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Question #: 15412

Question: Hi I have just set up my machine using a mach 3 USB board I can only get the Z to go in one direction Y and X are Ok I have check wiring and looked at video over and over what have I missed??

Current Solution

Most likely, the driver is not receiving the high or low signal for the direction terminals. The way direction works for an axis is the controller will output a high signal (5V) for one direction and low signal (0V) for the opposite direction. If the signal is always at one signal, say 5V, whether it is commanded in one direction or the other, then the axis will only move in that direction.

To solve this problem, make sure that the wiring is secure at both ends (from the controller to the driver). Also, make sure the Dir+ and DIR- are both wired correctly (i.e. the Dir- is connected to the signal gnd on the controller and the ZD is connected to Dir+ on the driver.

You can use a multimeter to determine the voltage at the ZD terminal by:
- setting the multimeter to DC voltage (the V with a straight line, or dashed line above the V)
- place the black lead on the gnd terminal
- place the red lead on the ZD terminal
- press the page up button and check the voltage
- press the page down button and check the voltage.

You should see the voltage change from 0V to 5V or vice versa.

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Other Possible Solutions to this Question

  • I have the redleaf system for my black toe machine I have wired my limit switches in series NC after setting up in mach 3 I still get limit switch tripped after apply and ok setup can only run if I disable what am I doing wrong

    If you are using Mach3, the setting for the input pin 10 may be enabled as a default for use with the Emergency Stop. If there is no emergency stop on that pin, the reset will trip every time.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    I have the redleaf system for my black toe machine I have wired my limit switches in series NC after setting up in mach 3 I still get limit switch tripped after apply and ok setup can only run if I disable what am I doing wrong

  • [575] I have an older CNC (2018) which has been working fine. The Windows 7 PC crashed and I am trying to get operational again using a windows 10 machine. I will have to buy a new license for the Mach 3 so will need to get the interface board I have to talk to MAch 3. Can I get just the disc or is there a place I can download what I need?

    If you already have a Mach3 license, you don't need to purchase another one. The license is connected to you rather than the computer. Mach4 is licensed to the computer, but you are able to have multiple computers for each license, and can be switched from one computer to another.

    If you purchased the license from me, you can call (make sure to leave a voicemail), or email to get a re-issued license.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    [575] I have an older CNC (2018) which has been working fine. The Windows 7 PC crashed and I am trying to get operational again using a windows 10 machine. I will have to buy a new license for the Mach 3 so will need to get the interface board I have to talk to MAch 3. Can I get just the disc or is there a place I can download what I need?

  • When I start my spindle I get a emergency stop in Mach 3. I have run shielded cable and it is grounded at the VFD it is wired per you site instructions. any idea what to check

    You will definitely want to adjust your debounce setting in mach3 if your emergency or limit switch is engaging.

    Additional Information:
    Did you ever fix this issue? I am having the same problem.

    Additional Information:
    Did you ever fix this issue? I am having the same problem.

    Additional Information:
    Did you ever fix this issue? I am having the same problem.

    Additional Information:
    Did you ever fix this issue? I am having the same problem.

    Additional Information:
    Did you ever fix this issue? I am having the same problem.

    Additional Information:
    Did you ever fix this issue? I am having the same problem.

    Additional Information:
    Did you ever fix this issue? I am having the same problem.

    Additional Information:
    Did you ever fix this issue? I am having the same problem.

    Additional Information:
    Did you try changing the denounce setting?

    Additional Information:
    Meant to say denounce.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    When I start my spindle I get a emergency stop in Mach 3. I have run shielded cable and it is grounded at the VFD it is wired per you site instructions. any idea what to check

  • I have USB Interface board. All axes are working if using MDI , using program some of the axes are only moving one direction. Example using Gcode X50 Y50 Z50 and then X45 Y45 Z45 then online one of the axes is turning correctly. But also shows on Mach3 screen that all axes are moving correctly.
  • My CNC machine has suddenly started going in only one direction in the Y axis. It was working fine for several days and then started going in a single direction when I would do a manual job.

