Machsupport Forum

Mach Discussion => Mach SDK plugin questions and answers. => Topic started by: Leed3 on October 04, 2009, 08:07:01 PM

Title: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on October 04, 2009, 08:07:01 PM
The following is a general explanation for those who have basic questions about the XBox360 Controller.  If you are considering the XBox360 Controller plugin, hopefully, you will find this information useful.

Answers to questions I received:
1.       Microsoft makes an “Xbox360 Controller for Windows” as well as a plain Xbox360 controller.  They also make a wireless version.  They are really the same controller.  The difference is the adapters they ship with the product.  The Xbox360 controller for Windows comes with a USB adapter.  I have included some EBay pictures below.  You want to get a Microsoft brand not a Logitech or anybody else’s version.
2.       If you have an Xbox 360 you can use the wireless controller but you need to buy the little rectangular transmitter shown in the wireless pictures below.  You can find those on Ebay also.  Microsoft makes a Wireless Charger for the Xbox 360 controller.  It has a USB end.  You do not want to use that one on a pc.   It is only for use on the Xbox 360.  You cannot use an older Xbox controller.  It has to be 360.
3.       It will work off of any pc that has a USB port and can run XP or higher.
4.       It can control the jogging of all 4 axes.  The buttons can be assigned to macros.  It is a lot easier than pushing the buttons on the keyboard to jog.
5.       If you go to the Mach site and pick ”Plugins” under the “Downloads” choice.  Then go to the bottom and pick the plugin.  Also pick the setup guide.  It will give you all the info you need.  Click on the plugin and it will install itself.  All it really does is copy a file “Xbox360Controller.DLL” into the C:\Mach3\Plugins folder.  You can do the same thing by going to Lee’s files and downloading the Zip file and then unzipping it and then copying it into C:\Mach3\Plugins.
6.        Click on the blue “DirectX redistributables” link to go to Microsoft’s site.  Download and install the redistributable (even if you are running Vista or Win 7). After installing the download, you can connect the Xbox360 controller (if you are connected to the Internet) and then allow the pc to go on the net and find the driver.  If you are not connected to the net then download the “Xbox360_32Eng.exe” file and run it.  Then connect the Controller.
7.       It does not hurt to install the “DirectX redistributable” even if you do not have a 360 controller.

Thank you.
Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: hunserv on October 12, 2009, 11:53:55 AM
Hi Lee,

I have a few questions:
Can I freely assign buttons/sticks to OEM codes?
If I understand well, the plugin only works with the MICROSOFT XBOX 360 controller, right? (W.g. not with the Logitech rumble pad)

I am thinking about purchasing a wireless XBOX360 controller, if I can assign OEM codes then I think it will be a better choice than a handwheel pendant...

Btw. I miss the pictures, did you forget to attach? :)
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on October 12, 2009, 12:22:28 PM
Hi Hunserv,

First, the pictures were attached as links in the narrative.  I guess the forum stripped them off.  Anyway the thing to search for on EBay is "Xbox360 Controller For Windows".  For the wireless, you need the the controller of course and also the little white rectangular wireless receiver that is often shown in the pictures.  It has the Microsoft logo on the top and a small white button near the middle.  The official name for the receiver is is "Microsoft XBox 360 Wireless Receiver For Windows".  I have tried to make some other brands work but the problem comes down to drivers and header files supplied by the vendor.  All I have to do on my end is add the ProductID and VendorId.  But if the vendor supplied header files are are different on 2 different Mach users pcs then the plugin may work fine on one pc and not work at all on another.  So I have found it easier to just say "Microsoft Only". 

The plugin supports Custom OEMs and Custom Macros.  You can download and install the plugin and look at the config section even if you do not have a controller plugged in.

Good luck
Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: hunserv on October 12, 2009, 12:29:02 PM
Thanks for the explanation!

So far I have checked it only at one shop, there the controller was packed together with that wireless reciever... so I guess I'll go for it. Just have to find another shop, here I see price differences of 10 USD...
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: hunserv on October 12, 2009, 12:52:03 PM
Well, I am not a programming guy, but if only Vendor and Prodct ID-s are to be added, then can't you just make 2 fields in the config window for them, and (if I get it well) other controllers could be used as well???? (and these infos can be read out at the driver info in windows, no?)
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on October 12, 2009, 01:46:49 PM
The problem is not the ProductId and VendorId but rather trying to support different users pc configurations.  If you have a ProductId and a VendorID I can certainly add it and send you a copy of the modified plugin.  But, if it doesn't work right, you will have to troubleshoot it yourself.

Your suggestion could be done but it would involve considerable rework and I would have to charge for it.

FYI - the EBay selling price is usually about $40.00 US. for the wireless controller package.

--------------------------------------
Well, I am not a programming guy, but if only Vendor and Prodct ID-s are to be added, then can't you just make 2 fields in the config window for them, and (if I get it well) other controllers could be used as well? (and these infos can be read out at the driver info in windows, no?)
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: hunserv on October 13, 2009, 10:50:23 AM
Thanks for the answers!
So it does not worth the trouble, then I`ll go for the Microsoft XBOX controller. (Here in Hungary wired controller costs 58 USD, wireless package w. reciever is around 80 USD...)

A few more questions I have after I checked the plugin in MACH:

-There are a large number of choices of actions to mate buttons. Is it possible to have one button as a toggle button for CYCLE START / FEEDHOLD ?
-Triggers on the controller act as switches, right? (only analogs are the 2 thumbsticks?)
-Wouldn`t it be possible to add configurability to the pushbuttons on the thumbsticks and thet 4direction switch under the left stick?
-PC does not recognize the large X button in the middle?

Thanks!
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on October 13, 2009, 12:16:33 PM
1. I would get the controller from EBay.  It is cheaper and some vendors will ship for free.
2. One button for Cycle start/feedhold is not something I care to implement.  However, I think adding the seperate choices of Cycle start and feedhold is a good idea and I will look at it and see if I can implement it.
3.Triggers are analog also.  Check manual for how they are used.
4. Configuring the pushbutton on the thumbstick is not something I want to do.  The 4 direction switch (thumbpad) is already configured. Check manual.


Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: hunserv on October 13, 2009, 12:38:24 PM
THanks for the answers.
After I bought a controller I shall be happy with the current config as well I guess, I was just "brainstorming" about versatile setting possibilities, as start/hold, or e.g. tap on thumbstick could make step/normal jog, 4dir buttons could be then any other button, etc..
but as i have not used a controller yet, I have no experience of what would be really handy. I just start with what`s available.
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: hunserv on October 14, 2009, 02:54:12 PM
Hi Lee,

If you don't mind, I've some more questions:

When assigning buttons: RUN FILE, REWIND, STOP FILE, PAUSE, SINGLE STEP are the same as cycle start, rewind, Stop, Feedhold, Single block buttons, or some other code?
There are also a few more options I do not get the meaning in the config of the controller... (jog mode onc/cont/mpg, touch tool, jog increment++ etc...)

Somewhere there should be a list of OEM codes, would that help understanding all these expressions?

Last one for today:

I have on the standard screenset FRO and spindle speed control. I do not see the jog % or jog speed settings... where should I see those? At the moment I guess they are at max, as trigger does not change jog speed on the contoller...
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on October 14, 2009, 03:14:23 PM
Yes the buttons are the same.  The next updat that will appear today or tomorrow renames Run File to cycle start and Pause to Feedhold.  Once you are up and running the button options will soon become clear.

Jog Override appears on different screens depending upon which screenset you have.  You will usually see 100% and a plus and minus button near it.  The default is 100% and at that point the triggers do not do anything.  I use the Insomniac screen and the jog override is on the second tab.

If you check the Wiki under Resources on this site you will see documentation that lists all the codes.  There are also some good manuals describing all about how Mach works.

Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: hunserv on October 14, 2009, 04:03:44 PM
Thanks again, that clears some confusion :)
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: TDAY on November 23, 2009, 08:05:50 AM
Hello Lee,
 Just hooked up controller and works real nice. :)
One question...
I would like to make the Right Thumb stick to Inc Jog the Z axis."If you want to Incremental jog the right Tumbstick then you have to
assign that to one of the buttons.
" How? I dont see it in the options.

Thanks,
Troy
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on November 24, 2009, 01:11:19 PM
Hi Troy,

You should see some options such as "Jog - Right Stick SideToSide","Jog+ Right Stick UpDown", etc.  Try those.  If that doesn't do what you want, let me know.

Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: TDAY on November 24, 2009, 02:14:14 PM
"Jog+ Right Stick UpDown" That done what i needed, iwas looking for somthin that would be worded with INC movement or somthin, but anyhow, thanks much.
Troy
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: TDAY on November 24, 2009, 02:20:05 PM
Lee,
 Was wondering if the "Jog+ Right Stick UpDown" & "Jog- Right Stick UpDown" could be added to the Right Jog stick Left ,Right movement?
Or make the Jog sticks be able to toggle from Step to Continuous and so forth?

Thanks,
Troy
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on November 24, 2009, 04:35:36 PM
Hi Troy,

Look at the other options.  You will find everything you need (Left, Right, Up, and Down).  You will also find a choice to allow you to press a button to shift the right thumbstick in and out of incremental mode.

Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: TDAY on November 25, 2009, 07:00:13 AM
Sorry  :(, but i still dont see it.Is this done with a Macro or somthin?

Hi Troy,

"You will also find a choice to allow you to press a button to shift the right thumbstick in and out of incremental mode.

Lee"


Thanks,
Troy
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on November 25, 2009, 04:39:02 PM
Hi Troy,

Try this option "Jog Mode Inc/Cont/MPG".  Assign that to a button.  Each time the button is pressed it will change Mach to the next mode ( Incremental - continuous - MPG).  It effects all axes.  Let me know if that does what you want.  I am away from my computer until next Tues.  So, if it does not meet your needs then please wait until next Tues to post a response so that it will be at the top of my email when I return.

Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: TDAY on December 01, 2009, 07:09:46 AM
Hi Troy,

Try this option "Jog Mode Inc/Cont/MPG".  Assign that to a button.  Each time the button is pressed it will change Mach to the next mode ( Incremental - continuous - MPG).

Lee

Hello Lee,
  I tried the above and it has no affect on the jog sticks. Iam using a wired Xbox 360, does this matter?
Thanks again,
Troy

Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on December 06, 2009, 12:04:43 AM
Hi Troy,

Sorry for not getting back to you sooner.  If you want to jog the axes assigned to the right thumbstick, here is an example:

Assign Right Stick  - Side to Side as "Select Z Axis"
Assign Right Stick - Up and Down Axis as "Select A axis"
Assign X Btn as "Jog - Right Stick Side To Side"
Assign B Btn as "Jog + Right Stick Side To Side"
Assign Y Btn as "Jog + Right Stick UpDown"
Assign A Btn as 'Jog - Right Stick UpDown"

Now when you move the Right thumbstick, it will move at regular speed as before.  When you want to jog, you press the A, B, X or Y buttons accordingly (leave the thumbstick alone) and the axis will jog accordingly.  I may look at an alternative way of doing it after Christmas.

Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on December 11, 2009, 01:40:49 AM
Hi Troy and all,
I have placed a new version of the plugin in the Files section of the Yahoo group.
It is for testing.  If I get no negative reports on it then I'll have it posted to the Artsoft site in a few days.

It is in "Files > VS2005 - VS2008 > Lee's Files"

It is named Xbox360TestVer.zip

It fixes a B and C axis problem and adds a new function. If you push the left or right Thumbstick in, the thumbstick will shift into the jog mode until you press it in again.

I think it will answer the concern about jogging.

If you download it, all I ask is that you test it and let me know what you find (good or bad).

Thanks
Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: JWC on February 15, 2010, 12:30:33 PM
I
The following is a general explanation for those who have basic questions about the XBox360 Controller.  If you are considering the XBox360 Controller plugin, hopefully, you will find this information useful.
Answers to questions I received:
1.       Microsoft makes an “Xbox360 Controller for Windows” as well as a plain Xbox360 controller.  They also make a wireless version.  They are really the same controller.  The difference is the adapters they ship with the product.  The Xbox360 controller for Windows comes with a USB adapter.  I have included some EBay pictures below.  You want to get a Microsoft brand not a Logitech or anybody else’s version.
2.       If you have an Xbox 360 you can use the wireless controller but you need to buy the little rectangular transmitter shown in the wireless pictures below.  You can find those on Ebay also.  Microsoft makes a Wireless Charger for the Xbox 360 controller.  It has a USB end.  You do not want to use that one on a pc.   It is only for use on the Xbox 360.  You cannot use an older Xbox controller.  It has to be 360.
3.       It will work off of any pc that has a USB port and can run XP or higher.
4.       It can control the jogging of all 4 axes.  The buttons can be assigned to macros.  It is a lot easier than pushing the buttons on the keyboard to jog.
5.       If you go to the Mach site and pick ”Plugins” under the “Downloads” choice.  Then go to the bottom and pick the plugin.  Also pick the setup guide.  It will give you all the info you need.  Click on the plugin and it will install itself.  All it really does is copy a file “Xbox360Controller.DLL” into the C:\Mach3\Plugins folder.  You can do the same thing by going to Lee’s files and downloading the Zip file and then unzipping it and then copying it into C:\Mach3\Plugins.
6.        Click on the blue “DirectX redistributables” link to go to Microsoft’s site.  Download and install the redistributable (even if you are running Vista or Win 7). After installing the download, you can connect the Xbox360 controller (if you are connected to the Internet) and then allow the pc to go on the net and find the driver.  If you are not connected to the net then download the “Xbox360_32Eng.exe” file and run it.  Then connect the Controller.
7.       It does not hurt to install the “DirectX redistributable” even if you do not have a 360 controller.

Thank you.
Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: JWC on February 15, 2010, 12:45:31 PM
I INSTALLED XBOX 360 CD. WINDOWS SEES IT OK. UPDATED DIRECTX 9.0C . DOWNLOADED PLUGIN. IN MACH3/PUGINS THE FULDER IS THERE. GO TO CONFIGER PLUGINS NO XBOX 360 PROGRAM.  :(
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on February 15, 2010, 03:49:05 PM
Hi,

Is the file "XBox360Controller.DLL" in the \Plugins folder?  It needs to be there before Mach can see it.  It is inside the plugin when you run the plugin.  If it is not there, try downloading and running the plugin again.  For Windows7 you may have to pick "Run As Administrator"

Lee

I INSTALLED XBOX 360 CD. WINDOWS SEES IT OK. UPDATED DIRECTX 9.0C . DOWNLOADED PLUGIN. IN MACH3/PUGINS THE FULDER IS THERE. GO TO CONFIGER PLUGINS NO XBOX 360 PROGRAM.  :(
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: JWC on February 16, 2010, 08:16:08 AM
HI LEE, NO DLL IN PLUGINS ONLY  M3P. TRIDED TO REDOWNLOAD NO RUN ,ONLY SAVE FILE. I AM RUNNING XP (SP3) ON A TOSHIBA SATELLITE PRO LAPTOP. IS THE LAPTOP THE PROBLEM? CAN YOU E-MAIL ME THE DLL? THANKS JWC
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on February 16, 2010, 12:35:16 PM
I have uploaded the latest version to the Yahoo Mach site.  It is under Files\VS2005-VS2008\Lee's Files and is named Xbox360Controller.zip.  Just download it, expand it and copy the DLL into the \Plugins folder.  Don't worry about any folders under \Plugins

Lee

HI LEE, NO DLL IN PLUGINS ONLY  M3P. TRIDED TO REDOWNLOAD NO RUN ,ONLY SAVE FILE. I AM RUNNING XP (SP3) ON A TOSHIBA SATELLITE PRO LAPTOP. IS THE LAPTOP THE PROBLEM? CAN YOU E-MAIL ME THE DLL? THANKS JWC
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: JWC on February 17, 2010, 01:38:07 PM
HI LEE, THE FILE VS2005-VS2008 WORKS GRATE. THANKS JIM
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: beerman on April 29, 2010, 09:55:11 PM
Could you please add MadCatz Game Pad VENDORID 0X1BAD  PRODUCTID 0XF016
I pick up a used one for 20 bucks at a local game stop.

Thank you
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on April 30, 2010, 12:30:58 AM
Hi Beerman,

The MadCatx gamepad has been added. I have uploaded the latest version to the Yahoo Mach site.  It is under Files\VS2005-VS2008\Lee's Files and is named Xbox360Controller.zip.  Just download it, expand it and copy the DLL into the \Plugins folder.  Don't worry about any folders under \Plugins

Lee

Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: eric282000 on May 05, 2010, 09:25:45 PM
Hi Lee,
      i am trying to use your plug-in with ajaxcnc  plug-in. everything works fine except continuous jogging. can you tell me how your plug-in performs continuous jogging? is there a way to read the continuous jogging From  vb or brains? in the ajax plug-in the jogging keys are mapped in brains to the hardware. thanks for any help.
thanks
Eric
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on May 05, 2010, 10:06:10 PM
Hi Eric,

I am not familiar with ajaxcnc.  I assume you are talking about jogging with the thumbsticks.  If the thumbstick position is above a minimum value then  I send the following to Mach ---- Code("DOJOG");------

The plugin SDK conatains example plugins.  I used those (especially the joystick plugin) as a basis to develop my code.  The actual lines sent to Mach are:

Engine->Axis[CurrentAxis].Dec = false;
Engine->Axis[CurrentAxis].Jogging = true;
Engine->Axis[CurrentAxis].JoggDir = Direction;  
Code("DOJOG");

Direction is determined by evaluating which way the Thumbstick is pushed.

Hope that answers your question,


Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: eric282000 on May 06, 2010, 09:29:24 PM
Hi Lee,
   I tried reading Engine->Axis[0].Jogging and Engine->Axis[0].JoggDir
to tell if the controller was jogging. I works as long a you are using the printer port driver.
When I switch to my hardware from ajaxcnc.com their plugin does the motion and
Engine->Axis[0].Jogging always stay false even if I jog with the keyboard.
Is their any way to have you modify a plugin that when you do continious jog you
Use the folowing commands?

Engine->InSigs[29].Activated=true; // for jogging x positive
Engine->InSigs[29].Activated=false; // to stop jogging x positive
Engine->InSigs[30].Activated=true; // for jogging x negative
Engine->InSigs[30].Activated=false; // to stop jogging x negative
Engine->InSigs[31].Activated=true; // for jogging y positive
Engine->InSigs[31].Activated=false; // to stop jogging x positive
Engine->InSigs[32].Activated=true; // for jogging y negative
Engine->InSigs[32].Activated=false; // to stop jogging x negative
Engine->InSigs[33].Activated=true; // for jogging z positive
Engine->InSigs[33].Activated=false; // to stop jogging x positive
Engine->InSigs[34].Activated=true; // for jogging z negative
Engine->InSigs[34].Activated=false; // to stop jogging x negative

And when either of the lower triggers are pulled use the following commands?

Engine->InSigs[35].Activated=true; // for fast jog
Engine->InSigs[35].Activated=false; // for slow jog
Or the source for the driver and I can modify.
Thanks
Eric
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on May 07, 2010, 12:21:16 AM
Hi Eric,

First of all, the source is not available - Sorry.  Second, I have uploaded a file to the Yahoo group Files section -VS2005-VS2008 Lee's Files.  It is named AjaxVer.zip.  It contains the XBox360Controller.DLL that I have modifiied to include using INSIGS.  Give it a try and see how it works.  Copy the DLL into the Mach3\Plugins folder and try it.  Let me know how it goes.

Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: eric282000 on May 07, 2010, 08:28:05 AM
hi Lee,
       i gave it a quick try this morning and every thing appears to be working fine.
i will test more this evening.

thank you
Eric
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: eric282000 on May 07, 2010, 02:50:01 PM
Hi lee,
   After further testing this is what I have found. Axis reversal does not work on sticks when in incremental jogging. It works fine on thumb pad and sticks in continuous jogging. When right stick up and down is set to z axis and you jog and release machine continues to jog. If you jog the other direction both jogging outputs stay on. Maybe a dead band problem. If you set right stick side to side to z axis it works fine.
Thanks
Eric
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on May 07, 2010, 06:58:12 PM
Hi Eric,

If we look at jogging problem only, what code is neccessary to shift in and out of jog?  I use:

Engine->IncrementalJog = true;
and I get the MainPlanner->m_Increment to determine the amount to Incrementally Jog
I also use Block.Format("G91G1 %s %.4f, CurrentLeftVertAxis,increment);
Code(Block);
if(WasG90) Code("G90");

Thanks
Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: eric282000 on May 07, 2010, 09:28:55 PM

Hi Lee,
      May be you miss understood incremental jogging works fine. just when you select the axis reversal in the config it reverses incremental jogging from thumb pad and reverses continuous jogging from sticks.
if you press down on sticks to go to incremental jogging the axis are not reversed any longer or if you switch to incremental jogging in mach the incremental jogging from the sticks are not reversed.
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on May 07, 2010, 11:02:56 PM
Hi Eric,

Thank you for pointing that problem out.  I have posted a new version for you to test.  It is in the same place as before and is named AjaxVer2.zip.  Please give it a try.  Besides responding to your jogging concerns, i made a couple of other mods to the INSIGS code.

Let me know what you find.

Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: eric282000 on May 08, 2010, 08:10:06 AM
hi Lee,
       that took care of the problems. thanks for your fast replies and great work.

