[DaPyro]

I want to know if any of the more experienced cnc users can help me out. I am planning on building a 3 axis cnc router machine. Later on I would like to build a 4th axis attachment. I will have a travel of 3’ X 4’ X 8”. I want to be able to mill aluminum and mdf. I will have a coolant system for the aluminum and a dust collector for the mdf g-code selectable. I want to use servo motors for a closed loop system I would like to incorporate an automatic tool changer g-code selectable. I think I can design a tool changer with one or two i/o’s. I would like a VFD spindle. But am willing to use a regular router spindle. I am all new to cnc machining. If there is any recommendation I am willing to listen to them. Like I said I am all new to this so help me out. Here are a few break-out boards I was thinking on using. Let me know if I should look at any more? Thanks for the help! I will post pictures as the project progresses.

www.CampBellDesigns.com Combo break-out board: $245.00 USA

The purpose of the Combo board is to interface the PC parallel port to the Gecko stepper motor drives and to control four relays for powering on aux devices such as spindle, vacuum pump, and coolant pump from 115VAC. The combo board also includes the spindle speed function that can control a variable frequency drive (VFD) through an optically isolated 0~5 VDC or 0~10 VDC. The Combo board also has an output for one Quadrature encoder that can be used for a manual pulse generator (MPG).
Website http://www.campbelldesigns.com/Combo-board.php

www.Rutet.com Motherboard R990mb: $116.00

The R990mb is an interface, which simplifies interconnection between PC running Step & Direction CNC software via LPT (printer) port and the physical CNC hardware such as motor drivers, cooling pump etc. It can be used with up to four R990/R990H/R90H/R991H/R992H servo drivers and R990io relay board. The R990mb has direct interface to PC printer port (DB25 - LPT port) and DB15 for connecting the limit switches.
Website http://www.rutex.com/home/index


www.rogersmachine.net Sound Logic Encoder Interface: $136.50

Closed Loop performance for all Mach2/3/4 software’s
4 Input/Output connections for Gecko drives
Works with Stepper systems w/encoders also
4 multi-purpose inputs for MPG's, probes, etc.
4 on-board relays controlled by M-codes in the software rated 125
VAC and 15 amps. Coupled with Breakout board, provides 8 outputs
in total.
Alerts the operator of positioning errors on each axis.
Provides External 5 volt supply for encoders.
Provides DRO position of all axises when Mach is in "Reset" for
manual machining.
Works with 2nd parallel port card which can be purchased here and
included with interface.
Cable for 26 pin connector to DB-25 included.
Fast, easy installation and software configuration.
All setup instructions outlined in PDF manual on "download" page.
On a 3 axis system, the 4th axis may be used for an MPG input.
Tracks the .001" startup crawl of each axis and allows the user to
resync this to the machine position. Without the interface, this is
usually not noticed when axis motors are powered up.
Website http://www.rogersmachine.net/encoderinterface.html

[RTP_Burnsville]

If you would like to build your own check out www.pminmo.com. I just received some blank PCB's from Phil and they look nice for about $10.00. His interface board will connect your PC parallel port to a three axis setup.

Robert

[pminmo]

RTP,
4 axis.. I'm working on a webpage to show how to make it work with geckos and other drives, using a different style connector. In the left picture there are 3 cables constructed of the 4 axis. The black wires are direction, green step, blue 5V. Should make a pretty clean layout. You still need an isolated 5V source.

Phil

[JerryFlyGuy]

Another Board set is CNC4PC.com, I haven't purchased anyof their boards, but would also like to hear what others have to say

[RTP_Burnsville]

Sorry Phil, I forgot about the fourth axis as I only plan to use three in my setup at this time.

[pminmo]

RTP,
Not a problem, just wanted to clarify. :wave:

[jasonmarkham]

hi,

i build my own board . took the parallel port and buffered it with a 74hc541 then to a darlington driver. all inputs 5 and outputs 8 are opto isolated .. works very good for me..

You will find the pics in my gallery .

also i used a standard atx psu and build a breakout psu board too, with soft on power switch ..

[BobWarfield]

A few other boards and approaches to consider. Those breakouts are good for the axes, also consider for axes and stepper driving:

- PMDX: http://www.pmdx.com/

and, one that not too many probably are thinking hard about yet:

- GRex: http://www.geckodrive.com/

Good Mach support for GRex is probably several months (perhaps as much as 6 months) away, but once it is done, this will be quite a device for those with lots of axes and lots of inputs and outputs. It handles 6 axes, 6 encoders, 16 outputs, 22 inputs, 4 analog ins, 4 analog outs, and a partridge in a pear tree! It gets around the limitations of parallel ports via a LAN or USB connection. It doesn't really cost any more than these other solutions either.

In terms of needing more I/O lines for encoders, control panels, or non-axis driving uses, you should take a look at:

- ModIO: http://www.homanndesigns.com/

ModIO is a serial port board that is cost effective and can support 8 inputs, 8 outputs (can cannibalize some of these for 2 encoders or MPG's if needed), 3 analalog inputs, and an LCD interface. It makes an ideal board for pendants as one example.

Best,

BW

[bret4]

One more board is sold at. http://www.candcnc.com/

Bret

[dgalaxy]

has any one used the candcnc breakout board are you guys happy with it

[mlaws1172]

I just put togethor a setup for another CNCer. He bought candcnc boards. They are first rate and you can't beat the support.
mike

[dgalaxy]

thanks for the reply

[juan30]

pminmo

I'm working on a webpage to show how to make it work with geckos and other drives

Is your website allready online??
I want to make an breakoutboard (4 axes) for my centent0142 in combination with mach3. and i`m looking for a good one.

[juan30]

Sorry, I was looking to fast and didn`t see your website. (Great site by the way). But can someone tell my what interface is the best for my centent0142 with mach3.

Thanks

[One of Many]

I too have been doing some research on different breakout boards. At least here in the Zone I have not read much feedback rating the difference or preferences to look for. Between the Campbell (Combo) and the Rogers (Sound Logic), I am leaning toward the Rogers in price and features as a realistic winning package.

Anyone comment if there are any other comparisons features that these 2 boards lack that could be a hinderance down the road? They both have 4th axis capability, but the catch looks as though it may also be dedicated as MPG inputs. If this could be selectable while still using the 4th axis, I would prefer full use of MPG along with 4th axis.

DC

[ger21]

The encoder board from www.rogersmachine.net is NOT a breakout board for connecting motors. It's designed to be used as a second board along with a standard breakout board.

Also, I believe that the Rogersmachine, Campbell, and CandCNC boards are all manufactured by Sound Logic. So the quality should be the same for all.