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Question #: 13909

Question: I get a "communicating unsuccessful" when using LaserCAD and the AWC608 Laser controller

Current Solution

If you are getting the "Communicating Unsuccessful!" error when you are trying to communicate between LaserCAD and the AWC608 Laser Cutter and Engraver controller (after you have already tried installing the USB driver from the LaserCAD setup procedure), these are the steps you will need for a successful communication:

- Open the Device Manager window (right click on the start menu and select Device Manager)
- When you plug the USB cable from the AWC608 Laser Cutter Controller (USB Type B connector) to the computer, you should see a new item in the Device Manager, possibly under "Ports (COM & LPT)", or under "Other Devices". It may show as an item under "Other Devices", possibly FT245R and has an "!" in a yellow triangle.
- Download the latest FTDI drivers from: http://www.ftdichip.com/Drivers/D2XX.htm
- Unzip the files to a folder that can be easily browsed.
- Right click on the item that appeared in the Device Manager when the cable was plugged in between the Laser Cutter AWC608 controller and the computer.
- Click on update driver
- Select the procedure to manually install the driver and browse to the folder containing the FTDI driver and follow the step in the driver installation wizard.
- The item should now be located under the "Ports (COM & LPT)" and should be named "USB Serial Device (COM#)". The # will be the number you will use in the LaserCAD software.
- In the LaserCAD software, click the "Select Mode" at the far top right of the Laser CAD user interface.
- Make sure USB mode is selected.
- If the Machine name with the correct COM number is listed, select it and exit the dialog window. Otherwise, click on "Add" and fill in the details with the new COM number.

Additional Information:


Additional Information:
Communicating unsuccessful

Additional Information:
Communicating unsuccessful

Respond:

Other Possible Solutions to this Question

  • I have a planetcnc USB controller to run my project and when I start the 240v router the USB connection shuts down.

    The USB controller will only work with the Planet-CNC software. This software is well made and will provide great functionality. The planet-cnc software delivers instructions to the microcontroller on the board and the microcontroller will send out the pulse trains needed to move the machine correctly.

    There are two main alternatives if you want to use the mach3 software:
    First, get a parallel port card and add it to your computer and get a parallel breakout board. If you have a laptop/notebook computer, this will not be possible.
    Second, if you have a laptop, or really want to use the USB as the main interface for controlling the machine, you will need to get the smoothstepper board which works with mach3. The price combination is much higher than the USB controller with planet-cnc, but will work with Mach3.

    Additional Information:


    Additional Information:


    Additional Information:
    The planet cnc controller can be prone to electrical interference and has been known to cause such problems. In the first instance try to use a quality double sheilded USB cable, hopefully this will fix your problem. Alternatively you may need to sheild your limit switch, estop and or motor cabling. My pick is that a quality USB cable will fix it though, worked for me.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    I have a planetcnc USB controller to run my project and when I start the 240v router the USB connection shuts down.

  • I have a planetcnc USB controller to run my project and when I start the 240v router the USB connection shuts down.

    The USB controller will only work with the Planet-CNC software. This software is well made and will provide great functionality. The planet-cnc software delivers instructions to the microcontroller on the board and the microcontroller will send out the pulse trains needed to move the machine correctly.

    There are two main alternatives if you want to use the mach3 software:
    First, get a parallel port card and add it to your computer and get a parallel breakout board. If you have a laptop/notebook computer, this will not be possible.
    Second, if you have a laptop, or really want to use the USB as the main interface for controlling the machine, you will need to get the smoothstepper board which works with mach3. The price combination is much higher than the USB controller with planet-cnc, but will work with Mach3.

    Additional Information:


    Additional Information:


    Additional Information:
    The planet cnc controller can be prone to electrical interference and has been known to cause such problems. In the first instance try to use a quality double sheilded USB cable, hopefully this will fix your problem. Alternatively you may need to sheild your limit switch, estop and or motor cabling. My pick is that a quality USB cable will fix it though, worked for me.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    I have a planetcnc USB controller to run my project and when I start the 240v router the USB connection shuts down.

  • I am building a cnc mill using your USB controller and i would like to know what is the specification of potentiometer used for adjusting manual axis jog speed

    Dealing with our USB BoB, the potentiometer that will be used in the key jog, is a 5V, 5k - 10k Ohm potentiometer.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    I am building a cnc mill using your USB controller and i would like to know what is the specification of potentiometer used for adjusting manual axis jog speed

  • How can i get a complete list of all the components (electronics) I need for a CNC laser cutter with the laser controller? A wiring Diagram would probably be very helpful.

    All the options for and variations of our blackTooth laser cutter/engraver are available on our website here https://buildyourcnc.com/blackToothLaserCutterAndEngraver.aspx#prettyPhoto. The wiring diagram is available here: https://buildyourcnc.com/blackToothLaserCutterAndEngraver.aspx#prettyPhoto/0/
    We do not offer plans or a bill of materials for our machines at this time, but if you are interested in doing your own from scratch you can learn a lot about the design and build process from our tutorials. We wish you success in your endeavors.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    How can i get a complete list of all the components (electronics) I need for a CNC laser cutter with the laser controller? A wiring Diagram would probably be very helpful.

