Servo driven machine, do I have to put steppers on it?

[Darc]

I have a servo driven machine that is knackered (software), if I want to run the Mach software (which I just setup on a router and I love it) will I need to remove the servos and encoders and install steppers?
Or is there a way to run the servo motors and just change the drives?
Damn it's good software.......

[tag1987]

Depending on the specs of your servos and encoders, you may just have to replace the servo amps (drives) with a version that takes Mach x step and direction pulse outputs.
Look at Rutex or Gecko, both are good drives, have good support and lots of info on this and the yahoo forums.

[ViperTX]

not if you're using step/direction drivers as mentioned above.

[Darc]

Thanks guys, just for your info the motors are siemens HU5042-0AF01-Z, I know I'm leaning towards steppers because of the ease of setup, but if you think that running the existing servos with gecko drives wouldn't be too bad I might purchase one gecko drive and give it a go. (I can't tell what voltage the motors are though)
I would like to have encoders so the existing servos would be good for that, also I don't have to mount new motors.
As you can see I am arguing with myself.....

[Darc]

In theory should something like one of these Gecko boards be adequate to run?
http://www.geckodrive.com/product.cfm?pid=17

The machine is 6 axis, would a board like this work or should I buy seperate drives similar to these?
http://www.geckodrive.com/product.cfm?pid=13

I think maybe I should send Gecko a pic of the label on the motor and they can tell me, unless you guys can.

[ger21]

The G101 (or G100, G-Rex) is not a motor drive. It's a step generator and I/O board. Mach4 will be able to control it, but it's in Alpha stage right now.

The G320 is the servo drive. Yes, ask Gecko if it will work for you.

[pstockley]

Why not talk to rutex (www.rutex.com) they are in your area. They have drivers up to 200v and 40amp.

[Darc]

Thanks guys