Machsupport Forum
Mach Discussion => General Mach Discussion => Topic started by: A11an on February 22, 2021, 05:36:23 AM
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Hi, I'm still learning but just to make it harder on myself I've installed an OPT Laser on my 3dtek Heavy Mill, I've managed to get it fitted and sort of working but struggling to get the laser to switch on and off, it does trigger on at the start and at the end but continuously on through the burning process. I've installed a post processor in aspire but to be honest I'm struggling to get my head around the whole laser thing. Do I need proper laser software or can I use aspire? I've probably missed a setting somewhere in Mach3, hope someone can help me out
thanks
Allan
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Hi Allan,
Welcome to the forum.
Mach3 uses the M11Px / M10Px commands (where x is the Output# selected as your laser trigger) for switching a laser ON/OFF consistent with axis movement.
The Vectric post processor I use is here; https://www.machsupport.com/forum/index.php?topic=36639.0
I use Output#1 for my laser trigger so my commands are M11P1 for turning my laser ON and M10P1 for turning my laser OFF. If you are using a different Output# then you can use Notepad to modify my post processor to suit your needs.
Hope this helps,
Tweakie.
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Hi Tweakie
Thanks for the reply, I already downloaded your post processor and I'm using output 1 too, maybe I need to learn a bit more about Aspire and settings in there, I used quick engrave but to honest didn't change any settings. As its not the new laser module Vectrix have where do I find some settings to setup in Aspire?
thanks
Allan
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The Aspire Quick Engrave is OK to use, you just need to select the Mach3 laser post processor before saving the toolpath.
Tweakie.
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Tweakie
Would I have to setup a special tool in quick engrave for the laser to work correctly?
thanks
Allan
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Ideally you would create a tool with a diameter equal to your laser spot size but I just select an engraving bit as the current tool (because it has a fine tip size).
(Just checked my Vectric tool table and I have a Laser tool which is 0.2mm Diameter and uses 0.2mm Stepover)
Tweakie.
Tool selection would not affect the laser operation.
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If you post your .xml file I will check your Mach3 set-up.
Tweakie.
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Really appreciate the help
Allan
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This is a simple file and I think I can see your post processor has worked ok.
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No, doesn't make a difference, see attached
Thanks
Allan
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how (Hardware) do you Switch your laser On/off?
scematics would also help.
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Your Gcode looks OK.
From your .xml, you are using Output#1 for your spindle M3 /M5 commands and creating a conflict with the M11P1/M10P1 commands.
Change this to Output#2 in Spindle Setup for both M3 and M4 and also Enable Output#2 (set to an unused output pin) in Output Signals.
Hopefully...
Tweakie.
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Ok, so I don't think I have any spare output pins, should I use the pin 17 as was set in output 1?
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Heres the info from OPT Laser ref my board CP0-10V
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and where is the Output witch is switched with M10/M11 wired to?
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and where is the Output witch is switched with M10/M11 wired to?
I'm trying to attach the CP0-10v but the file is too big, hopefully this link will work,
https://cnc4you.co.uk/resources/CP0-10V.pdf
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the 0-10V part is clear, but imho there should be an Output witch is going to the enable Input from laser Interface.
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the 0-10V part is clear, but imho there should be an Output witch is going to the enable Input from laser Interface.
This is where I'm out of my depth! I don't understand how it works, the 2 wires from the CP0-10V go to the Opt laser PLH3D-CNC adaptor into pin 4 & 6, then is it controlled by PWM freq?
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according to this Manual
https://optlasersgrav.com/index.php?controller=attachment&id_attachment=56
i am pretty sure you have to connect an other Output to Enable #1 Input (Pin3),
and this Output is the witch Needs to be switched with M10/M11
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according to this Manual
https://optlasersgrav.com/index.php?controller=attachment&id_attachment=56
i am pretty sure you have to connect an other Output to Enable #1 Input (Pin3),
and this Output is the witch Needs to be switched with M10/M11
Thanks, I'll look at this tomorrow as I'm away from the machine now, I'm not entirely sure how to do that but I'll try to work out
Allan
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Your Gcode looks OK.
