Machsupport Forum

Mach Discussion => General Mach Discussion => Topic started by: catch22 on March 01, 2010, 07:45:32 PM

Title: CSS with Mach3
Post by: catch22 on March 01, 2010, 07:45:32 PM

Im wondering if mach3 will work with a vector drive so that I can program CSS on my lathe?
Or is there some other way to do this?

Thanks Mike ???

Title: Re: CSS with Mach3
Post by: Hood on March 02, 2010, 02:13:25 AM

If Mach is controlling your spindle well at the moment with the VFD then it should be fine with CSS. I am not sure how well CSS works however, I use the SmoothStepper and it doesnt work quite right but I am not sure if its a Mach or SmoothStepper issue.
Hood

Title: Re: CSS with Mach3
Post by: M250cnc on March 02, 2010, 05:09:07 AM

I think a read an earlier thread that it is completely broken in the newer releases of Mach  >:(

Phil

Title: Re: CSS with Mach3
Post by: chrisjh on March 02, 2010, 06:50:18 PM

Hi,

I use CSS with Mach3 Lathe all the time.

I run a Smoothstepper currently with V015meg Plugin and Mach V3.042.037.  (I notice this morning that Mach3 R3.042.038 is released)

I tried later Smoothstepper Plugins but the all have a problem with indicating True Spindle Speed on the Mach3 DRO.  V015meg Plugin indicates accurate Spindle Speed.

As far as I can recall, CSS worked on my setup with all Mach3 variants that I have used.

I use Mach3s PWM output control to control my Danfoss VFD via a simple RC integration circuit.  Works a treat.

Here it is working.  In the Video I use CSS for the OD turning operation, then switch CSS off to perform the spot drill and drill operations, then switch CSS back on to perform the parting operation.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=55SLUjDg5go

Regards

Chrisjh

Title: Re: CSS with Mach3
Post by: M250cnc on March 02, 2010, 07:09:07 PM

Chris maybe you could attach the plugin for some testing please

Phil

Title: Re: CSS with Mach3
Post by: chrisjh on March 02, 2010, 10:21:01 PM

Hi Phil,

Smoothstepper Plugin V015.meg as requested.

Regards

Chrisjh