Hood,
The C41 is powered with +5vdc. It has an DC-DC converter built in that generates the isolated +12 that powers the analog circuit.
When using this board with our boards with RJ45 connectors, you just run one CAT5 cable from the breakout board to the board that delivers step, direction and power to the board. So in these cases an external power supply is not required.
Another thing that can be confusing about these boards is how the relays work, as you do not need to configure relays in mach3, just step and direction. The board automatically drives the relays based on the step (PWM) and direction signals and the operation mode (International or US).
So for most people this setup is simpler as they have less issues to deal with. It is just a matter of one CAT5 cable to the breakout board and wiring the VFD, and as far as configuring Mach3, it just a matter of enabling PWM spindle speed control and tuning the spindle axis.
In Mike's case, he is wiring using the terminals. But the problems he has had wiring this particular board, as there is a wiring diagram for his setup:
http://cnc4pc.com/Tech_Docs/JINAN2ESS.pdfHis problem is with setting PWM spindle speed control. I understand from his last email that he configured it successful, but there were still some issues with the relays. I think he has some pin conflicts.
Arturo Duncan
http://cnc4pc.com