Hey folks, I have a PrintNC router that I've been running on UCCNC but lately it's been giving me fits. Most recently the machine config file became corrupted and I had to reconfigure the entire software seetup and it's still not quite right. I have on hand an Arduino Mega board and am looking at GRBL-Mega-5X as firmware. It looks looks like it will handle my dual Y-axis motors and three limit switches no problem. Wondering about analog spindle control via 0-10v to run into my YL620 VFD. Can the the Mega board and Mega-5X output a variable voltage output to control my VFD?
Consider an OpenBuilds BlackBox that covers all that and comes with the help and support you'll need (unlike with a DIY setup). See https://docs.openbuilds.com/blackbox-x32 te learn all about it
Thanks for your reply. I already have a complete control system built with power supplies, relays, stepper drivers etc so I’m not really looking to replace all of that. Just looking for some feedback on whether or not an Arduino Mega running Mega X can control my VFD.
the Mega does not have 10v output, you will have to find a PWM to 0-10v converter and wire it up. unless your VFD can take 5V PWM input directly?
The vfd input voltage is adjustable as I had to adjust it because my existing controller was only outputting 9.6v max which meant the vfd wasn’t reaching 400Hz. I adjusted max expected voltage to 9.6v and it then went to 400Hz.Definitely worth a try.
Some can do 0-5v analog, but PWM doesn't work for most of those we've been involved with either (not smooth enough, sample rate too high) - must be PWM to analog converter
My CNC runs on a Teensy4.1 with GRBLHal. I had a similar problem where the Teensy only gives out 3.3V PWM (or something like this). I googled the problem and saw a few places suggesting to use this item. I have installed it in my VFD (there is enough space for it) and now my spindle starts and stops with Gcode.
