Messages

9201

VB and the development of wizards / Re: Interfacing to a PCI card

« on: February 22, 2008, 08:17:55 AM »

Not being very clever at this, but I would suggest using the coolant on /off functions (M7,M8,M9) to control the turrets ( via the existing LPT1 port outputs)  and just turn the coolant on / off with the spindle function (M3,M4,M5). Does this make sense ?.

Best regards,

Tweakie.

9202

General Mach Discussion / Re: newbie help

« on: February 22, 2008, 08:09:40 AM »

Hi Rjgfly,

There are many free programs available to convert DXF to G-Code and their effectiveness depends on the quality of the DXF.
 
I use and can recommend 'CamBam', I  have found it to be excellent for tool radius offset profiling work such as would be required for plane parts.

Tweakie.

9203

General Mach Discussion / Re: What happened to the Auto Zero Tool button?

« on: February 22, 2008, 07:46:12 AM »

Funny what you get used too isn't it.
I still use Mach3 version 1.84 because i prefer the file / import HPGL/BMP/JPG and DXFs functions in preference to using LazyCam.
(most of my stuff originates in HPGL or DXF format so I am perhaps a little different to the average user of Mach).

Best regards, 

Tweakie.

9204

Show"N"Tell ( Your Machines) / Re: Help needed

« on: February 22, 2008, 07:36:46 AM »

That is some question. Everybody may well  suggest something different.

My advice is to use stepper motors ( because that is what I have done)  but if you need rapid positioning then use servo motors. Mechanically - well the best thing is to copy the way a similar machine has been converted but making your own improvements where necessary. Electrics - if using steppers then 'microstep' is essential when choosing a controller. Finally and most importantly KEEP IT SIMPLE.
Good luck and best regards,

Tweakie.

9205

Show"N"Tell ( Your Machines) / Re: Machine #2

« on: February 22, 2008, 07:18:15 AM »

That's what I like to see, a nice tidy workshop.
b.t.w. - that looks like a heavy motor just waiting to fall (picture top center).

Best regards, Tweakie.

9206

General Mach Discussion / Re: Monitor problem

« on: February 21, 2008, 03:07:19 AM »

I would suggest that you also reduce the refresh rate to 60Hz if it is not already. ( this is done from:-  Display Properties / Settings / Advanced / Monitor ).

Tweakie.

9207

General Mach Discussion / Re: Losing steps on the run. . .

« on: February 21, 2008, 02:51:35 AM »

Hi Rick,

My initial problems with missing / extra steps were with noise generated on the earth return / screening circuits. I changed to a single point earth, metal control box and of course screened cables for everything, which were only screen terminated at one end (except mains input). Although this improved the situation, as said earlier it was only fully solved by changing to a PC. Thinking back on the problem it may well have been the CNC interfering with correct operation of the the laptop which is not that well screened.

Good luck,

Tweakie.

9208

General Mach Discussion / Re: Circles aint Round

« on: February 20, 2008, 12:09:19 PM »

Hi Charles,

I take it that you have run the Mach drivers test program and all is OK ?.

Tweakie.

9209

General Mach Discussion / Re: Losing steps on the run. . .

« on: February 20, 2008, 11:11:18 AM »

Hi Rick,

I had similar problems when using a laptop / switch mode power supply combination - my driver test was not too good though. When I switched to using an old PC everything was perfect. Could you perhaps try a PC and see if the situation improves ?.

Tweakie.

9210

Tangent Corner / Re: Blueray wins, HD DVD loses

« on: February 20, 2008, 10:59:57 AM »

Hi Benny,

There is an old saying that says 'it's not over until the fat lady sings'. I would be inclined to wait just a little while longer before parting with my hard earned cash. (being cynical comes with age).

Tweakie.