My ultimax II controlled Mb1 has gotten really expensive to keep running these days, especially for a hobby machine. It is in need of a retrofit and I have a few questions.
1- Utilizing a pc and Mach 3 software how do I interface to the servo drives? Do I need some kind of step & direction to analog signal convertor? I'd like to keep the original hurco max 400 drives if possible.

2- Will the VFD a mitsubishi freqrol z200 be compatible as well? What about the spindle brake?

3- What is a good source for the breakout boards and all misc. hardware that I will need?

4- Encoders..What do they do? Do I need any??

This will be my first retrofit so I have and will be searching here for as much info. as I can find on this subject. Has anyone here done this with an MB1?

Thanks in advance.

hello silvio what you need is a convertor step / dir to + /-10 vdc I can provide them. hablas español?