I need a low cost upgrade controller for my CNC Router

[ReefkeeperCNC]

Hello,
I have come to the conclusion that I probably will not find a computer to power my old RS232 Serial port controller and am looking for a low cost replacement. I have motor specs but I think they are in Italian. What I am wondering is, what can I use as a low cost replacement to the controller I have. It was made in 92, and I want to be able to take advantage of newer and easier to use software.
The photos shown in my other posts are of the machine I am refering to. I will upload motor specs and pictures tommorrow.

[2muchstuff]

Gecko drive http://www.geckodrive.com/

[txcowdog]

If your motors are unipolar, try http://www.hobbycnc.com I have an old Emco-Maier PC Mill 30 and the steppers were made by an Italian firm and they emailed me the wiring diagram for the motors. Never hurts to ask.

[ReefkeeperCNC]

I do not know much about the motors. There are 4 wires and a grounding wire. Each has the same tag shown in this photo. How can you tell the difference?
Thanks

[pminmo]

looks like 4 phase, 7A/phase 200step per rev. I would have expected eight wires.

[ReefkeeperCNC]

Hi Phil,
There are 4. red,green,black and white. Then a seperate one for grounding the controller to the motor housing.
ed

[pminmo]

does the one you call seperate come from the same opening as the other 4 wires?

[ReefkeeperCNC]

Hi,
Nope, the 4 wires are grouped together and terminate inside the motor. The seperate wire is simply screwed to the motor housing where it mounts to the machine.
Ed

[Dabhaidh]

Here is the manufacturer web site.
http://www.mae.it/us/step.htm

your lable says that there should be 8 leads

Stepping Motors description key

[ReefkeeperCNC]

THANK YOU! Great link!
My motors have 4 leads. I guess I have the non standard version according to that link.

"Standard stepping motors have 8 leads to be driven in bipolar or unipolar. If requested, motors with 4 or 6 leads can also be supplied."
would these work with Geckos?

[ReefkeeperCNC]

Hello,
No it is a ground that is fastened to a mounting bolt.

Originally Posted by pminmo does the one you call seperate come from the same opening as the other 4 wires?