I have a Denford Micromill 2000 and a Denford Microlathe, will Mach3 run these machine or do I have to change the boards ? Thanks

It depends on the type of controller that is/was fitted as to what needs to be done, it is possible to control the machines, if you can give us more details about what is in the control boxes, post some photos too as that helps.

Graham

Heres what the label on the side of the machine says.....

Model-    Micromill 2000
Ser #-    60214
Des Date-    Sept 2002
Voltage- 110v
F.L.C-    7A 50HZ 1PH
Control Voltage-    12V
Spindle Motor-    0.5HP .37kw DCPH
Electrics Ser#-    U0209020045   
Max Rpm-    2800   
Net Weight-    50kg

Hi,

Denford still upgrade these so no public domain data is available, you can get it updated or because it has a DenStep controller, you will have to remove the controller and fit new drives a breakout board and spindle controller.

Its not a big problem, many here can help you.

Graham

Denford will sell me the software for right around $650.00 i think, so do you think it will cost less than that to convert this machine to work with Mach 3? thanks

I would have thought so,

3 * Gecko G251 @ $69.00  http://www.geckodrive.com/product.aspx?c=3&i=14471

1 * CNC4PC C11G @ $109.00  http://www.cnc4pc.com/Store/osc/product_info.php?cPath=33&products_id=46

and your time and this forum.

Graham

Thanks for the info, but if i convert my machine to run with these boards, can i use Mastercam version 7 or Mastercam version 9 to run the machine, I have this software already.
Thanks

Yes, that should not be a problem. Mach3 runs pretty much ISO g-code so will run code from most CAM systems.

If you look in the downloads section at the top of the site you will find a Mach3 Mastercam post processor for version 9.

Graham

I have pretty much the exact same mill however, I decided it was in my best interest to use industry standard components as it will not tie you to that OEM's proprietary equipment. I used PMDX boards, had a friend help me with voltage requirements but, other than that, I was able to keep all their other safeguards and wired them accordingly and it turned out to be a very clean and neat retrofit(especially for a first timer). It is up and running and so far I am pleased with it's performance. And you can probably do it for the same money or less. I can give you a list everything I used if you want it. Hope this helps! CT

CT,

I'd be interested in seeing the list of items you used as I'm shopping around for a better setup for my Taig Lathe conversion -

Dave