From your .xml, you are using Output#1 for your spindle M3 /M5 commands and creating a conflict with the M11P1/M10P1 commands.
Change this to Output#2 in Spindle Setup for both M3 and M4 and also Enable Output#2 (set to an unused output pin) in Output Signals.
Hopefully...
Tweakie.
The guy from Opt Lasers just emailed me to say the gcode should be M3 and M5 commands not M11 and M10?
now I'm lost!
Allan
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The guy from Opt Lasers just emailed me to say the gcode should be M3 and M5 commands not M11 and M10?
Total Rubbish !!
The problem with that is that there is a delay between the M3/M5 commands being read and the Output# being switched. This results in excessive burn at the start and end of each engraved line. To resolve this issue Artsoft introduced the M10/M11 commands which are linked to axis movement so the laser is only turned ON when the axis starts moving and OFF when the axis stops moving.
Tweakie.
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Perhaps if you have some time to spare take a tour of my Laser Project thread. It spans may years but coveres most aspects of Mach3 laser control, although orientated towards CO2 lasers the control principles also apply to diode lasers.
https://www.machsupport.com/forum/index.php?topic=12444.0
Tweakie.
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I definitely will!
I don't have any spare outputs as I have used A axis for my 2nd Y stepper, I can wire both to the y axis but not sure which wires to reverse?
after this I will #have some spare outputs to set to Output 2, will that work?
Allan
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are you using the Enable Output with your stepper's?
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are you using the Enable Output with your stepper's?
Yes
Allan
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Hi Allan,
Do not wire two steppers to the same axis.
As you are using the UC400ETH controller you could set an Output Pin from Port#2 for your spindle. I am assuming that you will be using a different profile for your spindle working to your laser working.
At the moment the conflict that I mentioned earlier is switching your laser (Port#1 Pin 17) from the M3/M5 commands and not the M11/M10 commands.
Tweakie.
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i think he is using this:
https://cnc4you.co.uk/resources/CP0-10V.pdf
Controller. If Yes he is out of Outputs.
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I really appreciate you guys helping me out, I realise now I have no idea what I'm doing!
So the port 1 & 2 is referring to the UC400ETH? if so I only have my CP0-10v plugged into port 1. nothing in port 2.
Pin 14 0-10v did go to my VFD spindle control which I have now put to Opt laser PLH3D-CNC Adaptor
I;m not sure how I get an output pin from port 2?
Go easy on me :)
Allan
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easysies way would be ro connect a second bob to port 2.
something like this: https://cnc4pc.com/ucsb-single-port-breakout-board.html
and complete with cable: http://www.shop.cncdrive.com/index.php?productID=947
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Hi Allan,
As TPS seems determined to take control of this thread there is a danger of my providing conflicting information so I will back-off and leave it to him to resolve the issue.
Tweakie.
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Hi Allan,
Do not wire two steppers to the same axis.
As you are using the UC400ETH controller you could set an Output Pin from Port#2 for your spindle. I am assuming that you will be using a different profile for your spindle working to your laser working.
At the moment the conflict that I mentioned earlier is switching your laser (Port#1 Pin 17) from the M3/M5 commands and not the M11/M10 commands.
Tweakie.
Tweakie
Please don't step back, I really appreciate all your help!
CNC4YOU instructions for the CP0-10V show the y axis wired into the same axis output and if using belt config like me then to swap over the A+ & A- I didn't do this as at the time I totally missed the instruction at the top right of the page 7 how to reverse the motor, so just used the a A axis
if I do that will that the give me the outputs 8 & 9 to use or is there a reason not to swap
Thanks
Allan
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I don't quite understand what you are doing to gain the output pins however...
