Need Help!- Z axis air solenoid

[dragonstone@sym]

I need to control the z-axis that is air operated {up or down only|
I have looked at a lot of threads but have not seen one that helps me.
Control for the x-y axis is with a stepper driver board to a 25 way breakout board then to the computer.
Is there some type of board that will also connect to the 25 way breakout board like the stepper drivers??
or how would I connect it ??
The machine is an old engraver 12" x 24" Table, Came with just the machine and z and y steppers.
Z axis is a Solenoid ? with air for up or down & has a motorized engraver on it.

[Al_The_Man]

What type of controller are you using? are retrofitting this, or already have?
If is is a single acting valve, you just need one output from whatever controller you have, it could also be triggered by a configured M code, if your control is configurable.
Al.

[dragonstone@sym]

Hi Al
Has the original American Precision stepper motors for X & Y. I think the solenoid is single acting.
I have 3 controllers from RoutOut CNC with a 25 way breakout board. If I knew more about how it is supposed to be wired I would not be so consufed.
I am trying to just get this Dahlgren wired and running to see how it works and do some small engravings.
e.g. Grandaughters face on wood or plastic plaque?.?

Not sure the software I will be using, but have been looking through a couple trial versions . have demo of Quickstep, and RoutOut CNC. and also Mach 3 and lazyCam and some other stuff. There is a lot to choose from, but cost must stay low.

Then I want to build a Router Machine. Have lots of ideas for it, eg 2'x2' square tube for frame and rails, (stationary table), then ?? for gantry.
Looking at 4' x 4' or even 4' x 8' cutting area> lots of pics saved of other's machines.
Want to make items like cribbage boards, and other games
Maybe some plastic decorative stuff for the OWMBO (One Who Must Be Obeyed)
Thanks Earl

[Al_The_Man]

If single acting solenoid, then this could be energised by a dedicated output via assigned M codes, one for on one for off.
Al.