solenoid help

[jimini]

I'm building a small 2 axis plotter to print on cd's.it will print around the circumference of the cd (circular).
I plan on using a solenoid for pen up/down, what I need is a schematic for the solenoid, using the Z setting (standard G code from Desk Engrave)
to latch a solenoid down, then up when the Z setting requires it.
Thank for looking. jimini

[Al_The_Man]

You don't mention what control software you are using, I believe the Desk Engrave is just CAM software, no?
If so they probabally stipulate a Z height for a normal Z Axis position, What would probabally work better in your instance is two M codes one for pen down & one for pen up. as you probabally do not require any z axis control?
A 24vdc solenoid could be used with a 2n7000 transistor if fed from the printer port.
Al.

[jimini]

I'll be using Mach3 that's why I was concerned about the Z height, deskengrave inserts it automatically as you know.
I guess I'll have to play with it a bit. Thanks. Jim