Mach & Additional IOs

[aus-newb]

I want to run a auto tool changer (6 solenoids), auto gear change (3 solenoids), mist & flood coolant (2 solenoids) and a heap of imputs to go with that.

How can I do this with Mach. I believe some of this can be implemented with Modbus.

Has anyone done this? and what hardware might you use?

Craig

[ger21]

you might want to get in touch with Brian at http://www.newfangledsolutions.com , although their web site seems to be down at the moment.

[aus-newb]

Thanks Gerry

I didn't realise they had info on this. I will check it out once they are back up.

Is there anyone out there that is running more IO's than 2 Printer ports can handle?

Craig

[Chris D]

Originally Posted by aus-newb Thanks Gerry I didn't realise they had info on this. I will check it out once they are back up. Is there anyone out there that is running more IO's than 2 Printer ports can handle? Craig

Hi Gerry,

There are a couple of ways to do it

1) ModI/O & MOdbus feature

2) SerialIn feature and create your own protocol and hardware (this is route I am just starting to experiment on)

In both cases, they are new features and nearly anyone involved with it is still in the testing phases. I would think that this is your best bet, but you may have to wait a little while as the technology developes or is understood.

Sorry I can't be of more help.

Oh, and no, you cannot use more that 2 parallel ports with MACH

Chris

[Barker806]

Originally Posted by ger21 you might want to get in touch with Brian at http://www.newfangledsolutions.com , although their web site seems to be down at the moment.

The server is down and I think it is going to be Tuesday before it gets fixed But the Modbus is very simple. It is not cheap but I think if you look at everything it will do it is cheaper in the end. There is 1 cable that hooks the PLC to the computer. and there are relays built into the PLC. The Relay's will run up to 5amp (I think) and you can have DC OR AC inputs. You can also have analog out and in. I have a Bp set up there that has a pot for setting the Feed and Jog rate. AND It is running that analog for the spindle drive. So now you know about what you can do here are the parts that I use.

Automation Direct DL06 PLC (20 in 18 out) and Programming Cable with an Adaptor.
It is going to be about $230.00 in Parts But it needs to be programmed... I have a program that I made and I install it for $50.00... That is a good deal because the programming software is 150.00 and you are going to have to learn how to program. I am working on finishing up the manual but there has been so much software to write that I have not had the time to finish the manual.


Well it is a 300.00 solution to a 500.00 dollar problem
Brian

[aus-newb]

Hi Brian

Could you point me to a link. I was not able to find anything on Modbus. (Do I need to log in ?)

The cost of the product seemes very reasonable, especially if I can get the extra functionality out of my machine.

Craig

[Barker806]

Originally Posted by aus-newb Hi Brian Could you point me to a link. I was not able to find anything on Modbus. (Do I need to log in ?) Craig

There is not much out there about Mach3 and the Modbus. There will be more in the very near future as the doc's come out. The simplest way to get into a PLC would be to send it to me so I can program it for you. I have the programs made for DL05's and DL06's. If you would like to look at them they are here www.automationdirect.com . Look under the PLC's and the DL06 is the one that I like the most .

I wish there was more I could give you but at this time there is no time....

Thank you
Brian

PS Getting modbbus working in Mach3 is VERY simple and I only have to send you a screen shot of the settings...

[ChrisJ]

Brian,

I have a question for you. The programming that you have performed and offer for $50, it does not need to be specific to one's applications?

Chris

[Barker806]

Originally Posted by ChrisJ Brian, I have a question for you. The programming that you have performed and offer for $50, it does not need to be specific to one's applications? Chris

The program that I have done just slaves the PLC to mach3. The inputs and outputs are set on the port and pins page by selecting PORT 0 and The PIN of the output or input. So If I wanted to have a limit switch on input 3 I would just put Port0 Pin3 and if I sit the switch on the PLC you would see it in Mach 3 on the Limit LED.
Hope that helps.

Brian

[ChrisJ]

Understood.

Thank you.
Chris

[aus-newb]

Hi Brian

Can the donload be done remotely, (ie could you send me a file?) or does it need their software to communicate with the PLC. The reason I ask, is that the DL06 is available here in Australia of the shelf.

Craig

[Barker806]

You have to have there software to write to the PLC.. The Software is 150.00 and there isn't a way to right the PLC with out it.... if there is a way you can think around this I would be happy to do anythig that I can.
I need to finish the doc's so everyone and anyone can use the program that I have for the PLC.

Thank you
Brian