sphere
M o d u l e

3.27

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 Point Constructions
Here are three examples of common point constructions.

zz Point Plane Projection allows you to construct a point and project it

onto a feature.

zz Point by Midpoint allows you to construct a point in the center of

two point-reducible features.
M e a s u r e m e n t
3 : B a s i c
M o d u l e

3.28
 zz Point by Best Fit allows you to construct a point by fitting existing
features into a single point.

M e a s u r e m e n t
3 : B a s i c
M o d u l e

3.29

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 ACTIVITY: Point By Midpoint
For this activity, you will construct a point by midpoint between the two previously
measured circles.

1. By Midpoint On the Construct menu, click Point, then click Point

by Midpoint.
2. First Point In the tool area, choose Circle 3 in the First Point drop-
down.
3. Second Point In the tool area, choose Circle 7 in the Second Point
drop-down.
4. Point Result In the Inspection Plan, click the Point 1 feature. In the
Tool area look at your measurement results.

Do not worry about entering any nominal information yet, we have not
created a coordinate system.
M e a s u r e m e n t
3 : B a s i c
M o d u l e

3.30
Circle Constructions
Two of the most commonly used circle constructions are Plane Intersect,
and Best Fit.

zz Plane Intersect—allows you to construct a circle from the

intersection of a plane and a feature, such as a cone or cylinder.

Plane Intersect

zz Best Fit—allows you to construct a bolt circle pattern from

previously measured circles.

Best Fit

M e a s u r e m e n t
3 : B a s i c
M o d u l e

3.31

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 ACTIVITY: Best Fit
For this activity, you will construct a best fit bolt-hole pattern using four of the previously
measured circles.

1. By Best Fit Click the Point icon to return to the Construct menu.
Click Circle, then click By Best Fit.
2. Select entities to In the Select Features to fit list, select Circle 2. Then
fit through hold down the Ctrl key and select Circle 3, Circle 4,
and Circle 7.
3. Nominal In the Tool area, enter 140.00 into the Nominal
Diameter Diameter cell and press the Enter key.
4. Name the circle In the Inspection Plan, double-click Circle 1 and type
Bolt Circle. Press the Enter key to finish.
M e a s u r e m e n t

ACTIVITY: Save an Inspection Plan

Save your Inspection Plan to a file on your computer.

1. Save On the Gage menu, click Save As. The Save As dialog
box appears.
2. Your folder In the My Inspection Plans folder, double-click your
3 : B a s i c

folder to open it.

3. Type file name In the File name box, type Constructions.gip.
4. Save Click Save.
M o d u l e

3.32
 Lesson 3: Report

Analyze Print Measure Construct

Dimension
Report

The fourth part of the Basic Measurement Strategy is Report. Now that you
have captured all of your data, the reporting function is an easy way to select,
display, and save your data.

Lesson Objective
With the assistance of the Help menu, you will be able to create standard
reports. You will be able to:

zz Customize report content.

zz Save a report.

zz Locate and open saved reports.

Some of the common report customizations you will use are:

zz Add or Remove Features

zz Add or Remove a Picture

zz Save a customized list of features

M e a s u r e m e n t
zz Choose a report style

Reporting: Quick and the Tool

CAM2 Gage provides you with two distinct methods of reporting your data:
the Quick Report, and the Reporting Tool.

Quick Report
3 : B a s i c

CAM2 Gage’s Quick Report is a quick, basic report of all the features in the
Inspection Plan. Create a Quick Report by clicking the Quick Report button
at the bottom of the Inspection Plan.
M o d u l e

3.33

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 Reporting Tool

CAM2 Gage’s Reporting tool allows you to select the features to include in

the report and configure the feature tolerances to be included on the report.
You can also select a report template and elect whether to show, print and/or
export the report when it is generated.

The Report Tool tool constructs a report based on your specifications. Access
the Reporting interface from the Tools command in the Menu.
M e a s u r e m e n t

The Reporting interface shown in the Tool Area contains the following
components:
3 : B a s i c

1. Features in Report - a list of features in your report.

2. Features Not in Report - a list of features not in your report.

3. Feature Properties - contains a list of tolerances associated with a

M o d u l e

selected feature. Select a check box to include a feature property; clear a

check box to exclude a feature property.

4. Tool Settings - select a report template and specify display, print, and
save locations.
3.34
 ACTIVITY: Quick Report
For this activity, you will review your Inspection Plan in a Quick Report.

1. Quick Report On the Inspection Plan, click the Quick Report button.
2. Preview Report Using the Zoom and page fit buttons across the
top and the scroll bars, look at the data for all of the
features in your Inspection Plan.
3. Close Click OK.

ACTIVITY: Report Tool

For this activity, you will add a Report Tool to your Inspection Plan and configure the
report..

1. Tools Click Tools command group in the Menu.

commands
2. Report tool Click the icon for the Report tool. This adds the
Report 1 feature to the Inspection Plan.
3. Add features to In the Features not in report, double-click Length 1,
the report Length 2, Angle 1, Angle 2, and Bolt Circle.
4. Feature Select the Bolt Circle and clear all the Feature
Properties Properties except Diameter.
5. Feature Select each Length and clear all the Feature Properties
Properties except Length.
6. Tool Settings zz Select the SimpleReport format check box.

zz Select the Set Session Information check box.

M e a s u r e m e n t
zz Select the Show report check box.

zz Select the Save report in check box.

zz Click the Browse button and select your folder

and click OK.

zz Select PDF for the report file format in the drop-

down.
7. Preview Report zz In the Inspection Plan, right-click on the Report 1
3 : B a s i c

feature and select Start Report.

zz Enter your Session Information and click OK.

zz Review your report and click OK.

M o d u l e

3.35

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 ACTIVITY: Save an Inspection Plan
Save your Inspection Plan to a file on your computer.

1. Save On the Gage menu, click Save As. The Save As dialog
box appears.
2. Your folder In the My Inspection Plans folder, double-click your
folder to open it.
3. Type file name In the File name box, type Report.gip.
4. Save Click Save.

Opening a Saved Report

To open a saved report, open Windows Explorer and navigate to your Folder.
(My Documents\CAM2 Gage\My Reports\.

Then, double-click your folder to open it. Double-click the file name.
M e a s u r e m e n t

ACTIVITY: Play an Inspection Plan

Play your Inspection Plan and measure the part.

