Cutmaster A120 "ok to move" trouble

[chri5 G]

Hi guys,

I'm currently trying to get my TM2 with ATHC fully Automated, I'v followed and implemented the "wiring diagram/fag pac sketch" supplied on the ATHC setup cd and read through the operation manual. Iv set the m101 I1 macro, inputs and the pierce delay .2s settings on the height controller and the rest stated in the manual.

The torch proceeds to to the work piece and ignites and then sits there burning the metal as if it were waiting for the ok to move signal, the signal generator then throws a wobbly and shuts down and goes offline. Rip all the additional wiring out and set a dwell time and the system works great

my question is; what OK to move signal is putout by my Cutmaster A120, because im picking up a 5v dc signal on my fluke but the athc controller only needs a closed contact switch. do i need to install an additional 5v dc relay?

any help would be gratefully received!

[Mike@Torchmate]

On the back of the A120 there is typically a CNC interface port. When you purchase the unit from us we provide you with a cable that comes off of that port with two pairs of wire that we use. The first pair, pins 3 and 4, are for the torch on signal, which hook to the connection on the back of the AVHC labeled Torch. Pins 12 and 14 are for the OK to Move signal, which connect to the OK to Move port on the back of the AVHC.

If you have this connection made, and are still having problems, please contact us and we can start diagnosing if the plasma cutter is not transmitting the OK to move signal.

-Mike

[chri5 G]

Cheers Mike, thanks for the support. After a couple of days away from the machine and a fresh look at the wiring and a computer restart the ok to move is working sweet. (Too much to soon), the only thing now is the signal generator seems to go offline after a time during cuts, when cutting at over 40Amps, sometimes limit y- switch error appears when head is miles from the y- limit switch and then the signal gen goes offline.
Looking at other posts this could be an emi/emf shielding issue which i can hopefully rectify with the use of some twisted pair screened from an old aircraft loom im stripping out at the mo,

Question is; should i screen to computer or table and/or separate mains ground as the signal gen has no ground screw to sync to?

Ps I've tried to separate the cable route as best as possible within the cable carrier.

any help is gratefully received!

[Mike@Torchmate]

Chris,

Typically the electronics are all grounded to a common ground on the table, which is then shed to an earth ground. The signal generator can be grounded by attaching a lead to the back of the case at the power connection.

I would be looking for commonalities as to when the system is getting kicked offline, and also check your wiring connections for something that might be loose and showing a momentary contact on the Y limit switch, stopping the program. If you disable the Y- limit switch, does the problem continue?

-Mike