Mach 3 and Windows 7 (64 bit)

[JackWilliam]

Whilst trying to get my CNC machine working yesterday I stumbled across another problem.

We are using a computer with Windows 7 (64 bit) and trying to run Mach 3. The program seems to work fine, however the motors on the CNC machine are not responding.

I have now found out that it may be a problem with using a 64 bit version of Windows 7 as Mach 3 was designed for 32 bit operating systems.

I have now found out about people downloading Windows virtual PC and running Windows XP through Windows 7. By doing this should my problems be solved?

If not, then what can I do (short of downgrading to 32 bit Windows)

Thanks
Jack

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[ger21]

I have now found out about people downloading Windows virtual PC and running Windows XP through Windows 7. By doing this should my problems be solved?

I seriously doubt that will work.
The parallel port driver in Mach3 only works in 32bit versions of windows.

The only alternative to using a 32bit OS is to use an external motion controller, which eliminates the need for the parallel port driver.
There are probably about 20 of these devices available, but there is very little information available on some of them, especially the Chinese ones on Ebay.
The most popular by far is the Smoothstepper.

Be aware that all these devices use a plugin to communicate with Mach3, and the plugin may require the use of a specific version of Mach3 (but not always).

Several of the devices are listed here:
ArtSoft USA - Plugins

[JackWilliam]

Ok,

Perhaps it is possible to install a 32 bit version of windows as well as the 64 bit version so that we can control the CNC machine using 32 bit version and do design work in the 64 bit version.

Please let me know if there is a reason that this will not work.

Thanks
Jack

[ger21]

If you can dual boot, then it should work. However, I'd highly recommend picking up an older, used PC to run the machine. A dedicated control PC is usually preferred and recommended.

Not sure about the UK, but over here you can get good used Pentium 4's with XP installed for $50. Check Ebay.

[JackWilliam]

Thanks for the information,

We will probably get a dedicated computer once everything is up and running, however we want to make sure that things are working first.

Are there any good reasons why a dedicated machine is recommended other than convenience?

[Vin0bim]

is it the 32 bit hardware or 32 bit software that is the problem. I just gave away a pentium 4 to a kids group as I have a 64bit win 7 that I was going to use exclusively for the machine. If I install XP on the the 64 bit hardware will that work?
Hayden

[ger21]

As long as you use a 32bit OS, it should work.

[Vin0bim]

thanks
Will advise on success or failure