  • How should I connect the limit switches to my laser controller?

    If you are using the AWC708 or equivalent laser controller, the limit switches will connect between the EL input terminal and the GND terminal in normally open (NO) connection. Most limit switches can be connected as NO, or normally closed (NC).

    For instance, a limit switch for the X- limit will be connected from the ELX- terminal to the NO connection of the limit switch, then a connection from the GND terminal on the laser controller to the COM connection to the same limit switch.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    How should I connect the limit switches to my laser controller?

  • My white ant printer says the extruder is at 644 temp even when I disconnect it from the controller.

    Your extruder is likely malfunctioning. If you need assistance please contact techsupport@buildyourcnc.com

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    My white ant printer says the extruder is at 644 temp even when I disconnect it from the controller.

  • I just made an order for Vacuum Pump Controller Pressure Sensor Switch. When can I expect the delivery?

    Apologies for the delay in response during the holiday season. Please let us know if this item has not been delivered by calling us at the number at the top right of the website.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    I just made an order for Vacuum Pump Controller Pressure Sensor Switch. When can I expect the delivery?

  • I trying to setup your USB Controller card. The planetcnc does not load the card, no driver for usb card. Using windows 8.1.

    To install the USB breakout board, there will be no driver to install nor any pop-up will be viewed in your windows task-bar, except only to notify that a USB device has been connected.

    If you have planet-cnc installed it should automatically ask for a license number, which if you don't have you will continue without entering any numbers. Please read carefully since there is a pop-up that can erase the entire firmware on your board, and you will basically have a dead board.

    Please email customerservice@buildyourcnc.com for further assitance.

    Additional Information:
    For Windows 8.1 you need to follow special driver installation steps. Download Planet-cnc software MANUAL and scroll down to that paragraph (without it you will not be able to install and use your board).

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    I trying to setup your USB Controller card. The planetcnc does not load the card, no driver for usb card. Using windows 8.1.

  • IS IT OK TO LEAVE THE VACUUM PRESSURE CONTROLLER PLUGGED IN ALL TIME WHEN PUMP SWITCHED OFF?

    I don't see anything in the datasheet for the relay that indicates an overheat condition. While the relay is engaged, the power consumption is 400 mW and I don't believe this is enough to raise the temperature faster than the heat dissipation from the metal on the leads through convection or radiation outside of the rated temperature working ranges providing that you maintain an ambient temperature range within -40°C to 85°C (with no icing or condensation).

    http://www.omron.com/ecb/products/pdf/en-g2rl.pdf

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    IS IT OK TO LEAVE THE VACUUM PRESSURE CONTROLLER PLUGGED IN ALL TIME WHEN PUMP SWITCHED OFF?

  • [244] I accidentally put 12vdc to the controller and now the display does not work. Can this be repaired?

    The 12VDC applied to the input voltage terminals most likely damaged the microcontroller, the LCD, and the vacuum sensor. It can be repaired, but the repair will cost more than a new vacuum pressure controller.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    [244] I accidentally put 12vdc to the controller and now the display does not work. Can this be repaired?

  • [575] Is there a special .tap g code file I should use with this mach3 controller I’m using aspire as cad

    The post-processor that should be used in Aspire, Vectric V-Carve, Cut 2D, and other CAM programs in their suite should use Mach 2/3 Arcs (inch) or Mach 2/3 Arcs (mm).

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    [575] Is there a special .tap g code file I should use with this mach3 controller I’m using aspire as cad

  • I am using 5 limit switches on my 3 axis machine. I am using the usb controller for planet cnc. I would like to know where all the wires related to the limit switches get connected? A diagram would be helpful.

    The diagram for wiring the USB interface board is located here: https://buildyourcnc.com/item/electronicsAndMotors-electronic-component-USB-Controller-Breakout#prettyPhoto/2/

    Under the board illustration, there are three smaller diagrams of limit switch wiring. On each, there are two connections, the GND and the pin which are labeled at the ends of the circuit on the diagrams. The pin side would go to the axis label ++ or -- terminal (i.e. X++, or X--). The other end, labeled GND would connect to any ground terminal on the board.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    I am using 5 limit switches on my 3 axis machine. I am using the usb controller for planet cnc. I would like to know where all the wires related to the limit switches get connected? A diagram would be helpful.

  • Is there a wiring diagram for hooking up your hex inverter between your USB breakout board and the controller?

    The use of the hex inverter in the application to invert a direction signal to have a motor run in the reverse directions is relatively simple.

    First, go to this link and look at the chip diagram:
    https://www.buildyourcnc.com/item/electronicsAndMotors-hex-inverter-breakout-newbiehack-integrated_circuits-hex-inverter

    Connect 5V from the USB interface tothe VCC pin. The pin on the keyboard jog header can be used. Connect the GND pin from the USB interface to the GND pin on the hex inverter. Connect the CW terminal from the USB interface to the 1A pin on the hex inverter. Connect the 1Y pin from the hex inverter to the driver.

