It is not necessary to connect the spindle VFD (Variable Frequency Drive also called an Inverter) to the computer or CNC motion electronics. The VFD can be controlled independently using the control panel on the VFD. The control panel has the ability to control all aspects of the spindle including Speed, Torque, limits, etc. However, you can connect the VFD to the computer so the CNC control program can control the spindle during the CNC Machine operation. You will need to connect the VFD to the computer via a serial conection (in this case, it is the RS-485 protocol).

The following are instructions on how to connect the VFD to Mach3 via this RS-485 serial connection.

The first thing you will need is the dynamic link library to pair with mach3 called the Huanyang VFD Mach3 PlugIn. You can find this file at the mach3 support forum here: http://www.machsupport.com/forum/index.php/topic,14182.0.html

You will also need to download the Microsoft .net 3.5 framework and install it: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/details.aspx?id=21

Follow the pdf that comes with the library file, but here is a synopsis of what you need to do (I also added a lot more information that may be useful during this process as the manual does not cover the main connections that need to be done):

You will need to program your VFD so that it knows how to communicate with mach3 and the computer (go into the programming mode of the VFD and change these parameters):
- PD001 - value 2 - Enables with communication aspect of the VFD
- PD002 - value 2 - Enables frequency control from the communcations port
- PD163 - value 1 - VFD address
- PD164 - value 1 - Baud rate of 9600 (speed of the communication)
- PD165 - value 3 - 8N1 RTU - 8 bits (that's the size of the word that gets communicated), N (No parity or no error checking) and 1 (1 stop bit)

Copy the dll file to the PlugIns folder of mach3.

Connect the RX and TX lines to your computer. There are a couple ways you can do this, but the recommended way would be to use an FTDI USB device which converts a USB to a serial com port. The device will have Rx and Tx connectors to connect to the VFD terminals with the same labels. This method is recommended since serial ports are not as common in computers these days.

Next, you will need to configure mach3 to use the plugin library. Start mach3 and click on Menu -> config ->Config Plugins. Enable the new plugin by clicking on the red cross on the left column next to the plug in. Restart mach3 after doing this.

No you need to configure mach3 to use the HuanyangVFD plugin. Go to the ports & pins configuration and select the spindle setup tab. Make sure that the Disable Spindle Relays checkbox is unchecked. We don't want mach3 to output a signal for a relay since the spindle will start up and turn off within the VFD and not from an external relay.

Next, go to the HuanyangVFD settings by clicking on Menu -> plugin control -> HuanyangVFD. Set the parameters to the same settings you put into the VFD programming. The com port will be shown as new hardward when you plug in the USB FTDI device. A little bubble will be displayed at the bottom right where it will notify you that a new device is being installed (be patient while windows assigns a com port). Alternatively, you can use the windows device manager to see which port was set for the new USB FTDI device). You may need to restart mach3 several times until you get the correct information displayed in the PD001 and PD002 fields. When the com port is correct and the other parameters, like baud and VFD address is the same as you entered in the programming, then the PD001 and PD002 will show the number 2, otherwise, a 99 will appear which means that communication was not successful.

You can now control the on/off and RPM of the spindle using the RS485 communication between mach3 and the VFD.

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The question was how to connect the spindle to the redfy. I did not receive a VFD.
I have the redFly system and a 2.2kW Spindle - 110V how do i connect the spindle?

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If you received a spindle without a VFD, please contact us asap. Our spindle will not work without a VFD.

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Hi, how is this setup in mach4?

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how do I connect my spindle to mach3 so mach3 can control it

Mach 3 is compatible with our electronic combo's that include the Parallel Breakout Board.
Planet-CNC is compatible with our electronic combo's that included our USB Breakout Board.

The parallel breakout board is compatible to a wide variety of software control packages. The USB interface board that we sell can only be used with the Planet-cnc control software.

If you are concerned with your computer (desktop) not having a parallel port, one can be purchased and inserted into a PCI slot on the motherboard. Some motherboard also come with a parallel port header (connector) on the motherboard and a simple cable can be connected to this connector to get that functionality on the computer. The former solution of getting a parallel port adapter card to plug into the motherboard is probable the easiest and least expensive option.

