[LEARN]

If you were to build a new controller and installing Mach 3 on it what would you choose and why.


I'm thinking of building a fresh new computer to use with my Mach 3 to control my mill. The 1 I have now seems to have some issues and crashes . It is an old Del that I got from work to put in place of the computer my mill came with ( it died after I got it home )

So if you could give me some solid info that would be great.

Thanks

[LEARN]

no input

These are the requirements from the site

•Desktop PC (Laptops are not supported) with at least one parallel port
•32-bit version of Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows Vista, or Windows 7 (64-bit versions will not work)
•1Ghz CPU
•512MB RAM
•Non-integrated Video Card with 32MB RAM(Large G-code files, especially 3D files will require a video card with 512MB RAM or higher

[ger21]

I would say that 90% of people building a new PC for Mach3 go with a modern PC and OS, and use an external motion controller rather than the parallel port.

When using the parallel port, it's impossible to know how well a PC will work unless you've tried it.
Also, I wouldn't try to run an old OS with a new motherboard. No drivers, and in some cases it just may not work well.
If you want to use Windows 7, I'd get something modern. You'd probably need to add a PCIe parallel port card, which can be problematic in itself.

I would probably say to either buy an old cheap P4 on Ebay, if you want to use the parallel port, or go with a new, modern PC and use a motion controller.

[LEARN]

Thanks for the input

The reason behind the parallel port is I want to replace what my mill has . I just want a direct swap out . As little new stuff as possible . . I may just replace a couple things in my computer and call it a day. I think my video card is going as my screen is starting to go out . Also u had an error on my screen right before my computer locked up .