Re: Need more inputs, Parallel Port. Ideas
Originally Posted by
joel0407
Thanks for the info guys. It gives me somewhere to start looking. I'm using LinuxCNC. It seems Mesa boards are hugely popular with Linux but also cost. Apart from one extra input, I don't know why you spend so much extra money.
For small machines, there is nothing wrong with a parallel port and adding a second one is a good option. If you are running servos then you have to either go with pico or mesa or a couple of others. For plasma, Mesa is a no brainer. Think about it. Ethernet to keep the PC away from the noise, a USD $69 torch height option and 16 outputs and 32 inputs (which I think I have used 31 of) Not to mention 5 stepgens that blitz par port performance, some A/D inputs, 2 MPG inputs plus virtually infinite expansion. It is a pretty amazing ecosystem and once you buy into it, you'll never want to go back.
Rod Webster
www.vehiclemods.net.au