Hi - I have a problem with setting up my first CNC project. Its a conversion of a sieg x2 type mill (purchased from Chester Uk).

I'm using the download (unlicensed version) of Mach 3 and have got to the point of being able to control the motors from Mach3. The problem is that when I reset the system (power to the motors) the chips on the controller board get very hot, very quickly - being too hot to touch within 10 - 15 seconds. Surely this is not right!

The board is from DIY CNC (http://www.diycnc.co.uk/) and is the System3 board (http://www.diycnc.co.uk/html/system3.html), with Nema 23 stepper motors. The board is currently configured for minimum current delivery, and 1/8 micro stepping.

I'm concerned that something is seriously wrong and that so much heat production will result in the destruction of the controller board.

I've been advised that I should connect up the motors as follows:

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To use the motors in series

1A pin to blue/white
1B pin to red
Join red/white to blue & keep separate

2A pin to green/white
2B pin to Black
Join green to black/white & keep separate

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Any help or advice would be much appreciated,

Mike.