1. Play On the Inspection Plan, click the Start button.

2. Measure the Follow the inspection plan that you have created and
part measure the part. When you get to the report enter a
3 : B a s i c

different Session Name (serial number) for the part.

M o d u l e

3.36
 Module 4:
Coordinate Systems

I n this module, you will become familiar with creating a coordinate system in
CAM2 Gage and using nominal coordinates with features in your Inspection Plan.

XX Module Objective
You will be able to:
zz Assign a Datum to a Feature.
zz Create a Coordinate System.
zz Report features in a Coordinate System.

S y s t e m s
C o o r d i n a t e
4 :
M o d u l e

4.1

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 Scenario: Coordinate Systems
Our part is now in production and our first article inspections have proven the
manufacturing process. You get the latest revision of the print and notice that all the
dimensions are now referenced to three datums and an origin.

“I need to look for my three Datums that create the

Coordinate System on my part.”

Lesson Objective
You will be able to create a Coordinate System on your part. This means you will
be able to:

zz Use the Detailed Tool area to assign a Datum to a feature.

zz Use the Datum features to create a Coordinate System.

zz Enter positional nominals for features.

zz Report the part inspection in a Coordinate System.

S y s t e m s
4 : C o o r d i n a t e
M o d u l e

4.3

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 What is a Coordinate System
A coordinate system is a frame of reference that allows you to find the unique
position of a point in a plane or in space, and to see the relationship between
two points in space.

Why Use a Coordinate System

Placing a part into a coordinate system enables you to:

zz Effectively report measured features – Since you have a unique

position identified for each point and feature, your report can very
clearly and specifically describe the location and dimensions of the
features and part.

zz Establish a reference for all part measurements so the data on the

part is aligned to the same reference points in a blueprint or CAD
file. This enables straightforward comparisons between feature
measurements and nominals.

zz Accurately report the condition of a part to someone analyzing your

measurement file who does not have access to the physical part.

Think of a three dimensional coordinate system as a three dimensional map:

E
W

S
S y s t e m s
4 : C o o r d i n a t e

Imagine that you want to give someone directions from the train station to
the 3rd floor of the tall building in the map above.

If you add three dimensional coordinates to the map, you can use those
coordinates to describe how many streets to go in the “X” direction (4); then
how many streets to go in the “Y” direction (3); and finally and how many
floors to go up in the “Z” direction (3).
M o d u l e

4.4
 z

E
W

S
x
y

4
5

3
4

2
2

1
1

Right-Hand Rule

Cartesian coordinates describe the position of points in space relative to

three mutually perpendicular axes X, Y, & Z. The intersection of these axes
form the origin, or zero of the system.

Each axis emanates from the origin according to the right-hand rule. The
right-hand rule defines the positive direction of each axis, such that when
the hand is positioned according to the figure below, the + Z points along
the thumb, the + X axis points along the index finger, and the + Y axis points
along the middle finger.

S y s t e m s
4 : C o o r d i n a t e

☛☛CAM2 Gage does not support left-hand rule coordinate systems.

M o d u l e

4.5

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 Feature Selection
The accuracy of the measurements you take in your coordinate system relies
heavily on the consistent accuracy of the machined features you use to
define your coordinate system.

For repeatability, look for the following when selecting features to define
your coordinate system:

zz Surfaces that have a smooth finish: These provide the most

consistent repeatable measurements.

zz Features critical to part machining: These generally will be more

carefully controlled than those not critical to machining and therefore
will be consistent.

zz Features that are relatively large compared to the part size.

zz Features that have a low measured Form value.

S y s t e m s
4 : C o o r d i n a t e
M o d u l e

4.6
Defining Coordinate Systems Using 3-2-1
You can define coordinate systems in a variety of ways. The simplest is the
3-2-1 or Plane-Line-Point method. 3-2-1 describes the minimum number of
points that you use to define the base features of a coordinate system – a
Plane (3 points), a Line (2 points) and a Point (1 point).

Standard construction diagrams of plane, line and point showing how they
create a coordinate system:

Plane

Line

Point
(Center point of the Circle)

S y s t e m s
+Y
4 : C o o r d i n a t e
+Z

+Y

+X

+X
M o d u l e

4.7

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 ACTIVITY: Measure Datum Features
For this activity, you will measure the three datum features of the demo part. Refer to the
part drawing to locate the three datums.
5 4 3 2 1

65 20
[2.56] [.787]

D .50 167 .50 B D

B [6.575]
130
50 [5.118]
[1.969] 50
20 [1.969]
15 65
[.591] 25 [.787] 20
[2.559]
[.984] 15 [.787]
25 15 [.591] 15 20
[.984] [.591] [.591] [.787]

30
50 [1.181]
65
[1.969]
C [2.559] C

265
160 [10.433]
[6.299] B
4X 5
240
[.197]
[9.449]
170
255 [6.693] 300
[10.04] [11.811]

50
[1.969] B 150
.50 C
[5.906]
B B

100
40
[3.94] 50
[1.575]
.50 A [1.969]
C
60 15 25
[2.362] 15 [.591] [.984]
[.591] EQ. SP. ON A .50
15 8X 20 [0.787] +0.25 A
30 -0.10 140 [5.512] BC
[.591]
[1.181] 30 Ø 1.0 M A B C
[1.181]
15° Ø 0.25 M A
A THIRD ANGLE PROJECTION UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED DIMENSIONS A
THIS DRAWING AND ALL THE INFORMATION THERIN ARE IN MILLIMETERS TOLERANCES ARE:
IS THE PROPERTY OF FARO TECHNOLOGIES, X .X .XX .XXX ANGLE
INCORPORATED. THIS DRAWING IS CONFIDENTIAL ±0.25 ±0.1 ±0.05 ±0.01 ±1°
AND MAY NOT BE MADE PUBLIC OR REPRODUCED
WITHOUT THE EXPRESS PERMISSION OF FARO THREADS IN ACCORDANCE WITH HANDBOOK 28
Armed with Quality
SECTION B-B TECHNOLOGIES, INCORPORATED. THIS DRAWING
IS LOANED SUBJECT TO RETURN UPON DEMAND
63 FINSH REQUIRED INTERPRET DRAWING PER DOD-STD-100
AND ASME Y14.5. DO NOT SCALE DRAWING
AND SHALL NOT BE USED DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY
TITLE
IN ANY WAY DETRIMENTAL TO THE INTERESTS OF
FARO TECHNOLOGIES INCORPORATED. BASE, DEMO FIXTURE
03FRM049-REV 1
5 4 3 2 1

