USB/Ethernet controller for Mach3/4 advice

[paulus.v]

Hello all,

Could you recommend me a good Controller for a mill conversion with an additional 4th rotating axis?

I already have 400W servos (SC04ADK) with LG drives (L7SA004A).

I want to use a laptop with no parallel port and Mach3 or the new Mach4. If you convince me to better use a desktop pc with parallel port/ BOB, I will consider it. I would like to use the laptop for space saving.

Thanks for your time.

Regards
Paul

[IanS1]

I've just bought one of these 9 axis controllers, 4 Axis available too. http://www.planet-cnc.com/

Not mach compatible though but he does have is own very capable software.

[Ger21]

CS Labs is supposed to be the best available.

[paulus.v]

Thanks Gerry, I've never heard of CS Labs before. Their products look fine and have good prices. What about the analog axis control mode? Does it have any benefits over the step/dir? Smoother operation or it is only for use with older drives?

IanS1, I do not see any reason for using/learning other software than the popular ones, other than price.

[IanS1]

IanS1, I do not see any reason for using/learning other software than the popular ones, other than price.

If you're already using Mach3 then I suppose that's the way to go and the CSLabs is a very capable controller.

My reason for using the PlanetCNC is that the software has a development kit which will enable me to write my own software. This won't be for a standard mill/router but for a wire bending machine.

[JAZZCNC]

Thanks Gerry, I've never heard of CS Labs before. Their products look fine and have good prices. What about the analog axis control mode? Does it have any benefits over the step/dir? Smoother operation or it is only for use with older drives?

Cslabs controllers are best I've used and nothing but Galil comes close and they cost much more money.

The only advantage the IP-A gives over the IP-S is encoder feedback to the controller so you know what the DRO display is the actual position of the motor.
With the IP-s you take it on faith the drive arrived at the location it was commanded to go, there is no feedback to say it arrived there.

[paulus.v]

Thanks Jazz, now I'm a bit confused, not sure which one is better to use, the analog or digital...