Re: MircoStepping Drive Which One?

--- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@yahoogroups.com, Luke1027 <luke1027@p...> wrote:

>
> Hello,
>
> I am looking for a Bipolar Drive to drive four
> stepper motors for a Plasma cutter. I would like it
> to have Microstepper. I have found the Xylotex
> XS-3525/8S-4 for $175.00, from the
> little I know about drives, would be the best for
> the money. Would you please share some other drives
> being use that may offer some advanage over this drive?
>
> Thanks,
>
> Luke*

Although the Xylotex is a decent drive it has it's limits to motor size.

The HobbyCNC board is a 3 axis board, not sure why you want 4 axis with
plasma unless you plan on running twin leadscrews.

The HobbyCNC is 3 amps and 44 volts so is about 50% faster than the
Xylotex.

But... you may find that neither are fast enough.

The Gecko is pretty much the tops for the Stepper world, but at $114
each, they appear prices. You really do get what you pay for.

An alternative is to use servo's. The motors can be much cheaper,
witness the $12.00 ones from Surplus center, but they require encoders.

Then for drivers, Fred has a mid-range driver and Gecko has a high
range one. Rutex are rated a little higher, but I don't see the need
for that much power.

IMService delivers 30 volts and 5 amps.

Geckos deliver up to 80 volts and 20 amps.


Jon Elson has a higher tech approach, but I'm afraid his page is down
for the moment.

Links to all these are in the links section.