1. New Inspection On the Gage menu, select New Inspection Plan.

Plan
2. Select Workflow On the Menu, click the Edit button.
3. Measure Click Measure command group in the Menu.
commands
4. Plane Click the icon for the Plane command.
5. Plane In the Tool area, click the slider (arrow) button on the left
properties side to access the Detailed Tool Area:
zz Change the Name to Top

zz Select the Datum check box and Plane A from the

drop-down.
S y s t e m s
4 : C o o r d i n a t e

6. Line Click the icon for the Line command, and select
2D Line.
7. Line properties zz Change the Name to Front

zz Select the Datum check box and Line B from the

M o d u l e

drop-down.

4.8
 8. Circle Click the icon for the Circle command.
9. Circle zz Change the Name to Origin
properties
zz Select the Datum check box and Plane C from the
drop-down.

zz Clear all of the Tolerances except Circularity.

10. Construct Click Construct command group in the Menu.
commands
11. Coordinate Click the Coordinate System group.
System group
12. 3-2-1 command Click the 3-2-1 Coordinate System command..
13. Select Features zz In the Tool area, use the Plane drop-down to select
Top.

zz In the Tool area, use the Line drop-down to select

Front.

zz In the Tool area, use the Origin drop-down to select

Origin.

S y s t e m s
14. Save To the right of Gage menu, click the Save button. Since
this fils has not been saved, The Save As dialog box 4 : C o o r d i n a t e
appears.
15. Your folder In the My Inspection Plans folder, double-click you
folder [your name].
16. Type file name In the File name box, type CS.gip.
17. Save Click Save.
18. Start the In the Inspection Plan, click the Start button. Measure
Inspection Plan the three individual features on your part.
M o d u l e

4.9

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 ACTIVITY: Measure Additional Features
For this activity, you will measure the eight circles in the bolt hole pattern and report the
pattern on a report.

1. Workflow Make sure you are still in Edit mode.

2. Measure Click Measure command group in the Menu.
commands
3. Eight Circle Click the Circle icon eight times, adding eight measured
commands circle features to your Inspection Plan.
4. Select Circles On the Inspection Plan, select all eight circles by
selecting Circle 1 and then pressing and holding the
Shift key and selecting Circle 8.

5. Measure Circles With all eight circles selected, right-click and select
Measure. Measure each of the eight circles with at
S y s t e m s

least seven points.

6. Construct Click Construct command group in the Menu.
commands
7. Circle group Click Circle command group in the Menu.
8. Circle By Best Click the icon for the Circle By Best Fit command.
4 : C o o r d i n a t e

Fit command
9. Select Features zz In the Tool area, use the Select features to fit list
to select Circle 1 through Circle 8.

zz Press the Enter key.

10. Rename Circle zz Rename this feature to Bolt Circle.
M o d u l e

4.10
 11. Nominal Values In the Tool area, enter the following nominals:

zz 0.00 into the Nominal Center.x cell

zz 0.00 into the Nominal Center.y cell
zz 0.00 into the Nominal Center.z cell
zz 140.00 into the Nominal Diameter cell

and press the Enter key.

12. Tolerance Values In the Tool area, enter the following tolerances:

zz 0.50 into the Center.x Low and Up Tol cells

zz 0.50 into the Center.y Low and Up Tol cells
zz 0.50 into the Center.z Low and Up Tol cells
zz 1.00 into the Diameter Low and Up Tol cells

and press the Enter key.

S y s t e m s
ACTIVITY: Save an Inspection Plan
Save your Inspection Plan to a file on your computer.

1. Save To the right of Gage menu, click the Save button. Since 4 : C o o r d i n a t e
your Inspection Plan has already been named, the Save
button just updated the Inspection Plan file.
M o d u l e

4.11

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 ACTIVITY: Report
For this activity, you will add a report to your Inspection Plan.

1. Tools Click Tools command group in the Menu.

commands
2. Select Features On the Inspection Plan, select Top, Front, Origin, and
Bolt Circle.
3. Report tool Click the icon for the Report tool. This adds the
Report 1 feature to the Inspection Plan.
4. Tool Settings zz Select the TabularReport format check box.

zz Select the Set Session Information check box.

zz Select the Show report check box.

zz Select the Save report in check box.

zz Click the Browse button and select your folder and

click OK.

zz Select PDF for the report file format in the drop-

down.
5. Preview Report zz In the Inspection Plan, right-click on the Report 1
feature and select Start Report.

zz Enter your Session Information and click OK.

zz Review your report and click OK.

ACTIVITY: Save an Inspection Plan

S y s t e m s

Save your Inspection Plan to a file on your computer.

1. Save To the right of Gage menu, click the Save button. Since
your Inspection Plan has already been named, the Save
button just updated the Inspection Plan file.
4 : C o o r d i n a t e
M o d u l e

4.12
Custom Tools
You can create custom tools from any constructed feature in the Inspection
plan. All features that the constructed feature uses will automatically save
with the custom tool.

Once you create a custom tool, export it to a file on your computer and then
import that file into any new Inspection Plans that you create.

ACTIVITY: Custom Tools

For this activity, you will create a Custom Tool from the features in your Inspection Plan.

1. Select Features On the Inspection Plan, select Bolt Circle.

2. Create Tool On the Gage menu, select Create Tool.
3. New Tool zz Type Bolt Circle 8 for the Tool Name.

zz Type [your name] for the Creator.

zz Type 1 for the Revision.

zz Type Bolt Circle with 8 Circles for the

Description.

zz Click the Create button.

S y s t e m s
4 : C o o r d i n a t e
M o d u l e

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08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 4. My Tools Click My Tools command group in the Menu.
commands
5. Add Custom Click the Bolt Circle 8 Tool icon.
Tool
6. Features The Bolt Circle construction and all of the relevant
features automatically add to the Inspection Plan.
S y s t e m s
4 : C o o r d i n a t e
M o d u l e

4.14
 Module 5:
Advanced Measurement

I n this module, you will become familiar with the Advanced Measuring Techniques
using the CAM2 Gage Measure, Construct, and Tools menus.

