Mach3 and Porter-cable router "spindles"

[SpacedCowboy]

Hi there,

So I'm trying to configure my router, and I'm having trouble getting Mach to output a high-signal on the Gecko G540. I've tested with a multimeter, and the voltage on 'Output #1' is always low (<0.5v)

Here's the config screens:





I have checked the relay, and applying 9v across the low-voltage relay terminals does switch the line-level side, and like I say, I tested the outputs on the G540 with a multimeter.

What I'm doing is going to the MDI screen and typing 'M3' to try and trigger the output. Is there something else I can (have to) do ?

Cheers
Simon

[ger21]

Is the Spindle LED coming on?

[SpacedCowboy]

Is the Spindle LED coming on?

Well, if I type 'M3', I see a blinking red led for output #1 under the Output signals (as below) on the diagnostics screen:



... and I also see the 'PWM bumped to minimum setting' blink red in the status area. I'm not sure if that's relevant, though.

If I type 'M5', then the LED stops blinking. Should it be blinking, or solid ?

Cheers
Simon

[SpacedCowboy]

Ok, I figured this one out. Using the multimeter to check the voltages at the parallel port on the back of the computer showed that Mach3 was in fact outputting logic-high on the correct pins when I was typing M3.

I still wasn't getting anything from the G540 though, and that was a simple case of not R'ing the FM. I was connecting between ground and output-pin, and the Gecko wants it to be between +V and output-pin. A little re-wiring and the router fired up when I typed 'M3' and stopped on 'M5'.

So, now it's actually working (although I still haven't figured out how to start Mach3 up with just X,Y,Z enabled - it always wants X,Y,Z,A, which screws my 'ref all home' action). All I have to do now is figure out this whole 'cad/cam' thing - should be a piece of cake, right ? [grin]

Simon.