Hi All
Some months back I bought a Denford ORAC. I spent a bit of time mastering the arcane control system and now am about to embark on a retrofit (an not before time I hear you yell)

I'd like to use MACH3, have an operator panel with MPG's for X and Z and manual over ride for spindle speed and feed rate. Ideally I will be able to drive the lathe using these controls in a 'manual' kindof way.

Is this rough spec realistic and practical? Can it be done?? (I'll maybe come back later with the How To Do It question

With input from Arturo at CNC4PC I thought I'd use GECKO drivers, and one of his breakout boards for the spindle control and inputs to the GECKO's. I'm leaning towards MODBUS to take care of the MPG's and other inputs (homes, limits etc)

What are the thoughts of the group about the choice of components - any input regarding these would be most welcome. Which MODBUS board would you guys suggest??

Cheers,
Paul