XX Module Objective
You will be able to:
zz Complete a measurement job by creating individual features from the Measure and
Construct menus.
zz Configure CAM2 Gage preferences to measure without using commands.
zz Measure distances using the 3D Caliper command.

XX Lessons
Lesson 1: Measure............................................................................................................5.5
Lesson 2: Review Activities ....................................................................................... 5.11
Lesson 3: Immediate Measurement ...................................................................... 5.13
Lesson 4: 3D Caliper .................................................................................................... 5.17

M e a s u r e m e n t
A d v a n c e d
5 :
M o d u l e

5.1

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 Scenario: Advanced Measurements
This print for your part has more than just simple dimensions.

“This print has dimensions that cannot be measured using

CAM2 Gage Tools. How am I going to report the dimensions
of these features?”

Strategy: Advanced Measurement

Look at what you need to measure and consider the following
questions:

zz What should you include in the formal Report?

zz Can you use any of the CAM2 Gage Tools? (No)

zz Which features (geometric elements) do you need to capture?

”” Which features can you Measure directly (e.g. planes, circles,

cylinders, lines, etc.)?

”” Which features do you need to Construct (e.g. lengths, angles,

bolt hole circle)?

M e a s u r e m e n t
zz What logical sequence should you use to move around the part and
capture the features? (i.e., left to right, top to bottom, or measure all
planes first, then circles, etc.)

5 : A d v a n c e d
M o d u l e

5.3

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 Lesson 1: Measure
We will present the Measure menu. You will learn to measure features
correctly, analyze the data for the feature, and edit feature names. You will
then use these existing features to construct additional features for the
Inspection Plan.

Lesson Objective
You will be able to use the functions within the Measure and Construct menus.
This means you will be able to:

zz Use the Measure menu to capture data.

zz Use the Construct menu to create features.

zz Review and evaluate measurement quality and edit data.

zz Save and open files.

zz Rename features.

Projection Plane
The 2D features require a plane of projection, and when you use tools
this plane is automatically added. When you measure individual features,
## CAM2 Gage
automatically adds a plane if you select
CAM2 Gage uses the most recent plane in the Inspection Plan as the current
plane of projection. The plane of projection is a property of a 2D feature. a 2D feature command and there is no

M e a s u r e m e n t
plane in your Inspection Plan.

5 : A d v a n c e d
M o d u l e

5.5

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 Before Measuring
Before you begin measuring features, make certain that you use the correct
probe. On the GAGE menu, click Manage Probes. Check the Current Probe
listed in the Probe section. If you need to change the probe, select it in the
Current Probe drop-down window.

Once you determine that you are using the correct probe, make sure to
compensate the probe.

ACTIVITY: Measure Individual Features

For this activity, you will measure a plane on the top of the demo part, and other
individual features.

1. Select Workflow On the Menu, click the Measure button.

2. Measure Click Measure command group in the Menu.
commands
3. Plane Click the icon for the Plane command.
M e a s u r e m e n t

4. Measure the Top Measure the top plane with seven points. Notice the
green ball icons. Touch the top surface of the part with
the probe and press the FRONT button to digitize each
point.
5 : A d v a n c e d

5. Probe Notice the red ball icon. Pull away from the top plane
Compensation and press the BACK button.
M o d u l e

5.6
 6. Line Click the icon for the Line command, and select 2D Line.
7. Measure the Measure the front edge with five points. Notice the
Front Edge green ball icons. Touch the front surface of the part with
the probe and press the FRONT button to digitize each
point.

8. Probe Notice the red ball icon. Pull away from the surface and
Compensation press the BACK button.
9. Measure the Select 2D Line again and measure the left edge with five
Left Edge points. Notice the green ball icons. Touch the left surface
of the part with the probe and press the FRONT button
to digitize each point.

M e a s u r e m e n t
10. Probe Notice the red ball icon. Pull away from the surface and
Compensation press the BACK button.
11. Measure the Click the Lines group icon to return to the Measure
Center Circle menu. Select the Circle command and measure Circle 9
with seven points. Notice the green ball icons. Touch the
inside surface of the hole with the probe and press the
FRONT button to digitize each point.
5 : A d v a n c e d
M o d u l e

12. Probe Notice the red ball icon. Pull away from the Circle 9 and
Compensation press the BACK button.

5.7

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 ACTIVITY: Renaming A Feature
For this activity, you will rename the features in the Inspection Plan:

1. Select Plane 1 Double-click Plane 1 in the Inspection Plan.

2. Type new name Type Top and press Enter.
3. Select Line 1 Double-click Line 1 in the Inspection Plan.
4. Type new name Type Front and press Enter.
5. Select Line 2 Double-click Line 2 in the Inspection Plan.
6. Type new name Type Left and press Enter.
7. Select Circle 1 Double-click Circle 1 in the Inspection Plan.
8. Type new name Type Circle 9 and press Enter.

ACTIVITY: Construct Features

For this activity, you will construct a point and a length from the two existing 2D Line
features and the Circle feature.

1. Construct Click Construct command group in the Menu.

commands
2. Point group Click Point command group in the Menu.
3. Point Two Lines Click the icon for the Point Two Lines command.
command
4. Select Features zz In the Tool area, use the Line drop-down to select
Front.
M e a s u r e m e n t

zz In the Tool area, use the Feature drop-down to

select Left.

zz Press the Enter key.

5. Tools menu Click the Point group icon to return to the Tools menu.
6. Length group Click Length command group in the Menu.
7. Point to Line Click the icon for the Point to Line command.
command
5 : A d v a n c e d

8. Select Features zz In the Tool area, use the Feature Two drop-down
to select Left.

zz In the Tool area, use the Feature One drop-down

to select Circle 9.

zz Press the Enter key.

9. Nominal Length In the Tool area, enter 150.00 into the Nominal
M o d u l e

Length cell and press the Enter key.

5.8
 ACTIVITY: Save an Inspection Plan
Save your Inspection Plan to a file on your computer.

1. Save To the right of Gage menu, click the Save button.

Since this fils has not been saved, The Save As dialog
box appears.
2. Create new In the My Inspection Plans folder, double-click you
folder folder [your name].
3. Type file name In the File name box, type Advanced.gip.
4. Save Click Save.

