4' x 4' x 8" Router Build

[JonnyFive]

I’ve pretty much got all my hardware now(gantry extrusion, bearings, ballscrews, motors & drives etc), all I need is the machined parts to be able to start assembly - just waiting on my induction at the local maker space so I can start work on the missing pieces



My mind is starting to think about the electronics, this is where my knowledge falls down big time!! I’m not sure where to start really. I think Ethernet is the way to go, I’m thinking UCCNC. I have closed loop stepper motors (not sure did that makes a difference?). Apart from that I’m snookered. Can anyone point me in the right direction please?

[JonnyFive]

Whilst progress is slow on machining all the parts I need I have put together my attempt at the contrrol circuitry. I have to give a massive shout out to both ROUTERCNC & Joe Harris for their superb videos and documentation covering this side of things - I've watched / read it all several times!!! Using their content, some intense Googling and reading of manuals this is what I've come up with:


CNC CIRCUIT DIAGRAM V3.pdf

I do have a number of questions, hopefully someone will be able to help:

1. Is a mains filter required for the VFD? I notie=ced ROUTERCNC used one but Joe didn't
2. I'm assuing I don't need to connect up REV on the VFD as I'll only be running the spindle in one direction?
3. I've seen diffferent ways of connecting up the step & direction pins from the motor drivers - either commoning up the +ves or the -ves - what's the difference? Is it to do with picking up the leading or trailing edge of the signal? Which should I use? I'm using closed loop steppers if it makes a difference.
4. My motors came with long cables with extensions - are they ok to use? Or should I be making up my own screened cables?
5. Do I need to run an earth wire to the gantry & frame?
6. Is the rotary interlock switch necessary?
7. Do I need to connect the spindle pin 4 to earth? I've read contradictory things about this.
8. Do I need to connect the ENA+ & ENA-?
9. Do I need to twist the PUL & DIR wires?
10. Is it acceptable practice to crimp 2 wires into one ferrule? Or put 2 ferrules into a single terminal?
11. Should all the 24V feeds going to the AXBB-E controller be from the switched 24V or permanent supply?

I'm sure there will be many more questions to come. Any feedback would be much appreciated.

Cheers