Broken Encoder... Help

[abomb55076]

So when I was trying to figure out why my z axis wasnt working properly, I accidentally ended up breaking my encoder on my stepper. I have a MaxNC CL driver with the Nema 23 motors and encoders. So now that the encoder is broken, is there any whay that I can run the motor without using the encoder? I am using Mach3 to run them as well. Also, if there is no hope of running the motor without the encoder on it, does anyone know where I can find a new encoder for this thing? Any help is appreciated. Thanks

[thebodger@roger]

Looking at the MAX website, I think you have the closed loop servo. I can't imagine encoders on a stepper. Anyway, if it is a closed loop servo, then the short answer is NO, you need the encoder.

[Al_The_Man]

Normally you don't run a stepper with an encoder?
How are you using it right now?
Or is it a servo?
Al.

[abomb55076]

I believe our driver and motors are the same ones found here:
http://www.cnczone.com/classifieds/s...ntroller&cat=9
I am using mach3 with the maxnc cl mode enabled. The back of the control box has inputs for both the motors and the encoders. Is there anyway I can get the motor running again? I know that most people dont even have encoders on their steppers so I feel like there should be a way to run this motor without one but it doesnt seem to be working....

[thebodger@roger]

That link states that you have servo , not stepper

[abomb55076]

I may be wrong but in the link it says that it comes with 3 pcs Nema 23 motors... which are stepper motors

[Al_The_Man]

Although their site does say steppers with encoder feedback for the CL version, at least that is the way I read their detail on the site?
It looks like they are trying to close the loop somehow, not exactly servo performance?
If this is so, I would imagine you need an encoder to enable this system to be used at least.
Al.

[abomb55076]

Anyone know where I can find a new encoder for this setup? I looked on the linengineering site which was the name on the side of the motor but you cannot purchase anything from them...

[thebodger@roger]

Al:
Agreed what you say, But somewhere in ther it says servo, anyway I concur, I think it needs the encoder

[abomb55076]

Anyone know where I can find a new encoder for this setup?