M e a s u r e m e n t
5 : A d v a n c e d
M o d u l e

5.9

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 Lesson 2: Review Activities
Objective: Use the Advanced Measurement Techniques
Complete each of the Review Activities. When you are finished, have your instructor review and initial your
work. If you have any questions, first refer to the previous modules, next use the Help menu. If neither of
these provide the information you need, ask the instructor.

ACTIVITY: Construct Point Two Lines

zz Open a new file and measure the features you need to construct a point for each corner of the
demo part appropriately naming each: Back Right Corner, Back Left Corner, Front Right Corner,
and Front Left Corner.

Back Left Corner

Front Left Corner

Back Right Corner

Front Right Corner

M e a s u r e m e n t
ACTIVITY: Construct Length Point To Point
zz Determine the length from the Front Right Corner to the Back Left Corner
of the demo part. Name it Length 1.
zz Determine the length from the Front Left Corner to the Back Right Corner
of the demo part. Name it Length 2. 5 : A d v a n c e d

ACTIVITY: Report
zz Add Length 1 and Length 2 to a Report Tool.
zz Save a PDF of the report.

All Activities Complete

M o d u l e

Instructor initials: _____________

Date: _____________

5.11

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 Lesson 3: Immediate Measurement
We will present the CAM2 Gage Immediate Measurement option. Immediate
measurement allows you to begin measuring without first choosing a
command.

Lesson Objective
You will be able to use the set the preferences to allow for Immediate
Measurement. This means you will be able to:

zz Configure the preferences in CAM2 Gage

zz Add Measurements to the Inspection Plan without selecting a

command from the Measure or Tool menu.

Automatic Feature Recognition

The Auto-Recognize Features preference must be enabled for Immediate
Measurement. The default setting for this preference is No (Off ).

You must disable the Arm as Mouse preference to use this feature. The
default setting for this preference is Yes (On).

M e a s u r e m e n t
5 : A d v a n c e d
M o d u l e

5.13

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 Measuring

Once you begin recording points, CAM2 Gage will determine the type of
feature you’ve measured and display the form value of the feature.

## Make sure to select the

correct feature before pressing the
Should CAM2 Gage’s automatic feature recognition not be correct, the right
side of the Tool Area will contain a list of alternative features so that you can
select the correct feature type.
BACK button.

ACTIVITY: Immediate Measurement

For this activity, you will configure CAM2 Gage preferences and measure features without
using the menus.

1. New Inspection On the Gage menu, select New Inspection Plan.

M e a s u r e m e n t

Plan
2. Preferences On the Gage menu, select Preferences.
3. Auto-Recognize Click the Measurement group and change Auto-
Features Recognize Features to Yes. Set the Maximum Form
value to 1.0mm.
4. Arm As Mouse Click the Measurement group and change Use Arm As
Mouse to No.
5 : A d v a n c e d

5. Exit Preferences Click OK to exit the Preferences command.

M o d u l e

5.14
 6. Measure the Top Measure the top plane with seven points. Notice the
green ball icons. Touch the top surface of the part with
the probe and press the FRONT button to digitize
each point.

7. Probe Notice the red ball icon. Pull away from the top plane
Compensation and press the BACK button.
8. Measure the Measure the front edge with five points. Notice the
Front Edge green ball icons. Touch the front surface of the part
with the probe and press the FRONT button to digitize
each point.

9. Probe Notice the red ball icon. Pull away from the surface

M e a s u r e m e n t
Compensation and press the BACK button.
10. Measure the Measure Circle 9 with seven points. Notice the green
Center Circle ball icons. Touch the inside surface of the hole with
the probe and press the FRONT button to digitize
each point.

5 : A d v a n c e d

11. Probe Notice the red ball icon. Pull away from the Circle 9
Compensation and press the BACK button.
M o d u l e

5.15

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 Continue measuring other features on the part, and notice the Auto-
Recognize Features preference working. You can also use the mouse to
select a command from the Measure and Tools menus. This temporarily
disables the preference and adds a specific feature to your Inspection Plan.
12. Reset On the Gage menu, select Preferences.
Preferences
13. Auto-Recognize Click the Measurement group and change Auto-
Features Recognize Features to No.
14. Arm As Mouse Click the Measurement group and change Use Arm As
Mouse to Yes.
15. Exit Preferences Click OK to exit the Preferences command.
M e a s u r e m e n t
5 : A d v a n c e d
M o d u l e

5.16
 Lesson 4: 3D Caliper
We will present the CAM2 Gage 3D Caliper command.

Lesson Objective
You will be able to measure simple height distances using the 3D Caliper
command. This means you will be able to:

zz Set a single base plane or multiple base planes.

zz Use the automatic of manual compensation methods.

zz Measure simple heights

3D Caliper Command
The CAM2 Gage 3D CALIPER is the command to use the FARO Gage as a
three-dimensional caliper, or a height gage to quickly check dimensions
relative to a plane(s). The 3D CALIPER command replaces a traditional Height
Gage tool by providing a quick distance measurement.

The 3D Caliper command does not add any tools to the Inspection Plan. You
cannot print any of the measurements, or save these measurements to your
computer.

To access 3D Caliper, click 3D Caliper in the Menu.

M e a s u r e m e n t
5 : A d v a n c e d
M o d u l e

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 1. 3D Caliper Base Planes - controls the location and visibility of the base
planes (X, Y, or Z).

2. 3D Caliper Compensation Methods - controls how 3D Caliper

compensates for the probe radius during measurement.

3. 3D Caliper Digital Read Out (DRO) - freezes and resets the 3D Caliper
DRO.

Base Planes
M e a s u r e m e n t

The 3D Caliper first requires you to measure a base plane (measurement

table, gage block, etc.) from which you will measure distances. The default
base plane to measure is the Z plane. You can also define the X and Y base
planes.

Digital Read Out (DRO)

Once you have measured the plane, you can now check distances using the
5 : A d v a n c e d

base plane. Move the probe to a location and watch the screen to see the
distance. This distance is automatically compensated for the probe radius.

Temporary Height

You can set a Temporary Zero plane to each base plane. A second DRO, to
the right of the base plane’s DRO, shows the distance from this plane to the
probe.
M o d u l e

5.18
 ACTIVITY: 3D Caliper
For this activity, you will measure heights using the 3D Caliper command.

1. 3D Caliper On the Menu, click the 3D Caliper button.

