Strange question but has anyone put Mach4 on 2 different computers and had an output from one trigger an input on the second so it will do an operation?
I am needing to make a machine that has 8 motors and a bunch of inputs and outputs and was thinking this might be the easiest way.
i know i could use a PLC but think this might be easier and more flexible.

Bill

If the second system only needs one trigger input and runs only one sequence of operations, it should be easy to have a program on the second system just pause and wait for a trigger to continue, then loop and wait for the trigger again. Perhaps you could even have the second system look at extra inputs and conditionally run sections of code that are associated with the data read from the extra inputs.

The original big old Hardinge Superslant lathe used basically this trick to run two turrets, one for side cutting and one for end working the stock. It had two Fanuc controls on board.

Can you not just get a controller that has 8 motors?  The HiCON Integra has the ability to use 8 motors and their EC01 ethercat has the ability to use 12 motors.
Then use a PLC to communicate over TCP modbus to handle all of your IO.  That would be a very robust system.

Chad,

I could use a Hicon. I did look at them before but went with the ESS.
I also hate ladder logic so would prefer to use 2 pcs and program in LUA.
I may change my mind after a while though.

Bill

Steve,

It will all be a very repetitive operation.
Having the motors split will also help in some time issues.
I can have motors 1-4 doing an operation and have motors 4-8 doing an operation without needing to be in sync with motors 1-4

Bill