Eric
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on May 08, 2010, 10:55:53 AM
Hi Eric,

Your welcome.  Run it through its paces and keep me posted.  If you find nothing else wrong in the next week or so, then I'll have it uploaded as a new version to the Mach plugin page.

Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: RadiantHeat on May 21, 2010, 07:41:36 AM
a basic question. does the 360 controller output analog data for the axis's ?
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on May 21, 2010, 11:39:58 AM
The XBox360 controller thumbsticks are analog.  My plugin uses them as analog.

Note to all: New plugin has been posted.................
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: RadiantHeat on May 30, 2010, 01:42:35 PM
WOW ! that is some job you did. I love my new controller system. Thanks.  One question. I bought a Radio Shack Wired Controller.  there is a deadband on my thumbsticks , near the center. Is there a way to see the 'analog' output values coming into the mach3, perhaps on a DRO or from VB ? , and is there a way to adjust that deadband ?
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on May 30, 2010, 03:53:25 PM
Thank you for the kind words.  The answer to your question is :
Yes it is possible. But that capability is not available in the current version.  I'll think about putting it a future version.  That does not mean that the values would be adjustable just viewable.  You should compare your controller with a friends XBox360 controller.   You may find that the XBox360 controller range and dead zone is more to your liking.  The XBox360 controller is set so that when it is pushed all the way, Mach is running at full speed (same as keyboard).  If you want to go slower, you can always set the "Slow Jog Rate" (usually on Mach's Diagnostics page) to somewhere around 50% (or whatever you like). Remember Trigger overrides Slow Jog.

Later
Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Haik on June 09, 2010, 12:32:00 AM
Wonderful and Awesome!!  Your concept for using the Xbox controller as a pendant and your design and engineering of the plugin make for a hassle-free and enjoyable setup.  In use the Xbox controller is responsive and has enough surface area (sticks, switches, etc.) to provide extended remote control of my large format CNC Router.
Anyone reading this should give the Xbox controller a try... I had tried profusely to get Pokeys/PoPendant 1 to work well and the reality is their interface is not up to the job of running a pendant on my machine and the latency was just scary at times.

I do have a question; I'm wanting a controller that has the smoothest and most progressive feel in its sticks. Which brand/model controller do you recommend (Microsoft, MadCatz, etc.)?

Thank you very much!
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on June 09, 2010, 12:43:15 AM
Thank you for the kind words.  I suggest Microsoft. That is what I use and it moves smoothly.  I have not tried any of the others so I cannot give you a valid comparison.  Perhaps someone who has tried the other controls will offer some input.

Lee
Title: Xbox 360 plugin is the best
Post by: zafarsalam on June 24, 2010, 11:14:03 AM
Hi Lee,

Your Xbox 360 controller plugin is too good. I have designed a few screens and macros to utilize it. I use it to center a job on my mill and the screens help me manipulate the dro's from a distance. I can zero an axis and make it's value half (handy for centering a job) with it. Here are the screenshots. If anyone is interested, I can upload the screen sets and the macros. Please note that these screens don't give the full functionality of Mach3 as in 1024 screen set. I have designed them keeping in mind the functions I use on my mill.

Zafar
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on June 24, 2010, 11:35:49 AM
Hi Zafar,

Sounds interesting.  Please upload them and let us know where you put them. I will take a look at it.

Thanks
Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: zafarsalam on June 24, 2010, 11:16:51 PM
I've uploaded the screen set. You can download it from http://www.machsupport.com/forum/index.php/topic,14049.msg101605.html#msg101605

Zafar


Hi Zafar,

Sounds interesting.  Please upload them and let us know where you put them. I will take a look at it.

Thanks
Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on June 24, 2010, 11:27:21 PM
Hi Zafar

Thanks. I'll look at it soon.

Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: atwooddon on July 31, 2010, 07:32:59 PM
Lee, thank you for your efforts in developing the XBox pendant plugin.  I see many are using it successfully.

I 'liberated' my kids wired XBox controller (actually a MadCatz) when they got the wireless controllers and have downloaded and installed the XBox plugin in Mach3\Plugin as well as the drivers from Microsoft for the XBox controllers.  My system recognizes the controller, it is calibrated but when I start Mach3, I get an error saying 'Plugin DLL Defective. Reload' followed by 'XBox360Controller.dll - Defective Plugin Found..ingoreing.."   Mach3 then starts but there is no XBox plugin listed to configure.

My system is Windows XP Home Edition - SP3, Mach3 Ver R3.042.040

I have downloaded and reinstalled the XBox plugin, recalibrated the controller, etc, but no joy.  Any help you can provide will be appreciated.  I searched the forums about XBox controller but could not find a similar problem.

Thanks   Don
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on July 31, 2010, 10:51:53 PM
Hi Don,

You are welcome. What is the VendorId and ProductID?  They can be found in the Device Manager (control Panel - System).  Also make sure that you downloaded and installed the SDK mentioned on the Plugin page next to my plugin.

Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: atwooddon on August 01, 2010, 01:16:12 PM
I downloaded and updated the DirectX files/system and all works fine right now.  Thanks for the help.  I responded to this thread last night but I see my post did not make it to the thread.

Lee, once again thanks for your help.

Don
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: alpineboard on November 27, 2011, 10:43:29 AM
Hi, I am trying to get the xbox360 plugin to work. The wireless controller I have is a sony sixaxis and is working (talking) with my pc using XP with a bluetooth dongle,  I am entering the vid and pid I got from device manager, then closing/open mach3 but it does not hold the values, it resets back to zeroes, and it does not dither the found/none controller option box, I did use Xpadder to get it temporary running but am concerned of safety. Is there something simple That I am missing here? As I would like to be able to use the plugin with all the options it has, Thank you, Robert
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on November 27, 2011, 11:47:34 AM
Were you able to solve your problem?  The plugin works with those devices that use the Microsoft XInput header.  Many clone controllers use the same commands and structures as the Microsoft Controller.  That is why they work with the plugin.  I suspect that the Sony uses its own drivers based upon a different set of commands.  Therefore the plugin cannot see it.   Especially since it is for the playstation and not the XBox360.  I think you just need to get a different controller.

Lee

Hi, I am trying to get the xbox360 plugin to work. The wireless controller I have is a sony sixaxis and is working (talking) with my pc using XP with a bluetooth dongle,  I am entering the vid and pid I got from device manager, then closing/open mach3 but it does not hold the values, it resets back to zeroes, and it does not dither the found/none controller option box, I did use Xpadder to get it temporary running but am concerned of safety. Is there something simple That I am missing here? As I would like to be able to use the plugin with all the options it has, Thank you, Robert
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: alpineboard on November 27, 2011, 10:05:38 PM
Thanks for your prompt response, I think I will get a xbox360 controller, wired or wireless,  in time and extra$, if I get the wireless do you think my bluetooth dongle will talk with the xbox360 controller? reply when you can. thank you, Robert
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on November 27, 2011, 10:46:52 PM
If you get an "XBox360 Wireless Controller For Windows" it includes a USB transceiver.  They are about $40.00 on EBay.  If you only get the Wireless Controller then you will have to also buy the USB transceiver.  It does not work with a Bluetooth dongle.
Here is a link to the right one

http://www.ebay.com/itm/XBox-360-Wireless-Controller-Windows-Original-Pack-/320691218375?pt=AU_Video_Game_Accessories&hash=item4aaaafa7c7

Notice the small white rectanglular item above the controller.
 
Lee

Thanks for your prompt response, I think I will get a xbox360 controller, wired or wireless,  in time and extra$, if I get the wireless do you think my bluetooth dongle will talk with the xbox360 controller? reply when you can. thank you, Robert
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: drafterman on March 02, 2012, 11:21:58 PM
I installed the Xbox360 plugin without any issues (using a Microsoft Xbox360 wireless for Windows) and all of my buttons work properly with Mach, but my thumbsticks and thumpad will not come out of step mode jog.  I can press once on the thumbsticks, to select a different jog mode, but they will not provide any movement at all.  Another push returns them to step jog...but no 100% continuous jog functionality.  What am I doing wrong?

Please advise, Drafterman
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on March 02, 2012, 11:56:58 PM
Hi Drafterman,

First of all, the thumbpad (below left thumbstick) only does incremental jog.  It never does continuous.  The 2 thumbsticks will be in whatever mode you set them as.  Go to Mach screen and hit tab. Then (on tab flyout) press JogMode button to cycle to Cont. or Step.  If you set it to Cont, the 2 thumbsticks should work as continuous.  Most people will define one of the buttons on the Controller to be "Jog Mode Inc/Cont"  Then you can shift in and out of continuous jog by pressing the button and then moving the thumbstick.  Give it a try and let me know if you have any more problems.

Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: drafterman on March 03, 2012, 08:30:19 AM
Still have the same issue with the thumbsticks...they stay in step mode, regardless of the Mach jog tab setting.

Drafterman
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on March 03, 2012, 11:04:38 AM
The thumbsticks should work the same as the keyboard.  Does the keyboard allow you to go continuous?
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: drafterman on March 03, 2012, 11:15:26 AM
Yes, keyboard jog works fine...
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on March 03, 2012, 03:06:48 PM
Then there are 3 possibilities:
1. the controller is defective
2. you did not download the DirectX redistributables as indicated on the plugin page
3. the installation was damaged. You have to back it out and reinstall it

If you have not downloaded and installed the DirectX, then I would do that first.  After that I would remove and reinstall the plugin.  Here is a link on how to do it:

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/mach1mach2cnc/message/132662

If you have a way to test the controller or replace it with another one then you could try that last.  After these steps, if the problem still exists, you can send me the XML file and I'll look at it.

Keep me posted.
Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: drafterman on March 03, 2012, 05:09:10 PM
OK, I confirmed the DirectX 9.0C installation on my Windows XP SP-2 machine.  I also removed the Xbox 360 plugin as well as deleted the folder from the .XML.  However, when I try to reinstall the XBox360_32Eng.exe I get an error that says "not a valid Win32 application".  I don't recall seeing this the first time I installed this...

By the way, I borrowed the same controller from my neighbor previously and I got the same results, thus I am sure it is not the gamepad.

Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on March 04, 2012, 12:18:45 AM
First of all, I would suggest that you go ahead and upgrade to XP SP3.  The "not a valid Win32 app" message indicates that XBox360_32Eng.exe was damaged during download.  That file is simply the driver for the XBox360 controller.  If your controller was working, then you do not need to reinstall it.  Try downloading and installing the plugin from the MachSupport page again and see if it is working now.  If not then go to the following location:

https://skydrive.live.com/redir.aspx?cid=0684eede15b08730&resid=684EEDE15B08730!322&parid=684EEDE15B08730!321&authkey=!APyvaSOc1ayKAAI

and download the file XBox360Controllertest. Unzip it and run it.

