Re: IMService releases ncPOD system

--- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@yahoogroups.com, "Bill" <sandiego@...> wrote:

>
> OH BOY! $1250.00 of my hard-earned dollars for a controller with
> questionable software!!
> Where's my checkbook?

Let me clarify what and why this product has been released.

The ncPod is the 3rd generation DeskCNC controller. When DeskCNC was
first released in the fall of 2002, it was the only Windows
controller for less than $1000, and it also came with an integrated
CAM programming system. It had more CAM functionality for $350, 5
years ago, than any CAM and Controller combo has today. It was a 4
axis device. Within the first year a ground breaking probing system
and inexpensive probe were introduced.

The 2nd generation controller pushed step rates up to 125,000 steps
per second and buffered up to 212 motion blocks ( linear and circular
motion commands), and added a hardware interface to a quadrature
encoder. It is still available and very popular with those that want
a stable, reliable desktop machine controller that works with either
serial, USB-1, or USB-2 interfaces and Windows 98 through Vista
operating systems.

The 3rd generation controller is built on similar technology as the
first 2 offerings. An external device is sent commands which are
processed remotely and independently from Windows. The machine
control process receives dedicated attention from the ncPOD's on-
board microprocessor. It does have 6 simultaneous axes of motion
control. The device has similar I/O channels and a PWM spindle speed
control output. The communications link with a Windows PC is through
USB-2. The controller has a memory card slot for an SD-card, and can
hold a very large buffer of prepared motion commands ( up to 2 gig, I
believe).

The biggest difference between the prior versions and the present is
that the ncPOD controller is supplied with an API primarily, rather
than with emphasis on DeskCNC controller software. At this time the
MS visual studio .net programming tools can be used to write a
personal or OEM controller, with full access to all the prepared
machine controller functions. It can also run a program to
completion with the PC disconnected during operation. The supplied
API software includes a fully functional, visual basic, example
project, with source, which can be used to run a machine. Mach3 can
run an ncPOD through a plugin developed by Art Fenerty, it is
considered released. DeskCNC may also be ported to the ncPOD in the
future.

In order to use an ncPOD today, there are three critical skill sets
needed.

1) Mechanical - Build a CNC ready machine
2) Electrical - Wire up a power supply, drivers and ncPOD controller,
and assemble the system in an attractive( or at least safe and
functional) enclosure, assemble cables to wire the motors.
3) Software - Test/Use Mach and/or the API to run the machine.
Develop new and/or customized applications.

Many people have 1 or 2 of these skills. Most do not have all three.

Our SYS-5, ncPOD includes a fully assembled and tested electrical
system, based on the thousands of systems we have made for DeskCNC
customers. It's not experimental. The servo motors, servo drivers,
power supplies, and other components have been in use for several
years with our 2nd generation DeskCNC systems. The SYS-5 ncPOD
addresses a need for those that have strengths in Mechanical and
Software, or just Software to quickly build a machine using the
ncPOD.

http://tinyurl.com/2we9jg

I hope that clarifies the what and why.

Fred Smith - IMService
http://www.cacamcadcam.com/hobby