Mach3 Screensets

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Originally Posted by Davek0974

if its ethernet, how can it be LPT??

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It talks ethernet to the PC, but instead of direct outputs like the CSMIO range, it has a set of 5 "parallel port" style output connectors. In fact, they are standard PC board headers and each needs to be connected (simply) to a terminal strip (or cheap BOB as the connectors carry the same signals as a parallel port) to give access to the connections or (much better) to a custom BOB which provides opto-isolation plus the potential for 24V signalling. There is a fancy BOB specifically designed to go with it that provides opto-isolated access to all its IO ports. Not sure if it can also handle differential signalling for connection to stepper drivers. The combination isn't cheap - the BOB costs as much as the controller board, I think, but the combination plus UCCNC is competitive with the IP-M if you also add in Mach3.

(edit - Gerry was quicker off the mark! UB1 - that's the board I was thinking of)

Its a 5LPT board with ethernet connection? So you would use 5 BOB's too get full functionality??

Just guessing, couldn't see a UB1 win the site ;)


Edit,
typing at same time ;)

Makes sense now, I still prefer the CSMIO if not just for its "completeness" and rugged build.

"Full Functionality" would depend on the users needs. And there are 1 port, 2 port, and 3 port breakout boards. The UB1 uses 3 of the ports.
http://www.cncroom.com/interface-cards/uc300eth-ub1

You don't need the 5LPT board with the UB1, so you save a few bucks there.

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Makes sense now, I still prefer the CSMIO if not just for its "completeness" and rugged build.

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But it relies on flawed software, which is the main issue.

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Originally Posted by Ger21

But it relies on flawed software, which is the main issue.

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Yes its one drawback and i have worked around it, I guess i could ask CSLABS if they have done anything on it as the linked stuff was a while back, doubtful though which is a pity IMHO.

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Originally Posted by Davek0974

I guess i could ask CSLABS if they have done anything on it

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About as likely as retrofitting the dual-motor support from the IP-S into the IP-M, more's the pity.