You should see a picture of the controller.  When you move the thumbsticks, you should see a small blue line on the thumbstick image that changes its length as you move the thumbstick.  If it does that, then your thumbstick is working properly.  Try that and then let me know what is happening.

Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on March 04, 2012, 12:46:51 AM
drafterman-

The XML file that you sent to Scott (support) was forwarded to me.  The XML file looks strange.   For one thing, I don't see the ProductID and VendorID. It may be that reinstalling the plugin will fix the problem.  I have seen that happen before. Keep me posted.

Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: drafterman on March 04, 2012, 02:15:07 PM
Still no joy.  I started from scratch again, but I could not get the XBox 32Eng.exe from machsupport to work.  So I found a later version from Microsoft.  I reinstalled the plugin and now the vendor & product IDs are in the XML, but still have the same issue with the thumbsticks only...everything else works great.
I could not get the controller test to work either...I upgraded my .net framework to get it to install, but it still won't run.  I can get the gamepad calibrater in hardware manager to indicate movement from the thumbsticks. 

Is there a manual mod I can make to the .XML?
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: JohnHaine on April 19, 2012, 10:50:58 AM
Bought a controller yesterday and just installed it today.  A couple of points...

If you buy a controller new it comes with an install disc, which I installed - seemed to avoid all the pain of downloading stuff from microsoft etc.  (My PC had the right version of DirectX.)

Once I discovered how to use the buttons on the controller and "receiver" to connect, everything sprang into life.

Now, a question if I may.  The LH joystick works fine for X and Y on my mill.  To start with the RH stick L<->R axis was assigned to Z which I find slightly counter intuitive, so I reassigned RH U<->D, but though this worked it was very slow and there is no apparent way to change it.  Is this a feature of the controller or can it be reconfigured please?

However I think this is a good gadget and great plug-in, much superior to the Shuttle Express I was using before.  And no cable!

Thanks, John.
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on April 19, 2012, 11:31:29 AM
Hi John,

The plugin uses the same code for all operations on the right joystick.  So, when you shift it from left-right to up-down, there should be no difference in the speed.  I believe that your problem is external to the plugin.  It could be 1. the settings in Mach  2. the mill itself 3. the controller or 3. the software powering the controller.  Are you using a Microsoft XBox360 controller?

Here is what I would do:

Assign the Z axis to left-right on the left controller and try it.  If the problem continues then the cause is either the Mach settings or the Mill.  If the problem goes away then the cause is the controller itself or the software powering it.

Mach settings such as motor tuning can cause the steppers to run slow. If all 3 steppers are the same then the motor control settings should all be the same.  You can check the controller by recalibrating it in the windows Control Panel (if it is Microsoft). Other controllers have their own calibration program that you can use.  

Give those a try and post back the results.
Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: JohnHaine on April 19, 2012, 04:53:34 PM
Thanks Lee for the quick response.  When I first tried the controller with Z on the RH LR stick the speed was fine, when I assigned Z to UD on the same stick it was slow, OK again when reassigned to LR.  So after your post I tried the calibration routine and it looked fine, no difference between LR and UD directions on RH stick.  But I must have changed something because now the UD direction does nothing at all!  So looks like I'll have to continue with Z assigned to LR on the RH stick.

I've also fired up Mach3Turn with the controller, again it's great.

A nice feature if you do another release would be to assign a button to "tab" so the jog screen flies out.

Cheers,

John.
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on April 19, 2012, 07:37:04 PM
Hi John,

All I can say for sure is that it is not a plugin problem.  If the controller works fine on Mach Lathe, then the controller and  software are fine.  It could be Mach itself.  You may have to reinstall Mach itself. But, before doing that, I would suggest installing Mach (lockdown version not Beta) on another pc and trying it.

I like the idea of adding the tab and will do so.

Good luck
Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: JohnHaine on April 20, 2012, 10:24:51 AM
Yes, it's weird - the RH joystick works fine with Turn but totally unresponsive on Mill.  I have been meaning to reinstall the latest version of Mach anyway so will give it a try.  Glad my feature suggestion was useful!

John.
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: JohnHaine on April 27, 2012, 06:00:43 AM
Hi Lee, just to say that I have just installed the latest lockdown Mach version and the XBOX plugin and it now works perfectly.

Thanks,

John.
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: wbleeker on July 23, 2012, 01:42:45 AM
Hi Lee
I am trying to install the plugin and cant get it to install itself when i click on it, when I click the screen flashes and then goes back to normal?
Will
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Larry B on December 22, 2013, 12:03:34 PM
I can't fine AjaxVer2.zip. would someone have the address or post a download? Thanks
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: 72Zorad on January 21, 2014, 01:52:12 PM
First, awesome plug-in.  I love the functionality I now have while not standing in front of my computer with my fingers on the keys.

Second, is there a way the authors of these plugins can be tossed a few bucks.  This is a top notch plug-in and this type of innovation is perfect for the hobbyist machinist. I'd like to be able to help support it so it doesn't go away.

And lastly, my question.  I've configured the left thumb stick for X and Y axis.  The right is currently configured for side to side for the Z axis.  For me up down for the right thumb stick seems more intuitive than left right.  In other words pushing forward seems obvious to me for 'raise quill' and pushing down for 'lower quill'.  I'm afraid I'll get near the part and want to jog Z up and won't remember if left is up or right is up.

So, I changed the config so the right thumb stick left right is A (not currently used) and up/down is the Z.  However, now I find that the Z moves pretty slowly compared to the X and Y.  I'm assuming this is because you probably don't want to rapid a rotary table at the same speed as a normal axis.

Should it rapid the same?  And, if not, is there a way to make it so it rapids a bit faster than it currently does?

Thanks,

Mark
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: JohnHaine on January 21, 2014, 05:59:37 PM
Mine rapids the same.
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: lowell on January 22, 2014, 09:56:36 PM
Hello I am having trouble using an xbox controller.  I am using a wireless unit with a microsoft antenna.  I have loaded xbox360_32eng.exe on the mach 3 folder, but i only get the joystick option from  config. plugins.  The left joystick of the controller will move in x and y only, no other functions work when in mach.  when i go to control panel, game controller, all the xbox functions work.  How do i get the xbox to load as an option for my config. plugins in mach? thanks for any advise.  Lowell
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: MoserLabs on February 13, 2014, 01:55:16 PM
Got a question.  Trying to incorporate the plugin with my system but having issues.  Read the PDF and it states to install .Net 3.5 in the table of contents, but in the instructions it's only 2.0

Also, WinXP won't allow directX above 9.0C.  Would that cause my plugin to fail and be ignored upon load of Mach3?
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: ngen33r on April 14, 2014, 08:42:16 AM
Works great!!! Thank You!!!
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Skanoosa on November 24, 2014, 06:48:18 PM
Hi Lee,
I have an 'AX.1' Afterglow Xbox 360 controller, Windows XP recognises the controller, but the plugin doesn't. I have been able to load the Plugin and config the controller, but it isn't registering it. Do I need to get a different controller? Or is there something I can do to get the system to recognise the controller I have?
Cheers,
Steve
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: scavenger on December 22, 2014, 08:03:37 PM
I have two CNC machines running on MACH3. One is a Milling machine the other is a CNC Router. I have MACH3 profiles setup for each machine and both have worked fine. I have installed the XBOX360 Controller plugin and it works fine on the Mill but I cannot get the Router to operate with the controller. I have enabled the plugin but when I set the buttons and exit the config it does not operate. Will this only work for one profile or am I doing something wrong?
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: arasbm on February 11, 2015, 11:05:46 AM
I know I am late to the game, but just wanted to say this is a really great plugin and works very smooth. I absolutely love the *disable diagonal movement* feature as that was one of the big issues with using the controller on our tables.

The only feature request I have is the ability to map the two triggers to macros instead of using them as safety keys. Is there any way to achieve that right now?

I don’t need the analog input from the triggers, just want to fire a macro when they are pressed. Anyone knows a way to achieve this?
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Ducman56 on February 26, 2015, 04:29:01 AM
I would like to echo the comments of others, this is a truly useful plug-in, makes setup SOOO much easier especially for a noivice like myself :D

However, unless I am being dense ( perfectly possible I will admit ) I cannot see anyway to program the 'auto tool zero' button or the 'remember' button on Mach3 to the controller.

Have I just missed it? or is it possible?  Do I have to write a macro? if so could anyone let me have an idea of how to go about it.

Thanks in advance
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on April 27, 2015, 12:26:57 PM
Hi Lee,
I have an 'AX.1' Afterglow Xbox 360 controller, Windows XP recognises the controller, but the plugin doesn't. I have been able to load the Plugin and config the controller, but it isn't registering it. Do I need to get a different controller? Or is there something I can do to get the system to recognise the controller I have?
Cheers,
Steve

Hi,

You need to find out the ProductId and VendorId.  See my manual on how to find this (Device Manager).

Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on April 27, 2015, 12:37:53 PM
I would like to echo the comments of others, this is a truly useful plug-in, makes setup SOOO much easier especially for a noivice like myself :D

However, unless I am being dense ( perfectly possible I will admit ) I cannot see anyway to program the 'auto tool zero' button or the 'remember' button on Mach3 to the controller.

Have I just missed it? or is it possible?  Do I have to write a macro? if so could anyone let me have an idea of how to go about it.

Thanks in advance
Hi,
Glad you like it.  There is no capability built into the plugin for auto tool zero or remember.  You would have to write a macro. The info for that is on the Mach documentation page:

http://www.machsupport.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Mach3_V3.x_Macro_Prog_Ref.pdf

You just use a text editor like notepad and give it one of the names that I have setup in the pulldowns -- example XBoxBtn1.m1s. It gets put in the \macros folder under Mach3

Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on April 27, 2015, 12:44:15 PM
I have two CNC machines running on MACH3. One is a Milling machine the other is a CNC Router. I have MACH3 profiles setup for each machine and both have worked fine. I have installed the XBOX360 Controller plugin and it works fine on the Mill but I cannot get the Router to operate with the controller. I have enabled the plugin but when I set the buttons and exit the config it does not operate. Will this only work for one profile or am I doing something wrong?
Hi,
It works for all profiles.  If you are trying to turn the router on or off with F5 then you are correct. That option is not in the current version. However, I have added that and it will be posted in the next day or two.  If you cannot get the router to move at all then make sure the config screen shows the productid and vendorid and stays enabled after you exit and restart Mach.  If you are still having problems PM me.

Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on May 01, 2015, 10:47:23 PM
A new version of the plugin has been posted.  It is version 2.4.0.0. It includes 1 new option. The pull down menu includes 1 new choice that you can assign to a button.  That choice is "Torch On/Off F5". It does the same thing as the button on the default plasma screen.  That is, it allows you to turn the torch on and off while the torch is moving.  Let me know if you have any problems.

Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: JustinHoMi on May 29, 2015, 04:41:09 PM
I'm having the same problem that drafterman was having. My controller will not work in continuous mode (only jog). This is regardless of whether Mach3 is running in jog or continuous mode. Was his problem ever resolved?

Justin
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on May 30, 2015, 11:13:18 AM
Please read Draftermans posts and go through the same steps.  If all else fails, you my need to get a new controller or at least the driver disk. Sorry I can't be much help from this end.

Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: jpduffy3 on July 08, 2015, 07:31:28 AM
I am using an XBox360 wired controller clone, but I cannot get Lee's excellent plugin to recognize it, even though the clone controller seems to be working fine in Windows XP SP3 with DirectX 9(c) fully installed.  The Controller box in the plugin configuration screen always comes up greyed out with None selected. 

I can input the clone's PID (0x0006) and VID (0x0079) in their respective fields, but they do not register and both come up 0x0000 the next time I open the plugin configuration screen. 

Somewhere in this thread, I have noted that it might be necessary to add these PID and VID values to the plugin itself.  How is that done?  Or, does Lee have to do that?  Alternatively, is there a work around this issue? 
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on July 08, 2015, 11:29:10 AM
I believe that one or both of your numbers are not correct.  You can go here to look up the ids at:

http://www.pcidatabase.com/

You should see them in your computer Device Manager.  Once you put the correct numbers in the configuration screen and restart Mach, the plugin should recognize the controller and the numbers should appear in the configuration screen.

 In your Windows Control panel, you should have an icon that allows you to test and calibrate the controller.  This comes from the Controller manufacturer or from Microsoft.  The fact that a controller may work in one game program does not mean that it works in windows since some game makers write their own internal drivers.  This is especially true of old DOS games running in Windows.

Hopefully this helps.

Lee

I am using an XBox360 wired controller clone, but I cannot get Lee's excellent plugin to recognize it, even though the clone controller seems to be working fine in Windows XP SP3 with DirectX 9(c) fully installed.  The Controller box in the plugin configuration screen always comes up greyed out with None selected. 

I can input the clone's PID (0x0006) and VID (0x0079) in their respective fields, but they do not register and both come up 0x0000 the next time I open the plugin configuration screen. 

Somewhere in this thread, I have noted that it might be necessary to add these PID and VID values to the plugin itself.  How is that done?  Or, does Lee have to do that?  Alternatively, is there a work around this issue? 
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: jpduffy3 on July 08, 2015, 04:42:07 PM
Thank you, for your prompt and very comprehensive reply.  I did check the link, and I agree that the VID and PID do not seem to be listed.  That being said, Windows returned 0x0079 as the VID for my controller and 0x0006 as the PID.  See the attached screen shots which come from dxdiag and device manager. 

Any thoughts you may have would be greatly appreciated as the controller was sold on eBay as being fully xBox360 compatible.  So far, it does not seem to be. 

I apologize if this is a duplicate post.  I had trouble sending the first version of this.  I guess I am still quite new as to how this site operates. 
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on July 08, 2015, 04:56:48 PM
It appears to be a non-standard controller.  The problem is probably the drivers that the manufacturer wrote for the controller. Can you calibrate it in Windows (for example in the Control Panel)?  If so, then Mach should be able to see it.  I would look around to make sure I have the latest drivers.  I do not know if this is a good site or not but here is a set of drivers:

http://members.driverguide.com/driver/device.php?hwid=USB%5CVid_0079%26Pid_0006%26Rev_0107

If it were me, I would not spend too much time working on it.  I would probably just write it off or send it back and go get a new Microsoft controller off EBay.

Sorry I can't offer more help.

Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: plcamp on July 09, 2015, 07:08:58 AM
Hopefully this is not a repeat

I have downloaded the 360 plugin and the DirectX update
Mach3 recognizes the controller and allows configuration of the joysticks and buttons

All joysticks and buttons function as would be expected until start of the gcode, which at sometime afterwards the buttons will go inactive, however, the joysticks will continue to work

My computer is currently using XP SP3 and the controller is a MS wired unit.....Help

Regards,

PLCamp
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on July 09, 2015, 11:38:52 AM
When the buttons quit working, does the green light on the controller stay on?  Check and see that the buttons still work in Windows.  To do this try the following:
(I am on Windows 7) Open Control Panel - Devices and Printers. Find the Controller. right click and select Game Controller Settings. Choose properties.  You should see a window that allows you to calibrate the controller and to press the buttons to see if they work.  Do they work?  The Mach plugin does not shut the buttons down.  It does include an option to lock the controller so that nothing works until you unlock it. 

If the buttons do not work in the Windows Devices calibration screen then my guess is that the problem is related to a power saving setting either in the BIOS or in the Windows driver.  The other thing is that it could be the USB port that you have it pugged into. Try a different USB port. The other possibility is that the Controller is defective, but I doubt it.

Hope this helps.

Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: plcamp on October 06, 2015, 09:58:34 PM
When the buttons quit working, does the green light on the controller stay on?  Check and see that the buttons still work in Windows.  To do this try the following:
(I am on Windows 7) Open Control Panel - Devices and Printers. Find the Controller. right click and select Game Controller Settings. Choose properties.  You should see a window that allows you to calibrate the controller and to press the buttons to see if they work.  Do they work?  The Mach plugin does not shut the buttons down.  It does include an option to lock the controller so that nothing works until you unlock it. 

If the buttons do not work in the Windows Devices calibration screen then my guess is that the problem is related to a power saving setting either in the BIOS or in the Windows driver.  The other thing is that it could be the USB port that you have it pugged into. Try a different USB port. The other possibility is that the Controller is defective, but I doubt it.

Hope this helps.

Lee

Lee, I believe my problem with the xbox360 controller going to sleep has been solved.  The problem was with a newer driver that I downloaded from MS and because I was not using any of the function buttons while running cutterpath the controller went into sleep mode after 30 minutes of inactivity.  I deleted the driver from MS and installed the older one and life is good again.

Please pass this tip on to others so that they my avoid the frustrations I experienced.

Thank you for your help,  PLCamp
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: jack102 on December 25, 2015, 04:18:37 AM
All I can say for sure is that it is not a plugin problem.  If the controller works fine on Mach Lathe, then the controller and  software are fine.  It could be Mach itself.  You may have to reinstall Mach itself. But, before doing that, I would suggest installing Mach (lockdown version not Beta) on another pc and trying it.
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Helicopterjohn on December 27, 2015, 01:41:08 PM
Here is a photo of a little sign my friend made for me.  I helped convert his Shopbot Router to Mach3.  A friend of mine helped me modify my 2010 Screen Set adding several useful macros.  Used Lee's plugin and it works wonderful.

(http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l29/Helicopterjohn/MACH3/20151227_131240a.jpg) (http://s92.photobucket.com/user/Helicopterjohn/media/MACH3/20151227_131240a.jpg.html)http://

John
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: leversole on January 04, 2016, 11:57:50 PM
This Xbox controller is way cool! Looked at just the first and last of these pages so if this is answered already sorry...

I have a VBscript that runs a touch probe...how can I make one of the buttons on the XBox controller run this code? Can I assign a macro to call it? Can not see that the VBScript actually has a name (just attached to a button)??

I would really like to run the touch probe from the XBox controller

Thanks
Leslie
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Helicopterjohn on January 14, 2016, 03:14:18 PM
Hi Leslie,

Not sure if I understand your correctly, but if you go to the top menu bar and selector (Operator) and then click on (Edit Button Script) it should highlight all the available buttons that have scripts attached to them.  Just click on the button script you want to copy, open it and select all of the contents and go to i.e. mach3/macros/your machine name/ Then right click to add new txt document and paste those contents into the new file.  Resave the file utilizing sample/ macro-XBoxBtn.m1s   You can then delete the .txt file from your macros folder.  If you know the actual script button you can just copy that button script contents and rename it i.e. XBoxBtn.M1s.  I believe you have 8 of these Macro-XboxBtns available for your personal customization.

You can also look at all the listed macros in (your machine) macros folder by right clicking each of them and select open with notepad and it will display the macro contents i.e. the instructions given to Mach3.  Once you find the one you are looking for just do a save as and rename it i.e. XboxBtn.M1S.  Then restart Mach3 and it should work.

Once you have your macro created in (your machine) Open mach3 go to config/config plugins and open the Xbox 360 controller config.  Utilizing the drop down menus select the appropriate button and select XboxBtn.M1s assigning that macro to that button.  Exit Mach3 and restart and your button should work.

This has helped me get my Xbox 360 controller customized to fit my personal needs.

Many thanks to Lee for developing this great plugin. :)

I am working on a more detailed instruction  with photos to better explain the process and will post once it is complete.  Might even put together a video.  If you would like to discuss further you are welcome to send me a private message.

John
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Helicopterjohn on January 15, 2016, 08:27:36 AM
Hi Leslie,

Here is the file I promised on how to add new macros to your macro folder in Mach3 and how to attach them to the Xbox 360 Controller plugin config screen.  I am currently running a modified 2010 ScreenSet.  The attached file is formatted in Microsoft Word.

John
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: leversole on January 15, 2016, 09:41:04 AM
Thanks for the information and the file...will check it out...
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Helicopterjohn on January 15, 2016, 11:33:38 AM
Hi Leslie,

You are welcome.  I had the same issues as you and a friend helped me figure it out.  Just thought I would pass along something to make it easier for other Mach3 users.  BTY.  The 2010 Screen Set is really nice.  Check it out.  Makes for a real professional looking screen.  My friend also helped me add some macro buttons to the right side of the screen to make it even better.

Here is a url link to show you the software and hardware retrofit i performed on my PRT Shopbot CNC router to Mach3 with the modified 2010 Screen Set.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4WQ8KcTSKyQ

John
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: leversole on January 16, 2016, 11:48:10 AM
Nice video John! I like your machine...it looks like it is built like a CNC Plasma (using the metal vgroove wheels and angle iron for track)...I was spying on your machine and noticed the carriage seems to be using the lower horizontal leg of the angle iron for the hold down (no "lower" angle on the bootom of the carriage)...I have not seen a setup like this before...I assume it is sturdy, as the overall machine looks pretty stout!

Another question...how is your router bit "attached" to the other en of the touch plate? On my setup, I have to put an alligator on the bit, to complete the circuit with the touch plate.

Thanks
Leslie
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Helicopterjohn on January 17, 2016, 09:14:27 AM
Hi Leslie,

I understand what you are talking about on the over/under V rollers.  My Shopbot PRT is an older model and they use the weight of the carriage assembly to hold it on the rails i.e. angle iron.  It is pretty heavy and I have had no issues cutting wood, plastic etc.  Shopbot has changed the design on their newer models using a 80/20 extrusion type of construction. I find that utilizing Mach3 along with the PMDX electronics has created a really nice (TROUBLE FREE) setup.  The OEM hardware and associated software were "old school".  Mach3 utilizing the electronics package mentioned above, the 2010 Screen Set, and the fully programmed Xbox 360 Controller is a pleasure to use.

