I am getting ready to add an index signal to my cnc lathe. I have not made anything up yet a decided to do some research. I noticed that in the Mach 3 turn manual that a 4 slot optical disc was used. I also noticed that several threads here state that Mach will now only use one index pulse. Could someone please clarify?

Also was wondering if the optical sensor is the best way to go? I am already familiar with them so it would not be hard. Just looking for best solution.

I should point out that I am using a Smoothstepper ESS and a PMDX 126. I don't believe that I will have an issue with setup and the PMDX can stretch the index pulse if needed.

thanks for any information.

Jim.

Single pulse only now, the multi slot was done away with a while back due to issues in threading.

Optical switch should work well, I used Optek OPB916B on most machines until I started using external controllers. If you have a servo for the spindle you could use the Index pulse from the encoder as the ESS can pick that up no problem.
Hood

Thanks Hood. That is what I wanted to know.