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Question #: 13769

Question: Is there a way to use Mach4 to control my VFD?

Current Solution

The best way to determine how to control your VFD using Mach4 is to read the MAch4 manual found here:
http://www.machsupport.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Mach4%20Installation%20Manual.pdf

You will find that there a a few ways to control the spindle/VFD on your CNC machine or CNC Router.
- The first and easiest is to have your VFD's power controlled by a relay. This will allow your spindle to have on/off control through Mach4 with an output pin.
- The second is to have a controller output a DAC voltage between 0-10 volts to control speed on the VFD/Spindle. There is a termial on the VFD to receive this signal line. The controller will also have an output that outputs a high or low and that can control the on/off on the VFD.
- The third, and more difficult of the three methods is to use a USB to Serial adapter (USB to USART or RS-485). The Computer plugs into the adapter using a USB cable and the adapter uses the RX/TX to connect to the VFD's terminals for communication. This will provide a great amount of control. Mach4 will need a plug-in to make this option work.

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Other Possible Solutions to this Question

  • How can I control my VFD using Mach4 cnc control software?

    The best way to determine how to control your VFD using Mach4 is to read the MAch4 manual found here:
    http://www.machsupport.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Mach4%20Installation%20Manual.pdf

    You will find that there a a few ways to control the spindle/VFD on your CNC machine or CNC Router.
    - The first and easiest is to have your VFD's power controlled by a relay. This will allow your spindle to have on/off control through Mach4 with an output pin.
    - The second is to have a controller output a DAC voltage between 0-10 volts to control speed on the VFD/Spindle. There is a termial on the VFD to receive this signal line. The controller will also have an output that outputs a high or low and that can control the on/off on the VFD.
    - The third, and more difficult of the three methods is to use a USB to Serial adapter (USB to USART or RS-485). The Computer plugs into the adapter using a USB cable and the adapter uses the RX/TX to connect to the VFD's terminals for communication. This will provide a great amount of control. Mach4 will need a plug-in to make this option work.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    How can I control my VFD using Mach4 cnc control software?

  • IS THERE A WAY TO GET RID OF THE PARALLEL CABLE AND SOMEHOW USE USB ?

    If you select the Settings Page and select or tick Auto Limit Override - this will allow you to back off the switch.

    Additional Information:
    limit and home switch

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    IS THERE A WAY TO GET RID OF THE PARALLEL CABLE AND SOMEHOW USE USB ?

  • CAN I USE A MAC TO CONTROL THE CNC?

    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.

    Additional Information:


    Additional Information:
    EasyDNC for OSX
    www.dnc-x.com

    Additional Information:


    Additional Information:
    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

    Additional Information:


    Additional Information:
    Hi , thank you for your advise!

    Additional Information:
    Hi , thank you for your advise!

    Additional Information:
    Hi , thank you for your advise!

    Additional Information:
    Hi , thank you for your advise!

    Additional Information:

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    CAN I USE A MAC TO CONTROL THE CNC?

  • [575] Can it make the spidle control PWM to a VFD witch 5 V input

    In theory, utilizing a 5V reference in the 10V terminal of the Mach3 USB controller should yield functional results, although I haven't personally tested this configuration. If you possess an oscilloscope, you can monitor the PWM signal to verify whether the AVI output achieves a peak 5V PWM square wave.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    [575] Can it make the spidle control PWM to a VFD witch 5 V input

  • CAN THERE BE CLOSED LOOP CONTROL WITH STEPPING MOTORS?

    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.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    CAN THERE BE CLOSED LOOP CONTROL WITH STEPPING MOTORS?

  • HOW TO CONTROL MY 2.2 KW SPINDLE VIA MACH3

    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.

    Additional Information:
    HOW TO CONTROL MY 2.2 KW SPINDLE VIA MACH3 usb

    Additional Information:


    Additional Information:


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

    Additional Information:



    Additional Information:



    Additional Information:

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    HOW TO CONTROL MY 2.2 KW SPINDLE VIA MACH3

  • [50] Is there a software control package that will work with Axis Electronics Combo (For Heavy Gantry) for apple os.

    Yes, with caveats. This kit includes a controller that will not be compatible, but if you use another type of controller that has web based control, you can use these electronics. Here is a list of web based control for CNC:

    - Easel: The web-based software from Inventables can be accessed through Safari or other macOS-compatible web browsers.

    - bCNC: A Python-based GRBL CNC command sender, although you may need to jump through some hoops to get it to run on macOS.

    - Universal Gcode Sender: A Java-based software that should run on macOS if you have the Java Runtime Environment installed.

    - CNCjs: Another web-based interface that you can run on macOS using Node.js.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    [50] Is there a software control package that will work with Axis Electronics Combo (For Heavy Gantry) for apple os.

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

    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.

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

    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

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

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    Is there any negative to using the 110 volt VFD compared to the 220 volt VFD?

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

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

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    Are you using Mach 3 or 4? Do you ever use the etherenet outlet to control drivers?

  • Can you control the VFD from mach3?

    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.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    Can you control the VFD from mach3?

  • Are there plans to release a USB Controller to work with the Planet CNC Output Board for more advanced spindle control from within Planet CNC?