Some routers have insulated housings and it is not possible to get a ground through the outer case and you have to ground the router bit i.e. alligator clip to make it work.  On the Porter Cable router I have it is possible to get a ground through the outer housing and I have it grounded to my PMDX break out board.  The round brass piece that the router bit touches completes the circuit.

Hope the information on the macros got your probe working off your Xbox 360 Controller.  Let me know how you make out as I am always interested in solutions other people accomplish.

John
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: leversole on January 17, 2016, 10:27:06 AM
I had hacked a different way to make the button call the script, but your method is much cleaner and easier to understand!
Checked to continuity on my Makita router and it is insulated...

Thanks
Leslie
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: leversole on March 02, 2016, 05:44:09 PM
The xbox controller works flawlessly on my laptop...today tried to install on my desktop, it complains of a defective dll...
Using Win7 pro SP1, DirectX version is 11 (same as my laptop, tried the dll from laptop as well as downloading fresh from Machsupport, still get the error
defective plugin found...Windows sees the thing, I can plug back into my laptop and it works, scratching my head here...

Thanks
Leslie

Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: leversole on March 02, 2016, 05:50:19 PM
Found the test program (joy.cpl), works good there, all buttons and axis active, still getting the defective dll error
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: leversole on March 02, 2016, 05:52:11 PM
Just ran the joy.cpl local test, window recognizes the controller and all buttons/axis work...
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: leversole on March 02, 2016, 06:21:02 PM
Installed net framework ver 4, no help...I have the same net framework on both machines
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: leversole on March 02, 2016, 06:40:41 PM
Hmmm...had the same direct X version as the laptop, but downloaded and ran the directx install...fixed me right up! All is well
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Helicopterjohn on March 02, 2016, 09:22:54 PM
Hi,

You might want to check.  These are the versions of software that I am currently running on my Windows 7 machine.  I was running a different version of Mach3 and had some issues.  When I changed to the version listed below it worked fine.

Mach3 ver. R3.043.062
xbox plugin ver. 2.4.0.0

John
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: leversole on March 03, 2016, 01:20:53 PM
Thanks John! I loaded an older version (2008) of directX and it started working!

Leslie
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: osrix on April 16, 2017, 07:43:22 AM
Hi I have been using Lees plugin for the last 6 months or so and its worked flawlessly, so thanks for that, great plugin :) Ive just upgraded my machine to using a UC100 motion controller, which also uses a mach plugin. its seems that this is clashing somehow, as I now experience all kinds of issues including just stopping working altogether for 5 mins or so and then coming back to life without any warning or popup.

I just wondered if anyone else has had experience of using the 2 plugins together and of course any fixes or at least narrow down the cause of this kind of clash of plugin, never heard it anywhere before. It seems that especially when switching from continuous to incremental it freezes the controller, but every time.    

Also is there a public folder anywhere with older plugins for download? Id like to try one and see if it makes difference
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on April 16, 2017, 11:48:18 AM
Hi I have been using Lees plugin for the last 6 months or so and its worked flawlessly, so thanks for that, great plugin :) Ive just upgraded my machine to using a UC100 motion controller, which also uses a mach plugin. its seems that this is clashing somehow, as I now experience all kinds of issues including just stopping working altogether for 5 mins or so and then coming back to life without any warning or popup.

I just wondered if anyone else has had experience of using the 2 plugins together and of course any fixes or at least narrow down the cause of this kind of clash of plugin, never heard it anywhere before. It seems that especially when switching from continuous to incremental it freezes the controller, but every time.   

Also is there a public folder anywhere with older plugins for download? Id like to try one and see if it makes difference

Hi,
Here is a link to the original UC100 controller

  http://cncdrive.com/UC100.html

Note the reference to fake controllers. That may be causing your problem. On another note, the plugin for the XBox360 controller for Mach 4 was written by someone else and I can't help you there. Unfortunately, I can't be of much help on this. I don't have a UC100 , so I can't test it against my XBox360 plugin for Mach3. If you can figure out an exact failure sequence, I may be able to look into the code and see if I can come up with a patch.

Good luck,
Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: osrix on April 18, 2017, 05:56:11 PM
Hi I have been using Lees plugin for the last 6 months or so and its worked flawlessly, so thanks for that, great plugin :) Ive just upgraded my machine to using a UC100 motion controller, which also uses a mach plugin. its seems that this is clashing somehow, as I now experience all kinds of issues including just stopping working altogether for 5 mins or so and then coming back to life without any warning or popup.

I just wondered if anyone else has had experience of using the 2 plugins together and of course any fixes or at least narrow down the cause of this kind of clash of plugin, never heard it anywhere before. It seems that especially when switching from continuous to incremental it freezes the controller, but every time.    

Also is there a public folder anywhere with older plugins for download? Id like to try one and see if it makes difference

Hi,
Here is a link to the original UC100 controller

  http://cncdrive.com/UC100.html

Note the reference to fake controllers. That may be causing your problem. On another note, the plugin for the XBox360 controller for Mach 4 was written by someone else and I can't help you there. Unfortunately, I can't be of much help on this. I don't have a UC100 , so I can't test it against my XBox360 plugin for Mach3. If you can figure out an exact failure sequence, I may be able to look into the code and see if I can come up with a patch.

Good luck,
Lee
Hi Lee thanks for the reply. I bought the uc100 direct from the link so no worries there. I not using mach 4 im still using mach 3 their plugin is written is for either. At the weekend I even bought a genuine controller to at least rule that out.
I appreciate you dont have the uc100 so i dont expect you to support this. but since the thread seemed quite active i thought i might find another user who had similar experience and maybe a fix.
 
The problem seems to centre around switching from continuous to incremental, jogging just stops and then i cant jog from either the KB or xboxcontroller. ive found hitting escape seems to get things going again until the next time mostly it works fine until it doesnt, intermittent, the worst kind of problem. ive taken everything xbox related off the pc and reinstalled it along with a fresh Dl of your plugin and still the same. I like to solve problems but this has got me stumped.
One question I hope you might answer for me, where is the config file stored for your plugin and can I clear it somehow?
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: osrix on April 18, 2017, 06:36:46 PM
After writing all that I decided to pin things down a little, sorry i cant edit the above.

 I think it has to do with the stick press, when i press either of the sticks it switches inc/cont but not visibly in the mach jog screen.  This has always puzzled me as to why it doesn't register in the GUI
 
 I have set my A button to switch also, which does toggle the GUI light,  But out of  habit and convenience I often press the sticks. at a guess whatever command this issues is confusing the other plugin. I will have to get into the habit of not doing it as once it has "crashed" once the assigned letter key no longer works as a function to switch until reboot.  D pad use also causes the   the same isuue as the stick press.
I will try and only use the A key tomorrow and see if it happens at all with that.
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on April 19, 2017, 01:29:30 AM
Hi I have been using Lees plugin for the last 6 months or so and its worked flawlessly, so thanks for that, great plugin :) Ive just upgraded my machine to using a UC100 motion controller, which also uses a mach plugin. its seems that this is clashing somehow, as I now experience all kinds of issues including just stopping working altogether for 5 mins or so and then coming back to life without any warning or popup.

I just wondered if anyone else has had experience of using the 2 plugins together and of course any fixes or at least narrow down the cause of this kind of clash of plugin, never heard it anywhere before. It seems that especially when switching from continuous to incremental it freezes the controller, but every time.   

Also is there a public folder anywhere with older plugins for download? Id like to try one and see if it makes difference

Hi,
Here is a link to the original UC100 controller

  http://cncdrive.com/UC100.html

Note the reference to fake controllers. That may be causing your problem. On another note, the plugin for the XBox360 controller for Mach 4 was written by someone else and I can't help you there. Unfortunately, I can't be of much help on this. I don't have a UC100 , so I can't test it against my XBox360 plugin for Mach3. If you can figure out an exact failure sequence, I may be able to look into the code and see if I can come up with a patch.

Good luck,
Lee
Hi Lee thanks for the reply. I bought the uc100 direct from the link so no worries there. I not using mach 4 im still using mach 3 their plugin is written is for either. At the weekend I even bought a genuine controller to at least rule that out.
I appreciate you dont have the uc100 so i dont expect you to support this. but since the thread seemed quite active i thought i might find another user who had similar experience and maybe a fix.
 
The problem seems to centre around switching from continuous to incremental, jogging just stops and then i cant jog from either the KB or xboxcontroller. ive found hitting escape seems to get things going again until the next time mostly it works fine until it doesnt, intermittent, the worst kind of problem. ive taken everything xbox related off the pc and reinstalled it along with a fresh Dl of your plugin and still the same. I like to solve problems but this has got me stumped.
One question I hope you might answer for me, where is the config file stored for your plugin and can I clear it somehow?

The settings are stored in an XML file generally in C:\Mach3. The XML file is the name of shortcut. For example, it may be Mach3Mill.xml. the settings are at the end of the file. you can use a program such as XML notepad by Microsoft (free) to edit it. that is strange that you cannot jog even with the keyboard. That almost makes me think the problem is with the UC100 code. You might try switching between continuous and incremental twice in a row and see if that fixes it. The UC100 code may be missing a pulse on the switch.

Good Luck
Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: osrix on April 19, 2017, 08:50:47 AM
Hi Thanks for the reply Lee, forget about it. Ive managed to replicate the same fault just using the Keyboard so it seems its the uc100 or its plugin at fault I coudnt replicate it like this before but just must have been a coincidence. sorry to bother you about it, i'll chase it up with the maker.
 
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: bcer960 on July 15, 2017, 12:57:20 AM
I see this is still an active thread, that is good.

i am building a new machine and have tried to get an x-box 360 wireless controller for windows to work. The plug-in worked ok, but when I tried to config, it said I need "dotNetfx3.5". I downloaded and tried to install it, and it said it needed more programs and to connect the PC to the internet. i do not have internet or even a phone line in my shop, so i cannot easily do this.

This is a brand new windows 10 with all the latest updates done to it.

Short of me taking it all apart, and putting it all back together in the house, to download this program, only to take it all apart again to take it back out to the shop...... any ideas?

Basically, I cannot open the button setup screen(after hitting config in Mach), and currently the controller will only move the X axis (if I push 3 buttons at once, while holding my tongue in the right place), and even then, it only sometimes worked.

