[Torchhead]

Is there an update on the MPG202?

The scope of the project has changed considerably. There will be two versions of the Hand Control. The 200 will have proportional jogstick and membrane keypad and be similar to the older MPG101B in functions and pricing. The 400 will have a back lighted graphics LCD, full MACH control including entering G-code (MDI) commands and full readouts (DRO's) for both Router/mill type cutting and interface for our screen based DTHC products (display/set all DTHC parameters.) It will be like having a hand-held control panel you can control with one hand. The MPG400 will be priced at $350 with discounts when combined with our products.

We have decided to use high speed noise immune RS485 communications to/from the PC that supports up to 1 MHZ at up to 300 ft across standard UTP (unshielded) . The Ethernet approach we started with was noble but way more complex and expensive for a tethered hand controller than it had to be. Some of the controls on both units will be slide type pots for things like Feed rate override and jog speeds. Both units will work with MACH3 and plug to the PC directly so are largely independent of hardware. Special functions like the display and setting of Torch Height parameters and Spindle Speed RPM and setting will be specific to our products for those functions Both units will be able to run preset or custom macros (written by the user if desired).

I don't have any drawings or photos yet but I do have a case and custom keypads selected.

The time line is for us to have working prototypes in October and shipping production units in November.

TOM caudle
www.CandCNC.com