Re: BOSS5 to Mach2/Gecko

--- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@yahoogroups.com, "braidmeister"
<braidmeister@y...> 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.
>

I'm using Gecko 201's with DeskCNC on a BOSS (not sure which model)
Series 1. I plan to change soon to Mach2.
I've no experience of anything else, but it does what I want. I get
about 80 ipm rapids (reliably, it will go faster), it'll drive against
some fairly heavy cuts without losing steps.
I wouldn't bother with the original power supply, though you can just
about use the single-phase transformer (not the main 3-phase monster)
by rearranging the connections. Theoretically it's not really big
enough. I built a complete new unit with a 1500 VA toroidal
transformer & 4 Geckos.
My motors are the Superior brand, they seem fine with the Geckos. No
doubt shiny new servos would be better, but that would be way out of
my budget.

HTH

Tim