Thanks for any insite.

ray
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on July 15, 2017, 11:23:40 AM
I see this is still an active thread, that is good.

i am building a new machine and have tried to get an x-box 360 wireless controller for windows to work. The plug-in worked ok, but when I tried to config, it said I need "dotNetfx3.5". I downloaded and tried to install it, and it said it needed more programs and to connect the PC to the internet. i do not have internet or even a phone line in my shop, so i cannot easily do this.

This is a brand new windows 10 with all the latest updates done to it.

Short of me taking it all apart, and putting it all back together in the house, to download this program, only to take it all apart again to take it back out to the shop...... any ideas?

Basically, I cannot open the button setup screen(after hitting config in Mach), and currently the controller will only move the X axis (if I push 3 buttons at once, while holding my tongue in the right place), and even then, it only sometimes worked.

Thanks for any insite.

ray

Hi Ray,

About the only option is to do as you suggested. I don't know what other files Windows 10 wants. Sorry I can't offer a better solution.

Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: bcer960 on July 15, 2017, 11:32:41 AM
Ok, Thanks Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: datas_brother on June 27, 2018, 03:51:38 PM
I'Ve installed the plugin but I can't get it to work. I'm using a clone controller from Speedlink and when I input the VID (1A34) and PID (0802) it won't save. It's not a read-only issue since I can change the button mapping without a problem. I can also save the correct values in the config file when input through an XML-editor. As long as I don't start Mach3 they remain correct but as soon as I start the values are returned to 0x0000. I must be doing something wrong but I can't for the life of me think what it is.

BTW the controller is fine. Windows diagnostics work and if I install the joystick plugin I can get X and Y moving.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks
DB
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on June 28, 2018, 12:56:00 AM
I'Ve installed the plugin but I can't get it to work. I'm using a clone controller from Speedlink and when I input the VID (1A34) and PID (0802) it won't save. It's not a read-only issue since I can change the button mapping without a problem. I can also save the correct values in the config file when input through an XML-editor. As long as I don't start Mach3 they remain correct but as soon as I start the values are returned to 0x0000. I must be doing something wrong but I can't for the life of me think what it is.

BTW the controller is fine. Windows diagnostics work and if I install the joystick plugin I can get X and Y moving.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks
DB

The plugin sets the values to 0 because the plugin does not recognize the controller as being valid. Some of the Speedlink controllers do not send valid packets to the driver so the driver doesn't know what to do with it.  Basically, you just need to get a different controller. The XBox360 controllers are pretty inexpensive.  Sorry I can't be more help.
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: datas_brother on June 28, 2018, 01:33:26 AM


The plugin sets the values to 0 because the plugin does not recognize the controller as being valid. Some of the Speedlink controllers do not send valid packets to the driver so the driver doesn't know what to do with it.  Basically, you just need to get a different controller. The XBox360 controllers are pretty inexpensive.  Sorry I can't be more help.


Thanks, Lee. At least I know it's not a case of my sanity.

Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: RichardV48 on July 31, 2018, 11:57:24 AM
Wondering if I could get some help installing an Xbox360 wireless controller to run
Mach3 on an XP computer.
I have installed the Microsoft software that came with the controller. Plugged the
receiver into the back of the  pc. The controller appears to have linked up to the
receiver since the green light in the upper left quadrant is on. Xbox 360 appears in
config plugins in Mach. It has been activated and I went into config and selected the options for the controls. The vendor ID and product ID are populated. I restarted the pc and opened Mach3 but the controls will not move any axis. 
Went into device manager and found Xbox360 peripherals and confirmed the driver
was loaded and the device shows as working correctly.
Checked Human interface Devices and per a trouble shooting document it should have
two files,  a USB human interface device and  HID-compliant game controller.
The HID-compliant game controller is missing which could be the problem but
not sure  how to install it.  Should it have been loaded with the software load or does it get installed some other way?

Thanks for any help
Richard
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on August 02, 2018, 11:41:04 AM
Sorry for not responding sooner but I have been pretty busy.  Are you still having problems with the controller?

Lee

Wondering if I could get some help installing an Xbox360 wireless controller to run
Mach3 on an XP computer.
I have installed the Microsoft software that came with the controller. Plugged the
receiver into the back of the  pc. The controller appears to have linked up to the
receiver since the green light in the upper left quadrant is on. Xbox 360 appears in
config plugins in Mach. It has been activated and I went into config and selected the options for the controls. The vendor ID and product ID are populated. I restarted the pc and opened Mach3 but the controls will not move any axis. 
Went into device manager and found Xbox360 peripherals and confirmed the driver
was loaded and the device shows as working correctly.
Checked Human interface Devices and per a trouble shooting document it should have
two files,  a USB human interface device and  HID-compliant game controller.
The HID-compliant game controller is missing which could be the problem but
not sure  how to install it.  Should it have been loaded with the software load or does it get installed some other way?

Thanks for any help
Richard

Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: RichardV48 on August 02, 2018, 12:57:08 PM
Thanks for responding. No, I finally got it working. It turned out to be a preset option on the controller that disables all the buttons when active. I disabled it and everything is working.
There is one thing you may be able to help me with. I have optioned all the buttons but I cant figure out how to option the controller to work the z axis touch probe. Any advice on how to get it working would be greatly appreciated.

Regards
Richard
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on August 02, 2018, 05:31:06 PM
If you try and configure a button you will see a number of choices. I would likely have to add it as an option. I don't have a touch probe so I don't know how it is fired. Please explain exactly everything about it that you can think of. For example, how is it installed, what make/mfg is it, when the probe touches the bed what occurs. If I can get enough info to figure out what Mach3 is doing with it then I may be able to watch for that code and handle it. Then it could be added as an option. The only other thing I can think of is for you to write a custom Macro (1-3) and then you can assign it to a button.

Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: RichardV48 on August 04, 2018, 07:55:36 AM
Basically you attach 5v from a bob to the plate and the router bit is grounded.
When it touches the  plate, it accounts for the thickness of the plate and sets a zero for the work surface.  I know technically that doesn't tell you much but that is basically how it works. I have been starting it using the mouse and clicking on the start arrow. 
I know your busy, if its not something simply don't spend allot  of time on it. Just though
it might be something simple I was overlooking. Thanks again for the reply.
Richard
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Tunesmith on February 28, 2019, 10:39:18 PM
Hi Lee,

I'm having a strange problem with the Lee Davis XBOX 360 Controller plugin for Mach3.
I'm using an official Xbox 360 wireless controller and an official Xbox 360 PC Adapter for Windows (I'm using Windows XP SP3)
I have programmed the Xbox joystick controls for XYZ movements and programmed many of the buttons for things like Auto-Zero, Home Reference, Reset, Park, Tool Change, etc.
All of the controls on the controller work fine when I start up Mach3, until I drive into a limit switch. After I hit a limit switch (and manually reset Mach3 using the RESET button on the computer screen), all of the programmed buttons no longer work, except for the XYZ joysticks and the left and right trigger controls (for XY & Z speed control).
I tried manually tripping the limit switches, but this did not cause the buttons to stop working (and I could use the Xbox controller to reset Mach3). It's only when I DRIVE into a limit switch that the problem occurs and the buttons go completely dead.
Once I run into a limit switch, the controller buttons will no longer work and the only way to get them working again is to restart Mach3. Restarting Mach3 is easy enough to do, but if you are in the middle of a CNC job you will lose all your references!
I am using the '2010 Screenset', so I tried switching from that to the Mach3 standard screenset, but that did not change the problem.
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: reuelt on March 06, 2019, 01:36:08 AM
Hi Lee,

I'm having a strange problem with the Lee Davis XBOX 360 Controller plugin for Mach3.
I'm using an official Xbox 360 wireless controller and an official Xbox 360 PC Adapter for Windows (I'm using Windows XP SP3)
I have programmed the Xbox joystick controls for XYZ movements and programmed many of the buttons for things like Auto-Zero, Home Reference, Reset, Park, Tool Change, etc.
All of the controls on the controller work fine when I start up Mach3, until I drive into a limit switch. After I hit a limit switch (and manually reset Mach3 using the RESET button on the computer screen), all of the programmed buttons no longer work, except for the XYZ joysticks and the left and right trigger controls (for XY & Z speed control).
I tried manually tripping the limit switches, but this did not cause the buttons to stop working (and I could use the Xbox controller to reset Mach3). It's only when I DRIVE into a limit switch that the problem occurs and the buttons go completely dead.
Once I run into a limit switch, the controller buttons will no longer work and the only way to get them working again is to restart Mach3. Restarting Mach3 is easy enough to do, but if you are in the middle of a CNC job you will lose all your references!
I am using the '2010 Screenset', so I tried switching from that to the Mach3 standard screenset, but that did not change the problem.
I also had similar problem to yours but only on Windows 7.
1. I now avoid hitting the physical  limit switches by ALSO setting up SOFT LIMITs just a few mm before the limit switches so that softlimits (usually on) will trigger before the physical limit switches.
2. I had also increased the lookahead buffer from 20 to 200. That strangely improved the stability of the Xbox controller buttons probably because with more memory reserved, the Xbox plug-in memory does not get overwritten so often.
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Tunesmith on March 06, 2019, 10:35:19 AM
Reuelt, thanks for the response. I have tried increasing the Look Ahead buffer to 200, but it didn't seem to make any difference. However, your suggestion about the Soft Limits is probably going to help. The last time I had to re-image my CNC computer, I think I turned OFF the Soft Limits feature. I'll turn that back on and set the limits a couple mm less, as you suggested. Thanks!
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: reuelt on April 15, 2019, 06:43:07 AM

There is one thing you may be able to help me with. I have optioned all the buttons but I cant figure out how to option the controller to work the z axis touch probe. Any advice on how to get it working would be greatly appreciated.

Regards
Richard
Here is how I do it.
Operator | Edit button Script and select [Auto Tool Zero]

I have the following script there:
CurrentFeed = GetOemDRO(818) 'Get the current feedrate to return to later
CurrentAbsInc = GetOemLED(48) 'Get the current G90/G91 state
CurrentGmode = GetOemDRO(819) 'Get the current G0/G1 state

If GetOemLed (825)=0 Then 'Check to see if the probe is already grounded or faulty
DoOEMButton (1010) 'zero the Z axis so the probe move will start from here
Code "G4 P3" ' this delay gives me time to get from computer to hold probe in place
Code "G90 G31Z-100. F100" 'probing move, can set the feed rate here as well as how far to move
While IsMoving() 'wait while it happens
Wend
ZProbePos = GetOEMDRO(85) 'get the exact point the probe was hit
Code "G0 Z" &ZProbePos 'go back to that point, always a very small amount of overrun
While IsMoving ()
Wend
Call SetDro (2, 19.8 ) ' change 19.8mm to your plate thickness and then adjust for final accuracy
Sleep 100 'Pause for Dro to update.
Code "G1 Z25. F200" 'put the Z retract height 25mm you want here, must be greater than the touch plate thickness
While IsMoving ()
Wend
Code "(Z axis is now zeroed)" 'puts this message in the status bar
Code "F" &CurrentFeed 'Returns to prior feed rate
Else
Code "(Z-Plate is grounded, check connection and try again)" 'this goes in the status bar if applicable
End If
If CurrentAbsInc = 0 Then 'if G91 was in effect before then return to it
Code "G91"
End If
If CurrentGMode = 0 Then 'if G0 was in effect before then return to it
Code "G0"
End If   

Now I copy this script into a new custom Macro named M798.m1s full path C:\Mach3\macros\Mach3Mill\M798.m1s
Now I config |config plugin | xbox360.....
with the config as attached

Now the A button on the xbox controller is ALSO an [AUTO TOOL ZERO] button.
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: meally3 on December 17, 2019, 04:49:46 PM
Hi folks,

Weird issue here. Using an aftermarket 360 controller and running off a CNCDrive AXBB-E. Everything works just fine, except the jog rate is very slow and does not change based off  jog rate% or feed rate in Mach3. Is there a setting or something I can change? Specifically it will only do 2.29inch/min. I've tried calibrating the controller in windows.

