Is there a development going on to offer Ethernet type of connection with Mach3, which would offer longer cables connecting the servo motors and faster connection for many axis, spindle motors,  including limit switches and and other sensors and outputs?

There are at least 3 motion devices listed on the Plugins Download page that use an ethernet connection with Mach3. But none of them are cheap. I believe they are all at least $700.

And then there's this device:
http://www.machsupport.com/forum/index.php/topic,19697.0.html

Warp9 make the USB-connected SmoothStepper. They are working on an ethernet version.

Cheers

The Gecko G100 was networked. I love mine. They arnt made anymore, LOTS of people had problems with them but I stand by mine. I am thinking of the new Smooth Stepper when it comes out.

Mike.

 :)Thanks for the good news reply, All the best to ALL for N.Y.2012

Does anyone have any experience with the wixhc Ethernet Motion Card? I have purchased one and I am struggling to get it to work. One sources describe the use of a software driver, while other sources describe that it is a "plug and play" controller, no driver needed. I contacted the seller (purchased through Aliexpress) but have had no reply. I also contacted the manufacturer, again, no reply.

Yes, well, AliExpress  . . . Your experiences would be about normal for that source. It may work, but you might need some SW and HW expertise to get it going.

Ethernet engines use the ethernet driver from the OS, so it should be 'plug and pray', but there may well be a software driver upstream from that. I don't know.

Anyhow, this web site is for Warp9 products, not for Chinese imitations. We cannot (and mostly won't) support copies. We have seen plenty of them, mostly not working.

Can i suggest you swallow your pride and put the Chinese unit aside and buy an ESS from Warp9? At least you know it WILL work and you WILL get good support.

Cheers (or otherwise)
Roger

Hi,

Does anyone have any experience with the wixhc Ethernet Motion Card?

They've got your money....what the hell do they care whether you can get it to work?

Craig

They've got your money....what the hell do they care whether you can get it to work?
More to the point perhaps is whether they have any idea of how to make it work.

A lot of those vendors are just dealers/distributors, and they are NOT technical. It is usually just a waste of your time chasing them.

Cheers
Roger