ROLAND CAMM-2 PNC-2300A Conversion?

[Chimestrike]

Good point Nick, the GRBL one I have the drivers are replaceable but I know where you are coming from in the serviceability aspect as replacing the lot could be expensive.

[John S]

Dear Mr Chime.

This is the cheapest way you will get.
First off find a PC running XP that has a parallel port, install Mach 3.

Then buy a breakout board like the one you linked to but this one is far cheaper.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/401153797580

Then buy 4 of these/

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/371436535450

You only need 3 but buying a 4th means you never have to wait if it breaks down.

So for a total of a SH computer, and £21.14 you will have everything to convert your machine if you use the existing steppers and power supply out of the Roland.

Both these Ebay links are from the same seller BTW

[Chimestrike]

Thanks John, I think that is going to be the way forward on it as everything else is already on the machine.

I think some bits will be trial and error but lets see where it goes.

Thanks for the help

Rich

[magicniner]

Although it is the simplest option you aren't strictly limited to Windows XP, I'm currently running Mach3 on an HP dc7800 pc on Windows 7 without issues, I had to add aftermarket sound and video cards as the on board chipsets were not supported under Windows 7,

- Nick

[Chimestrike]

Looks like fate has taken control of this guys and after a failed firmware update the Roland board is not booting.....oh well mach3 it is :)

Rich