Quote Originally Posted by biketrialsdave View Post
Just to re-iterate, I would use 3 (x,y,z) proximity sensors for homing and software limits for emergency stops...
Quote Originally Posted by biketrialsdave View Post
Question: How should I go about limit and home switches?

My current thought is to only have home switches and use software limits. Is this something that can be done in Mach 3? In fact I am considering using Inductive Proximity Sensors for good repeatability. Any opinions on this kind of setup?

Dave
On a small machine like this then I'd suggest you use Limit switches has it will be from one side to the next in blink of an eye.

Personally I use separate limits and home switch's on machines I build. Has well preferring them that way for flexibility of moving my home position around if needed, It's also due to the way I use either purpose safety relays or Standard relays to run my control box.

Having a safe control box means Limits should not be under software control and this means they can't be used for home switch's has they would trip the system every time you homed the machine. Being safe doesn't cost much money compared to surgery for replacing fingers so for £20-30 more doing it right and correct is a no brainier to me.!!

Proximity switch's are fine so long has they are accurate enough. Some require very close fitments of the pickup to achieve good accurecy and this can be a problem with damage depending on what your cutting.?