RE: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Problems, cnc/electronic idiot

You already posted your own answer <g>.

You need to connect a +5v from the computer to the common on the Gecko.
You do not connect any ground from the computer to the Gecko, only step,
direction, and +5V to common. This is one of the most confusing issues
people run into as it seems to defy logic. It is actually quite simple.
The step and direction pins can be either 0V (ground) or +5v. So your
circuit is from the +5V you tap off the PC power supply, game port, or
USB port to the step and direction pins of the parallel port. The Geckos
have an LED in the opto isolator that is in between the +5v and the
parallel port pin. When the parallel port pin is high (+5v) there is no
current flowing through the LED in the opto isolator as there is no
potential. But when the parallel port pin goes low (0v, ground) the
current then flows and lights the opto. Other people will tell you to
use an external +5V power supply and then connect the ground on it to
the PC ground, but there is no need to do this. It works just fine using
+5V from the PC and you have far less chance to misconnect it.

Tim
[Denver, CO]
Beat the Sherline Oct 1 price increase. Order Now!
New Sherline Prices at http://www.ktmarketing.com/SherlineIncrease.htm

Sherline & Taig products at Deep Discount
Mach1 & DeskCNC with credit card ordering
www.KTMarketing.com/Sherline
e-mail me at Timg @ KTMarketing.com for items not yet listed

> -----Original Message-----
>
>
> I am having problems getting my cnc system running properly. I have
> gecko 320's and power supply kit from camtronics. Just finished it
> up today, and can't get it to function properly. Power supply checks
> out fine. On the db25 breakout board what do I need connected besids
> step and direction from each axis? Do I need to run a 5v from my pc
> power supply to this, what about a ground? Looking at the wiring
> diagram, all that goes to the break out board is the step/dir from
> the drives. I tried it with just the step direction, and the servo
> motors engage, but they aren't getting any signal, anybody got any
> ideas where I should start? Thanks
>
>
> Addresses:
> FAQ: http://www.ktmarketing.com/faq.html
> FILES: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO/files/