Mach Discussion => Mach SDK plugin questions and answers. => Topic started by: t.whelen on October 10, 2012, 05:45:08 PM
Title: Input Multiplexing
Post by: t.whelen on October 10, 2012, 05:45:08 PM
I would like the option of 'multiplexing' the inputs on Port 1 for my CNC setup. I know there already is 5 inputs predefined (Pin10-13,15). Is it (already) possible to setup multiple pin inputs on the the Ports / Pin page? It would open up 5 possibilies to 31
I did find a dead thread (http://www.machsupport.com/forum/index.php/topic,9545.0.html (http://www.machsupport.com/forum/index.php/topic,9545.0.html)) from 2008 that made mention that there was a possible plugin, but I had no luck searching the plugin forums.
Any help or suggestions would be appreciated!
Title: Re: Input Multiplexing
Post by: BR549 on October 18, 2012, 11:05:05 AM
You will ALSO have to have a BOB that can understand and do the MUXing along with MACH3.
(;-) PT
Title: Re: Input Multiplexing
Post by: t.whelen on October 18, 2012, 10:31:25 PM
I am using the MK4c from SOC Robotics (http://www.soc-robotics.com/product/MotorC_Specs/Control%20Systems/MK4+4MM160.html). I have mapped the BOB inputs to the Mach3 diagnostic page (as well as a port monitoring program), and can see the input change to follow my inputs. This shows to me that I can make any combination of inputs that I need.
The issue I know that could come up is 'priories', and am ready to assign inputs in a specific priority order.
I am looking for a way to use a Mach3 input with multiple pins.
Title: Re: Input Multiplexing
Post by: BR549 on October 18, 2012, 11:04:39 PM
I think you missed the point. To do MUXing in mach3 you need a plugin to control the Mach3 side AND you need a BOB that has the MUX controls code built into the board to control the flip flopping of the signals.
A standard BOB cannot do MUXing in mach3.
I do not see where you board can do MACH3 MUXing.
Just a thought, (;-) TP
Title: Re: Input Multiplexing
Post by: t.whelen on October 18, 2012, 11:22:36 PM
Ahhh, I understand now what you mean about the BOB support. No, my board has nothing like that built in.
I was just hoping that there would be a way to use the DB25 input pins as a '1 for 1' binary input.
Thanks for your thoughts TP/PT
Title: Re: Input Multiplexing
Post by: rrc1962 on October 22, 2012, 10:44:21 PM
If you limit yourself to available OEM button codes, you can do it with a brain or macropump. It's basically a series of if statements....
if I/P 1 then dooembbutton(123) if I/P 2 then dooembutton(456) if I/P 3 and I/P 4 then dooembutton(789)
I think if you want to jog, you would have to have a multiplexing BOB with a matching plugin.
Title: Re: Input Multiplexing
Post by: t.whelen on October 22, 2012, 11:15:48 PM
Do you have any suggestions for an external USB to discrete IO board? Or how to emulate a keyboard into a port recognized by MACH3?
Last idea would be to add a 2nd parallel port VIA PCI card.
Title: Re: Input Multiplexing
Post by: rrc1962 on October 22, 2012, 11:34:03 PM
Pokeys is USB keyboard emulator and works pretty good. I think the best option for the money is probably Peter Homann's MODIO board. It uses modbus, which is a bit more stable than USB. If you want to spend a little more, go with a PLC with a modbus connection to the PC. We use PLC's.