Homing Question

My Flex is failing when homing - any help would be awesome:

1) the spindle (Z) homes correctly: no matter where it is in the travel range, it moves rearward until it hits the limit switch then bounces 2x and stops.
2) the x and the y move simultaneously up and right - if the y hits the limit 1st, it stops and does not bounce. The x moves until it hit the limit switch and it stops. The 'machine locked due to error' message pops up.
3) if the x hits the limit 1st, sometimes it stops both x and y and sometimes y continues, but in every case the same error pops up.
4) If the Flex is preset to 'home' (z back, x up, y right): the z bounces 2x, the y moves then 'machine locked due to error' pops up.

I have the log file:
[2021-05-31 21:07:43.388] [LOGGER] [info] 25736 => DDCutDaemon::SetDDFile(90) - File path: G:\Ghost Gunner 1 & 2 2020.04.28\Cutting Code\Troubleshooting Code\Reset 2018.08.20.dd
[2021-05-31 21:07:47.612] [LOGGER] [info] 25736 => DDCutDaemon::SelectJob(163) - jobIndex: 0
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.404] [LOGGER] [info] 25736 => DDCutDaemon::StartMilling(667) - Sending GCodeFile for operation with index: 0
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.406] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => DDCutDaemon::Thread_StartMilling(637) - MILLING THREAD - Start
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.406] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ExecuteProgram(244) - BEGIN
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.406] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: ?
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.424] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: <Alarm,MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000>
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.424] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GRBL1_0::ProcessPushMessage(55) - Processing: <Alarm,MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000>
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.425] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(74) - Status: Alarm
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.425] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(75) - Coords: MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.425] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(90) - Machine position str: MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.425] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(100) - Work position str: WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:01
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.425] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(102) - Work coordinates str: 0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:01
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.439] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.455] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: $X
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.470] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: [Caution: Unlocked]
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.470] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GRBL1_0::ProcessPushMessage(55) - Processing: [Caution: Unlocked]
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.486] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.502] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: ?
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.519] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: <Idle,MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000>
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.519] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GRBL1_0::ProcessPushMessage(55) - Processing: <Idle,MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000>
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.519] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(74) - Status: Idle
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.519] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(75) - Coords: MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.520] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(90) - Machine position str: MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.520] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(100) - Work position str: WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:01
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.520] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(102) - Work coordinates str: 0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:01
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.534] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.550] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostSettings::UpdateSetting(25) - Updating 100 to 400.000000
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.550] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: $100=400.000
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.565] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.580] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: ?
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.596] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: <Idle,MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000>
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.597] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GRBL1_0::ProcessPushMessage(55) - Processing: <Idle,MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000>
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.597] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(74) - Status: Idle
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.598] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(75) - Coords: MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.598] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(90) - Machine position str: MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.598] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(100) - Work position str: WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:01
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.598] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(102) - Work coordinates str: 0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:01
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.612] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.628] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostSettings::UpdateSetting(25) - Updating 101 to 400.000000
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.628] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: $101=400.000
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.644] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.660] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: ?
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.675] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: <Idle,MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000>
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.676] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GRBL1_0::ProcessPushMessage(55) - Processing: <Idle,MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000>
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.676] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(74) - Status: Idle
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.676] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(75) - Coords: MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.676] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(90) - Machine position str: MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.676] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(100) - Work position str: WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:01
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.676] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(102) - Work coordinates str: 0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:01
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.691] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.707] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostSettings::UpdateSetting(25) - Updating 102 to 400.000000
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.707] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: $102=400.000
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.723] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.739] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: ?
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.755] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: <Idle,MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000>
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.756] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GRBL1_0::ProcessPushMessage(55) - Processing: <Idle,MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000>
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.756] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(74) - Status: Idle
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.756] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(75) - Coords: MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.756] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(90) - Machine position str: MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.756] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(100) - Work position str: WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:01
