I believe the IP-M doesn't support the Enc module.? This may have changed with new Plug-ins but Best firing Cslabs email asking before buying.
Printable View
I thought, you have already tested, if the enc box is compatible.
At the moment, I'll better try to get the machine running with a Mesa 7i76e that I have already here. That board have all in it what I can do with IP/M + enc + mpg + additional IO.
It have as standard 5 S/D, 1 analog out, 1Encoder in, 32 DI, 16DO and from the DI, I can use 2 ports for a Mpg and another 2ports for analog in for feed or speed rheostat. Additionally I can add 2 other boards with similiar capabilities and to all this boards each a easier Board with additional IOs
But for a further Project, it seems good to use a board, that don't have more in it, than what is needed.
Mach3 as well seems a lot easier than Lcnc but is payware.
Assuming you are talking Heidenhain equipped Bridgeports I think all the controllers from the TNC150 forwards had the capability to add a forth axis. What you may not have is the relevant Bosch servo drive card to drive the 4th axis servo.
I have a Beaver Partsmaster with a Heidenhain TNC 355 controller. I've added a 4th axis to this machine by using a Bosch servo card from a Bridgeport Interact. It works well - I've even recently got the FeatureCAM post processor to let me engrave text on the outside of a cylinder with it :)
I've a build thread on another forum, but I'll have to check with the mods if it's ok to link to it, as I know some forums get a bit shirty about that :)