Topics

1

Modbus / Modbus Basics

« on: November 17, 2016, 05:43:09 PM »

Can someone tell me were i can read or learn about how to utilize Modbus via MACH4 to control a VFD.  I have looked at the treads and i do not see anything explaining the use and benefits.  I understand its a type of network protical but how is it directed via MACH4?   Is it even available in the current version of MACH4?

Thanks Scott

2

General Mach Discussion / Losing Steps All of the Sudden

« on: October 12, 2016, 07:00:50 PM »

I have a 6040 router that i built from a frame kit that has been running fine for over a year.  Now while trying to cut an aluminium heat sink, I am losing steps like crazy, In I be leave both the X and Y axis's.  I have checked both X and Y axis and they are not jammed or obstructed in any way.  All Steppers seem to be running fine I think.  Has anyone ever experienced this before, and if so where do i look for the culprit?

Thanks Scott


My System:
CNC Software: Mach4
Table: 6040 Router Frame Kit
Steppers: 3 - 23HS2430B 425 oz. @ 3 Amp
Drivers: Leadshine: MX4660
Controller: Warp 9 ESS Smooth Stepper
Power Supply: KL5620, 55V 20 Amp, with 5 Volt Aux Output
Spindle: 400Hz 24,000 RPM, 220 Volt (Powered by Step-Up Transformer 110V to 220V)
VFD: Sunfar E500 (Powered by Step-Up Transformer 110V to 220V)

3

Mach4 General Discussion / Loading G54.1 P1-P120 Automatically

« on: September 19, 2016, 03:58:18 PM »

Is there a way to load G54.1 P1-P120 locations automatically when G-Code is loaded?

Scott

4

Mach4 General Discussion / How to show Spindle RPM in MACH4

« on: July 15, 2016, 02:31:39 PM »

I have a Sunfar (Simphoenix) E500 VFD driving a Air Cooled 24,000 RPM 220V 2.2kW spindle (Note: spindle is powered by 110-220 AC step up transformer ST-3000).  I am using Mach4 to control its speed using a MX4600 driver with a ESS controller.  I have MACH4 controlling the speed and direction properly.  My question is how do I get MACH to display the RPM on its DRO in MX4 screen set.  Do i need some sort of feed back system or is there another way?

Scott

5

Mach4 General Discussion / Problem with Z-Axis Reversal when Soft Limits Active

« on: July 09, 2016, 06:37:16 PM »

I am using Mach4 with ESS and a Leadshine MX4660 driver.  I have got xyz axis's set up with hall detectors and when I reference all or any individuale axis they home properly each time.  Yet when I activate the Soft Limits button the directions of X-axis and Y-axis work fine but the Z-axis reverses direction when I press a plus or minus jog button.  Can some one explained to me what I have done wrong to have the Z-axis reverse movement directions when the Soft Limit button is active.

Scott

6

Mach4 General Discussion / Basics on how to change Signal Scrips with Lua in Mach4

« on: May 12, 2016, 09:31:02 PM »

Is there any videos or more documentation on how to change the signals scrips for Mach4.  I read in the manual how i can change the signal scrips for having an external switch to do a cycle start.  But it does not tell me were tese scrips are located, or how i can change it.  I have never done scripting so i am very green.  Can some one give me some helps on how i can do this.  I basically want Input1 (pin15) tied to a switch and when i push it i want to have a cycle start done.
 Thanks  Scott

7

FAQs / Whats is most actuate set up for limit switches

« on: June 26, 2015, 10:48:06 AM »

I am using MACH4 with a ESS controller I would like to very accurately home each time my machine starts up.  I need to be able duplicate my home position every time so i can place parts in a automation project i am building.  Is there any one on the form with some experience how to best approach this type of thing.

I am guessing an optical limit would be best ... any feedback would be appreciated.

Scott

8

SmoothStepper USB / Connecting ESS to MX4600 Driver

« on: June 22, 2015, 05:27:16 PM »

Has anyone configured an ESS to a Leadshine MX4600 driver/BOB?  I am not seeing to get the two talking as of yet through MACH4.

Scott

9

SmoothStepper USB / ESS Mounting Case

« on: June 12, 2015, 01:08:27 PM »

I had no way of mounting my ESS board effectively and both connect from my PC and interface to the ports so I designed a case for it and printed it on my BOT. Worked out nice protects everything and I can get to all the connections.  It can be mounted on 3 sides.  I used the face in my application so I could interface to it directly from my PC.  Attached is 3D PDF so it can be seen in detail.

Scott

10

Mach4 General Discussion / Whats the deal with Smooth Steppers Controllers

« on: May 25, 2015, 12:33:13 PM »

I am looking for a  controller that i can get good support on ... at least someone I can call on land line for sure!
1. Can anyone tell me whats the deal with what are referred to as smooth stepper controllers like Warp9 or TinyG ... is there any benefit to these types of controllers?
2. Can a Tiny G controller work with Mach3, Mach4?
2. Is there much difference between Warp9 ... PMDX and Vital Systems controllers.

FYI i tried buying a Chinese made XHC 6 axis controller but i can not get any support with my drive issues.

Thanks  Scott