Ive been toying around with the idea of adding encoders to the steppers on my upgraded Tormach 1100 pcnc. I know the Mesa 5i25 is fully capable of accepting encoder feedback, as is the LinuxCNC, which PathPilot is essentially a modified version of.

I see some untapped potential here. My Tormach already has glass scales so the idea of integrating those into a possible dual closed loop has me really interested.

Closed loop back to the controller seems like it would be fairly simple for the LinuxCNC guys who can delve into the very DNA of the program and bend it to their whim. For guys like me its all abut research and asking (hopefully the right) questions.

Have any of you attempted anything like this? What all would be involved in getting encoder feedback back to the controller?