# Setting Hard Limits

Before we run any cued motion, it’s time to set the hard limits. Hard limits should be set for any machine you have - save for a turntable. The Hard Limits will stop the machine in case it loses its home position or there is an encoder failure prior to crashing.

![](https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/slF9ym0K1Qy9RWXOJbtOXdRCDLPnFOx6lyppvZCZA-40F-7zd94sUiqLpSHhIJTRFF9JsDZDZuOVioa52Jp_4R6JMhlYaEeJsod0OkaaebmdMBmg3EcRhM__HdTJGPhCNSYVmGtt=s0)

{% hint style="warning" %}
**When setting limits, always allow yourself some room for overtravel.**
{% endhint %}

Start by checking that Spikemark reads the limits correctly by actuating each one individually and verifying that Spikemark reads that limit correctly.

When a limit switch is engaged, you will see a red indicator arrow. Once the switch is cleared the arrow will return to Green.

When either of the Ultimate (ULT) limits are activated, you will see a limit symbol next to the motor name in the Stagehand Properties Panel, and in the Motor Icon on the Cue Grid. When cleared, the icon will resume the normal status of the motor.

Once all limits are verified working, slowly jog to the scenic unit to the furthest safe extents of travel. Place your hard limits accordingly and when space allows, allow for 6” to 12” of overtravel past the limit. This gives you a little bit of space to allow the unit to come to a stop once that limit is activated. If your machine move slowly, you can reduce this extra space.

{% hint style="info" %}
Be ready to stop the movement immediately if you jog past the location where you want the unit to stop.
{% endhint %}

Once the limit is physically placed, manually jog the unit back off the limit. Verify that Spikemark no longer registers that limit, and then manually jog the unit on the limit again. Verify that the unit stops where you need it to stop. Repeat this for each hard limit.


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