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IndustryArena Forum > WoodWorking Machines > DIY CNC Router Table Machines > X axis works fine but Y axis direction is erratic
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  1. #1
    Join Date
    Jan 2008
    Posts
    3

    X axis works fine but Y axis direction is erratic

    I have a Kelig cnc system on a DIY router table. The X axis seems to be working fine but the Y axis direction is unpredictable. Sometimes it moves in the correct direction, stops and reverses itself. Sometimes goes in the same direction regardless of which jog button I press.

    This is a DIY project running a trial version of Mach3, on an old laptop... Just trying to get things working before I invest more money.

    Any ideas,, why would the motor change directions?

    Thanks. Swampbud1
    :drowning:

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Mar 2003
    Posts
    35538
    possibly weak voltage on the direction pins? measure the voltage on the direction pin while jogging back and forth. It should be 0V in one direction, and 5V in the other direction.

    You could also try increasing the dir pulse width in motor tuning.
    Gerry

    UCCNC 2017 Screenset
    http://www.thecncwoodworker.com/2017.html

    Mach3 2010 Screenset
    http://www.thecncwoodworker.com/2010.html

    JointCAM - CNC Dovetails & Box Joints
    http://www.g-forcecnc.com/jointcam.html

    (Note: The opinions expressed in this post are my own and are not necessarily those of CNCzone and its management)

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Jan 2008
    Posts
    3
    When pressing Y+ the DRO increases, then the motor will reverse, but the DRO will continue to increase.

    Thanks for the info.

  4. #4
    Join Date
    Aug 2010
    Posts
    0

    No Laptop for Mach

    Hi,

    Gerry is correct...probably voltage issues at the laptops LPT port....

    Artsoft recommends NOT using a laptop for Mach3....

    I would try a desktop if you can.

    HTH

    Jeff

  5. #5
    Join Date
    Mar 2009
    Posts
    624
    99% sure it will be the laptop causing it, my laptop does exactly the same if using the PP. I use the smooth stepper with laptop. Thou you can buy a cheap desktop for the same money as SS.
    I live in a damp enviroment so need to bring computer in warmer conditions and the laptop/ss combo works best for me.

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