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.757] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(102) - Work coordinates str: 0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:01
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.771] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.787] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostSettings::UpdateSetting(25) - Updating 110 to 1000.000000
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.787] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: $110=1000.000
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.803] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.818] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: ?
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.835] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: <Idle,MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000>
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.835] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GRBL1_0::ProcessPushMessage(55) - Processing: <Idle,MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000>
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.836] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(74) - Status: Idle
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.836] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(75) - Coords: MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.836] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(90) - Machine position str: MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.836] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(100) - Work position str: WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:01
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.836] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(102) - Work coordinates str: 0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:01
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.851] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.867] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostSettings::UpdateSetting(25) - Updating 111 to 1000.000000
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.867] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: $111=1000.000
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.881] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.896] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: ?
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.913] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: <Idle,MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000>
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.913] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GRBL1_0::ProcessPushMessage(55) - Processing: <Idle,MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000>
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.914] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(74) - Status: Idle
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.914] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(75) - Coords: MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.914] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(90) - Machine position str: MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.914] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(100) - Work position str: WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:01
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.914] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(102) - Work coordinates str: 0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:01
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.928] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.944] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostSettings::UpdateSetting(25) - Updating 112 to 1000.000000
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.944] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: $112=1000.000
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.959] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.975] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: ?
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.993] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: <Idle,MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000>
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.993] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GRBL1_0::ProcessPushMessage(55) - Processing: <Idle,MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000>
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.994] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(74) - Status: Idle
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.994] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(75) - Coords: MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.994] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(90) - Machine position str: MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.995] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(100) - Work position str: WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:01
[2021-05-31 21:07:51.995] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(102) - Work coordinates str: 0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:01
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.007] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.024] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostSettings::UpdateSetting(25) - Updating 120 to 30.000000
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.024] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: $120=30.000
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.039] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.055] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: ?
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.072] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: <Idle,MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000>
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.072] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GRBL1_0::ProcessPushMessage(55) - Processing: <Idle,MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000>
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.073] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(74) - Status: Idle
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.073] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(75) - Coords: MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.073] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(90) - Machine position str: MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.073] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(100) - Work position str: WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:01
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.073] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(102) - Work coordinates str: 0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:01
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.087] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.103] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostSettings::UpdateSetting(25) - Updating 121 to 30.000000
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.104] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: $121=30.000
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.119] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.135] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: ?
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.151] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: <Idle,MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000>
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.151] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GRBL1_0::ProcessPushMessage(55) - Processing: <Idle,MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000>
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.152] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(74) - Status: Idle
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.152] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(75) - Coords: MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.152] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(90) - Machine position str: MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.152] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(100) - Work position str: WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:01
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.152] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(102) - Work coordinates str: 0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:01
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.166] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.182] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostSettings::UpdateSetting(25) - Updating 122 to 30.000000
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.182] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: $122=30.000
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.198] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.214] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: ?