Thanks
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: rhtuttle on January 13, 2020, 01:45:56 PM
Good day all,

Trying to help a friend whose WinXp box went down and now has a win10 box.  I have been able to remote in and set up mach3 and get it to run.  He and I use to have the xBox360controller on XP machines and loved the way Lee allowed us to set it up.  I have a win10 machine now so I can help him out.

I have installed the latest version and the vendor and product id's show up in the boxes in both his and mine.  I get no errors when I load Mach3 and the plugin is registered and has a green check mark.  The buttons are configured the way we used to have them.

The problem.  I can get my controller to work with win10 and Mach3 but his does not.  The wireless controller for him is always connecting to the upper right instead of the upper left.  I thought I read somewhere that it must connect to the upper left.

Thoughts on what is causing his to connect upper right and does it make a difference?  Any other thoughts as to why his is not connecting?

TIA

RT
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on January 13, 2020, 02:25:28 PM
Good day all,

Trying to help a friend whose WinXp box went down and now has a win10 box.  I have been able to remote in and set up mach3 and get it to run.  He and I use to have the xBox360controller on XP machines and loved the way Lee allowed us to set it up.  I have a win10 machine now so I can help him out.

I have installed the latest version and the vendor and product id's show up in the boxes in both his and mine.  I get no errors when I load Mach3 and the plugin is registered and has a green check mark.  The buttons are configured the way we used to have them.

The problem.  I can get my controller to work with win10 and Mach3 but his does not.  The wireless controller for him is always connecting to the upper right instead of the upper left.  I thought I read somewhere that it must connect to the upper left.

Thoughts on what is causing his to connect upper right and does it make a difference?  Any other thoughts as to why his is not connecting?

TIA

RT


If you have 1 controller connected, then the upper left light is on meaning this controller is number one. If you connect a second one then the upper right light is the only one on etc. This is for Windows not Mach. So, it looks like the remote user has a Windows 10 that thinks it is the 2nd controller. Why - could be that he has 2 controllers hooked up. Could be that he has another device that Windows thinks is a controller. The device manager should indicate if there are 2 devices.
It doesn't matter id 1 controller is wireless and the other is wired.
Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on January 13, 2020, 02:36:12 PM
Hi folks,

Weird issue here. Using an aftermarket 360 controller and running off a CNCDrive AXBB-E. Everything works just fine, except the jog rate is very slow and does not change based off  jog rate% or feed rate in Mach3. Is there a setting or something I can change? Specifically it will only do 2.29inch/min. I've tried calibrating the controller in windows.

Thanks

Don't know if I can be much help on that but I would suggest trying a true Microsoft XBox360 controller first. My guess is that the range of the joystick (thumbstick) motion is set too low. In calibration, you should be able to see the coordinates (Raw Data).
The range is 0 to 64K. Your joystick (thumbstick) may have a lower range.
Lee
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: rhtuttle on January 13, 2020, 03:35:10 PM
Hi Lee, thanks for responding so quickly.  I know he doesn't have 2 controllers so I will check to see if there is another device.  I'm not the greatest at windows so I think I should use dxdiag to check.
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: Leed3 on January 13, 2020, 04:55:07 PM
Hi Lee, thanks for responding so quickly.  I know he doesn't have 2 controllers so I will check to see if there is another device.  I'm not the greatest at windows so I think I should use dxdiag to check.

That should work. Just look for 2 devices with the VendorId 0x45E and ProductID 0x28E. Also, Microsoft issues different versions of the driver. Sometimes you will get an update and things quick working and you have to go get the old driver.  You can check your driver version and his to see if they are the same. Along the same lines , you may have reinstall the XBox360_32(or 64)Eng and the Nov 2007 DirectX SDK. Good luck.
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: novec on December 16, 2020, 10:31:50 AM
I was about to say I can't even remember a time before the Xbox360 plugin - turns out I've been using it since May 2013 :-) And I can hardly imagine working without it - having full control over all axes and a bunch of customizable controls at your fingertips is a must once you've tried it.

My only gripe is that I can't easily see whether the controller is active or not. I normally deactivate it whenever it's not in my hand, so it doesn't send my mill into a death spiral when I inevitably drop it, but sometimes I forget. Is there something simple like an OEMLED or UserLED I can add to my screenset?

I'm working off the screenset made by Physics Anonymous, btw. Definitely worth checking out: https://youtu.be/7o_V_1AIaXE
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: DanJ on December 16, 2020, 05:26:47 PM
Hello,
I'm getting an error "XBox360Controller.dll Defective Plugin Found - Ignoring"

I spoke to someone at Mach Support who suggested the Plugin may not work with Win10. It worked last week but I had to completely wipe my hard drive and reinstall.

I'm using Mach version .062 because it was recommended by the SmoothStepper folks and a wireless Microsoft Xbox controller.

Any advice?

Thanks in advance,
Dan
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: DanJ on December 18, 2020, 12:44:20 PM
Hello,
I'm getting an error "XBox360Controller.dll Defective Plugin Found - Ignoring"

I spoke to someone at Mach Support who suggested the Plugin may not work with Win10. It worked last week but I had to completely wipe my hard drive and reinstall.

I'm using Mach version .062 because it was recommended by the SmoothStepper folks and a wireless Microsoft Xbox controller.

Any advice?

Thanks in advance,
Dan
Any thoughts?
I am running DirectX 12 which was probably from the complete reinstall of Win10.
Xbox driver is 10.0.19041.1 WinBuild 160101.0800
As I said I have a genuine Xbox wireless controller.

I really, really miss the Xbox controller. Any help would be appreciated.

Thank you,
Dan
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: novec on December 18, 2020, 01:47:49 PM
You still have to install DirectX 9, as it has some components that are changed or not included in later versions. I think I installed this one when I set up a new Win10 machine last week: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/details.aspx?id=8109
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: DanJ on December 18, 2020, 02:32:45 PM
You still have to install DirectX 9, as it has some components that are changed or not included in later versions. I think I installed this one when I set up a new Win10 machine last week: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/details.aspx?id=8109
Thank you, I'd like to give that a try but all my searches from Microsoft say you can't. Obviously that's not true but I don't know which website instructions to trust. Can you tell me how you did it?

Thank you,
Dan
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: novec on December 18, 2020, 03:28:28 PM
There was nothing to it, really. Just remember that it's a two step process - the downloaded executable just unzips everything to a folder you specify, then you open that folder and run the install file. I didn't realize that before I'd downloaded three or four different versions... Which also means I'm not entirely sure which version I ended up installing.
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: DanJ on December 18, 2020, 03:30:43 PM
There was nothing to it, really. Just remember that it's a two step process - the downloaded executable just unzips everything to a folder you specify, then you open that folder and run the install file. I didn't realize that before I'd downloaded three or four different versions... Which also means I'm not entirely sure which version I ended up installing.
hahaha, good stuff.

So you just downloaded an old version and Win10 let you install it instead of 12? Cool.

Thank you,
Dan
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: DanJ on December 18, 2020, 04:25:18 PM
So that didn't work. I used your link and was asked where it should go - odd, right? I found something on MS website that said to put it anywhere in the computer so I did. But, it didn't help.

I'm running version .062 because it's what SmoothStepper recommended. Should I go further into the post to use the Xbox controller?

Another interesting thing. I tried the Xbox Shilling and it fails too.

Thank you,
Dan
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: DanJ on December 18, 2020, 07:02:58 PM
Working! But I don't know why. I reinstalled Xbox Controller and the Xbox 360_64Eng and the errors stopped showing up on startup. Then I could edit the Xbox plugging. Closed and reopened and the controller worked.

Novec thank you for your help. Hopefully someone else learns from our experiences.

Thank you,
Dan
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: novec on December 19, 2020, 08:31:19 AM
So you just downloaded an old version and Win10 let you install it instead of 12? Cool.

That's not quite the way DirectX works. DirectX is a massive set of instructions required for gaming and multimedia - think 3D graphics, surround sound, controllers and what not - and some of those instruction sets are removed or replaced instead of being updated as new versions come out. So when you install an old DX version you're just adding back those missing components, not downgrading what's already there.

Another interesting thing. I tried the Xbox Shilling and it fails too.

Any kind of software that uses a controller, be it games or Mach3 plugins, rely on Windows to interpret the hardware and provide access to whichever sticks and buttons that controller might have. So if Windows doesn't understand the hardware, which for these old controllers requires DX9, nothing will be able to use it.

Working! But I don't know why. I reinstalled Xbox Controller and the Xbox 360_64Eng and the errors stopped showing up on startup. Then I could edit the Xbox plugging. Closed and reopened and the controller worked.

Nice! Windows can be picky about which order you install things in, as they can rely on each other in more or less logical ways. And most lower level stuff can only be loaded during the startup process of the program or the computer itself. That's why you need to restart Mach3 if a wireless controller goes into standby mode after a while and cuts the connection. So, as always when you're dealing with Windows: If in doubt, reboot :-)

Btw, XBox360_64Eng shouldn't be required for Windows 10. That's a driver that's included in the OS, or automatically downloaded from Windows Update when you plug it in.

Lars
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: CharlesHewitt on May 17, 2021, 07:56:27 AM
Restarting doesn't always help as well as you say. I had an absolutely similar problem with Xbox, but unfortunately, the method that you did not help me. I am now looking for more solutions that can help me.
Title: Re: XBox360 Controller Plugin New User Info
Post by: novec on May 26, 2021, 05:40:32 AM
Restarting doesn't always help as well as you say. I had an absolutely similar problem with Xbox, but unfortunately, the method that you did not help me. I am now looking for more solutions that can help me.
Do you have any more information than "Restarting doesn't always help"? And which method didn't help?