MACH 3 USB INPUT CONFIGURATION

[coremfg]

I'm running mach3 on a new bench mill with a laptop and can't seem to configure the ports/pins input signal from the USB port to the 25 pin printer port. No led(s) while jogging are displayed in diagnostics. When powered up/down, all motors energize for a moment. -Any help is appreciated - thanks

[ger21]

Are you trying to use a usb to parallel adapter cable? If so , it won't work. If not, I don't understand what your trying to do.

[coremfg]

Thanks for the fast reply. Yep, I had this USB-parallel(m) cord a just finished setting up the mill, so I gave it a shot. I would like to use a laptop with the controller. With the standard laptop ports, what cord/adapters do you recommend using?

[ger21]

With a laptop, you have a few options.

1)PCMCIA parallel port card. I've heard that some brands work, and some don't. I can't recommend any specific one for you. This is the only way to use Mach3 without external pulsing hardware.

2) Gecko G100 via ethernet in place of the parallel port. Expensive though.

3) ncPod usb motion controller. About $100, hardware is still in beta, but a lot of guys are using them with Mach3 succesfully. http://ncpod.oemtech.com/

4) SmoothStepper USB controller. Not yet released, but seems like it will be the preferred method for running Mach3 in the future. Fast pulse rate, and emulates two parallel ports via usb. Supposed to be released in the next month or two at about $160. http://www.warp9td.com/

[andyjt]

3) ncPod usb motion controller. About $100, hardware is still in beta, but a lot of guys are using them with Mach3 succesfully. http://ncpod.oemtech.com/

Does anyone know how I could get hold of one of these to try in the UK ?

[ger21]

Does anyone know how I could get hold of one of these to try in the UK ?

You can contact them through their website to purchase a beta version.