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Problem with re-config of Mach3
« on: January 08, 2021, 11:47:23 AM »
I got Mach3 a few yrs ago and it worked fine till computer crashed (something on mother board went bad.). I let system sit for a yearr or so. Just picked up an older XP machine and loaded Mach onto it. Everything seems to function properly in simulation mode. I'm using the same HobbyCNC control box and other equipment. When I turn on the power to the Control box, the steppers lock up as normal. However, Mach does not appear to be sending any signals to the controller or steppers. Tried direct commands, jogging, nothing. I'm thinking it is in the configuration, but it's been a long time since I fiddled with that. Any thoughts or ideas to isolate and correct the problem would be appreciated! Thanks!
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Re: Problem with re-config of Mach3
« Reply #1 on: January 08, 2021, 11:59:47 AM »
Don't know witch controlbox you are using, but normaly if it is external Motion controler a specific pulgin is needed.

if you do not have a backup of your "old" PC specially Mach3 Folder you will have to "reanimate" your old HDD

you will Need:
plugin -> C:\Mach3\plugin
licence -> C:\Mach3\Mach1Lic.dat
profile-> C:\Mach3\ your Profile Name.xml
probably custom macros -> C:\Mach3\macros\ your Profile Name \*.m1s
 
anything is possible, just try to do it.
if you find some mistakes, in my bad bavarian english,they are yours.
Re: Problem with re-config of Mach3
« Reply #2 on: January 08, 2021, 12:09:08 PM »
Appreciate the quick response!!
I used a backup copy of Mach I made when I got the license. It also has a copy of the .xml file I used. The externalo control box was a kit I built for 4 steppers that I got from HobbyCNC in about 2009. I don't remember the model. Like I said, Mach seems to function fine in simulation mode on the "new" tower, and the controller, when turned on, will not allow the steppers to be turned by hand.

When you mention a "specific Plugin" for the controller, is that like a preprocessor for my (Sherline) mill and/or lathe?
Bob
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Re: Problem with re-config of Mach3
« Reply #3 on: January 08, 2021, 12:12:35 PM »
a plugin is allways needed if the control box is not connected via parallel port,
for example usb or Ethernet.
anything is possible, just try to do it.
if you find some mistakes, in my bad bavarian english,they are yours.
Re: Problem with re-config of Mach3
« Reply #4 on: January 08, 2021, 12:14:16 PM »
The control box is connected directly to the tower via a parallel cable.
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Re: Problem with re-config of Mach3
« Reply #5 on: January 08, 2021, 12:17:30 PM »
ok then first check will be the port adress of the your parallel port.

have a look in Mache at Config->Ports&Pins->Port#1 it is normaly 0x378

the check in your System configuration that port adress is matching.
 
anything is possible, just try to do it.
if you find some mistakes, in my bad bavarian english,they are yours.
Re: Problem with re-config of Mach3
« Reply #6 on: January 08, 2021, 12:29:44 PM »
Ok, will do! I have to go out, but will let you know if it works a little later. Thanks!
B.
"For those who fought for it, Freedom has a flavor the protected will never know"

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