Machsupport Forum

Mach Discussion => General Mach Discussion => Topic started by: jwlrymkr on April 08, 2007, 09:27:05 AM

Title: Using Mach3 Via Serial port?
Post by: jwlrymkr on April 08, 2007, 09:27:05 AM

Hi guys.

Silly question and I should probably try first, but...

I have a little 3 axis mill that communicates via a serial port on the computer and a parallel port on the machine. Is it possible to use Mach3 with this or do I need to go get a regular parallel cable?
Thanks!
Ken

Title: Re: Using Mach3 Via Serial port?
Post by: Chaoticone on April 08, 2007, 09:46:24 AM

Hey Ken,
      You need to get a cable. Before you do though, I have a few questions? Do you have a wiring diagram for the control cabinet? Do you know where each pin on the cabinet connector goes? I would love it if you could just unplug your old cable, load Mach, hook up another cable, and start running. It may not be that simple though.

Brett

Title: Re: Using Mach3 Via Serial port?
Post by: jwlrymkr on April 08, 2007, 09:51:37 AM

Thanks for the quick reply Brett!
I do have the schematics on the machine....Now reading the diagrams may not be easy for me. I am very limited in my knowledge of wiring diagrams...
If anyone is willing to help in this matter, I would be much indebted and promise to dance at their next wedding :)
The pdf file is 6.7mb and I dont know if it would be appropriate to even upload here?
Thanks again!
Ken

Title: Re: Using Mach3 Via Serial port?
Post by: Chaoticone on April 08, 2007, 10:04:56 AM

Ken, I have sent you a personal message.

Brett

Title: Re: Using Mach3 Via Serial port?
Post by: jwlrymkr on April 09, 2007, 12:02:38 PM

I came across this and wondered if it might be an option to convert the serial to parallel?
http://www.datapro.net/products/SXP320.html

Title: Re: Using Mach3 Via Serial port?
Post by: Brian Barker on April 10, 2007, 09:12:37 AM

That is not going to work :( You will have to rewire direct to the the drives :(

Title: Re: Using Mach3 Via Serial port?
Post by: jwlrymkr on April 10, 2007, 09:19:47 AM

Thanks Brian.
Do you or anyone know if this controller board is any good?
http://www.hobbycnc.com/4aupc.php
I think my best option now is a new controller.

Regards,
Ken

Title: Re: Using Mach3 Via Serial port?
Post by: Brian Barker on April 10, 2007, 09:24:54 AM

Many of the users use there stuff... I have not used them my self :(

But they should work!