So, with Mach3 you have six axis capabilty, right?

[bogiestl]

And the motors and drivers don't really care what stuff is named...

So... Could I run X, Y, Z and W to a mill, and two other axis to a small lathe, all from the same computer/controller enclosure? Some extra wiring, but I'm guessing it might be a little less complicated than two controllers, two computers, etc?

[keebler303]

Having them simultaneously connected would be a PITA. You will have a lot of headaches with limit switches, etc. Just lots of unnecessary complication.

If you really want to do that, I'd recommend using one computer and have 2 different mach configurations and just plug in the parallel port for the machine you are wanting to use. Then both machines can use the same limit switch inputs, etc.

Matt

[awetmore]

Two 3 or 4 axis controllers is going to cost you roughly the same amount as 1 6 axis controller (especially if you use the G540). You'd also need two parallel ports for that setup. So you might as well have two controllers.

The other option would be a single controller and unplug the motors and limit switches when changing configurations. That is more error prone, but workable.

[ger21]

If you use different profiles, and different ports, you don't need to unplug anything, unless you need more than 1 port for either machine.

[lcvette]

I use one computer to control a plasma table, a mill and a lathe, i have a parrallel port switch box:

4-Port DB25 Manual Switch Box

to select between which Break Out Board and driver box to use. I share a 48V power supply between the three as well to cut down on cost. I have the DC output from the PS on 3 seperate switches, Mill, Plasma, Lathe but you MUST be carefull to select which you want to power prior to turning on the power supply, it can hurt the BOB if you send a rush of DC current through the switch while the PS is turned on. So i select which machine i will be using on the power supply box via the DC power switch. then i select the machine on the parrallel port box, then i turn on the control box for that machine (BOB power) then i turn on the power supply (AC voltage supply).

Then on the computer I have Mach Turn, Mach Mill and Mach Plasma, open the appropriate one for the machine you will be using and viola. saved a good bit of money on having to buy 3 $130 power supplies.

and you don't have to fiddle with pluging and unplugging cable in the back of the computer, very neat and clean setup!

Hope that helps!

Chris