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.232] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: <Idle,MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000>
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.232] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GRBL1_0::ProcessPushMessage(55) - Processing: <Idle,MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000>
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.233] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(74) - Status: Idle
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.233] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(75) - Coords: MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.233] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(90) - Machine position str: MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.233] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(100) - Work position str: WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:01
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.233] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(102) - Work coordinates str: 0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:01
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.246] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.262] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostSettings::UpdateSetting(25) - Updating 130 to 75.000000
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.262] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: $130=75.000
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.278] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.294] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: ?
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.311] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: <Idle,MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000>
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.311] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GRBL1_0::ProcessPushMessage(55) - Processing: <Idle,MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000>
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.312] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(74) - Status: Idle
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.312] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(75) - Coords: MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.312] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(90) - Machine position str: MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.312] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(100) - Work position str: WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:01
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.312] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(102) - Work coordinates str: 0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:01
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.326] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.342] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostSettings::UpdateSetting(25) - Updating 131 to 180.000000
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.342] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: $131=180.000
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.358] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.373] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: ?
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.389] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: <Idle,MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000>
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.389] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GRBL1_0::ProcessPushMessage(55) - Processing: <Idle,MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000>
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.390] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(74) - Status: Idle
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.390] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(75) - Coords: MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.390] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(90) - Machine position str: MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.390] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(100) - Work position str: WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:01
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.390] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(102) - Work coordinates str: 0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:01
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.404] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.420] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostSettings::UpdateSetting(25) - Updating 132 to 63.500000
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.420] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: $132=63.500
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.436] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.452] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: G10L2P1X0Y0Z0
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.468] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.484] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: G10L2P2X0Y0Z0
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.500] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.516] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: G10L2P3X0Y0Z0
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.532] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.547] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: G10L2P4X0Y0Z0
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.563] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.579] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: G10L2P5X0Y0Z0
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.595] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.611] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: G10L2P6X0Y0Z0
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.627] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.643] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: M5
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.658] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.674] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: G90G21
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.690] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.706] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: ?
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.723] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: <Idle,MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000>
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.723] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GRBL1_0::ProcessPushMessage(55) - Processing: <Idle,MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000>
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.723] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(74) - Status: Idle
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.723] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(75) - Coords: MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:011|0|000
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.723] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(90) - Machine position str: MPos:0.000,0.000,0.000
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.723] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(100) - Work position str: WPos:0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:01
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.723] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => RealTimeStatus::ParseV0(102) - Work coordinates str: 0.000,0.000,0.000,Buf:0,RX:1,Ln:0,Pin:01
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.738] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ok
[2021-05-31 21:07:52.754] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: $H
[2021-05-31 21:07:57.906] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ALARM: Homing fail
[2021-05-31 21:07:57.906] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GRBL1_0::ProcessPushMessage(55) - Processing: ALARM: Homing fail
[2021-05-31 21:07:57.906] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GRBL1_0::ProcessPushMessage(63) - Alarm: Homing fail
[2021-05-31 21:07:57.907] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => MillingManager::StartMilling(19) - GhostException: Alarm: unknown - Homing fail
[2021-05-31 21:07:58.918] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::FlushReads(143) -
[2021-05-31 21:07:58.919] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::FlushReads(143) - Grbl 1.0c ['$' for help]
[2021-05-31 21:07:58.919] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::FlushReads(143) - ['$H'|'$X' to unlock]
[2021-05-31 21:07:58.919] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => DDCutDaemon::Thread_StartMilling(645) - Error message: Machine is locked due to an error:
[2021-05-31 21:07:58.919] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => DDCutDaemon::Thread_StartMilling(649) - MILLING THREAD - End
[2021-05-31 21:07:58.919] [LOGGER] [info] 25736 => DDCutDaemon::GetMillingStatus(690) - ERROR: Machine is locked due to an error:

