Machine: 2008 Sharp SV2412
Control: Fanuc Oi Mate MC


My understanding is that the Oi MC control comes 4th axis ready whereas the Oi Mate MC control does not, but could still have a 4th added to it. Is this true? I'm finding lots of spare parts for these model years and was looking to add a 4th axis to my machine.

Hardinge has a video on youtube that describes the upgrade process for their 4th on a different machine that uses the same PSU/Servo Combo unit in my machine. I was thinking about buying the parts shown in the kit and then building my own rotary using a compatible fanuc servo motor.



Drive: A06B-6130-H002 (Approx $700 new from surplus, $350 used)
Motor: A06B-0034-B077 ($1500 new, $400-700 used)
Cables: Approx $100

Am I going to have to pay Fanuc to enable 4th in the control or will it simply be a parameter change? Is my approach way off to even bother considering?

Thanks,
Max