Nothing secret about the cnc interface which is included with all Powermax45 plasma systems. You can download the operators manual from the
www.hypertherm.com (the only official Hypertherm site) site and it has all of the necessary info. Here is the info:
There is a receptacle on the rear panel of the Powermax45 with 3 interface signals available.
1. Plasma Start. These 2 pins, when connected together (via a relay or switch) will fire the plasma torch, when they are disconnected, the plasma arc will stop.
There are details in the manual that outline the typical circuitry to operate this input function if you are using a solid state device (transistor) to do the switching. This start function is only active when the machine torch is installed on the Powermax45. It is dangerous to have a remote switch when using a hand torch.....as the torch could be fired from a remote location when the torch is in hand.
2. Arc Transfer (also known as arc good, machine motion, etc.). These two pins are controlled by a relay inside the Powermax 45......
when the plasma arc is transferred to metal that is attached to the work ground (ground clamp) the pins are essentially connected, when the arc is not cutting, the circuit is open.
3. Voltage Divider output. These two pins provide 1/50th of the actual DC arc voltage for use with many torch height control devices. Many devices require raw arc voltage, which is available on the main circuit board inside the unit.
If you have further questions I would be happy to help, or you can call Hypertherm directly and ask for tech service. There are US and European tech service contacts listed on the website under "contact us".
Best regards, Jim Colt