Pacer conversion or update

[Bagpress]

Good afternoon,
Has anybody out there got a Pacer router on which they have upgraded the controller and software to modern, supported versions? I have a 25/12HDS with a linear 6 pod tool changer which is stuck in 'demo' mode with a 'safety broken' message and whilst this may be sorted by replacing the dongle code this has proved impossible to source. Basically I have been told that my router is fit only for scrap!!
This, I do not believe, given that the physical parts of the machine are perfectly functional and based around fairly standard, although a bit long in the tooth, motion control systems.
There must be a way to upgrade a machine such as this for significantly less than the cost of a whole new machine, mustn't there?
Any pointers or advice would be much appreciated.
Regards
Darren
www.bagpress.co.uk

[JAZZCNC]

Good afternoon,
Has anybody out there got a Pacer router on which they have upgraded the controller and software to modern, supported versions? I have a 25/12HDS with a linear 6 pod tool changer which is stuck in 'demo' mode with a 'safety broken' message and whilst this may be sorted by replacing the dongle code this has proved impossible to source. Basically I have been told that my router is fit only for scrap!!
This, I do not believe, given that the physical parts of the machine are perfectly functional and based around fairly standard, although a bit long in the tooth, motion control systems.
There must be a way to upgrade a machine such as this for significantly less than the cost of a whole new machine, mustn't there?
Any pointers or advice would be much appreciated.
Regards
Darren
www.bagpress.co.uk

Yes, this is easily possible and while I haven't done any Pacers they are nothing special, I've rescued many machines from being scrapped, and just like any other machine the pacers can be retrofitted with modern controllers and/or motors and drives if required. It's just a matter of how deep you need to go stripping out the electronics.
However, If the mechanical parts are not worn and the chassis is well built then the machine will perform better than it ever did with modern electronics and software for a fraction of the price of a new machine.

The ATC won't be a problem but will add to the cost of conversion as it will take time to implement and set up with the new controller as a tool change macro will need to be written to take into account the pneumatics and tool change system, etc.

If you can't do this your self then your biggest issue will be finding someone who is willing to come to your place at a sensible cost and do the conversion as it won't be a quick conversion.