[boredom.is.me]

So I am at the end of my cnc search. I have settled on everything, but now I am left with the computer aspect. I have a MackBook Pro 13", but I want to run Mach 3.

In order to use my Mac, I would have to get a usb converter and a windows simulation type program. The usb converter I would get is the SmoothStepper which costs $155.

I was wondering if I might be able to find an old desktop and monitor for way less. The other option would be to even build a pc to match the basic requirements.

Mach 3 requirements:
- 32-bit version of Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows Vista, or Windows 7 Operating System (64-bit will not work)
- 1Ghz CPU
- 512MB RAM
- Non-integrated Video Card with 32MB RAM

I only want what is necessary, but a little more space wouldn't kill me. I also want a parallel port. If it comes down to a custom built pc from parts, then I would simple machine a housing with a cooling fan later. A shoe box will work fine for now.

Thanks,
Kev

[rowbare]

Tormach has a Service Bulletin that discusses control computers. While it is aimed at Tormach users, they are a Mach based system so what they say is generally useful. At the end of the document them mention some computers that they have used successfully. Many of these can be found used on eBay

http://www.tormach.com/document_libr..._Computers.pdf

bob

[stewi]

find an old desktop and monitor for way less. The other option would be to even build a pc to match the basic requirements.

I think, this is a better option. In order to save space, you may want to look into the option to put the controller board and power supply in the same computer case. Add a large, low speed fan to it.

[Al_The_Man]

For compactness I usually use all-in-one panel mount PC's, they also usually come with touch screen.
In a pinch I have fabricated my own, the nice thing is they fit compactly behind the operator screen.
Ebay 190563883407
Al.

[stewi]

Al, do you run Mach3 on it? Doesn't Mach require at least 1 Ghz? Else, I like it.

[Al_The_Man]

If you need to run Mach3 through the PP then you may have to look for 1ghz as you say, I have built a customed 1ghz Panel mount PC by using a standard MB vertically behind an ELO Point of Sale touch screen.
I usually keep an eye on Ebay, from time to time the odd 1Ghz panel PC gets listed.
If using Kflop with a USB you can get away with lower processor speed, I am not sure if this applies to Smooth stepper.
Al.

[boredom.is.me]

Thanks guys, but didn't exactly get anywhere.

I found this on ebay. $40 shipped
COMPAQ EVO D500 P4 1.7GHz 512MB 40GB XP3 DESKTOP PC | eBay

Also found this. Netbook for $65.
DELL INSPIRON 600M PM 1.4GHz 512MB 30GB WiFi DVD WIN XP | eBay

Are there any signal problems when usine a notebook?

[stewi]

If your Notebook has no printer port than a USB cable converter doesn't work:
"Note: Convertors which plug into a USB port and have a 25 pin connector will not drive a machine
tool using Mach3, even though they are perfectly suitable for the simpler task of connecting a printer."
The intelligent converter such as Smooth Stepper add to the cost.
There are very inexpensive 3 and 4 axis (Made in China) driver boards on the market, which work well and plug directly in the printer port.
The Compaq is cheap, yes it has more real estate, but will work.

[rowbare]

Notebooks and their ilk are not recommended by Mach. While some people have successfully used them, I don't think it is worth the hassle. When I got my first CNC, I tried running it from a Dell laptop. I spent a lot of time chasing my tail trying to figure out what was wrong only to find that it worked fine when I hooked it up to a Desktop.

bob