2. Z base plane Click the Define Z base plane button.
3. Measure the Measure the inspection surface with seven points.
Inspection This becomes the Z base plane. Notice the green ball
Surface icons. Touch the surface with the probe and press the
FRONT button to digitize each point.

4. Probe Notice the red ball icon. Pull away from the surface
Compensation and press the BACK button.
5. Top of part Move the probe to the top surface the part. The
height nominal distance is 25.0mm.

M e a s u r e m e n t
6. Circle 10 height Move the probe to the top surface of Circle 10. The
nominal distance is 12.5mm.

5 : A d v a n c e d
M o d u l e

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 7. Temporary Zero Keep the probe on the top surface of Circle 10. Press
the BACK button to set a temporary zero height.

8. Top of part Move the probe to the top surface the part. The
height nominal distance is 25.0mm from the Inspection
Surface and 12.5 from Circle 10.
M e a s u r e m e n t

9. Close 3D Click the Close button to exit.

Caliper
5 : A d v a n c e d
M o d u l e

5.20
 Appendix I:
FARO Gage Device Setup Checklist
Temperature Effect On A Part
❐❐ Part has been allowed to soak in the inspection environment to adjust to the
air temperature.

❐❐ Measurements will be taken where the air temperature is relatively constant.

❐❐ The part is evenly exposed to light.

Temperature Effect On The Device

❐❐ The device temperature has been allowed to stabilize.

Movement
❐❐ The device and part are fastened and stationary.

C h e c k l i s t
Vibration Effects
❐❐ Vibrations (forklifts driving by, stamping machine movement etc.) have been
avoided.

Mounting Stability

S e t u p
❐❐ Detailed instructions provided with mount (tripod, magnetic, or vacuum) were
carefully followed.

If Using C-Clamps:

D e v i c e
❐❐ The surface is clear of any debris which can cause the base to rock.

❐❐ Clamps are arranged on opposite sides of the base - 180 degrees from each
other.

FA R O   G a g e
If Using A Custom Mount:

❐❐ The plate is large enough to mount the FARO Gage using the Magnetic Mount
or C-clamps.

❐❐ The plate is thick enough to prevent flexing.

❐❐ The plate is securely mounted to the part/fixture.

I :
A p p e n d i x

❐❐ A dial indicator was used to determine to verify the rigidity of the plate.

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 Appendix II:
Hot Keys
The following is a list of Hot Keys, or keyboard shortcuts, that you can use to quickly
start some CAM2 Gage commands.

Hot Key Function

Enter Repeat the Last command

H Help

E Edit mode

M Measure mode

S Start Inspection Plan

ALT + F4 Exit CAM2 Gage

CRTL + N New Inspection Plan
CRTL + O Open an Inspection Plan
CRTL + S Save an Inspection Plan
CRTL + ALT + S Save As... an Inspection Plan
CRTL + ALT + P Inspection Plan Properties
CRTL + P Preferences
CRTL + I Session Information

K e y s
H o t
I I :
A p p e n d i x

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II.2
 Appendix III:
Glossary of Terms
TERM FARO Definition
3D Three dimensional
The distance between a nominal feature's center and a
3D distance
measured/constructed feature's center.
A
The deviation between the measured value and the nominal or
Accuracy
actual value.
A feature or measurement that exists and is not merely potential
Actual
or theoretical.
The establishing of a coordinate system on a part, typically in
Alignment
reference to a coordinate measurement machine.
Angle The figure defined by two lines extending from the same point
In reference to an angle, the point from which the two lines of
Apex
the angle emanate. Vertex.
Arc A segment of a circle
B
zz Look at what you need to measure and consider the
following questions:
zz What should you include in the formal Report?
zz Which Dimensions do you need? (e.g. circle center to circle
center)

Te r m s
zz Which features (geometric elements) do you need to
Basic Measurement
capture?
Strategy,
zz Which features can you Measure directly (i.e. planes, circles,
CAM2 Gage
cylinders, lines, etc)?

o f
zz Which features do you need to Construct (e.g. bolt hole
circle)

G l o s s a r y
zz What logical sequence should you use to move around the
part and capture the features? For example, left to right, top
to bottom, or measure all planes first, then circles, etc.
Creating a feature that fits a set of points so each point is the
Best fit
shortest distance to the feature.
I I I :

Bisect To divide into two equal parts

A feature (line or plane) which is created and equidistant at all
A p p e n d i x

Bisector
points from two existing features.
A group of holes which is intended to accept bolts from a
Bolt hole pattern
mating part in an assembly.
Button Refers to the switches on the FARO Gage

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 TERM FARO Definition
C
A series of measurements that check the accuracy of the
Calibration
measurement device against known standards.
CAMM (CAM2) Computer-Aided Manufacturing Measurement
Capture (of data) Digitizing. Storing data points in the computer system.
A closed planar curve in which every point on the curve is
Circle
equidistant from the center.
The quantity that refers to the fit of the input data points to the
Circularity
resultant circle.
CMM Coordinate Measuring Machine
Coincident Points Points that have the same XYZ value.
Collinear Data points which lie on the same line.
Compensated Refers to the compensation for the radius of the ball probe on
points the FARO Gage.
The procedure by which the FARO Gage is optimized to perform
accurate measurements. Thousands of data points are captured
Compensation to determine the true geometry and kinematics of each
FARO Gage. This electronic “finger print” is stored on a chip in
the base of the device.
A basic or prismatic feature defined as a region generated by
Cone
revolving a right triangle about one of its legs.
Conicity The deviation of measured data points from the resultant cone.
Construction A feature developed from measured features
Te r m s

Coordinate CMM. These machines capture 3D data from objects to give the
Measuring Machine position (XYZ) of the object.
A system of representing points in a space of given dimensions
o f

Coordinate System by coordinates, such as the Cartesian coordinate system or the

system of celestial longitude and latitude.
I I I : G l o s s a r y

Coplanar Points or features which lie in the same geometric plane.

Corner The point resulting from the intersection of three planes.
The internal system which supports the weight of the
Counter-balance FARO Gage allowing for greater operator control and reduced
operator fatigue.
Curvature The deviation of a feature from a straight line.
A p p e n d i x

Curvature change The change in the slope of a curved feature.

