Machsupport Forum

Mach Discussion => Mach4 General Discussion => Topic started by: Forgiven on January 27, 2015, 04:32:27 PM

Title: Newbie Port configuration question
Post by: Forgiven on January 27, 2015, 04:32:27 PM

I did try some searches first.

I bought a CNC fusion harbor frieght machine with hopes of learning how to use the machine.  My boys are really into CAD so it seems like a good tool to expand on that interest.

OK.  I have a Windows 7 machine, had to put a Parallel port card which is B800 port.  I have downloaded the demo of Mach4 per ARTSOFT's recommendation to see if I like it.  I can't seem to find where to get to the port configurator since a standard port is 378.  I believe that is why my machine will not even jog at this point.

Additionally I see in the port thread I need the Darwin driver but am having a hard time trying to figure out how to install it on the Mach 4 software.  That coul have something to do with it as well.

Please forgive my ignorance and stupidity once I get the feel for it I should be fine.  Just trying something new for my boys.

Thanks

Steve

Title: Re: Newbie Port configuration question
Post by: Forgiven on January 27, 2015, 07:33:48 PM

Just a little extra info. The DRO's track just as I would expect, just no movement. Additionally when I plug the three leads into the controller box they all pulse just a very little bit and I know the machine works.

Title: Re: Newbie Port configuration question
Post by: ger21 on January 27, 2015, 09:41:58 PM

I'd recommend starting with Mach3. It's far easier to setup and use than Mach4 at this time.

Title: Re: Newbie Port configuration question
Post by: Chaoticone on January 27, 2015, 09:45:25 PM

Hello Steve, Welcome to the forum.

Is your Windows 7 32 or 64 bit? The parallel port driver will only work with 32 bit OSs.

You can find the Parallel port address buy looking at its properties in device manager.

The Darwin topic should cover installing the Darwin plugin. I know there are links in the topic to some setup videos Art posted that anyone using Darwin should watch. Between those and the Mach4 Install and Config. manual they should get you a long ways down the path to CNC bliss.

Title: Re: Newbie Port configuration question
Post by: Forgiven on January 27, 2015, 10:11:42 PM

I know how to get to my port information. I need to know how to configure the primary port on mach 4 it is in ports and pins in mach 3. Cant find it in mach 4. I do have 32bit.  I got it specifically for mach 4.

Title: Re: Newbie Port configuration question
Post by: ger21 on January 27, 2015, 10:25:09 PM

I believe it's in the Darwin configuration screen(s).

Title: Re: Newbie Port configuration question
Post by: dude1 on January 27, 2015, 10:51:43 PM

its in arts vid`s how to do it

Title: Re: Newbie Port configuration question
Post by: Steve Stallings on January 27, 2015, 11:13:08 PM

Darwin manual in PDF - download link
http://www.machsupport.com/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=24932.0;attach=35162


Darwin plugin configuration for Mach4 - YouTube video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B6SU5JVTpik


Darwin plugin advanced Laser functions - YouTube video
http://youtu.be/f2IzaLQ85YA

Title: Re: Newbie Port configuration question
Post by: Forgiven on February 16, 2015, 08:55:22 AM

When I install the program it doesn't have the same tabs.  This is killing me.  I am CNC stupid not computer stupid.  I tried installing the darwin drivers and it gives me warnings that the C++ is older than the version installed. 

YESI have watched the videos!  Many times!!!!!!!!!!  I have tried redownloading, uninstalling reinstalling rebooting.  I can not get to ANY screen like the Mach4 explanation portion and anywhere I can configure ports.  I am beside myself.

Title: Re: Newbie Port configuration question
Post by: Forgiven on February 16, 2015, 08:56:50 AM

The Darwin control and statistics screen is NOT available anywhere.

Title: Re: Newbie Port configuration question
Post by: Forgiven on February 16, 2015, 11:22:46 AM

I am the administrator but for kicks I reinstalled by right clicking and run as administrator with Mach4 and darwin.  That seems to have helped.  I still don't have access to the Darwin control and statistics screen though.  It does appear to have installed the plugin though.  Certainly getting closer...in my mind anyway.

Title: Re: Newbie Port configuration question
Post by: dude1 on February 16, 2015, 01:23:38 PM

you may need to go into the driver directory and remove the Darwin driver and re install

Title: Re: Newbie Port configuration question
Post by: Forgiven on February 16, 2015, 02:01:23 PM

I just don't know what else to do.

Title: Re: Newbie Port configuration question
Post by: Forgiven on February 16, 2015, 08:32:40 PM

(http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a1/blindbartimaeus/Darwinpulse2.jpg) (http://s8.photobucket.com/user/blindbartimaeus/media/Darwinpulse2.jpg.html)
(http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a1/blindbartimaeus/parallel.jpg) (http://s8.photobucket.com/user/blindbartimaeus/media/parallel.jpg.html)
(http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a1/blindbartimaeus/port.jpg) (http://s8.photobucket.com/user/blindbartimaeus/media/port.jpg.html)
(http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a1/blindbartimaeus/port%20address.png) (http://s8.photobucket.com/user/blindbartimaeus/media/port%20address.png.html)

I only have a PCI parallel port card...what settings and what port should I use?

Title: Re: Newbie Port configuration question
Post by: dude1 on February 16, 2015, 09:42:20 PM

0x378

Title: Re: Newbie Port configuration question
Post by: bar553 on April 17, 2015, 07:17:58 AM

did you choose parallel port in the M4 motion device on the setup tab?

Title: Re: Newbie Port configuration question
Post by: bar553 on April 20, 2015, 04:03:12 PM

My motors required them to be enabled.  I set outputs in Darwin and outputs in M4, then all worked fine in both.