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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DOES ANY OF THE SOFTWARE THAT COMES WITH IT COMPATIBLE MAC 10.6?

I have not tried connecting a 110V spindle to a 220V VFD; however, the parameters in a 220V VFD do allow changes to the values for the spindle motor. If you do plan on connecting the 110V spindle to a 220V VFD, damages can occur, so I would not recommend it.

With that said, here is the output of an LLM:
Using a 220-volt VFD (Variable Frequency Drive) to run a 110-volt spindle is technically possible, but it requires careful setup to avoid damaging the spindle. Here's what you need to consider:

Check the VFD Specifications: Ensure that the VFD can be set up to output the correct voltage for your spindle. Many VFDs are capable of outputting variable voltages and can be configured via their programming settings to match the voltage requirements of the spindle.

Adjust the Output Voltage: You'll need to configure the VFD to output 110 volts to match your spindle. This is crucial because supplying 220 volts to a 110-volt spindle would likely damage it permanently. Check the VFD's manual for instructions on how to adjust the output voltage settings.

Set the Current Correctly: Besides voltage, make sure the output current does not exceed what your spindle can handle. The VFD should be configured to supply the current at the rating appropriate for the spindle’s power and voltage requirements.

Consult the Manuals: Always refer to the manuals of both the spindle and the VFD. These documents can provide specific guidance on compatibility and settings.

Consider Professional Installation: If you are not familiar with electrical systems or if the manuals do not provide clear guidance, it may be wise to hire a professional. This helps ensure that the setup is done safely and correctly.

By taking these steps, you can safely use a 220-volt VFD with your 110-volt spindle, ensuring it operates efficiently without risk of damage. Just be meticulous with the settings and when in doubt, consult with or hire a professional.

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[77] I have a 110 volt 2.2kw water cooled spindle. Can I run it with a 220 volt VFD?

The weight of the 2.2kW spindle without the VFD (variable frequency drive or inverter) is 11 lbs or 5 kg.

The 2.2kW spindle with the VFD is 15 lbs or 6.8 kg.

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how much does the 2.2kW spindle and the VFD weigh together?

The configuration settings for our VFD's are these: VFD Setup:
Change PD001 to '0' (source of run commands)
Change PD003 to 300 (main frequency - Hz)
Change PD004 to 300 (base frequency - Hz)
Change PD005 to 400 (max operating frequency - Hz)
Change PD006 to 2.5 (intermediate frequency - Hz)
Change PD008 to 220 (max voltage - V)
Change PD009 to 15 (intermediate voltage - V)
Change PD010 to 8 (minimum voltage - V)
Change PD011 to 100 (frequency lower limit - Hz)
Change PD142 to 7 (rated motor current - Amps)
Change PD143 to 2 (motor pole number)
Change PD144 to 3000 (rated motor revolution)
For further info please refer to (https://www.buildyourcnc.com/item/spindle-inverter-2!2kw-spindle-novfd#prettyPhoto) for wiring and other specifications.

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Can you provide setting for the VFD setting for 110v US, 1.5kw 220v spindle?

Spindles are generally covered up to 1 year after date of purchase. We do not repair them in house, but we do work with our manufacturer to replace defective units. Generally if you have a defective unit covered under warranty, we will issue a replacement.

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What brand is the 2.2 kW spindle? Same for the VFD. Thanks.

The total length of the brush strip for a 2.2kW spindle would be 17 1/4" inches.

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20

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LENGTH OF THE BRUSH STRIP FOR SPINDLE 2.2KW

Yes, all of the spindles come with collets. The collets have a 1/4" (6.35mm) bore for end mills that have a 1/4" shank. The ER specification is different for the 1.5kW (ER-11) and the 2.2kW (ER-20).

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I’M LOOKING TO PURCHASE SPINDLE AND VFD WAS CURIOS IF THE SPINDLES COME WITH COLLETS SO WHICH ONES?

The configuration settings for our VFD's are these: VFD Setup:
Change PD001 to '0' (source of run commands)
Change PD003 to 300 (main frequency - Hz)
Change PD004 to 300 (base frequency - Hz)
Change PD005 to 400 (max operating frequency - Hz)
Change PD006 to 2.5 (intermediate frequency - Hz)
Change PD008 to 220 (max voltage - V)
Change PD009 to 15 (intermediate voltage - V)
Change PD010 to 8 (minimum voltage - V)
Change PD011 to 100 (frequency lower limit - Hz)
Change PD142 to 7 (rated motor current - Amps)
Change PD143 to 2 (motor pole number)
Change PD144 to 3000 (rated motor revolution)
For further info please refer to (https://www.buildyourcnc.com/item/spindle-inverter-2!2kw-spindle-novfd#prettyPhoto) for wiring and other specifications.

