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6271

General Mach Discussion / Re: Computer problem after running mach3

« on: June 27, 2011, 11:19:45 AM »

Hi Nigel,

Unfortunately I have no knowledge of that make of controller.
Stepper motors make a screaming sound when they stall. If this happens then reduce your velocity setting for the appropriate axis within Mach motor tuning - save your changes.
Unless there is a fault with the controller electronics it unlikely to cause damage to your computer but It would be prudent to examine the internal connections thoroughly, perhaps with an eye glass, (especially those relating the the computer LPT printer port) to make sure there are no solder bridges or short circuits anywhere.

Tweakie.

6272

Mach3 under Vista / Re: Getting up and running in Vista

« on: June 27, 2011, 11:04:44 AM »

Lazybear,

Type DSP Manual or whatever is relevant into the search box at the top of the Machsupport Forum page and see what turns up.

Tweakie.

6273

General Mach Discussion / Re: Computer problem after running mach3

« on: June 27, 2011, 08:30:19 AM »

Hi Nigel,

Could you post details of what your PC is connected to - stepper controller / breakout board etc. ?
Is it a proprietary controller unit ?

Tweakie.

6274

Mach3 under Vista / Re: Getting up and running in Vista

« on: June 27, 2011, 08:04:17 AM »

Hi Lazybear,

I have not tried all combinations but I use and can recommend WinXP SP2 and nothing else but essentials on the PC. This is quick to start-up and runs just fine for all my needs.

Tweakie.

6275

Show"N"Tell ( Your Machines) / Re: The Laser Project.

« on: June 27, 2011, 06:40:30 AM »

I have said this many times but Lasers and Acrylic were just meant for each other and the acrylic’s curious ability to sublimate (change from a solid to a gas without going through the liquid state) is the icing on the cake.
There is however, another curious thing about acrylic in so much as the material acts as a waveguide to the CO2 laser’s infrared beam. Bearing in mind that the laser’s focussed beam is hour glass shape with the waist at the exact focal point, this hole was made with the focal point at the top surface of the acrylic with the laser set on 75% power for a 3 second burst. Now this is the curious thing, apart from tapering a bit at the bottom, the hole (kerf) is more or less parallel which is not what is expected.
Useless bit of information perhaps but I thought it may be of interest to some as it could explain how a relatively low power laser, such as mine, can easily cut 10mm acrylic whilst still maintaining relatively parallel sides.

Tweakie.

6276