    We have ran across this issue on occasion, and usually results is there is something along your wiring that is causing a fault or is not getting good contact.
    We would recommend going through the wiring thoroughly and checking continuity with the y-axis wires, going from your USB or Parallel BoB to the driver.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    My CNC machine has suddenly started going in only one direction in the Y axis. It was working fine for several days and then started going in a single direction when I would do a manual job.

  • I just changed my X and Y to the ACME 1/2" 5 start lead screw. What are the motor tuning numbers. I have the book built machine.

    The settings that will have to be change will be your steps per inch in motor tuning (mach 3), or settings/axes(planetCNC). But we do not have the actual numbers/specs that will fit your 10 TPI 5 start lead screw, here is a tutorial video which explains how to get the exact numbers you need! (

    )

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    I just changed my X and Y to the ACME 1/2" 5 start lead screw. What are the motor tuning numbers. I have the book built machine.

  • [596] I have my motors and limit switches working correctly but I am unable to get any movement from the 'jog step' so that I can set 0,0,0. What should I check

    Are you trying to use the MPG (tab), or the keyboard for jogging the motors? You mention 0,0,0, are you trying to home the machine with the "ref all home"?

    If you cannot move the motors with the keyboard, check if the jog is enabled.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    [596] I have my motors and limit switches working correctly but I am unable to get any movement from the 'jog step' so that I can set 0,0,0. What should I check

  • I bought a 'BuildyourCNC V1' relay board to go with my mach3 usb controller. I have been sent a 'Songle' relay. It's not the one in your picture and it's got different connections, for which there isn't a wiring diagram. The one I ordered says it is 5v, this one seems to be saying it's a 24v unit. Can you please explain what has happened? Thanks

    The Mach3 USB interface board requires 24V relays externally. There are no relays on the mach3 usb board. If you use an external relay on the mach3 usb board, the relay connects to the V+ which is 24V and the output pin is the return.

    Additional Information:
    I understand what you are saying. Does your relay board work with the Mach3 USB board? If not, what relay board do you suggest to work with this usb controller?

    Additional Information:
    Our relay board works with our parallel breakout board. An off the shelf SSR (Solid State Relay) made for 24V should work fine.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    I bought a 'BuildyourCNC V1' relay board to go with my mach3 usb controller. I have been sent a 'Songle' relay. It's not the one in your picture and it's got different connections, for which there isn't a wiring diagram. The one I ordered says it is 5v, this one seems to be saying it's a 24v unit. Can you please explain what has happened? Thanks

  • I bought a 'BuildyourCNC V1' relay board to go with my mach3 usb controller. I have been sent a 'Songle' relay. It's not the one in your picture and it's got different connections, for which there isn't a wiring diagram. The one I ordered says it is 5v, this one seems to be saying it's a 24v unit. Can you please explain what has happened? Thanks

    The Mach3 USB interface board requires 24V relays externally. There are no relays on the mach3 usb board. If you use an external relay on the mach3 usb board, the relay connects to the V+ which is 24V and the output pin is the return.

    Additional Information:
    I understand what you are saying. Does your relay board work with the Mach3 USB board? If not, what relay board do you suggest to work with this usb controller?

    Additional Information:
    Our relay board works with our parallel breakout board. An off the shelf SSR (Solid State Relay) made for 24V should work fine.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    I bought a 'BuildyourCNC V1' relay board to go with my mach3 usb controller. I have been sent a 'Songle' relay. It's not the one in your picture and it's got different connections, for which there isn't a wiring diagram. The one I ordered says it is 5v, this one seems to be saying it's a 24v unit. Can you please explain what has happened? Thanks

  • ABSOLUTELY NOTHING WORKS. I HAVE ALL STRUCTURE AND MECHICAL PARTS OF THE BLACKTOOTH CUTTER DONE. HOWEVER WHEN WIRE UP STEPPER MOTOR TO DRIVER. THAT MACH 3 USB CONTROLLER BOARD, TRY JOG MOTOR, WORKS! PREVIOSULY HAD PLANET CNC BREAKOUT HOWRVER, ONLY MOVED MOTORS IN ONE DIRECTION COULDNT CHANGE IT. ANY HELP WOULD BE APRECIATED
  • I have a CNC Machine from China, and the Breakout Board is not Labeled. Is there any way to test the board using Mach3 to find out the pin designations? db25 bob

