CNC Computer Controler

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10-29-2018, 03:49 PM
20kjbleck

CNC Computer Controler

Hello,
I am a student at a high school in North Carolina, doing research for a proposal to get funds to fix our schools CNC Machine. I dont know a lot about it i cant find the model number or anything so finding answers is difficult. Our current set up (that does not work) is a windows 7 computer with the x/y,z/w parallel kind controller cords adapted to fit VGA or Serial ports plugged into the computer. I know that one of the cords is plugged into the motherboard port and the other is plugged into an expansion chip set which is then plugged into the motherboard at this time i plan to add pictures to this post sometime Morrow. My current theory as to why it is not working is that there is some data loss in the adapting from parallel to VGA.

My questions are such, Is this a valid setup for the CNC Machine? Is the problem the computer and do we need to get another one? is there any sort of setup i need to do in the computer?

Thank you
10-29-2018, 03:57 PM
ger21

Re: CNC Computer Controler

Define "doesn't work".

Be specific. Does the machine power up? Can you jog it?
Does the software work?

What software is controlling the machine?

I think your terminology regarding the ports is not correct, but we need to see pics of everything.
10-29-2018, 04:41 PM
20kjbleck

When i say it does not work, i mean it does not move. The Router head is not controlled by the computer, it is plugged into the wall and starts with a switch. I have gone into the software and attempted to jog it, i dont get any errors the numbers change like it is moving but the device does not move.
10-29-2018, 07:27 PM
Al_The_Man

Re: CNC Computer Controler

This is where a system and machine manual is needed in order to do systematic trouble shooting.
With no manual it virtually needs a hands on manual method of diagnosis in order to trouble shoot it.
The first thing is to check drive power supplies.
Al.
10-30-2018, 02:28 PM
20kjbleck

I dont think anything is wrong with it, i think it is in the software or the computer
Here are some pictures https://photos.app.goo.gl/2SoWLp1PhnX99nos7
10-30-2018, 02:40 PM
ger21

Re: CNC Computer Controler

What software is it running?
10-30-2018, 04:21 PM
20kjbleck

I know the designing software is bobcad, the controlling software is mach3.
10-30-2018, 04:37 PM
ger21

Re: CNC Computer Controler

So the big box inside is Anaheim Automation? If so, then some one converted an Anaheim Automation controller to Mach3.

You're going to need to find a wiring diagram for the Anaheim box, and figure out how the conversion is wired into the parallel port.
10-30-2018, 06:09 PM
20kjbleck

I know the designing software is bobcad, the controlling software is mach3.
10-30-2018, 06:43 PM
automationtechinc

Re: CNC Computer Controler

Quote:

Originally Posted by 20kjbleck

I know the designing software is bobcad, the controlling software is mach3.

You can use this Mach3 or Mach4 controller with ClearPath Servo Motor. or update to NEMA34 Motor if you need it.

Contact us, we will help you

https://www.automationtechnologiesin...et-connection/
10-30-2018, 07:03 PM
20kjbleck

Quote:

Originally Posted by automationtechinc

You can use this Mach3 or Mach4 controller with ClearPath Servo Motor. or update to NEMA34 Motor if you need it.

looking at the images in post #5 What software would you recommend? I am fairly sure that that software has worked in the past. When i first came to this school the teachers in control had seen it work in the past, and maybe it was user error.
10-30-2018, 07:28 PM
20kjbleck

Quote:

Originally Posted by automationtechinc

You can use this Mach3 or Mach4 controller

Also Mach3 Is the software not the controller model
10-30-2018, 07:34 PM
20kjbleck

All i know is that mach3 is the software on the computer IDK if it is correct. When im in there next i will look at it. What software would i need to run the Anaheim Automation controller also sry about any duplicate comments my computer is weird.
10-30-2018, 08:52 PM
Al_The_Man

Re: CNC Computer Controler

Quote:

Originally Posted by 20kjbleck

I dont think anything is wrong with it, i think it is in the software or the computer
Here are some pictures https://photos.app.goo.gl/2SoWLp1PhnX99nos7

Some Very Professional wiring techniques! :rolleyes: ::nono:
Especially in a school environment!.
Al.
10-31-2018, 01:32 PM
ger21

Re: CNC Computer Controler

Quote:

Originally Posted by 20kjbleck

What software would i need to run the Anaheim Automation controller

The original software for that control is probably no longer available, as it's very old, and obsolete. Which is why someone upgraded it to Mach3.

Quote:

i dont get any errors the numbers change like it is moving but the device does not move.

Then the control box is not receiving signals from Mach3.

Are you sure the control box is powered up? Is the parallel port cable plugged in to the PC?