Within Mach3 set your Spindle Setup to Output#2 for M3 & M4.
Enable and specify a Port# and Pin# for Output#2 in Output Signals
(At this stage you don't need to connect anything to the Output#2 Pin).
This should enable the M11/M10 to control the laser switching using your previous posted test Gcode example.
I believe in resolving one issue at a time so once we have your laser turning ON and OFF from the Gcode M11/M10 commands then we can look at the broader picture of Laser Output Power control, etc.
Tweakie.
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Hi Tweakie
Just so you know what I've done,
I have wired the both my Y axis motors to the Y axis outputs on the CP0-10V, Swapped the A+ & A- on the slave stepper motor, this has given me pin 8 & 9 free.
Is that wrong?
Allan
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Hi Tweakie
Just so you know what I've done,
I have wired the both my Y axis motors to the Y axis outputs on the CP0-10V, Swapped the A+ & A- on the slave stepper motor, this has given me pin 8 & 9 free.
Is that wrong?
Allan
I am not sure if it is wrong and I appreciate that CNC4YOU show that configuration but it is not something I would ever consider doing. Reason being that Mach3 ‘Gantry Squaring’ may not be possible and it would be necessary if the two motors ever get 'out of step'.
Bottom line.. If you are happy then give it a try and see how it goes.
Tweakie.
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Tweakie
I have another CP0-10V but i need to order a cable, I'm happy to connect the 2 y axis for now but will take your advice and put them back when the cable comes, then could I use an output from that?
So would I now set in output signals Output#2 - Port#2 & Pin#8
What do I set Output#1 to?
Allan
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port 1 pin 17 for the relay
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So would I now set in output signals Output#2 - Port#2 & Pin#8
What do I set Output#1 to?
Output#1 Port 1 Pin 8 (which you now have to connect to your laser TTL input)
Output#2 Port 1 Pin 17 (this will connect to your spindle VFD but you can leave unconnected at the moment).
In Mach3 Motor Outputs disable the A axis to free-up pins 8 & 9
Tweakie.
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Ok, that's all set but still the same, soon as the gcode starts the laser is on until it finishes, as before
Allan
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according to the Picture you posted here:
https://www.machsupport.com/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=44431.0;attach=55305
make a quick test, turn your laser ON then make a wire Bridge from terminal 4 (GND) to terminal (enable input1). then laser should turn OFF.
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Do you mean bridge while running the gcode?
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I've taken some screen shots of settings incase
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Spindle
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if you exceute a M3 S200 in MDI line this should Switch on laser with low power,
and if it's on make the Bridge to see what is Happening.
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Ports
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No it doesn't stop the laser
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https://youtu.be/AT_wzEpxEPw
So you can see what it doing
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ok lets try step by step
first test with MDI Input (no Gcode running):
1st Input: M3 S200 ->this should turn ON laser with low power
2nd Input: M3 S0 ->this should turn OFF laser
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Hi Allan,
This is really not going to work for you with two people making conflicting suggestions.
As I said earlier I leave it all to TPS.
Tweakie.
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Hi Allan,
This is really not going to work for you with two people making conflicting suggestions.
As I said earlier I leave it all to TPS.
Tweakie.
Tweakie
I have only made changes you have suggested, I wouldn't change them between conflicting advice, yes I have turned the laser on and bridged the terminals but that's just a test.
Like I've said I appreciate all the help I can get, it's not fair to post a problem on a forum and not let all give advice/ opinions.
Just looking for friendly advice
thanks
Allan
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did you do the test with MDI?
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I've had to go out now, hopefully I'll get time later, I'll let you know
Thanks
Allan
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did you do the test with MDI?