Homing failures with a lack of pull-off from the switches is usually caused by either an alarm flag that hasn't cleared since an earlier operation, or the pull-off value is too small. Are these with the 2.1 modular switch mounts and Mk3/RepRap mechanical switches?

For the former, hard resetting the controller usually works for all sticky alarms (pulling USB power for at least 15 seconds, swapping USB ports/restarting DDCut, and then using the reset button on the shield recommended all at once to simplify things).

For the latter, using GRBLController, UGS, or a terminal to add to the pull-off is recommended ('$27=1.5' to start, then increasing in 0.5mm increments if needed). Typically doesn't come up with the Mk3 endstops, but some folks have been using other switches and mounts and it's a worthwhile troubleshooting method just in case.

Here is a pic of the MakerBot endstop switches I've purchased (Amazon - I bought a 5 pack) I used the 2.1 printed mounts where the x is on the right side and the y/z mount on the spindle carriage.  I also tried several resets and the log appears to show that the alarms are cleared. I probably need to learn to read the log so I can better understand where it is failing.

Unfortunately a lot of the routines called by $ and standard Gcode commands are handled entirely on the Arduino end, so there's limited info to be gleaned from the serial log. In this case;

Quote :

[2021-05-31 21:07:52.754] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: $H
[2021-05-31 21:07:57.906] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ALARM: Homing fail
[2021-05-31 21:07:57.906] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GRBL1_0::ProcessPushMessage(55) - Processing: ALARM: Homing fail
[2021-05-31 21:07:57.906] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GRBL1_0::ProcessPushMessage(63) - Alarm: Homing fail
[2021-05-31 21:07:57.907] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => MillingManager::StartMilling(19) - GhostException: Alarm: unknown - Homing fail
[2021-05-31 21:07:58.918] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::FlushReads(143) -

The $H runs the home subroutine set in the GRBL install as Z, then X and Y, and then immediately after reads the ALARM:Homing Fail
Usually it should send a state change for the Z-switch being tripped, was this one of the instances of the machine starting up and you calling $H with the Z-switch already being closed?

EEM-LLC wrote:

Unfortunately a lot of the routines called by $ and standard Gcode commands are handled entirely on the Arduino end, so there's limited info to be gleaned from the serial log. In this case;

Quote :

[2021-05-31 21:07:52.754] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::WriteLine(84) - Writing: $H
[2021-05-31 21:07:57.906] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GhostConnection::ReadResponse(373) - RCV: ALARM: Homing fail
[2021-05-31 21:07:57.906] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GRBL1_0::ProcessPushMessage(55) - Processing: ALARM: Homing fail
[2021-05-31 21:07:57.906] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => GRBL1_0::ProcessPushMessage(63) - Alarm: Homing fail
[2021-05-31 21:07:57.907] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => MillingManager::StartMilling(19) - GhostException: Alarm: unknown - Homing fail
[2021-05-31 21:07:58.918] [LOGGER] [info] MILLING_THREAD => SerialConnection::Imp::FlushReads(143) -

The $H runs the home subroutine set in the GRBL install as Z, then X and Y, and then immediately after reads the ALARM:Homing Fail
Usually it should send a state change for the Z-switch being tripped, was this one of the instances of the machine starting up and you calling $H with the Z-switch already being closed?

Yes, I believe that the Z was closed already.

Hi Patkelley, did you ever get your flex to HOME?

I have been having the same problem for MONTHS with no resolve. I have edited the value to $27=2.5 which got Z and Y to home correctly. My problem is with X, it moves up and down a tiny bit while Y is moving right. Y will home. But X just does nothing and normally just sits there with very small movements up or down and then HOME ends.

When DDcut tries to move Y to center and X to bottom in order to start the bit insertion and jig install, X just bangs on the bottom of the machine.

Other times it goes up and bangs on the top. Does not stop trying to move even when I manually click the limit switch (which I even replaced).

I have other posts but saw yours and thought maybe you solved your issue as I have nearly given up.

patkelley wrote:

My Flex is failing when homing - any help would be awesome:

- ERROR: Machine is locked due to an error:

I just answered this in another post: Your axis thinks the limit is clicked on because your endstop switch wires are picking up noise from your stepper motors. Move all your limit switch wires as far away from stepper motor wires as you can. Should solve your home and machine lock issues. May have to run the DDcut reset code and new firmware to clear out before trying again. It will home. But after home going full Z back, Y right, X up. It will move X full down and crash at the end as the X axis does not have as far as travel as a Ghost does. It will click at the bottom trying to keep going. Its fine. That has not thrown off level and proceeded to probe just fine for me. Peace.

HueJass wrote:

patkelley wrote:

My Flex is failing when homing - any help would be awesome:

- ERROR: Machine is locked due to an error:

I just answered this in another post: Your axis thinks the limit is clicked on because your endstop switch wires are picking up noise from your stepper motors. Move all your limit switch wires as far away from stepper motor wires as you can. Should solve your home and machine lock issues. May have to run the DDcut reset code and new firmware to clear out before trying again. It will home. But after home going full Z back, Y right, X up. It will move X full down and crash at the end as the X axis does not have as far as travel as a Ghost does. It will click at the bottom trying to keep going. Its fine. That has not thrown off level and proceeded to probe just fine for me. Peace.

