Hi everyone,
This is my first time using this site, so let me begin by saying that if I am supposed to make this post somewhere else that is better more appropriate, I apologize in advance.
I would like to use the Mach3 software, and I am trying to gather my basic hardware to do this. I do not have a really old computer that has a parallel port, so according to the Mach3 website I need to use an external motion device. I went on e-bay and came across a unit called "UC100 USB motion controller". I have a few questions/comments about using this:
(a) If I go with the UC100 USB motion controller, does this entirely eliminate the need for a parallel port?
(b) I know laptops are generally not recommended for CNC cutting, but I have an old one that is no longer in use, and I can adjust the power settings so that it does not go into hibernate/sleep mode. However, the unit is currently running on Windows 7 64-bit. If I re-flash the hard drive to Windows 7 32-bit and get the UC100, can I then use Mach3 on my laptop?
(c) Does the aforementioned present any problems if my goal is to use Mach3 for 4-axis CNC foam cutting?
Thanks in advance for all your help.
William James