I put in the code M3 S1000, it wouldn't work lower than that, at S800 the light flickered on the laser active indicator on the PLH3D-CNC control and it does stop with M3 S0
Allan
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ok that means we have General power control from laser with S command.
next step would be to get ON/OFF control via Output (M10/M11)
if i look to this Manual:
https://optlasersgrav.com/index.php?controller=attachment&id_attachment=56
there are two Enable Inputs listed on the Interface.
on page 29 is descibed
How to Check Enable Option in PLH3D-CNC Adapter
can you pls do this check?
then you have to set enable Options like described on page 30
mode 2 (mode description page27) should be the right one.
then you Need to connect port1 pin8 to enable input1 (terminal 3), and the you should
have ON/OFF control via M10P1/M11P1
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ok small correction:
you will Need a 10k pullup resistor connected between 5v and pin8 at bob.
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Morning
I've done the test and it was set to option 0, I've now changed that set everything else as stated.
I have tried it and can see the laser light flashes slightly like it did when I tried the M3 S800 kind of like too lower laser power?
Allan
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I have tried it and can see the laser light flashes slightly like it did when I tried the M3 S800 kind of like too lower laser power?
Allan
The light on the controller not the laser itself
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so with a M3 S1000 the laser beam itselv should stay off now?
and if you put 5V with a wire from your BOB to the enable Input 1 (terminal 3) it should turn on?
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No it doesn't turn on if I put 5v to it
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If I put a multimeter on the input 1 terminal 3 I can see 4.9v and if I run the gcode I can see it go on and off
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If I put the enable option back to 0 it works, not perfect but better than before see attached
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If I put the enable option back to 0 it works, not perfect but better than before see attached
Correction - sorry that's because it was in pin 2, I just tried it as advised by Opt Laser
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step by step:
-put it back to mode 2, witch should enable laser beam by using input1
-MDI M3 S1000 -> beam should stay off
-measure with between GND and input1 (input1 disconnected)
-if you measure the 4.9v make link from Input 1 to GND
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I get 28mv thats it
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this Manual (https://optlasersgrav.com/index.php?controller=attachment&id_attachment=56)
say's Mode 2 will enable Laser with Input 1 High
and on page 20/21 Hight Level is from 3-24V so for the Moment i have no answer why it's not
starting if you put 5V to terminal 3 (after M2 S1000)
maybe Manual is wrong.
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pls check the voltage between Pin3 and 4 when the 5V are connected.
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4.95v Between pin 3 & 4
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4.95v Between pin 3 & 4
but laser is not turning ON?
Mode2?
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No
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so maybe contacting
contact@optlasers.com
would be an Option, for the Moment i can't see, what we are doing wrong.
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When I run some gcode I get 4.95v between pin 3 & 4 with it wired pin 8 10k resistor from 5v to pin 8 on bob
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When I run some gcode I get 4.95v between pin 3 & 4 with it wired pin 8 10k resistor from 5v to pin 8 on bob
that's like it should be M11P1 is switching Output and Output gives the 5v to Enable Input 1.
so Mach3 and Output are OK, but laser is not turning ON.
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so maybe contacting
contact@optlasers.com
would be an Option, for the Moment i can't see, what we are doing wrong.
This is what they said earlier
"Set the adapter back to program 0, then enable inputs are not used. inputs is mostly for advanced use.
This will solv the problem."
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When I run some gcode I get 4.95v between pin 3 & 4 with it wired pin 8 10k resistor from 5v to pin 8 on bob
that's like it should be M11P1 is switching Output and Output gives the 5v to Enable Input 1.
so Mach3 and Output are OK, but laser is not turning ON.
Yes
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you can link Terminal 3 (Enable Input 1) to terminal 5 (Enable Input 2), maybe this makes a difference.??
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This is what they said earlier
"Set the adapter back to program 0, then enable inputs are not used. inputs is mostly for advanced use.
This will solv the problem."
sorry i overread this, that's bad, because the only way in Mach3 is to use M10/M11 for fast switching laser,
M3/M5 in combination with S-word is to slow and you will allways get burn marks at start and end.
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btw. are you using the relay on your BOB?
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btw. are you using the relay on your BOB?