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Is the mach 3 software compatible with kollmorgen s200 servo motors and controllers?

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mach 3 software compatible with 3 axis motion control combo's

There are several CAD/CAM programs out there for MacOS. Here is a list of a few: http://www.macuser.de/forum/f53/3d-2d-cad-395058/#post4499316
I've also read good things about punchCAD: http://www.punchcad.com/
Of course, there is always SketchUp if you are in a pinch. There are a few CAM plugins for SketchUp as well, but I've never used them, so I can't vouch for them.

CAD/CAM will get you as far as designing your parts and producing the g-code, but if you also want to run the CNC machine with your Mac, you will need a piece of software similar to Mach3 or EMC to run the g-code. I haven't been able to find anything like these programs that runs on Mac, so you may have to run Mach3 or EMC in Windows using Boot Camp or a virtual machine such as VMware or Parallels.

Personally, I would use the Mac to do all the CAD/CAM, then use a cheap PC to run the CNC machine.

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EasyDNC for OSX
www.dnc-x.com

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Hi guys I’m new to the cnc and I’m beginning to learn how to operate and cad-cam software also my cnc runs on Mach3 my questions is if I should use MacBook to do all designs if I can have all this software to run on Mac or I have to use windows software to operate it? I have separate small computer connected to the cnc table who have Mach3 on it please help. Also if you know any other software much easy for beginners please let me know thank you guys!
My email if needed is r1jastrzebski@gmail.com

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Hi , thank you for your advise!

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Hi , thank you for your advise!

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Hi , thank you for your advise!

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Hi , thank you for your advise!

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CAN I USE A MAC TO CONTROL THE CNC?

Yes, you can control the VFD using the a relay.  You will need to connect the relay output (NO) to the forward terminal of the VFD and the gnd terminal.  You will need to look at the diagram for your VFD to determine which gnd to use in the set of terminals that is associated with the forward terminal.  The forward terminal may be called something else, but the manual will tell you (something like X1, or D1, etc.)

You will also need to change a parameter in the VFD to use the external terminals as opposed to the control from the control panel.

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Can you control the VFD from mach3?

The license is connected to the user rather than the computer, so you can install the license on all of your computers.

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[73] How many computers can i use it on

If you are using the Mach3 USB controller:

Make sure to watch this video:

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[76] Im having a problem getting Mach 3 to control the spindle on and off

You can go to our instructions on for the breakout board here: http://www.buildyourcnc.com/item/electronicsAndMotors-parallel-breakout-relay to get the information on turning the spindle on and off from the computer and mach3. Alternatively, you can connect the computer using RS485 serial to the inverter and send control commands that way.

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HOW TO CONTROL MY 2.2 KW SPINDLE VIA MACH3 usb

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How should I wire the Mach3 card (red, 4 axis) and the vfd (Yl620-a)?

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HOW TO CONTROL MY 2.2 KW SPINDLE VIA MACH3

We still use Mach3 with a parallel port. We are looking into newer boards with USB/ethernet communication.

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Are you using Mach 3 or 4? Do you ever use the etherenet outlet to control drivers?

I haven't delved into using encoders with stepping motors too much. From my research, you need to have a controller that can provide the closed loop control, rather than software handling that process. I have also found from my research that using encoders on stepping motors is generally used to stop the machine in the case that the motor failed to achieve the commanded position for some reason and gives the user the chance to correct and continue with the job.

If you want proper closed loop control, it may be best to go with servos and servo controller that provide the closed loop control within the real of those two components.

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CAN THERE BE CLOSED LOOP CONTROL WITH STEPPING MOTORS?

