6 AXIS Xylotex Setup - with CNC4PC BOB
I have a question (or 2) to pose.
BACKGROUND:
I am joining/linking/combining 2 3axis Xylotex boards via a CNC4PC BOB (version c-10).
If I was just using a single Xylotex board - the J7 header connects thru the LPT port. Now, with 2 boards and the C-10 BOB, there are too many wires!
The J7 on the XYLOTEX board seems to use only the STEP & DIR for each axis. So, I have cut the LPT connector off my cables, separated the ribbon cable and now plan to connect the appropriate STEP and DIR to the LPT pinouts on the BOB. So far this seems logical. There are a number of grounds available on the BOB. --
THE QUESTION:
Should I connect the remaining wires from the ribbon to these ground points (the ones that normally ground via the LPT (pins 18-25 on LPT) -- (the ones on the J7 are; 10,12,14,16,18,20,22,24 on the J7)?
ALTERNATE QUESTION:
If I don't connect to the ground points on the BOB -- Can/Should I cut these "unsued wires" on the ribbon cable off short to eliminate any antennas in the box?
I plan on using the CNC4PC BOB for the Limit etc. 5 Volts is from an external power supply, switched as a "system signal enable." My E-Stop is a "system power off" disconnect.
I am using separate enable switches for each axis of the 6 - so I will be able to select from 1 - to - 6 in any combination.
Experience is the BEST Teacher. Is that why it usually arrives in a shower of sparks, flash of light, loud bang, a cloud of smoke, AND -- a BILL to pay? You usually get it -- just after you need it.