Remind me where to check that?
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btw. are you using the relay on your BOB?
Remind me where to check that?
Forget it, had a look to the layout of your BOB, the NC contact is not connected to a terminal.
a try would be to use a external relay on Pin8 and use this relay to Switch the 0-10V Signal, but im affraid
that the relay switching time will also create burns.
so last Option:
Tweakie has published here: http://www.tweakie.byethost10.com/27_files/Page1020.htm
a small circuit to use PWM and Output for fast switching.
your laser also accepts PWM and you can use Pin 8 and 9 for this.
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can pin 14 be used where my spindle is usually connected?
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can pin 14 be used where my spindle is usually connected?
Yes.
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Do you mean yes but still have to build Tweakies board?
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can pin 14 be used where my spindle is usually connected?
Yes.
but then you have to use two profiles or Change pin assignment in Config -> Port's and Pin's ->Motor Outputs ->
Spindle.
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I am using 2 profiles
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For now I don't mind disconnecting the spindle and connecting laser, then maybe build a board
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Do you mean yes but still have to build Tweakies board?
you have to build tweakies board, because your BOB creates 0-10V and no PWM as far i can see.
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I control the spindle speed through mach3?
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I control the spindle speed through mach3?
yes, but you control it by using the 0-10V Signal, or am i wrong?
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Oh yes, sorry
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the plan is to use the PWM Input of your Laser control
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Ok, I'll see what I can do to build a board and come back,
thanks for you time and effort, much appreciated
Allan
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Just checking, It says something about Diode lasers using Active High TTL input, is mine?
does it show a different board for that, sorry out of my depth here!
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you are right, sorry to Point you to the wrong circuit.
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you are right, sorry to Point you to the wrong circuit.
Just to be sure it's the active high one I need to make?
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To be honest I don't understand the schematics drawing or understand how to read the truth table, any help would be really appreciated.
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you have to choose TTL(H) variant.
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I just don't understand the drawing schematic of the board
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is there any reason the drawing can't be like the attached so an idiot like me can understand? :)
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Hi Allan,
I am sure you are not an idiot but if you need to make one of these boards I can provide you with a circuit diagram although I should perhaps read through your laser manual to determine if such a board is really necessary or not.
I have been using a UC400ETH controller for over a year now but not with Mach3.
Stupid question but have you established that the Mach3 plugin for the UC400ETH does in fact support the M11Px / M10Px command set ?
Tweakie.
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What do I need to do to find out?
Allan
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Hi Allan,
You don't need to do anything, I have already asked the question over at the CNC Drive forum.
I just wanted to know if you had already established if these commands were supported. (If, for example, they are not supported then it's back to the drawing board).
Tweakie.
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Ok Thanks
Fingers crossed!
Allan
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Hi Allan,
For some reason I have not been able to get the UC400ETH Mach3 plugin to work here so could you perhaps carry out a test and report back.
Open the UC400ETH In/Out monitor (Mach3 Plugin Control) load and run your test Gcode file. Does your Port#1 Output Pin 8 toggle in accordance with the M10P1/M11P1 commands ?
Tweakie.
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It's easier for me to video!
And also I got this from CNC4YOU
"Manufacturer says they are available with mach3 and UC400ETH but we have no knowledge of this but does not work with Mach4 and UC400ETH. You should be able so see results on your chosen outputs."
https://youtu.be/dQNJ9__UCl0
https://youtu.be/HD8AaGAHaRI
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Excellent test results :)
(CNC Drive also confirmed the commands are supported in the Mach3 plugin)
Tweakie.
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Great, let me know whats next
Allan
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When I run some gcode I get 4.95v between pin 3 & 4 with it wired pin 8 10k resistor from 5v to pin 8 on bob
that's like it should be M11P1 is switching Output and Output gives the 5v to Enable Input 1.
so Mach3 and Output are OK, but laser is not turning ON.
the General Problem stay's, and it is, that the laser Controller is not switching ON by using the enable 1 Input, so you can push on the supplier from laser, because this function is not working like described in Manual, or give the
external circuit a try.
this are the only two possibilities i see for the Moment, but maybe i am wrong.
