Re: Postprocessor

Hi Jerry,

Na, Vector outputs Gcode, kinda like HPGL plotter code. Then a program
running on a computer, or dedicated processor board, "reads" these codes
(like G01 X1.0), and generates a series of "step" pulses, and a
direction signal, that ARE SENT to the Gecko drives. The "program" is
called a controller program, and an example is CNCpro or EMC. Very
similar to a "plotter" that "reads" HPGL code sent to it, and the
plotter moves x and y, and z is the pen up/down. You might want to
think of Vector just outputting a different kind of HPGL! This one is
called Gcode!

Does this help?

Alan KM6VV


Jerry Kimberlin wrote:

>
> Ray wrote:
> >
> > From: Jerry Kimberlin <kimberln@...>
> > <s>
> > >I assume from what Fred said that the CAM
> > >functions of Vector do this without any add-on computer board.
> >
> > Good question, good area for discussion, but bad assumption.;)
> >
> > What the cam functions in Vector do is allow you to select the path taken
> > by the tool around the drawing in the cad portion of Vector and add speed,
> > feed, and aux IO info and put out a G-code program that can be read by
> > dedicated g-code driven motion boards or other motion software. Vector
> > does not directly run motors.
>
> Oh, certainly Vector doesn't directly run motors, Geckodrives
> do. What I meant was that I assume (bad choice again) that
> Vector can direct the proper pulses to the Geckos for each motor
> without an intermediated output board by using the parallel port
> of the box.
>
> JerryK