    (These steps are to be taken with precaution, due to the fact that we do not know the model or manufacturers specifications for your BoB)

    Here is a link to our CNC electronic videos(

    &list=PL122021172205E9AA&index=1).
    Try using this to compare the one you have to our older model version BoB, try setting up your X-axis to work wiring it to your driver and motor, and power supply.
    For further assistance email: customerservice@buildyourcnc.com

    I would recommend trying to contact them if possible to avoid any serious damages to your product.

    Additional Information:



    Additional Information:



    Additional Information:

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    I have a CNC Machine from China, and the Breakout Board is not Labeled. Is there any way to test the board using Mach3 to find out the pin designations? db25 bob

  • Hi I built a 2x4 cnc machine in 2013 using you Hardware kit and plans. I want to speed up my cnc machine by purchasing your acme leadscrew 1/2"-10 5 starts. I have an X axis at 52", a Y axis at 32" and a Z axis at 14". How do I order all 3 length pre cut to size on your website? Also can you give me a rough estimate on the shipping to Ottawa, Ontario Canada please.

    You can purchase the entire length and select local pickup. Then you can email us the cut lengths for the order and let us know that you need to be invoiced for shipping. We will provide shipping estimates according to the real lengths and dimensions of the package. You can select the estimate that meets your shipping budget and we will invoice you the shipping amount and send the order.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    Hi I built a 2x4 cnc machine in 2013 using you Hardware kit and plans. I want to speed up my cnc machine by purchasing your acme leadscrew 1/2"-10 5 starts. I have an X axis at 52", a Y axis at 32" and a Z axis at 14". How do I order all 3 length pre cut to size on your website? Also can you give me a rough estimate on the shipping to Ottawa, Ontario Canada please.

  • I have nearly completed the CNC machine from the book, but I am using it with a USB breakout board, and have no idea how to wire the 6 limit switches to the board. I'm having difficulty following the diagram on the USB breakout board screen. Can someone please help me?

    Sure, the USB interface has a place for 4 axes of limit switches.

    Each axis can have two limit switches: one for the ++ (positive) end and one for the -- (negative) end. The positive end would be the limit switch at the end of the machine that, say the machine has a 4'x8' area, reaches a bit after the 8 foot mark. The negative end would be the limit switch behind the 0 foot location behind the origin. If the origin is in the middle, the negative would be at a little more than the -4 foot end and the positive would be at a bit more than the +4 foot end. Note that you can have more than one switch on each pin where the NC is connected in serial fashion and the NO is connected in parallel fashion (this can be seen on the diagram in the multiple limits switch section). The software configurations for the limits switches are under File -> Settings -> Limit.

    A typical limit switch has three connections on it. These connections consist of COM (common), NC (normally closed) and NO (normally open). The COM would generally go to GND and the NC or the NO would go to the pin. If the NC is used, then the the switch is constantly connected until the switch is pushed (engaged) then the connection from the pin to gnd is broken (open). Use the settings in software to set whether in NC or NO configuration.

    Let me know if this information was helpful (or not) by adding information to this question. Thanks.

    User response:
    Thank you very much for this helpful information. I'm still a little fuzzy on how the 6 limit switches physically connect to each other and to the USB breakout board. You've stated one switch (home) goes to positive and another switch (limit) goes to negative. Are all the GND prongs from all 6 switches connected to each other and going to GND on the breakout board, or no? And the NC prongs, how exactly are they connected to each other? And to the board? There has to be a diagram somewhere shows this visually, no? I don't know how to wire the switches in series or in parallel. I have already physically installed all the switches on the machine and ran the wires to where the board is. Now I just need to know where to plug these wires into the board. Also, taking into consideration that I'm using the Planet CNC software, the only settings I have pertaining to limit switches is "Enable/Disable" for each axis, and the actual limit for each axis. Nothing about NC or NO. Is that only in Mach3?
    Thank you.

    buildyourcnc response:
    On the USB interface, the COM on the switch connects to GND and the NC or NO connects to the input pin (i.e. x++, y--, etc.)