I re-oriented all of the limit switch wires as you requested and it had no effect. The Z limit works as expected, but both the x and y appear to fail. I am going to try to change the delay time on those switches and see if that helps.

patkelley wrote:

HueJass wrote:

patkelley wrote:

My Flex is failing when homing - any help would be awesome:

- ERROR: Machine is locked due to an error:

I just answered this in another post: Your axis thinks the limit is clicked on because your endstop switch wires are picking up noise from your stepper motors. Move all your limit switch wires as far away from stepper motor wires as you can. Should solve your home and machine lock issues. May have to run the DDcut reset code and new firmware to clear out before trying again. It will home. But after home going full Z back, Y right, X up. It will move X full down and crash at the end as the X axis does not have as far as travel as a Ghost does. It will click at the bottom trying to keep going. Its fine. That has not thrown off level and proceeded to probe just fine for me. Peace.

I re-oriented all of the limit switch wires as you requested and it had no effect.  The Z limit works as expected, but both the x and y appear to fail.  I am going to try to change the delay time on those switches and see if that helps.

After a hard reset to clear the alarm flag, changing the pull back value of $27, and adjusting the wiring in case of noise (if one of those did fix the actual physical issue) the firmware re-install may be required. The alarm flags seem particularly stubborn on some installs, but usually clears up after some combination of resets and reinstalls.
I'm starting to suspect that the "Machine Locked due to Error" alarm is actually a higher level error flag in the DD firmware (not a standard GRBL alarm definition), so it's possible to clear the GRBL alarm that locks the machine with $X but get the error message when in DDCut. Have had this reported with a couple machines now where users have been able to move and home manually in GRBL-Controller and UGS after doing $X, but then hit a lock error at the X/Y stage when trying to $H within DDCut. Reinstalling firmware fixed both of those particular issues.

EEM-LLC wrote:

patkelley wrote:

HueJass wrote:

patkelley wrote:

My Flex is failing when homing - any help would be awesome:

- ERROR: Machine is locked due to an error:

I just answered this in another post: Your axis thinks the limit is clicked on because your endstop switch wires are picking up noise from your stepper motors. Move all your limit switch wires as far away from stepper motor wires as you can. Should solve your home and machine lock issues. May have to run the DDcut reset code and new firmware to clear out before trying again. It will home. But after home going full Z back, Y right, X up. It will move X full down and crash at the end as the X axis does not have as far as travel as a Ghost does. It will click at the bottom trying to keep going. Its fine. That has not thrown off level and proceeded to probe just fine for me. Peace.

I re-oriented all of the limit switch wires as you requested and it had no effect.  The Z limit works as expected, but both the x and y appear to fail.  I am going to try to change the delay time on those switches and see if that helps.

After a hard reset to clear the alarm flag, changing the pull back value of $27, and adjusting the wiring in case of noise (if one of those did fix the actual physical issue) the firmware re-install may be required. The alarm flags seem particularly stubborn on some installs, but usually clears up after some combination of resets and reinstalls.
I'm starting to suspect that the "Machine Locked due to Error" alarm is actually a higher level error flag in the DD firmware (not a standard GRBL alarm definition), so it's possible to clear the GRBL alarm that locks the machine with $X but get the error message when in DDCut. Have had this reported with a couple machines now where users have been able to move and home manually in GRBL-Controller and UGS after doing $X, but then hit a lock error at the X/Y stage when trying to $H within DDCut. Reinstalling firmware fixed both of those particular issues.

SUCCESS!!!!

I completed the following steps:
1) Firmware reinstall (DD2v7.hex) using XLoader - my Flex is on COM5 for the laptop I'm using. Get the settings correct by following the DD firmware guide.
2) Updated the $27 to 1.5 using GRBL - again get the COM port and baud rate correct then complete the reset ('$RST=*') then command '$27=1.5'

Sent command '$H' in GRBL and the machine homed perfectly.

Closed GRBL, opened DDCut and it homes correctly there as well.

Thanks to all for your advice, now onto some actual work.