I have the following equipment ;
Modern PC running Windows 10
licensed copy Mach4
A Pokeys 57CNC
Creatity Ender 5 3d printer w/ single extruder head.
I have spent years learning LUA and the Mach4 system
Would like to use mach4 on the 3d printer.
What I would 'like' to do is connect and run the steppers and end switch's
directly from the Pokeys 57CNC. That part seems simple.
QUESTIONS ;
How could I run a extruder step motor from mach4/pokeys. How could the extruder know how much filament to extrude.
How could I control the two heaters (base plate and extruder) from mach4/pokeys. There are several thermistors on the printer to feedback temperatures.
I am hoping if I cannot run it all from MAch4, I could use the Smoothie board for the heaters and extruders and mach4/pokeys for the Steppers.
Existing control system. The original board in the printer was replaced with a network smoothie board and Smoothieware software
After much trial and error it works but pain in the ....
any hints , ideas greatly appreciated. stay safe.