    Limit switch configuration is rather difficult to understand, especially with series and parallel. You can think of series as a single wire going from GND to the axis letter input terminal (i.e. X++ or X--). If the wire is broken, then the circuit is open (or the switch is engaged in a normally closed scenario). Normally closed is like an actual wire, and when engaged, the switch "opens" (breaks the wire). This is why we recommend in some systems that you can put many switches in series on a single pin. When one of the switches is engaged (breaking the connection) then the entire circuit of switches is broken and the machine stops.

    In a parallel scenario, the state of the circuit is always broken until the one of the switches is engaged and the circuit is then closed or connected. The topology looks like a ladder. All the switches connect to both sides of the ladder and the switches are like the runs of the ladder (the horizontal bars that the feet are placed while climbing). Imagine all of the switches broken in this scenario (normally open). It would be like the ladder could be split in two, but if one of the ladder runs (switches) is closed by engaging it, then that run would connect both sides of the ladder and the two sides of the ladder would have a connection.

    There is a diagram on the USB page of the various limit switch configurations. If you need more information (visual and/or otherwise), please let us know and we will immediately add that information to benefit everyone.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    I have nearly completed the CNC machine from the book, but I am using it with a USB breakout board, and have no idea how to wire the 6 limit switches to the board. I'm having difficulty following the diagram on the USB breakout board screen. Can someone please help me?

  • My Z-axis seems to be reversed on a fully assembled machine... I've tried reversing it in the config settings on Mach 3, but to no avail. What do I need to do? IS this a wiring issue that was not done correctly at the factory?

    If your Z axis is moving in the opposite direction, go into Mach3, click on config, ports & pins, then click on the motor outputs tab. You will see the axes labeled on the left and the parameters labeled on the top of this dialog box. Toggle the dir low active for the z-axis.

    Additional Information:
    What if I'm having the same issue on a different axis?

    Additional Information:
    You can follow the same procedure as with the z-axis. When you get to the motors outputs tab, toggle the dir low active checkbox for the axis that you would like to change.

    If you are using another control program, let me know and I will add the recommended action here.

    Additional Information:
    Girbl

    Additional Information:
    I have a grbl laser machine tronhoo machine that is running back wards and side ways wrong help

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    I have a grbl laser machine tronhoo machine that is running back wards and side ways wrong help

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    I have a grbl laser machine tronhoo machine that is running back wards and side ways wrong help

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    I have a grbl laser machine tronhoo machine that is running back wards and side ways wrong help

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    I have a grbl laser machine tronhoo machine that is running back wards and side ways wrong help

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    I have a grbl laser machine tronhoo machine that is running back wards and side ways wrong help

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    I have a grbl laser machine tronhoo machine that is running back wards and side ways wrong help

    Additional Information:
    I have a grbl laser machine tronhoo machine that is running back wards and side ways wrong help

    Additional Information:
    I have a grbl laser machine tronhoo machine that is running back wards and side ways wrong help

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    I have a grbl laser machine tronhoo machine that is running back wards and side ways wrong help

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    I have a grbl laser machine tronhoo machine that is running back wards and side ways wrong help

    Additional Information:
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    Additional Information:

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    My Z-axis seems to be reversed on a fully assembled machine... I've tried reversing it in the config settings on Mach 3, but to no avail. What do I need to do? IS this a wiring issue that was not done correctly at the factory?

  • Hi Patrick right now I have a parallel port cnc machine that I built in 2013 using the hardware and components I purchased from your website. I want to update my system by changing my current parallel port interface board to a Mach3 USB interface board from your website. Is the Mach3 USB interface board all I need to do this or is there other components I need to get. please advise.
  • [596] I have followed your YouTube video on setting up the pokeys 57cnc board but when I open Mach 4 I get a error message the the connection is to slow

    I have not come across this problem, but there may be USB, or firmware issues that you are experiencing. I would recommend going on the polabs website and using their support center (https://support.poscope.com/)and posing that question to them. Also, have you tried the ethernet port as an alternative to see if that helps?

