Gecko 201 disable?

[LEWENZ]

HI:
I've got my machine running with Mach 3 and Gecko 201's.
At times, I'd like to run the machine manually. But, I need to cut power to the steppers and not have them feed back current as I crank the handles. If I hook up a switch to the disable pin and run it to ground will this give me what I'm after?
And, where is the best ground? I have a power 5vdc power supply that's common with the computer. Should I use this ground? Or, should I take the ground to a chassis or machine?
Thanks
LEW

[CJL5585]

Originally Posted by LEWENZ HI: And, where is the best ground? I have a power 5vdc power supply that's common with the computer. Should I use this ground? Or, should I take the ground to a chassis or machine? Thanks LEW

The control inputs to the Gecko (step, direction & disable) are all referenced to the 5 VDC common.

Do not tie it to chassis or anywhere else, just the common side of the 5 Volt power supply.

Jerry

[LEWENZ]

Thanks, Jerry:
Have you used the disable function on the Gecko's? And, if so, does it allow the machine to be used manually?
LEW

[CJL5585]

Originally Posted by LEWENZ Thanks, Jerry: Have you used the disable function on the Gecko's? And, if so, does it allow the machine to be used manually? LEW

No, I have not used the disable function on the Gecko 201's, but have used the function on previous versions of drives designed by Mariss and others.

With the enable pin pulled to ground or 5 Volt common, the stepper motor holding current is reduced to a value where there is not any torque from the steppers, so they are free to move.

Just think of it like this:
With the enable pin pulled to ground, the motors act exactly as they do with all system power removed. Essentially, this is what happens.

It can be used to manually position the axis to any location desired.

Good luck.

[LEWENZ]

Thanks again.
On my dos system if I power up the system and disable the drives I can freewheel the handles without any back current.
If I don't power up the system and turn the handwheels the steppers act as generators and produce current.
I'll wire up the disables on the Gecko's and see how it works.

[CJL5585]

Originally Posted by LEWENZ Thanks again. On my dos system if I power up the system and disable the drives I can freewheel the handles without any back current. If I don't power up the system and turn the handwheels the steppers act as generators and produce current. I'll wire up the disables on the Gecko's and see how it works.

Actual experience is always a better teacher than any other method of learning.

[LEWENZ]

Jerry:
Don't know if you'll see this but I did manage to test the disable function on the Gecko's and it works just as I hoped and you said.
Thanks
LEW