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Can you provide configuration setting for the 110v Huangyang VFD and 1.5 kw spindle?

This will depend on the VFD you have to identify the correct terminal. The terminal on the VFD will be labeled AI1 typically (Analog Input #1). You will also need to make sure to complete the PWM circuit using the GND terminal on the VFD.

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I have wired my 0-10V signal to the AI1 and GND terminals as suggested. I have also set the PD-01 and PD-02 settings to 1. Still nothing. Is there something else that I am missing?

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Thanks for the information. Can you let me know the model of the VFD that you have?

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VFD Model # YL600-2S-2K20

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Thanks. I will check our resources and documentation to see if there is another programming setting that needs to be changed.

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Does your VFD have a VI terminal?

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No, it does not. The terminals for this VFD are as follows (seperated by dashes "-").

10V-AI1-AO2-PLC-DI5-DI3-DI1-COM
AI2-GND-AO1-DI6-DI4-DI2-FM-24V

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Do you have a PD070 parameter?

PD070 is the main Analog Input parameter.

The options for that parameter is:
0: 0-10V
1: 0-5V
2: 0-20mA
3: 4-20mA
4: 0-10V (4-20mA Stacked)
5: XIA
6: (VI+XIA)/2
7: (3VA+XIA)/4
8: (XIA_XIB)/2
9: Max (XIA, XIB)
10: Min (XIA, XIB)


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There is a PD-00 thru PD-09. PD-07 is currently set to 0.

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It appears that the manual I’m using “Titled YL600” is not the same as your unit. I will check our manuals and find the one that has only PD-00 to PD-09.

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For that VFD, the parameters are P0. The 0 may look like a D on the display.

The parameters that need to be changed for the AI1 to work (Brackets [] around the correct selection):

P0-01: First Motor Control Mode
- 0: Sensorless Vector Control
- 1: Flux Vector Control (FVC)
- [2]: V/F Control

P0-02: Options of Command Source
- 0: Operation Panel Command Channel (LED will be off)
- [1]: Terminal Command Channel (LED will be on)
- 2: Communication Command Channel (LED will flicker)

P0-03: Options of Principle Frequency Source X
- 0: Digital Setting (Preset Frequency P0-08, UP/DOWN modifiable, no power-down memory)
- 1: Digital Setting (Preset Frequency P0-08, UP/DOWN modifiable, with power-down memory)
- [2]: AI1
- 3: AI2
- 4: AI3
- 5: Pulse Setting (DI5)
- 6: Multi Speed Instruction
- 7: Simple PLC
- 8: PID (Proportional Integral Derivative Control)
- 9: Communication Given

P0-11: Upper Limit Frequency Source
- 0: P0-12 (Make sure the P0-12 parameter has the correct max frequency if used)
- [1]: AI1
- 2: AI2
- 3: AI3
- 4: Pulse Setting
- 5: Communication Given

P0-27: Command Source Bundle with Frequency Sources
Single Digit: Options of Operation Panel Command Bundle with Frequency Sources
- 0: No Bundling
- 1: Digital Setting Frequency
- [2]: AI1
- 3: AI2
- 4: AI3
- 5: Pulse Setting (DI5)
- 6: Multi Speed Instruction
- 7: Simple PLC
- 8: PID
- 9: Communication Given
Double Digit: Options of Terminal Command Bundle with Frequency Sources
Hundred Place: Options of Communication Command Bundle with Frequency Sources
Kilobit: Options of Automatic Operation Bundle with Frequency Sources

P2-09: Upper Limit Source of Lower Torque Under Speed Control Mode
- 0: Function Code P2-10 Setting
- [1]: AI1
- 2: AI2
- 3: AI3
- 4: Pulse Setting
- 5: Communication Given
- 6: MIN (Al1, Al2)
- 7: MAX (Al1, Al2)
- Maximum range for options 1-7, accords with P2-10

If you elect to use a different AI#, then configure the parameters (P0-03, P0-11, P0-27 and P2-09) accordingly.