You will need a 24V relay controlled by one of the output terminals of the Mach3 USB controller. You can see a video that demonstrates the use of the output pins for this controller and how a relay is connected to the output terminal and the power supply. It is the video that is titled "Mach3 USB Controller Outputs"

https://www.buildyourcnc.com/item/electronicsAndMotors-electronic-component-breakout-Mach3-USB-Board

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how do I control coolant mist using the mach3usb break out board

Controlling a 3-axis or 4-axis motor configuration, you will need the following items drivers/motors/controller. Our electronics combo comes with the items mentioned and with power supply/miscellaneous items.
The only other item needed will be a computer (with controller software) to communicate and view controls of your motors.
Using the Parallel breakout board will use Mach 3 software, and USB will use Planet-CNC software.

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You can use this link to see the videos on how to connect the electronics together and make them work: https://www.buildyourcnc.com/tutorials/tutorial-Electronics-USB-Interface-Wiring

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hey, where can i see the steps how can i control 3 or 4 step motor? can i use the Axis Electronics Combo? or i need to connect controller?

You will receive the license file via email.

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You may have already received it. Always check you spam folder to see if the email landed there.

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I ordered Mach 3 how or when will I get it?

Mach3 is not compatible with the USB breakout board, so you need Planet CNC in its place.

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I am confused by this same issue. I am using the Mach3 USB interface board with Mach3 and it works fine. In fact a video of it is on this very website. (link below)

Is the Mach3 USB interface board the same thing as Planet-CNC USB board?
It has been stated on this FAQ that it cannot be used with Mach3 and can only be used with Planet CNC USB software.

https://www.buildyourcnc.com/item/electronicsAndMotors-electronic-component-breakout-Mach3-USB-Board

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can mach 3 be used with your usb breakout board?

You can add a 4th driver to the 36v power supply to support a 4th axis.

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How many drivers can you hook up to your 36v power supply? Want to add a 4th axis.

There are 4 separate input terminals on the controller. However, you can add an unlimited number of sensors and switches to these inputs using a parallel wiring scheme for normally open circuits and a serial wiring scheme for normally closed circuits.

Check out this video where I explain these wiring schemes in detail:

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[575] how many inputs on mach3

Yes Mach3 is a great program. Our 3 axis is 6'X12'X3'using all BYCNC components (incl. redsprout)

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I JUST BOUGHT THE 3 AXIS W/HEAVY GANTRY, WILL MACH 4 RUN WELL WITH THIS, AND HOW LARGE CAN GO CUT AREA

The triangle has three (3) sides. The triangle is a polygon that contains three sides and three inner angles and three vertices.

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But if a triangle have a front and back side wouldn't the triangle have 5 sides

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Interesting slant (pun). A triangle would have 5 sides if the triangle had a thickness and became an object. A triangle drawn on paper with three lines would still only have three sides. A triangle is a primitive form of geometry (polygon) that can only have three sides in its simplest form. If you add complexity to the triangle with a thickness and count two more sides, then it really isn't the simplest form of the triangle anymore and it becomes another geometrical 3D primitive like a triangular prism.

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A triangle has multiply answers for number of sides but is made up of 3 lines.. this is because when connecting the 3rd line to form the shape you create an "inside". so you could say a triangle has 2 sides, an "outside" and "inside" or you could say 4 sides, an "inside" and 3 "outside facings" or 6 sides 3 "outside facings" and 3 "inside facings". none of these answers are incorrect technically. the important thing is that a triangle is made up of 3 inner angles adding upto 180 degree's.

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A triangle has 6 sides, there are 3 straight edges in AND out side of a triangle.

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I am fairly sure that a triangle has 12 sides (3 insides and 3 outsides on each side).

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How many sides do a triangle have

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How many sides do a triangle have

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How many sides do a triangle have

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HOW MANY SIDES DOES A TRIANGLE HAVE?

The violin has four strings.

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HOW MANY STRINGS DOES A VIOLIN HAVE?

The number of revolutions for a stepper motor is infinite as long as the stepper motor coils are being engaged by the driver and that the driver is being sent pulses and that the driver has sufficient power to engage the coils.

With that said, all of our stepper motors have 200 steps per revolution, which may be the answer you may be seeking. The steps per revolution can be increased by microsteps using the driver. In some drivers, this can be as much as 256 microsteps which brings the steps per revolution to 51,200 steps.

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How many revelolutions nema 23 425 oz