Re: What makes step and dir?

--- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@yahoogroups.com, "dharhay" <dharhay@h...> wrote:

> Thanks for the response Jan. I was hoping to not use the PC due to

the bulk of it. Just have some component in the enclosure. I too
have no knowledge of the plc.

>
> Dave Harhay

IF you feel you need a MICROCPROCESSOR to make steps, and if you leave
the PC behind, you are entering a whole different world, you will need
to learn to program.

They make single board computers. one board, everything on it. maybe
an external hard drive, or maybe a RAM hard drive.

If you E-Bay Internet appliance, you can find small computers in
small packages.

If you go the PLC route, you much program on a PC, then connect it to
the PLC to change the programming, or else buy a diaplay. and the
display will cost more than the PLC.

Another way to go is a laptop.

BUT, if you are just moving from there to here and repeating, it
sounds like you do not need a stepper, nor driver, but just a power
unit and some end switches.

By far, the simplest way is to use a unit that has 2 end switches with
micrometer stops. No software, no programming, and the way it was
done for years before CNC.

Look at the power feeds for mills. Littlemachineshop has a power feed
forthe mini-mill that includes leadscrew and one ends mouinting plate.


If you feel the need for software to generate step and direction
signal, considder the BasicStamp. it is cost effective, the software
is free, and the programming is done, just download it from the
Parallax website. A wall wart for power and you are off to the races
in very short order without really learning anything.

There are a few ways to go, but if you don't want a PC, look further
than micros.

Why not define your mechanical needs and let us toss out suggestions ?

Dave