    Here is the response from an LLM:

    Check USB Cable and Port: Start with the basics. Sometimes this error is due to a poor USB connection. Ensure you're using a high-quality, shielded USB cable and that it's plugged into a USB port directly on your computer, not through a hub. If possible, try a different USB port or a different cable to rule out any issues there.

    Update Firmware and Software: Ensure that both your PoKeys57CNC firmware and the Mach4 software are up to date. Firmware updates for your PoKeys board might include optimizations or fixes that address connectivity issues.

    USB Polling Rate: This error can also arise from the USB polling rate setting in the PoKeys configuration software. It might be set too high for your system's ability to handle it. Try lowering the polling rate and see if that resolves the error.

    Computer Performance: Check your computer’s performance. If it’s running several heavy applications simultaneously, it might not be able to process signals from the PoKeys board fast enough. Try closing unnecessary applications or consider using a dedicated machine if your current setup is too taxed.

    Mach 4 and PoKeys Plugin Configuration: Dive into the Mach 4 plugin configuration for PoKeys. Ensure that all settings are correctly configured as per the manual. Incorrect settings might lead to communication bottlenecks.

    Connection Quality and Interference: Consider any potential interference sources near your CNC setup or computer. Electromagnetic interference from large motors, other electronics, or long cable runs can affect communication quality. Try rearranging your setup to minimize interference.

    Consult Documentation and Support: If the issue persists, consult the detailed documentation provided by PoKeys or reach out to their customer support. They can offer more specific advice based on the latest product updates or known issues.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    [596] I have followed your YouTube video on setting up the pokeys 57cnc board but when I open Mach 4 I get a error message the the connection is to slow

  • i purchased a breakout board from you guy and the rnr motion control is messing with my license in mach 3 tech support at mach said it is the rnr software i need help to contact them and let them see what they can do to help

    The RNRMotion driver will not conflict with the mach3 license. Make sure you have the RNRmotion driver in the plugins folder and the provided xml in the main mach3 folder. Also, make sure to have the mach3 license file in the mach3 folder. If you still experience problems, please give us a call.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    i purchased a breakout board from you guy and the rnr motion control is messing with my license in mach 3 tech support at mach said it is the rnr software i need help to contact them and let them see what they can do to help

  • How do I get Homing on Z to work with Plate and Ground using Buildyourcnc usb board all the entries for the sensor in planet-cnc are grayed out. I am using input z- and I purchased the software

    To home the z-axis using a plate:
    - Connect the end mill using a large clamping device like an alligator clip with a wire connected to GND.

    - Connect the plate (solder a wire to the plate) to one of the input pins.

    - You can use the autoset to setup that pin in Mach3 simply by touching the two together once connected to the pin and GND.

    Alternatively, the end mill can be connected to the pin and the plate connected to GND as long as there becomes a complete circuit when the end mill touches the plate.

    To setup homing for the Planet-CNC homing and limits, go to the Planet-CNC Machine setup page which explains the process step by step: http://www.planet-cnc.com/faq/machine_setup/

    Customer Response:
    How do I get homing on z to work with planet cnc software using build your own usb board. I have gone to planet website and followed the instructions provided but my software will not allow entries in the required fields they are grayed out is it because I am not using planet-cnc's board, I have used this method for years with Mach3 and would like to use it with the usb board and software.

    Answer:
    Just received information from the developer. The instructions on how to use a plate for z-axis homing (moveable sensor) can be found here:

    http://www.planet-cnc.com/faq/moveable_sensor/

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    How do I get Homing on Z to work with Plate and Ground using Buildyourcnc usb board all the entries for the sensor in planet-cnc are grayed out. I am using input z- and I purchased the software

  • Im from chile have you ever send any machine to south america? can i buy only the mechanic and electronic things ( wood parts are much weight)

    We have sent machines everywhere across the globe and we can work with freight companies to get you a good rate on a shipment. Please email sales@buildyourcnc.com to request a quote.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    Im from chile have you ever send any machine to south america? can i buy only the mechanic and electronic things ( wood parts are much weight)

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