Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] BOSS5 to Mach2/Gecko

I went through the ordeal with trying to use my Bridgeports original steppers. I was unsuccessful in locating a suitable driver for the NEMA 42 steppers . I wound up swapping out for NEMA 42 servos. With Mach2,Gecko 320's and Bob Campbells breakout board. It all works very well together. Another member on the list a while back converted a Boss 5 and tried to use the original steppers with Geckos 201's and had to change the steppers out with newer ones from Anaheim automation that were newer technology bipolar with lower current draw and higher torque. He still had problems with drives blowing and as far as I know he is still using it like that with rapids of only 60 ipm. Gecko 201's are like 7 amps max per phase. Steppers are not as suitable for the speed and load that a large mill sees. They have very low torque during a move. And it decreases rapidly the faster it attempts to go. Steppers are rated in holding torque which drops dramatically while moving. Servos are rated in
continuous torque, hold and rotation. I haven't read very many posts from users that retrofitted with steppers on a Bridgeport sized mill and were very happy with it. The Larken drive you mention, I'm not familiar with. Whatever drive is used, make sure it is a chopper style.

Good luck!!

Ron

braidmeister <braidmeister@...> wrote:



I need some help/advice regarding the conversion of a BOSS5
Bridgeport to Gecko/Mach2 control. I plan on retaining the BP power
supply and steppers and running Campbell's breakout board, Gecko
201/210s and Mach2. Has anyone done this sucessfully? I don't know
much about the BP power supply or steppers (other than they are
NEMA42 frame), and that both are good from what others tell me. I am
not sure if the BP motors require more amperage than the Geckos can
put out. Can anyone help me out who has done this?

My other option at a higher cost is to run Larken drivers which are
beefier than the Geckos. Max they will do is 1/8 step, no 1/10. They
will handle 16A/phase, although some tell me that they are a bit
noisy compared to the Geckos.

Not interested in servos. Not interested in off the shelf kits.

Thanks!
-Brady








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