    At this time we are working to release a new USB controller board that will be compatible with Mach4 software and do not have any immediate plans to update the Planet-CNC USB board.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    Are there plans to release a USB Controller to work with the Planet CNC Output Board for more advanced spindle control from within Planet CNC?

  • Please send a diagram of connections for pokeys57cnc to YL-620 VFD for Mach4

    When you install Mach4 and use the Pokeys57cnc, you will use the plug-in provided by Polabs.

    You can get this plug-in here:
    https://www.poscope.com/product/pokeys57cnc/

    The Pokeys57cnc has a 0-10V output pin (a pulse width modulated (PWM) output pin) labeled onthe diagram as pin 17. You can see this pin at the top of the diagram here:
    https://buildyourcnc.com/item/electronicsAndMotors-electronic-component-breakout-Mach4-mach3-USB-ethernet-Board

    In Mach4, you will need to set the spindle speed output top this pin #17. In the plug-in, set this pin at 10kHz.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    Please send a diagram of connections for pokeys57cnc to YL-620 VFD for Mach4

  • Where can I find information on controlling my VFD through Mach4?

    The best way to determine how to control your VFD using Mach4 is to read the MAch4 manual found here:
    http://www.machsupport.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Mach4%20Installation%20Manual.pdf

    You will find that there a a few ways to control the spindle/VFD on your CNC machine or CNC Router.
    - The first and easiest is to have your VFD's power controlled by a relay. This will allow your spindle to have on/off control through Mach4 with an output pin.
    - The second is to have a controller output a DAC voltage between 0-10 volts to control speed on the VFD/Spindle. There is a termial on the VFD to receive this signal line. The controller will also have an output that outputs a high or low and that can control the on/off on the VFD.
    - The third, and more difficult of the three methods is to use a USB to Serial adapter (USB to USART or RS-485). The Computer plugs into the adapter using a USB cable and the adapter uses the RX/TX to connect to the VFD's terminals for communication. This will provide a great amount of control. Mach4 will need a plug-in to make this option work.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    Where can I find information on controlling my VFD through Mach4?

  • WHAT IS THE SYSTEM PASSWORD FOR LASER CONTROL UNIT?

    The password is: 608

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    WHAT IS THE SYSTEM PASSWORD FOR LASER CONTROL UNIT?

  • the bluechik - IS there a 3D Touch Scanning to scan in present made items ?

    Yes, you can use a touch probe with our machines as it is really independent of the machine structure, mechanical components and motion electronics, for the most part. We don't currently sell touch probes, however, but standard touch probes for CNC machines will work fine.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    the bluechik - IS there a 3D Touch Scanning to scan in present made items ?

  • So does it come with. A control box and router
  • AM STRUGGLING TO DOWNLOAD THE LINUX EMC2 FREEWARE. MY GET INTERRUPTED AT LAST MINUTE. IS THERE ANOTHER WAY OR PLACE WHERE COULD MAYBE TRY IT FROM?

    You should use the linuxcnc.org site and click on the download menu item. They have an EU mirror as the main download option.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    AM STRUGGLING TO DOWNLOAD THE LINUX EMC2 FREEWARE. MY GET INTERRUPTED AT LAST MINUTE. IS THERE ANOTHER WAY OR PLACE WHERE COULD MAYBE TRY IT FROM?

  • HEY ! I HAVE PURCHASED A VFD WITH MATCHING SPINDLE 1.5KW AND CONTROL PROGRAM UCCNC. MY INTERFACE CARD IS DB25, THE QUESTION HOW DO CONNECT TO DB25 SO THAT CAN SPEED UCCNC? SINCERELY "CNC BEGINNERS"

    Identify the Control Signals: First, determine which control signals from the DB25 interface card are used for spindle speed control. Typically, these are PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) signals or analog voltage signals.

    VFD Configuration: Your VFD should be configured to accept the type of control signal your DB25 card provides. This involves setting parameters in the VFD that correspond to the type of input signal it will receive for speed control.

    Wiring: Connect the appropriate output pins from the DB25 card to the input terminals on the VFD. This usually involves connecting the PWM or analog output to the corresponding input on the VFD. Make sure to consult the manuals for both your VFD and interface card for specific wiring details.

    UCCNC Settings: Configure UCCNC to output the correct type of signal (PWM or analog) that matches your VFD's configuration. This is done through the software's spindle setup section.

    Test and Adjust: Run some tests to ensure that the spindle speed is being correctly controlled by UCCNC. You might need to tweak settings in either the VFD or UCCNC for optimal performance.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    HEY ! I HAVE PURCHASED A VFD WITH MATCHING SPINDLE 1.5KW AND CONTROL PROGRAM UCCNC. MY INTERFACE CARD IS DB25, THE QUESTION HOW DO CONNECT TO DB25 SO THAT CAN SPEED UCCNC? SINCERELY "CNC BEGINNERS"

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

    What 3d printer do you have?

    Additional Information:
    whiteant

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    HAVE 3D PRINTER THAT WANT TO MAKE CNC ROUTER ,IS THERE ANY GUIDES SHOW ME THE WAY

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