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the General Problem stay's, and it is, that the laser Controller is not switching ON by using the enable 1 Input, so you can push on the supplier from laser, because this function
Hello Guys,
Here I'm being pushed lol. I'm jumping in as I would like to help Allan. The controller can be programmed to either use enable inputs or not. It is metter of setting the program on PLH3D-CNC Adapter. https://optlasersgrav.com/user-manuals
(https://optlasersgrav.com/manuals/lib/PLH3D-CNC%20Adapter-Rev6-27-04-2020_plikiimag57.jpg)
I asked allan to change program to 0, just not to use enables for a while. I see 2 problems and several potential issues:
1 problem - laser is burning big hole at the beggining
2 problem - laser is not switched off during idle movement
Potentional problems:
1. Enable input in IS needed and lack of it is causing the laser to switch on during idle movement, but I think it is not the cause.
2. Drivers used in PLH3D Series are really fast, using S1 or Q1 is actually switching it for 1% of power and it may be enough to burn wood on idle movement.
3. Also from some kind of reason I see in Allans G-code only M10P1 and M11P1 but where is M11P255 for example
This is the beggining of the G-Code
G00G21G17G90G40G49G80
G71G91.1
T1M06
S12000M03
G94 M10P1 F1200.0
X0.000Y0.000
G00X-14.573Y-5.721M10P1
G1X-14.573Y-5.721M11P1
G1X-14.526Y-5.886M11P1
G1X-14.510Y-6.066
G1X-14.526Y-6.250
G1X-14.573Y-6.416
Isn't M3 command responsible for spindle signal? It may be the cause that the laser is switched on for a while before M10P1 command.
Allan could you try removing this line with M3 command?
In previous cases I saw people connecting PWM signal responsible for spindle rotation to the PWM input of the laser head or the adapter. Using M3 and M5 commands woudn't be better here?
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Hello Mateusz,
Mach3 is i Little bit different from what you kown it t assume.
in Mach3 (for laser application) it is normaly handled this way:
M3 S********* -> set the power for laser usage
M11P1 -> followed by a G-command (normaly next line) will turn ON Output1 (on Controller) synchronized
to start of axis movemend
M10P1 -> does the same Thing but only to turn OFF Output1
for this reason i advised A11an to set Laser in Mode 2 what IMHO should turn ON laser by Enable Input 1
goes high.
then we made a M3 S1000 to put some voltage to terminal 6 for power and the we put 5V (measured 4.9V)
to terminal 3. measurement was done between terminal 3 and 4.
but by putting this 5v to terminal 3 Laser did not Switch on beam, and that is the main Problem.
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Hi Guys,
Just my thoughts…
I think TPS has suggested reasonable tests to show that the Enable#1 Input of the PLH3D-CNC does not work as defined in the manual.
The actual tests made by Allan appear to confirm that Enable#1 does not work.
Mateusz may be able to show otherwise or suggest a way to make Enable#1 work correctly.
If there is any remaining doubt then use TPS suggestion of an external gating solution such as shown in my diagram here; https://www.machsupport.com/forum/index.php?topic=44431.msg285191#msg285191
Tweakie.
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TPS - thank you for an explanation about Mach 3 and how it works precisely.
Enable inputs are used to switch on and off the laser work, so they are kind of emergency signals, they are not as FAST as PWM input.
For example, they can be connected to a general signal connected with "I will soon use a laser" or "Laser is safe to use now" but these inputs are not direct modulation inputs.
I asked Allan to use Program 0 so this way Enable inputs states are not taken under the consideration.
Could you confirm that you would like to use two independent inputs, one to set the power level with a constant signal and second to switch it on and of?
