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  1. #1
    Join Date
    Aug 2010
    Posts
    3

    Upgrading dos machine

    I am looking at an older Digital Tool machine that runs in dos. What is involved in upgrading this machine to run in windows?
    Thanks!

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Feb 2011
    Posts
    109

    re upgrading dos machine

    Hi Alan --

    I don't have any experience with Digital Tool machines, but you might want to take a look at a couple of threads that appear to be related. See this one on the Digital Tool 904:
    http://www.cnczone.com/forums/commer...ool_904_a.html ...or this one
    http://www.cnczone.com/forums/diy-cn...ne_router.html

    Both are pretty recent threads, and might put you in touch with others who share your plight.

    If the original DOS computer is with your machine it is unlikely that you can upgrade that hardware to run Windows because of the processor, speed, RAM, etc. The controller may also likely need to be upgraded for windows as well as all the control software. In any event you will probably need some details such as the model number, software versions (if any), to get more specific help.

    HTH.

    --Rich

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Dec 2003
    Posts
    24221
    I have a couple of machines that run on DOS with DSP based motion cards, I much prefer to run them this way than windows.
    Do you know what controller the machine has?
    Al.
    CNC, Mechatronics Integration and Custom Machine Design

    “Logic will get you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere.”
    Albert E.

  4. #4
    Join Date
    Nov 2007
    Posts
    2466
    my first was a dos machine and i went about upgrading. generally all drive and motors are way older tech as well best to do it all not just the controller, mine had older 1/2 steppers and would not vcarce at decent rapids with out stalling, figure a start at 750.00 (min) a motor and 3500 for the controller plus board. rewire it as well other wise you will eventually
    James McGrew CAMaster 508 ATC
    www.mcgrewwoodwork.com http://dropc.am/p/EJaKyl

  5. #5
    Join Date
    Dec 2003
    Posts
    24221
    In my case I retrofitted the machine with the DOS program and motion card, the servo motors and encoders were fine, I just upgraded the drives to newer torque mode type.
    Al.
    CNC, Mechatronics Integration and Custom Machine Design

    “Logic will get you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere.”
    Albert E.

  6. #6
    Join Date
    Nov 2007
    Posts
    2466
    i just purchased another one this am, will let you know
    James McGrew CAMaster 508 ATC
    www.mcgrewwoodwork.com http://dropc.am/p/EJaKyl

  7. #7
    Join Date
    Nov 2007
    Posts
    2466
    alan i am picking mine up this week did you purchase yours
    James McGrew CAMaster 508 ATC
    www.mcgrewwoodwork.com http://dropc.am/p/EJaKyl

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