Manuals

I've been following the "Manual" thread with interest. I've written many of these over the past 40 years. The most useful learning time was when I was writing Navy operations manuals at Mare Island, CA. We would get a new class of missile technicians in every two weeks. I would have them review my latest output and thus get quick feedback on my work.

One thing I found in the schematics and drawings that was most helpful in eliminating mistakes was to have so-called "one line" drawings. This would be a seperate drawing for each function without all the other connections shown. These were especially nice when showing power supply hookup to keep the supply wires away from inputs or outputs.

I think four drawings, one for power supply connections, one for inputs and the third showing outputs would ease a lot of confusion. A fourth showing the entire schematic completes the series. Photographs of an installed control with distinct shades of gray on the terminals or, even better, in color would make wiring even easier.

I get a lot out of this group even though I'm not currently involved in CNC. I do use steppers and servos for other machines though.

Earle Rich
Mont Vernon, NH


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