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IndustryArena Forum > Machine Controllers Software and Solutions > PlanetCNC > Chinese 3040 parallel port machine and MK3/4
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  1. #1
    Join Date
    Aug 2011
    Posts
    998

    Chinese 3040 parallel port machine and MK3/4

    Can I expect the 26/25 pin connector of the MK3/4 board hook up with the DB25 of a cheap Chinese 30/40 (like this one) machine and work somewhat out of the box?
    These are intended for PC parallel port hookup with (I guess) an unauthorized Mach3 version.
    Box Joint and Dovetail CAM software here: WWW.TAILMAKER.NET

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Mar 2007
    Posts
    2083

    Re: Chinese 3040 parallel port machine and MK3/4

    it will depend on the pin functions of the DB25 on the Chinese machine being the same as defined by the planetcnc motion controller




    Do you have any details of the pinout for the cnc machines DB24 connector ? or a link to the manual ?

    I expect you will find pins 2 to 7 will be correct for the 3 axis step and direction

    but you may find the mk3/4 enable out on pin 1 is wrong and needs to connect to another pin on the machine

    a modified printer cable could be a solution

    John

  3. #3

    Re: Chinese 3040 parallel port machine and MK3/4

    if you do not have old computer, you can add USB connection. It is very easy

  4. #4
    Join Date
    Mar 2017
    Posts
    1295

    Re: Chinese 3040 parallel port machine and MK3/4

    Quote Originally Posted by automationtechinc View Post
    if you do not have old computer, you can add USB connection...
    This does not work with PlanetCNC software.

    Chinese 3040 parallel port pinout varies. On most boxes step and dir signals match. Simple solution is to break wire that does not match pinout.

    Another option is Mk3DRV which was designed as replacement for some:
    https://planet-cnc.com/replacing-chi...rv-controller/

  5. #5
    Join Date
    Aug 2011
    Posts
    998

    Re: Chinese 3040 parallel port machine and MK3/4

    Thanks, I am sure I can make it work somehow.
    The MK3DRV looks interesting. Is that a Trinamic Silent Step chip on there or what is the actual driver?
    Also, while the nominal voltage is supposed to be 24 V, what is the max. voltage rating?
    Box Joint and Dovetail CAM software here: WWW.TAILMAKER.NET

  6. #6
    Join Date
    Mar 2017
    Posts
    1295

    Re: Chinese 3040 parallel port machine and MK3/4

    Driver used is DRV8825 which is robust and gives excellent performance. Voltage must be 24V.

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