Re: serial/USB was Re: Whither goest DOS?

Hi Ian, list,

Rutex HAS a defined serial design, and published spec's on it's
protocol. I've said before:

http://rutex.com/

I have one, and will be implementing it for my tests. DeskNC for Windoz
would be another candidate. Mariss' is coming along too!

OK, who's going to start a USB project? (someone probably has, they're
just not talking about 'em).

Alan KM6VV


Ian Wright wrote:

>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Mr. sausage" <sirsausage@...>
> >
> > Although I'm completly new to PC based CNC, I am amazed this day and age
> > people use a PC parallel port and software timing to control either
> steppers
> > (or what I call a 'stepper emulator' Geckos). I bought the deskwinnc card
> > because it is a serial controlled device and, although I haven't even
> > assembled my system yet, I'm hoping it will relieve me of this huge
> concern
> > of PC Operating System.
> >
> > How would *you* most like to control your CNC device from your PC?
>
> My only thought on this is that, by going to serial control, you are pretty
> much tying yourself to one manufacturer. The serial interfaces which I have
> seen available so far all seem to use some kind of dedicated system which
> links them with a particular CAM program or machine and so lack flexibility.
> >From the hobbiests point of view, use of the parallel port and steppers
> allows a wide range of options and the opportunity to use easily salvaged
> motors and home-made drivers etc.
> If someone were to publish on the internet a freely available design for a
> serial interface which could be made at home, together with any necessary
> PIC code etc. - and which gave the option of selecting communications
> protocol, altering pinouts to suit various machines etc., then I think many
> more people would go the serial/USB route.
>
> Ian
> --
> Ian W. Wright
> Sheffield UK
> www.iw63.freeserve.co.uk