Re: BOSS5 to Mach2/Gecko

For the time being, it sounds like the path of least resistance might
be to get Mach2 to put out MaxNC CL type quadruture waveform data
instead of step and direction.

My understanding is that the K6 port on the ERS board can
accept 'remote' data, like RS232 input and the K8 plug, 'local' data
or quadruture wave data directly. If this is the case, then Mach2 can
be ported directly to the BP control with only a breakout board to
isolate the parallel port.

Don't know what the pin-outs correspond to on the K8 in relation to
Mach2...but this would be perfect for the time being just to get up
and running with the PC. I'd appreciate if anyone knows what these
pins correspond to.

Thanks for all the help!!!

-Brady

--- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@yahoogroups.com, Les Newell <lesnewell@h...>
wrote:

> Hi Brady,
>
> I used G201 drives on mine. I had quite a few lost step problems

though

> they may have been due to my computer being a bit slow. After

killing 2

> drives on the Z axis I gave up and fitted servos. If you do decide

to

> use Geckos, wait for the G204V to come out. At least that way you

will

> be saved from the aroma of crispy fried Gecko.
>
> In practise there is no real difference between 1/8 step and 1/10

step.

> You can only rely on the steppers being within about 1/2 step of

the

> desired position anyway.
>
> Les
>
>
> 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
> >
> >
> >