Probes other than those that are supplied with the FARO Gage
Custom probes as a standard. Customers can manufacture their own probes,
and compensate them using the 1” reference sphere.

III.2
TERM FARO Definition
A geometric feature formed by extruding a circle along its
Cylinder
centerline in a direction normal to its plane.
Cylindrical A part which is similar to a cylinder in shape.
The deviation of measured data points from the resultant
Cylindricity
cylinder.
D
A datum (plural datums or data) is a reference from which
measurements are made. In engineering and drafting, a datum
Datum
is a reference point, surface, or axis on an object against which
measurements are made.
Datum Coordinate The XYZ values of a feature used to establish an alignment.
Degrees of The FARO Gage is termed to have 6 degrees of freedom. Each
Freedom (DOF) axis of rotation is defined as a degree of freedom.
A piece of equipment or a mechanism designed to serve a
Device special purpose or perform a special function. Measurement
device; FARO Gage.
Dial indicators are instruments used to accurately measure a
Dial indicator small distance. They may also be known as a Dial Gauge, Dial
Test Indicator (DTI), or as a “clock”.
Diameter The width of a circular of cylindrical feature.
Digitizing Storing data points in the computer system.
The relationship (distance or angle) between two geometric
Dimension
features.
The function of determining the relationship between

Te r m s
Dimensioning
geometric features.
Distance The degree of separation between geometric features.
The engineering documentation that indicates how a part is to

o f
Drawing
be manufactured, assembled, or installed.

I I I : G l o s s a r y
DRO Digital Read Out. The display of XYZ coordinates on the screen.
E
Edge points Data points which lie on the edge or border of a part.
Refers to the joint of the FARO Gage at the intersection of the
Elbow
two long tubes.
A geometric feature resulting from the intersection of a plane
Ellipse
A p p e n d i x

with a cylinder at an angle other than 90 degrees.

To accept collected readings by either clicking the FARO Gage
End Click
BACK button.

III.3

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 TERM FARO Definition
Evaluation / to The review of a product or process for suitability for its intended
evaluate purpose.
External shape The boundary which encloses a geometric form.
F
Fabrication An engineering drawing that specifies how a part is to be
drawing manufactured.
Feature Refers to an attribute of a product or a geometric object.
Fit How easily two mating parts can be assembled.
The deviation of the measured data points from the resultant
Flatness
plane.
The maximum bandwidth (Max. Error added to the Min. Error) of
Form error that a set of measured points deviates from the true form
of the resultant feature calculated from that set of points.
G
Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing. A system of
GD&T specifying engineering design and drawing requirements with
respect to actual function and relationship of part features.
A shape that can be expressed using standard shapes i.e. circle,
Geometric features
line, and arc.
H
Refers to the mechanical portion of a computer-based system.
Hardware
Opposite of software.
Dongle or port lock. Provides software security using a
Hardware lock computer chip that attaches to the parallel (printer) port on a
Te r m s

computer.
Hot Keys One keystroke commands which invoke a software function.
I
o f

Inputting Refers to the keying in of data.

I I I : G l o s s a r y

Intersection A meeting or crossing at a point.

A means of aligning measured data to CAD data by best fitting
Iterative Alignment
through many iterations.
J
The meeting place of two adjacent articulating units. Refers
Joint
specifically to the transfer cases on the FARO Gage.
A p p e n d i x

K
Key-in To manually enter data using a keyboard.
L
Line intersect A type of alignment based upon a plane and two lines.

III.4
TERM FARO Definition
Line-to-plane A type of angular dimension.
M
Max. (maximum) The largest distance from a reading above or outside a best-fit
Error feature.
(MMC) Maximum material condition is that condition of a part
feature wherein it contains the maximum amount of material
Maximum Material within the stated limits of size. For a hole, the MMC is defined
Condition as the condition when the diameter is at the lowest end of its
tolerance band. For a stud, the MMC is defined as the condition
where the diameter is at the highest end of its tolerance band.
To capture data points to determine the size, position, and form
Measure
of feature.
Mid-Point A point which is equidistant from two other points.
Min. (minimum) The largest distance from a reading below or inside a best-fit
Error feature.
MT Material Thickness
N
NIST National Institute of Standards and Technology
Nominal The theoretical value for a feature.
O
Any function which does not require a specific device to be
Off-line
connected. Edit mode in CAM2 Gage.
To create a feature that is equidistant by a specified distance at
Offset
all points.

Te r m s
A function which indicates that a specific device must be
On-line connected to perform a specific function. Measure mode in
CAM2 Gage.

o f
In reference to Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing, it

I I I : G l o s s a r y
is the type of dimension that pertains to the orientation of
Orientation
one feature relative to a datum feature. Such as Parallelism,
Perpendicularity and Concentricity.
Origin The point from which the axes of a coordinate system emanate.
Orthogonal
Coordinates which are perpendicular.
coordinates
P
A p p e n d i x

Parallel Two lines or planes which are equidistant at all points.

A geometric feature defined by a point and a vector. A flat
Plane
surface.

III.5

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 TERM FARO Definition
A type of distance dimension which yields the perpendicular
Plane-to-Plane distance between the centroid of the second plane and the first
plane.
Point reducible A feature that has a repeatable center point such as a circle or
feature sphere.
A dimension type which yields the perpendicular distance
Point-to-Line
between the point and the line.
A dimension type which yields the 3D distance between two
Point-to-Point
points.
Position The location of a feature in a Cartesian coordinate system.
End effector or stylus. The part of the FARO Gage that touches
Probe the measurement piece. The FARO Gage can use a variety of
probes including hard probes, touch-trigger, and laser probes.
Probe The ability of the software to account for the radius of the
compensation probe. Gross errors can result if this is not done correctly.
Project to To reproduce in a prescribed direction.
Q, R
Readout The visual display of data on a computer screen.
In reference to digitizing, the re-measurement of erroneous data
Re-capturing
points.
Rectangular A polygonal shape whose corners intersect at right angles.
The ability of a device to obtain consistent results. Although
the terms are generally used interchangeably, repeatability
Repeatability
differs from accuracy in that a device can consistently obtain the
Te r m s

wrong result.
The number of decimal places that a measurement device can
Resolution
reliably display.
o f

Rotation Angular motion about a specified point or axis.

