Machsupport Forum

MachPro => MachPro General Discussion => Topic started by: mc on August 17, 2026, 02:13:15 PM

Title: Couple pre-purchase questions
Post by: mc on August 17, 2026, 02:13:15 PM

Having been away from Mach for a while, and having failed on multiple attempts at getting EtherCAT to work reliably with a certain free option, I'm very intrigued by the new M31 option.

I've got a plasma table partially built, but the documentation around torch height control is a bit 'light'.
I know ML have the THC board available, but my plasma cutter already has an isolated 0-10V output, so could I wire that to a suitable EtherCAT module analogue input and use that instead?

Also I see MachPro pricing is based on axis travel. The current table is only 1mx1m travel, but I may try it on my little mill first (the set of EtherCAT drives/steppers were bought with the intention of re-retrofitting it), however can you upgrade the MP license or do you have to buy a completely new license?

Title: Re: Couple pre-purchase questions
Post by: paul.stephens on August 21, 2026, 04:04:26 PM

Hi,

Sorry for the delay in response.

In terms of EtherCAT, we ask that you provide the ESI files for your hardware so that they may be integrated into our library. There are tools that can add the ESI file, but it can be a bit complicated, as not every device is standardized in their EtherCAT communications.

When it comes to reading a Analog input, we do have a couple of methods that can be used for a THC.
The ArcPRO can take that 0-10v signal from your Plasma, and convert that to a THC adjust on the hardware level.
We can also pair with a EtherCAT device to take a Analog Input, The SoftHC (Software Based Height Controller) can take it from there. The software based HC will not react as fast as hardware will, but it can be done. 
My recommendation at this point is to wait a little bit on the plasma machine if you can, for some of the bugs to get worked out, as we have completely revamped how we handle plasma. 

Unfortunately at this time, there is no "Upgrade Path" for licenses. A method in the future to be able to do so, will be considered. At this time, however, it will be a significant undertaking to create the systems to do such.