    Additional Information:
    I got a question??? I am a dummy when it comes to cnc. I got 6040 1500kw water cold engraver 3 axis from china. I can not get anything out of them pertaining help they keep telling me the same thing over and over and over and I'm doing it and send them pictures that I know. Anyway email me a wiring diagram for the PRT 1500 watt spindle motor control box and has the emergency stop on and off switch manual PC and of course yhe screanm fultonsbusiness@gmail.com

    Additional Information:
    I got a question??? I am a dummy when it comes to cnc. I got 6040 1500kw water cold engraver 3 axis from china. I can not get anything out of them pertaining help they keep telling me the same thing over and over and over and I'm doing it and send them pictures that I know. Anyway email me a wiring diagram for the PRT 1500 watt spindle motor control box and has the emergency stop on and off switch manual PC and of course yhe screanm fultonsbusiness@gmail.com

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    Is there a wiring diagram for hooking up your hex inverter between your USB breakout board and the controller?

  • what is the recommended firmware for the awc708c laser controller? I see this download on the Sinjoe site: AWC708 Lite Update Firmware 160901L1

    We have not had any issues with stock firmware on the AWC708lite. Upgrading the firmware will be at your own risk. We can contact our supplier and see if they can provide a suggestion for updating firmware. Contact customerservice@buildyourcnc.com to inquire with a person who can help.

    Additional Information:
    Working area setting

    Additional Information:
    Working area setting

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    what is the recommended firmware for the awc708c laser controller? I see this download on the Sinjoe site: AWC708 Lite Update Firmware 160901L1

  • [244] Can I get the circuit diagram of the pressure controller?

    Here is a list of videos on my designing the vacuum controller/sensor circuit:






    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    [244] Can I get the circuit diagram of the pressure controller?

  • On the USB controller I am unable to get voltage from the Mist relay block on the board. The Flood and Spindle produce a voltage change correctly. Is there a setting I am missing?

    Planet CNC has the option to turn off these outputs on your USB board. Under the File/settings/Pins. You will have Spindle (M3,M4,M5) Coolant (M7,M8,M9) as available output pins. On the drop down tabs for these output pins you will have this option ( --- ), if selected it will turn of that output pin in your board and you will get not voltage change in the pin.

    Additional Information:
    Cannot activate output in mkx

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    On the USB controller I am unable to get voltage from the Mist relay block on the board. The Flood and Spindle produce a voltage change correctly. Is there a setting I am missing?

  • i have a breakout usb controller iam using a spindle output to active a relay 5V but it didnt work.... whats the problem, what else i need to active that realy 5v 10A?

    To control a spindle using the USB CNC interface, you will need a relay board that contains a transistor that can activate the relay with a power source with enough current that can activate the relay. This video explains all of the information you will need to develop this relay circuit:

    &index=44&list=PLE72E4CFE73BD1DE1

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    i have a breakout usb controller iam using a spindle output to active a relay 5V but it didnt work.... whats the problem, what else i need to active that realy 5v 10A?

  • I'm having a problem with my controller card: I can measure 24 volts going to the card, but when I set Mach3 outputs I reagister no voltage. Please help
  • My computer does not communicate with AWC608 and LaserCAD

    If you are getting the "Communicating Unsuccessful!" error when you are trying to communicate between LaserCAD and the AWC608 Laser Cutter and Engraver controller (after you have already tried installing the USB driver from the LaserCAD setup procedure), these are the steps you will need for a successful communication:

    - Open the Device Manager window (right click on the start menu and select Device Manager)
    - When you plug the USB cable from the AWC608 Laser Cutter Controller (USB Type B connector) to the computer, you should see a new item in the Device Manager, possibly under "Ports (COM & LPT)", or under "Other Devices". It may show as an item under "Other Devices", possibly FT245R and has an "!" in a yellow triangle.
    - Download the latest FTDI drivers from: http://www.ftdichip.com/Drivers/D2XX.htm
    - Unzip the files to a folder that can be easily browsed.
    - Right click on the item that appeared in the Device Manager when the cable was plugged in between the Laser Cutter AWC608 controller and the computer.
    - Click on update driver
    - Select the procedure to manually install the driver and browse to the folder containing the FTDI driver and follow the step in the driver installation wizard.
    - The item should now be located under the "Ports (COM & LPT)" and should be named "USB Serial Device (COM#)". The # will be the number you will use in the LaserCAD software.
    - In the LaserCAD software, click the "Select Mode" at the far top right of the Laser CAD user interface.
    - Make sure USB mode is selected.
    - If the Machine name with the correct COM number is listed, select it and exit the dialog window. Otherwise, click on "Add" and fill in the details with the new COM number.

    Additional Information:


    Additional Information:
    Communicating unsuccessful

    Additional Information:
    Communicating unsuccessful

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    My computer does not communicate with AWC608 and LaserCAD

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