Axis brakes - operation & control?

On machines with brakes on all the axis, are they released once the CNC
control takes over, never to be applied again under controlled
operation? Alternatively, if the program calls for a long X-axis only
cut, is the Z and/or Y brake allowed to apply? I'm guessing that the
servo's hold the position, with the brakes off, but wanted some
feedback.
Next, is EMC set up to control the brakes, or is this accomplished in
another fashion? Lastly, I know this has been asked before, but does
anyone know if emcmot will work with the servotogo series 2 card?Since
the series one is not readily available, my conversion may require
programing knowledge otherwise...

Brad Heuver
Mechanical Sub-Systems fax 734-523-6052
734-52-33480 bheuver@...