Yes, you can use one of the onboard relays on the pokeys57CNC controller to trigger your plasma torch as long as your plasma has dedicated wires to triggering the plasma torch.

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[596] Will I be able to fire a plasma torch directly off of this board or will I need a torch relay. If so, can you recommend any?

Yes, this board supports THC functions. I have tested the Proma THC and the PlasmaSens which use fiber optics for communication to reduce EMI.

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[596] Does this support THC functions.

Yes, this board supports THC functions. I have tested the Proma THC and the PlasmaSens which use fiber optics for communication to reduce EMI.

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[596] Does this support THC functions

Yes, you can absolutely communicate with the Pokeys57CNC controller. The developer's website has various ways of control, including their poblock software, or directly programming using C#, or C++. I have tested the C# method for a job I did for Lockheed Martin and worked really well.

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[596] Hi there! Thank you for your great works. I was wondering if there is a way to communicate with this board using custom-developed software instead of Mach3 or Mach4.

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.

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[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

The Masso integrated stepper motor and driver have differential step and direction connections that are compatible with most CNC controllers, including the Pokeys57CNC controller. Yes, you can use the Pokeys57CNC with the Masso closed loop integrated stepper motor and driver.

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[596] Is Pokeys %& compatible with the Masso Closed loop integrated driver nema 23 steppers? https://docs.masso.com.au/wiring-and-setup/setup-and-calibration/axis-servo-stepper-examples/masso-stepper

I am getting the solution from the developer. I will put the solution on this page when they provide the solution.

Thanks, Patrick

Additional Information:
Here is the information I received from the developer:

These are available on Windows 10. PoBlocks does not require .NET, but the communication library that the PoKeys app uses does need it.

Go to the control panel -> Search for "Turn Windows features on or off" -> Make sure the checkbox on the line ".NET Framework 3.5 (includes .NET 2.0 and 3.0)" is checked (or filled in).

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[596] I am trying to install the Pokeys configuration and Poblocks on a windows 10 computer. An error message says Ineed net frameworks 2.5 qnd 3.0.Both appear to be unavalable.Solution?

The closed-loop function of motors and drivers (either servo or stepper) is confined between the motor and the driver. If the motor did not achieve the number of encoder pulses, the driver will attempt to spin the motor until the commanded pulses are achieved. Drivers for servos and steppers for CNC machines have an alarm terminal to inform the pokeys57cnc in case of a condition that the driver is not able to achieve the commanded pulses over a specified time.

If you wish to turn a motor by hand for each axis, you can use an MPG (manual pulse generator) for each axis which will update the position of the axis. You can implement this on a pokeys57CNC controller.

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[596] With servomotor encoders connected to Pokey57, will Mach4 DRO update when motors are turned manually?

Your question caused me to make a quick video to understand how the pokeys57CNC controller works with a THC.

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[596] Would you help with the Hook up and the Configuration and whether it is in the Plugin or mach 4 control configuration that needs to be set. I decided to use the ultra fast encoders connector pin #8, 12 and 13 for Arc ok, UP and Down. Please advise what setting to set to make it all work. Thank you very much for your help!

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.

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[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

Where do you see this message?

Additional Information:
I am assuming that you are getting this message while installing the pokeys57CNC control software. The folder that you are trying to install to is probably write-protected. You will need to look at the file and folder permissions for the folder that you are installing the software.

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[596] Windows cannot access the specified devise, path, or file. You may not have the appropriate permission to access the item

The pokeys57CNC controller software will install fine on Windows 10 computers. Can you tell me at what step the software install is failing?

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[596] cannot get pokeys57 cnc software to install on win 10

Yes, PoKeys57CNC does support auto gantry squaring if both master and slave axes are equipped with home switches independently.

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[596] Does this controller support Auto-squaring in Mach3?

Yes, PoKeys57CNC does support auto gantry squaring if both master and slave axes are equipped with home switches independently.

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[596] Does this controller support Auto-Squaring in Mach 4?

I recommend using a wireless pendant rather than one that is wired to the controller.

Here is a link to one on Amazon.com: https://amzn.to/3r3AfTm

This is an affiliate link.

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[596] I am new to CNCs, curious to know what I need to look for in a pendant that would be compatible with this board and Mach4?