Assembling Gecko based controller

[walter]

I`m not a student in electronics engineering. Can I still put together my own Gecko based stepper or servo controller? Is there any detailed "how to" wiring scheme? And what about bigger power supply; Do I have to build one myself? (I`d rather not...)

Last time I checked Centronics had finished box at around $2500 or more. That`s more than I`m willing to spend on Gecko system.

[ViperTX]

Do you know which steppers or servos you'll be using?

[walter]

For once I`d like to buy decent motors. I could go as high as $500 per motor, whether servo or stepper. That`s why I decided to build controller first, with bigger power supply. Then I could match perfect motors, right?

I can`t specify motor voltage/Amps right now. I think I would take everything Gecko drives have to offer (power wise). I might need something like 500oz good performance servos or 500-1000oz steppers. I prefer steppers simplicity, high torque/low RPM would work for my application too. Plus I don`t really need closed loop system.

Thanks

[Halfnutz]

I dont know anything about the servo models but the stepper controllers are about as easy as it gets. Everything is clearly labeled and screw terminals are provided. You simply provide step & direction signals from LPT1 of your computer, power for the drive (5V), power for the motor, a current limiting resistor (the value is printed right on the case) and then hook up your motor via 4 contacts. Resolution is jumper pin selectable. There are two models, one unipolar and one bipolar I think. Yes you can figure it out. They have great support also. There is also a resting position current resistor connection also, at least on the 256 microstep model. The "bigger" power supply is just a transformer, a bridge rectifier and a capacitor, plus some fuses. Its not a complicated power supply thats for sure. I dont think theres anything that would trip you up, especially with this forum for help.

[walter]

Sounds good. I think I`ll try to build this thing myself.
Thanks for the reply.

[ViperTX]

walter, it would be a good idea to find the steppers or servos you plan on using. Check the classified adds...Dan Maunch had some large steppers for about $130.

[Nono]

http://www.cnczone.com/forums/showth...ht=control+box is a good thread to read.

[harolda]

i drive brigde port with stepper drives from ebay

[Dan Mauch]

Originally Posted by walter I`m not a student in electronics engineering. Can I still put together my own Gecko based stepper or servo controller? Is there any detailed "how to" wiring scheme? And what about bigger power supply; Do I have to build one myself? (I`d rather not...) Last time I checked Centronics had finished box at around $2500 or more. That`s more than I`m willing to spend on Gecko system.

Take a look at my web site at www.camtronics-cnc.com. I have some low priced cases and complete kits as well as assembled unit.

Dan Mauch
Camtronics Inc.

[andy_ck87028]

Excellent site Dan

How can I take advantage of what you have on offer without being stung on shipping? (to Australia)

I checked out a good offer on Ebay for 3 steppers only to find the UPS shipping cost would be $300.

Cheers

Andy

[Dan Mauch]

I sell a lot of stepper motors form 252 oz in up to 1303 oz in stepper motors that a pretty low cost. I also sell MCG servo motors. I can get you 224 oz in continupos and 1102 peak torque motors for only $249 with encoders.
Dan Mauch
Camtronics Inc
www.camtronics-cnc.com

Originally Posted by walter For once I`d like to buy decent motors. I could go as high as $500 per motor, whether servo or stepper. That`s why I decided to build controller first, with bigger power supply. Then I could match perfect motors, right? I can`t specify motor voltage/Amps right now. I think I would take everything Gecko drives have to offer (power wise). I might need something like 500oz good performance servos or 500-1000oz steppers. I prefer steppers simplicity, high torque/low RPM would work for my application too. Plus I don`t really need closed loop system. Thanks

[bobgerman]

Andy

$300 to ship to Australia?!! I just couldn't believe that until I looked it up myself. I also looked at the Untited States Postal Service ( www.usps.com ) and found that they are actually quite reasonable if you are willing to wait. 4-10 days for a 30lb (13.6kg) is $130....4-6 weeks was $54. Even 2-3 days was 30% cheaper then UPS.