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I'VE BUFFERED A PWM SIGNAL TO 0-10V ANALOG AND I WOULD LIKE USE THAT RUN YOUR 110V 2.2KW SPINDLE VFD. COULD YOU PLEASE DETAIL THE CORRECT WIRING VFD SETTINGS GET WORKING?

The length of the cable from the VFD (Variable Frequency Drive) to the actual spindle should be about the same as the z-axis cable from the z-axis motor to the z-axis driver which is recommended at 11 feet. This is locating the VFD about at the midpoint of the machine.

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What length of wire do you recommend for the black toe (2'x4') between the spindle and VFD?

The type of wire that should be used between the spindle and the VFD (Variable Frequency Driver also called the inverter) should be of stranded type and we use between 18 and 16 AWG.

The total current is divided among the three coil wires, therefor a wire gauge of 16 should be sufficient.

Currently we use 20AWG 4 conductor.

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What gauge wire between the VFD and the 2.2K spindle? The spindle connection posts are very tiny, equivalent to 18 gauge, but that seems too small. What do you use?

What 3d printer do you have?

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whiteant

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HAVE 3D PRINTER THAT WANT TO MAKE CNC ROUTER ,IS THERE ANY GUIDES SHOW ME THE WAY

The VFD does come with a manual that details the wiring and connection specifications, terminal features and a list of the parameters. There is no information on how to connect it to Mach3. It does detail the specifications within the parameters and terminal features on the analog input that is used with Mach3 and other control programs.

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I have a water cooled spindle I only need the VFD drive. Does the VFD come with instrutction on hooking the VFD to Mach3?

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.

Additional Information:
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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I HAVE THE REDFLY SYSTEM AND A 2.2KW SPINDLE - 110V HOW DO CONNECT SPINDAL?

It is possible to connect and configure the spindle VFD to the mach3 via an RS485 communication and protocol.

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.



Additional Information:
This looks easy enough, however, the VFD that came with my spindle is made by Huajiang, not a Huanyang. The parameter codes are different and do not line up with the ones offered in this response.

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How to configure 2.2KW VFD for Modbus communication with Mach3

The 2.2kW spindle will have the same amount of torque and strength using either the 110V or the 220V inverter. Nothing will significantly change in either application since the 110V inverter has a small step up transformer which will increase the voltage from 110V to 220V to run the spindle efficiently.

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I'd like confirmation on this -- isn't there a cost in efficiency to having the 110v step up to 220v?

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Thank you so very much for explaining this!!! I truly appreciate your help! Tricia

Additional Information:
Thank you so very much for explaining this!!! I truly appreciate your help! Tricia

Additional Information:
Thank you so very much for explaining this!!! I truly appreciate your help! Tricia

Additional Information:
Thank you so very much for explaining this!!! I truly appreciate your help! Tricia

Additional Information:
Thank you so very much for explaining this!!! I truly appreciate your help! Tricia

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Is there any negative to using the 110 volt VFD compared to the 220 volt VFD?

Our spindle should work fine with your Delta VFD-M 220v. Spindles that match a VFD are specific to the coil windings. The bearings, shaft and other mechanical components that make up the spindle may be different, but that should not matter.

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I have a GMT 2.2kw water cooled spindle that sounds like the bearings are going out and want to know if your spindle (https://buildyourcnc.com/Item/spindle-inverter-2!2kw-spindle-novfd) is comparable for a swap. The drive is a Delta VFD-M 220v.

It is possible to connect and configure the spindle VFD to the mach3 via an RS485 communication and protocol.

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.



Additional Information:
This looks easy enough, however, the VFD that came with my spindle is made by Huajiang, not a Huanyang. The parameter codes are different and do not line up with the ones offered in this response.

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How do I program the 2.2kw VFD to jog with a Digital Input

Did you get a manual for your VFD? Where did you purchase the VFD and spindle?

Additional Information:
I bought the VFD through Amazon with a similar spindle that you sell. The VFD came with a manual but unfortunately the spindle had all the model number and specs scratched off of it. In an attempt to set it up, I fried the spindle. I have complained to the vendor and to Amazon but have received no solution. If your spindle arrives with proper documentation I probably can set it up myself.

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What are the configuration settings for VFD for Spindle 1.5kW 110V. The search settings have a link for a 2.2kw spindle so I'm afraid they are the wrong ones and I don't want to fry the spindle. My VFD is an Huanyang HY01D511B.