Running Two CNC Machines On One Computer

[Too_Many_Tools]

I want to run a Sherline CNC mill and a Sherline CNC lathe on the same computer.

How and where do you implement a switch box to allow one computer to run both...but not at the same time?

I have a choice of both Intelitek controllers and to do a retrofit using a parallel port system.

Thanks

TMT

[dcarlson]

Hello TMT;
I do that, running two mills from one computer using a A/B switch from the parallel port.
Using Mach3 I have two copies renamed a & b, one set up for the first or A machine and the other for the B machine.
With Mach3 you must close one before using the other.

Good Luck
Don

[Too_Many_Tools]

thanks for the response.

I have considered doing a A-B box on the parallel port.

I have also considered doing something similar on the actual control/sensing wires that go to both the lathe and mill...thereby using one set of electronics for both the lathe and mill.

That is why I am asking what others have done.

Anyone else/

TMT

[vulcom1]

I am also looking at changing mahines and have some thoughts on what could be problems. I have built a foam cutter and now over the winter want to work on my mill/drill. I am using the Hobbycnc pro board with 80oz. steppers on the foam cutter. I have 300 oz. steppers for the mill/drill to mount.
The first concern is my electronics are in a computor case which means I have to take the top off everytime I switch machines to change the vref. Which ever side you switch like using the AB switch or one on the output to the steppers it still has to be removed and set. I am also not in favour of any switch in the system. I have had an AB switch go on my 2 printers and also disconnecting the connections or using a switch if they get intermittant then it would be fun troubleshooting the problem.
I have been looking at purchasing a separate board for each and stacking them in the case. I can then run cables to the mill and also use a common power supply. It is not very likely that you will run both from the same PC.
As for changing the parallel port outputs I would install an extra port so I have lpt1 and lpt2. Then all you need is a software change to go to the right port.
Just another opinion of which I am looking at.
John