Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Re: Compters without printer port

My desktop PC has an on-board LPT port and I disabled the on-board video
in favor of a card (on-board video is said to be a problem for Mach3).
Mach3 reported it as "excellent" or whatever for performance... but I
noted this queer thing where during a G move it would make a "thunk"
like once a sec, very noticeable in the rotary table. That's due to
some sort of inconsistency in the pulse train.

I do recommend the SmoothStepper, the performance is better than you'd
ever get with a parallel port. Especially if you were gonna go out and
drop a few $ on an LPT card anyways, save that $ and spend it on an SS.

Danny

caudlet wrote:

> --- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@yahoogroups.com, "Ronald" <ronaldshaul@...> wrote:
>
>> From what I read, the cnc programs utilize the parallel printer port for control. Many of the newer computers, especially laptops, do not have this port. What do other do to work around this problem?
>>
>>
> 1. Buy a refurbed PC with XP Pro 2.8G processor & 1G ram for $159.00 has Printer port and serial port.
>
> 2. Buy a new desktop and a PCI add-in (expansion) Parallel Port card for about 14.00 bucks
>
> 3. Buy a USB CNC driver solution for MACH (about $140.00) aka Smooth Stepper by Warp9
>
> Laptops are poor choices for CNC controllers unless your intent is to setup your CNC machine on the kitchen table each time or make to easily portable. The PC that runs a CNC needs to be considered a dedicated Controller. It has to be optimized to run the machine. Laptops break easier and are more expensive to fix/replace. There are problems with some laptops (even with a Smooth Stepper). You may face video or other timing problems with MACH on a laptop. About the best PRO for a laptop and CNC is it runs off a battery so the Ground is via the system (more noise immune).
>
> Check EBAY for good deals on computers that will run MACH and not bust your wallet. I have been buying nice HP's and Dells that are refurbished and ready to run. I buy 17" LCD monitor for less than 50 bucks. You do not need a Dual-Core-whiz-bang computer to run MACH (or EMC2) but it needs to be considered part of the machine if you want to be able to just fire it up and cut something.
>
> TOM Caudle
> www.CandCNC.com
> Totally Modular CNC Electronics
> New low cost All-in-one 5 axis Controller with TubeSlicer (tm) Technology.
>
>
>
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