Tom Kulaga's 4 axis DRO

I have built Tom Kulaga's 2 axis DRO. I made a few changes. In stead of
using a db25 connector I used a 5 pin ramped locking header. That makes
running cables to the encoders a lot easier. Second , I did not wire wrap
it. I made a double sides ISA PC board using my home equipment. The board
did not work at first with Tom's software. The reason was that the software
on the Tom's web site required a math co processor. I was Using a 486-33sx.
I bought a 486-66DX2 CPU and pluggged it in. The DRO worked GREAT! I am
using the US digital inear encoders . I emailed Tom about the problems with
the CPU. He fixed those and now the software works great with either a SX or
DX2. I plan to try it with a 386-16 soon.
In any case the program and Tom's schematic work great. However it would
have been better if it supported 4 axis. So I emailed Tom and he redid the
software adding the third and fourth axis. The software will detect whether
you have a 2 axis board or a four axis board. The setup is quite easy. In
any case I made a new pc board for a 4 axis systemn to plug into my ISA slot
and it works great also. I can move the linear encoder as fast as I can and
it keeps perfect track. I could only move two axis simultaneously but it
worked flawlessy.
I have talkd with Tom about a few more features like being able to use the W
axis in degrees . He has agreed to make those changes and add a metric
conversion. Look for his revised software soon.
I am so impressed with the DRO 4 axis board that I would be willing to
spring for a batch of commercial made boards if there is enough interest.
The boards would cost about $16-$20 depending on quantity ordered and other
factors. At $16-$20 a board plus the components, the electronic portion
would cost you about $70-$80 in parts not including the encoders. I can
also arrange for assembly if you aren't good with electronics or you just
don't have the time or would prefer an assembled and tested version.
Email me at dmauch@... if you are interested. I think I would need
about 25 orders to make it worth while and to keep the cost down. It would
take 21 days to get the boards made.
Dan