[runvar]

I am trying to build an XYZ system that i plan to control through a CNC software like Mach3/LimuxCNC.I needed a controller to run this system and had zeroed in on the Gecko 4 axis drive G540.
But recently i found that the gecko drive is not recommended for a Nema 8 motor which is the motor that i have in the stages.

Can you please help me out in finding a NEMA 8 stepper motor controller which should be compatible with MAch3/LinuxCNC? (parallel port interface)
Also will it be a huge problem (motors burning) if i still use the Gecko drive to run the NEMA 8 motors since the minimum power supply for the drive is 0A and i have a variable power supply?

Thanks
Varun

[LeeWay]

IIRC I think the Gecko's need a minimum range to operate.
I don't know if your motors will meet that range.
You might check with SeeMeCNC.
They run Mach software with nema 17's.
SeeMeCNC has the Rostock MAX


http://shop.seemecnc.com/4-Axis-Step...oard-26706.htm

[runvar]

Thanks for the reply.

The range of operation for the Geckos are 18 - 50V and 0- 3A.
Seeing the minimum current required is 0A, is there a possibility of working? Anyway i will check that out.

Also the board that you have linked to are the TB series boards which i have a similar 3 axis one.
Even these boards require a minimum stepper motor size of NEMA 12.

Any other controllers that can work with the NEMA 8 motors.

[LeeWay]

You are in the range of a small inkjet printer. Check out robotics or eve the Make website.
They deal with those small motors often.
MAKE | MAKE magazine

[pubeikoy67]

you can have a look at nema 8 stepper motor at this site:https://www.oyostepper.com/. I am a regualar customer of this site .