[SFA]

You can use the GIBBS communication software built in but it does have limitations on how many ports it can communicate to. This software supports COMM 1 through 4 only therefore, if you plan to use a multiple port hub which would give your PC more comm ports, it would not do the job. You could step up to the Predator CNC Editor and set all 9 comm ports (all 9 Fadals) and communicate back and forth one at a time. No messing with toggles, switches, software settings each time.

If you want to start out with a switch box, it will do the job. You will need to set all the machines to the same settings, and pull all of the cables back to the switch box. Toggle one at a time and your there.

Strong word of advise, Ethernet cable is designed for PCs not CNCs. CAT5/6 cable typically has very low shielding because it relies on protocols like TCP/IP. This is an error correcting protocol, where CNCs use Xon/Xoff typically. Miss a X, Y, Z and scrap your part just because you used the wrong cable. It only takes 3 wires to make it go but how fast, how far, and how reliable is all in quesion. Furthermore, the cable is twisted pair typically. You do not want to use the same pair, for example, blue, blue white, green , green white for your send / receive lines. You just created an antenna.

Many customers copy our Grizzly RS232 Cables and we are flattered. No problem, just use the correct cable and connectors. Wire it correctly and you will have no problems. Data loss, noise, random characters, will drive someone crazy even after they have run CAT5 for years and then wonder what happen.

Let me know if you need more help with the Gibbs. Predator and Gibbs work together.