Looks like an interesting project and I imagine a number of people will be watching progress.My exposure to AXYZ has left me thinking they are a bit quirky,but basic and reliable.Might I suggest that when your other machine arrives,you borrow the RS485 you already have and see if you can communicate with the machine?If it works you then have the choice of proceeding with the conversion or selling off the parts that will no longer be needed as working spares to those who might need them.It isn't a trivial task to set up a control system and after you have done it I don't doubt that you will value the new skills very highly,