PoKeys57E Ethernet CNC Controller / I/O Board

PoKeys57E Ethernet CNC Controller / I/O Board

The PoKeys57E is a powerful Ethernet-based CNC controller and general-purpose I/O board designed for CNC control, automation, data acquisition, machine interfaces, and custom electronics projects. It gives you a large number of digital inputs/outputs, analog inputs, encoder inputs, PWM outputs, Modbus TCP support, and plugin support for Mach3 and Mach4.

This board is a strong option when you need more than a basic CNC breakout board. It can be used as an Ethernet-connected I/O controller, CNC interface, motion-control device, or custom machine-control board depending on your setup. Settings can be stored directly on the device, so the target system does not need special software running just to keep the configuration active.

Why Choose the PoKeys57E?

• Ethernet-based control: Connects through a 10/100 Ethernet connection with DHCP client or fixed IP support.
• Large I/O capacity: Provides 55 digital I/O points, giving you room for switches, signals, sensors, buttons, indicators, and other control connections.
• Analog input support: Includes 7 analog inputs with 12-bit resolution and adjustable low-pass filtering.
• Useful for CNC and automation: Can be used for CNC control, industrial I/O, machine interfaces, or data acquisition.
• Mach3 and Mach4 plugin support: Can be used with Mach3 and Mach4 as an external motion controller or as a highly customizable machine interface.
• Encoder input capability: Supports multiple encoder inputs for applications such as MPG wheels, feedback signals, knobs, and machine interfaces.
• PWM output support: Supports up to 6 high-speed configurable PWM outputs using a 25 MHz PWM timer.
• Built-in web interface: Includes a web dashboard for I/O status display and configuration access.
• Modbus TCP support: Allows access to digital I/O, analog inputs, encoder counters, digital counters, PWM outputs, displays, and other supported functions through Modbus TCP.
• Graphical programming support: Supports PoBlocks graphical PLC-style programming software for custom logic projects.

Main Features

• Ethernet 10/100 connection with DHCP client or fixed IP support
• TCP connection with the device
• 55 digital inputs with pull-up resistors
• 55 software-controlled digital outputs
• 5V tolerant digital I/O
• 7 analog inputs with 12-bit resolution and adjustable low-pass filtering
• Up to 26 encoder pair inputs
• 3 high-speed encoder inputs and 1 ultra-high-speed encoder input
• 3-axis 25 kHz pulse engine or 8-axis 125 kHz pulse engine depending on configuration
• Digital counters on selected digital input pins
• Up to 16×8 matrix keyboard support
• Two 8×8 matrix LED display support
• Up to 6 high-speed configurable PWM outputs
• 25 MHz PWM timer
• HD44780-based character LCD support up to 4×20 characters
• PoExtBus support for adding up to 80 additional outputs with external shift registers
• PoNET device support, including compatible CNC keyboards and accessories
• Modbus TCP support
• I2C and 1-wire bus support
• Support for up to 10 sensors on I2C bus
• Support for up to 10 sensors on 1-wire bus
• Support for up to 7 analog sensors
• Integrated web interface with I/O status dashboard and multiple user accounts
• Connection signal output support
• PoBlocks graphical programming PLC software support
• Communication DLL library and protocol documentation for third-party integration

Simple Explanation

The PoKeys57E is not just a basic breakout board. It is a flexible Ethernet-connected control board that can handle many different CNC and automation tasks. It can read switches and sensors, control outputs, work with encoders, communicate over Modbus TCP, support displays and keyboards, and interface with Mach3 or Mach4 depending on your setup.

Use this board when your project needs a lot of inputs and outputs, Ethernet connectivity, custom logic, or a more advanced control interface than a simple parallel-port breakout board can provide.

Common Uses

• CNC router control systems
• CNC mill control systems
• Mach3 and Mach4 CNC control setups
• Machine control panels
• Industrial automation projects
• Sensor monitoring and data acquisition
• Encoder and MPG wheel inputs
• Custom buttons, switches, LEDs, and operator panels
• Modbus TCP machine-control systems
• PoBlocks PLC-style control projects

Available Versions

Software / Integration Support

• PoKeys configuration software
• Graphical user interface or advanced console-style configuration
• Mach3 plugin support
• Mach4 plugin support
• PoBlocks graphical PLC programming software
• Modbus TCP communication
• Communication DLL and protocol documentation for advanced integrations
• Integrated web dashboard for I/O status and device access

Important Compatibility Notes

• The PoKeys57E is a flexible Ethernet I/O and CNC control board, not a motor driver.
• Separate stepper or servo drivers are required for motor control.
• Confirm whether you need the version with screw terminals or without screw terminals before ordering.
• Mach3 and Mach4 setups may require the proper plugin, license, and configuration.
• Confirm compatibility with your CNC software, drivers, sensors, wiring, and machine-control requirements before ordering.
• Advanced features such as Modbus TCP, PoBlocks, encoders, displays, keyboards, and sensor buses may require additional setup knowledge.