Got the 4 axis Nema23 Kit from Longs Motor. Came with the above as the interface. Question how do I power it up? Can I connect it to the 36V PSU? It draws only 5V and am concerned about it blowing the board. Am also confused by the pin out as the board is not very clear on that front and how to hook it up the the DM542 Stepper Drivers. Any advice is appreciated. Thanks.
Hi Cornerspace, You'll have to give it its own 5v from somewhere. You could use a wall transformer, a usb port, or a small 5v supply similar to the 36v you have. If you want to get fancy you can use the 36v supply, but you'll have to make a voltage reduction circuit. Reducing voltage with resistors
Thanks. I managed to find a old 5V PSU. It setup for Single power supply by default. Trying to configure the Mach 3 software. Any experience on using the setup with a Parallel to USB adaptor as opposed to a Parallel Card? I think this might be the cause of my problems as the USB part needs to be configured as the card is not detected when i hook everything up.
Did you install the drivers for the adapter? does the adapter show up when you plug in the usb under device manager? parallel-usb adapters can be a craps shoot
Yup a definite crap shoot. The adapter is detected but the BOB isnt. What sorta setup are you using? Is your hooked up to a xPro? What in your opinion is a good starter? Ordering a 5VDC as the mobile supply seems a tad under powered.
I'm using the dq542ma drives, with an Arduino Uno and GRBL.. just make sure to get a real Arduino they are like $16
You'll need an adapter like the UC100. If you can afford a smoothstepper I would go that route though. Here's an Openbuilds thread on this subject. USB To DB25 Adapter Help and Creating LPT Port for Mach3
I like this for 5v. You can connect it to your 36v power supply Module Voltage Regulator Step-Down Converter 4.0~40 To 1.3-37V Power Module | eBay I just ordered the Long Motor kit. I have a similar set up on my ox. I am now building a sphinx. I run LinuxCNC on an old dell optiplex with a built in parallel port. You can get these for almost nothing. Works well and I don't care if it gets covered in saw dust. I keep my nice laptop in the house for CAD and modeling.
Thanks for the great advice. Cheaped out and got myself a clone UNO. Had some troubleshooting to find the right driver for the board (Uses a CH340 chip). Am figuring the best UI to use for generating the GCode. What is the preferred method for you guys?
I don't know how true it is but most people will say the true Uno has better luck with data rates. You might have issues with the clone. The real thing should be about $16, lots of gouging out there too i found. on amazon, looks real at least