It is possible but probably this will work well with ANalog input and one of the Enables input.
Instead of using M10 and M11 maybe we can just use the M3 S0-255 command to switch on the laser and M3 S0 to switch it off?
This way using one signal without any of the Enable inputs.
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What does everyone else do that control a laser from Mach3? is it just to do with my board (CP0-10v) ?
I think Tweakie's external board is required and maybe this would be a popular addition to the supplied laser.
I just need to work out how to build one!
Allan
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if you use M3 Sxyz for power control during g-code this will break constant movement,
that would meam, every time in g-code where M3 Sxyz is used X/Y will stop (and create a burn mark).
M10/M11 will not break constant moves.
all the others witch use Mach3 for laser do it the same way (M10/M11) it is not depended to your (CP0-10V)
board. if you do a serch for M3 and laser you will find a lot threads, witch are describing allways the same
Basic Problem.
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even if you think it is good to set power at the Programm begin, only the fact that Me allways produces a small
delay will create a burn mark at start and M5 at the end.
this might be good enough for laser cutting, but not for engraving.
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TPS - thank you for an explanation about Mach 3 and how it works precisely.
Enable inputs are used to switch on and off the laser work, so they are kind of emergency signals, they are not as FAST as PWM input.
For example, they can be connected to a general signal connected with "I will soon use a laser" or "Laser is safe to use now" but these inputs are not direct modulation inputs.
I asked Allan to use Program 0 so this way Enable inputs states are not taken under the consideration.
Could you confirm that you would like to use two independent inputs, one to set the power level with a constant signal and second to switch it on and of?
It is possible but probably this will work well with ANalog input and one of the Enables input.
Instead of using M10 and M11 maybe we can just use the M3 S0-255 command to switch on the laser and M3 S0 to switch it off?
This way using one signal without any of the Enable inputs.
so that actually means, only the external board solution would work, what still not explains why we were not
able to get the enable Input working at all.
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Hi Allen,
I think we have established that the PLH3D-CNC Enable#1 does not work so an alternative as mentioned by TPS is perhaps the way forward.
I suggest that within Mach you change the Spindle Step Pin# to 9 and use that for your PWM rather than the BoB Pin 14.
You don’t really need a board as your BoB can provide the necessary +5V so you could just connect wires to a 74LS00 chip then insulate the connections with clear epoxy or fit it into a small box or whatever. The circuit would be something like the attached diagram. (The wires should be kept as short as practical to avoid the necessity for additional components).
Once you have it working the Mach3 Active High / Low state of the various signal pins can be changed if necessary.
Tweakie.
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We need to program the adapter to make the Enable to work, as per the manual. What state of the signal is needed to switch on the laser high state or low state?
Then it is also easy to externally test the adapter without using the connection to the external board.
Let's do this:
https://optlasersgrav.com/manuals/CNC-Cutting-Laser-Adapter-Settin.html
Point: How to Set Enable Option in PLH3D-CNC Adapter
Set the adapter to Program number 2:
(https://optlasersgrav.com/manuals/lib/NewItem94.jpg)
Put on Laser Safety Glasses!!!
DIsconnect the input signals from the breakout board. Switch on the adapter. Arm the laser hread.
On the jumper shown below, there is a jumper that is directly connected with the power input of the PLH3D-CNC Adapter.
When the Adapter is set to Program number 2, the connection below SHOULD NOT switch on the laser.
In order to switch it on Enable 1 also needs to be connected. (In program number 0 the laser will switch on without any signal connected to the enable inputs)
(https://optlasersgrav.com/manuals/lib/images%20image%20a018.jpg)
Connect the signal from the EXT switch to both, TTL input AND Enable 1. The laser should switch on.
Assuming that the breakout board you use is outputting 0-10V analog signal it should be connected not to 2nd PIN (PWM/TTL input) but to the 6th pin (Analog 0-10V input)
(https://optlasersgrav.com/manuals/lib/PLH3D-CNC%20Adapter%20pinout.jpg)
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Connect the signal from the EXT switch to both, TTL input AND Enable 1. The laser should switch on.