I I I : G l o s s a r y

The deviation of the measured data points from the true form of
Roundness
the resultant circle.
S
Scanning To capture large quantities of data points quickly.
Slot An elongated hole with round or squared ends.
SMR Spherically Mounted Retroreflector
A p p e n d i x

Solve, to To calculate the results of a problem.

Spherical A shape which is similar to that of a sphere.
The amount by which the measured data points deviate from
Sphericity
the resultant sphere.

III.6
TERM FARO Definition
A smooth curve which cannot be represented by a simple
Spline
mathematical function.
The amount by which the measured points deviate from the
Straightness
resultant line.
Stream A continuous input of data points.
T
The ability of a measurement device to adjust to changes
in ambient temperature. A measurement device that is
Temperature
temperature compensated will maintain its accuracy through
Compensation
a wide range of temperatures. A device that is not temperature
compensated cannot.
A screw thread. A machined surface with a helical shape.
Thread Normally parts are fastened together with a screw and a
threaded hole or a threaded bolt and nut.
A metal piece that is used as an interface between a mating
Thread mount thread and a tripod or a mating thread and a table mountable
device.
A zone of accuracy in both size and placement of a feature. For
example, a hole of a diameter of 1.00” +/- 0.01 located at the x,
Tolerance y, z of 1.000, 1.000, 0.000 +/- 0.005 means a 1 inch diameter hole
can be between 1.01 and 0.99 in size and the location can be
plus or minus 0.005 inches from the specified nominal location.
An electromechanical device that has a hard ball probe on the
Touch trigger end of a pivoting straight shaft. When any movement of shaft is
probes sensed at the pivot, an electrical message is sent to command

Te r m s
the CMM to take a data point.
There are many types of CMMs that fall into this category. These
include the bridge type, cantilever type, gantry type, etc. These
Traditional CMM
are floor-mounted machines that require you to bring the parts

o f
to the CMM, unlike FARO’s “portable” CMM, the FARO Gage®.

I I I : G l o s s a r y
Refers to a GD&T callout that specifies how a feature such as a
hole is to be positioned on a part as well as toleranced. A true
True Position position callout may also specify additional tolerance or “bonus”
if the hole is over-sized or if a shaft is under-sized (maximum or
least material condition; MMC or LMC).
U
Universal Serial Bus (USB) is an external peripheral interface
standard for communication between a computer and
A p p e n d i x

external peripherals over an inexpensive cable using biserial

USB transmission. USB is intended to replace existing serial ports,
parallel ports, keyboard, and monitor connectors and be used
with keyboards, mice, monitors, printers, and possibly some
low-speed scanners and removable hard drives.

III.7

08m13e12 - FARO Gage Training Workbook - CAM2 Gage v2.0 - June 2011.pdf Part#14560-001
 TERM FARO Definition
V
A term used to describe the direction of a line or object that
may or may not have a magnitude. The line may be associated
Vector with the normal vector of a surface at a specific location. The
vector is described in relation to the current alignment using
the letters I, J, and K that are associated to X, Y, and Z.
Vertex The point of intersection of two sides of an angle.
Volume The amount of space occupied in three dimensions.
W
Refers to the last grouping of joints on the end of the
Wrist
FARO Gage.
X, Y, Z
Refers to the Cartesian Coordinate System for three-dimensional
X, Y, Z
space.
Te r m s
o f
I I I : G l o s s a r y
A p p e n d i x

III.8
 Appendix IV:
Technical Support
FARO Technologies, Inc. is committed to providing the best technical support to our
customers. Our Service Policy is detailed in Appendix C: Industrial Products Service
Policy of any FARO manual. If you have any problem using one of our products, please
follow these steps before contacting our Technical Support Team:
zz Be sure to read the relevant sections of the documentation to find the help
you need.

zz Visit the FARO Customer Service area on the Web at www.faro.com to search
our technical support database. This is available 24 hours a day 7 days a week.

zz Document the problem you are experiencing. Be as specific as you can. The
more information you have, the easier the problem will be to solve.

zz If you still cannot resolve your problem, have your device’s Serial Number
available before calling.

Support Hours
zz North America:
8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST).

zz Europe:
8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Central European Standard Time (CET).

zz Asia:
8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Singapore Standard Time (SST).

zz Japan:

S u p p o r t
9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Japan Standard Time (JST).

zz China:
8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. China Standard Time (CST).

zz India:

Te c h n i c a l
9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. India Standard Time (IST).

zz You can also e-mail or fax any problems or questions 24 hours a day.

Phone
zz North America:
800 736 2771, +1 407 333 3182 (Worldwide)
I V :

zz Mexico:
A p p e n d i x

866 874 1154

zz Europe:
+800 3276 7378, +49 7150 9797-400 (Worldwide)

zz Asia:
+65 6511 1350
I V. 1

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 zz Japan:
+81 561 63 1411

zz China:
+86 21 6191 7600

zz India:
+91 11 4167 6330/1

Fax

zz North America:
FARO Gage +1 407 333 8056

zz Europe:
+800 3276 1737, +49 7150 9797-9400 (Worldwide)

zz Asia:
+65 6543 0111

zz Japan:
+81 561 63 1412

zz China:
+86 21 6494 8670

zz India:
+91 11 4167 6332

E-Mail
zz North America:
FARO Gage support@faro.com

zz Europe:
S u p p o r t

support@faroeurope.com

zz Asia:
salesap@faro.com

zz Japan:
I V : Te c h n i c a l

japan@faro.com

zz China:
chinainfo@faro.com

zz India:
infoindia@faro.com

E-Mails or Faxes sent outside regular working hours

A p p e n d i x

(8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday) usually are answered before 12:00
p.m. the next working day. Should our staff be on other calls, please leave a voice mail
message; calls are always returned within 4 hours. Please remember to leave a detailed
description of your question and your device’s Serial Number. Do not forget to include
your name, fax number, telephone number and extension so we can reach you promptly.

I V. 2
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 Contact Information

For Technical Support For Sales Inquiries For Training or Technical Services

World Wide Web site: www.faro.com Electronic Product Catalog on www.faro.com World Wide Web site: www.faro.com
E-mail: support@faro.com E-mail: info@faro.com E-mail: training@faro.com
Ph: 800.736.2771 Ph: 800.736.0234, extension 2265 Ph: 800.736.0234, extension 1111
FARO Gage:
Training Workbook