PicStep And Mach3

[southernexplore]

I am using the PicStep V4.0 and Mach3 and was wondering what you set the motor tuning at for best performance. I know that every motor is different but it seems that the settings has a great deal of influence on motor torque and rpm. I have a vexta 83 oz in. motor I am using just for getting to know the software and driver. What should the "steps per" be set at for one thing. Is this related to the lead screw and microstepping you are set at? It seems that if I go to 1/2 step or more I loose all torque.
Thanks
southernexplorer

[ger21]

Steps per unit is how many steps to move one unit, probably inches in your case. With a 10 tpi screw, 200 step/rev motor and 1/2 stepping, you get 10 x 200 x 2 = 4000 steps per inch, for example.

The motor tuning settings should have no effect on torque or rpm, other than limiting rpm with the velocity. The Velocity setting is basically a speed limit. It's the fastest the motor will move, and is used during rapid (G00) moves. The accceleration is how fast you want to accelerate. If you try to accelerate faster than the motor is capable of, it will lose steps. Also keep in mind that stepper motor torque falls off rapidly as rpm's increase.

[southernexplore]

One more note, I have 49 volts when the motor is running.

[southernexplore]

I tested the settings for a while and noticed that to get the "steps per" right I had to put both jumpers in and set the steps per to 1200. I have a 6 TPI and a 1.8 degree motor. I was just trying to get the motor to make 6 full revolutions for a G0 x1.0 command. Seems like I should be in 1/8 step when both jumpers are in. By the schematic I should have both jumpers out to get full step. Is this correct? I tested the jumpers and I have 5v on both pins closet to the Pic.
Thanks
southernexplorer