Just checking, that's 19.5v and connect to TTL input (1st) then Enable 1 (2nd) or both at the same time?
Allan
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Program 0:
TTL connected
ENABLE not connected
Laser is ON
Both connected = laser ON (enable is not taken under consideration)
Program 2:
TTL connected
ENABLE not connected
Laser is OFF
Both connected at the same time = Laser ON.
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Program 0:
TTL connected
ENABLE not connected
Laser is ON
Both connected = laser ON (enable is not taken under consideration)
Program 2:
TTL connected
ENABLE not connected
Laser is OFF
Both connected at the same time = Laser ON.
We already have it working in that configuration, so we have established that we need the external board kindly detailed by Tweakie, I will get one sorted then hopefully eliminate the delays
Allan
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Dear Allan,
I checked schematics today and both Enables are going trhough a STM microcontroller and are not as fast as analog and TTL line, this is why using them this way may not work.
I also studied Teweakie solution which is smart and allow to modulate the laser quickly.
http://www.tweakie.byethost10.com/27_files/Page1020.htm?i=1
Guys tell me if I'm wrong but I think we can use the PLH3D-CNC Adapter inputs a little odd way, but this should make it work.
I'm attaching the schematics of Tweakie circuit and Adapters Analog inputs.
Pin 17 is constantly giving PWM while pin 16 make it work in low state, the current starts to flow and optotransistor shortens the low TTL input of the laser controller.
I'm attaching part of the schematics of the both Analog inputs 10V and 5V. They are protected by Shottky diodes so applying higher voltage will not burn the input.
I could not find quickly if pin 16 is open collector or HIGH/LOW state output. If PIN 16 is open collector:
If we connect Pin 17 to the ANGIN 10V and PIN 16 to the ANGIN 5V we can make a circuit similar to Tweakie's one.
However we will have to change the logic of 16 PIN. When LOW it will switch off the laser and when OPEN it will switch ON the laser.
So this will probably just require to change command M11 with M10.
Does it make sense to you guys?
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Hoping Tweakie can comment as I have no clue!
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Hi Mateusz,
I can see how your circuit would work but perhaps using BoB Pins 8 & 9 for the Mach3 generated TTL level M11/M10 switching and PWM signals. There would be no problem in changing the logic state of the M11/M10 signal.
Obviously your circuit would have to be tested to prove it operates correctly but I have every confidence.
Tweakie.
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Hi Tweakie and Allan,
Here is the movie I made today:
https://youtu.be/iO8Lrhf3Aks
It looks that it is working. Also instead of 12 other voltages can be used but should be in range of 10-24V.
Lower than 10V on 10V ANGIN will result in lower power.
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Looks like this solution would work.
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For others that follow and just to tie up any loose ends…
The 74LS00 gate system mentioned earlier has now been tested and it works correctly with the OPT Lasers PLH3D-CNC adapter. However, another, unforeseen issue has arisen with the Mach3 Plugin for the UC400ETH motion controller. There appears to be some unwanted delays in the M11Px / M10Px switching times which are preventing acceptable laser operation. As Mach3 is now obsolescent (with development ending some 6 years ago) I would not expect any motion control manufacturer to spend any time working on their Mach3 plugins so this particular project has unfortunately come to the end of the line.
My opinion…
With the UC400ETH Mach3 plugin not working correctly and the Mach4 plugin not yet supporting the M63Px / M63Px commands (although I suspect it is not far away) the only sensible option, to have a laser equipped machine fully working today, would be to change the machine control software and use an alternative motion planner which better supports laser operation.
Tweakie.
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Thanks guys for all the support, I really appreciate the help, it's been nice that you've all worked with me even though I have limited knowledge.
It has been good to learn how to test and get more into depth of the CNC software.
Allan