Wiring Limit switches to Leadshine MX3660

[thomashomer1986]

I am using LinuxCNC but I've only just started out with it so I am unsure yet as to how it homes itself etc... It's all new to me tbh.

[Clive S]

I am using LinuxCNC but I've only just started out with it so I am unsure yet as to how it homes itself etc... It's all new to me tbh.

Ok start with the basics are you using mechanical switches? Tell us in as much details where you are at and if you are using a mill or a router ..Clive

[thomashomer1986]

I'm using mechanical switches, it's a small router that I'm using them on. Only a small working envelope (approx 250mm x 250mm x 75mm).

[Clive S]

I'm using mechanical switches, it's a small router that I'm using them on. Only a small working envelope (approx 250mm x 250mm x 75mm).

Ok been busy all day. have you got the switches mounted on the machine if so a picture would help. Is it that you don't know how to set them up in Linux I am trying to get the gist of what you need to know. ..Clive

[thomashomer1986]

Sorry I admit I have been a bit vague.

My main issue was how to wire up 6 limit switches to only 4 inputs but after a bit more research I now realise there are multiple ways I can do it. Now I know that I can do multiple switches in a series I think I should be ok.

I should be ok with the linux bit as the stepconf wizard is nice and easy when setting up the parallel port pin id's. However if I'm wiring X+, Y+ and Z- in series then what option would I choose for that input?

The switches I'm using a only basic, in fact they probably aren't the best for my machine as they aren't lever type ones, just a small plunger. But they are all I could get my hands on for free!

The images show the limits mounted in x and y, I haven't yet mounted the z as I need to make a suitable bracket first.

[cropwell]

My MD machine came with inductive home switches and they were mounted axial to the travel, so it was possible (and too damn easy !) to jog onto them and crush the sensor coil. So my first mod was to move 'em round 90degrees and make them bypass sensing (if that makes sense).
I notice you say 6 limit switches. It is not usual to have a Z--, so why 6 ?

[Clive S]

Sorry I admit I have been a bit vague.

My main issue was how to wire up 6 limit switches to only 4 inputs but after a bit more research I now realise there are multiple ways I can do it. Now I know that I can do multiple switches in a series I think I should be ok.

I should be ok with the linux bit as the stepconf wizard is nice and easy when setting up the parallel port pin id's. However if I'm wiring X+, Y+ and Z- in series then what option would I choose for that input?

The switches I'm using a only basic, in fact they probably aren't the best for my machine as they aren't lever type ones, just a small plunger. But they are all I could get my hands on for free!

The images show the limits mounted in x and y, I haven't yet mounted the z as I need to make a suitable bracket first.

Ok I would not use a limit switch on Z- just the home switch z+ at the top because there generally is no defined position because of tool length etc.
Also be aware that if you do it in stepconfig and then edit the .ini file the file will be overwritten the next time you use stepconfig. hope this helps.

[thomashomer1986]

Ah right I understand about the Z- limit switch, of course that's not really needed then. And mounting the limit switches at 90° is a good idea too, think i may try that.

I think i know what i'm doing now, thanks very much for your help.

[malgazz]

I have limits on all my axes, using mechanical ones without levers. I find the levers bend over time and can give slight variances to ones' home position and the work start position. This can be a problem, if doing repetitive cutting after etc.
Depending on how one sets up the material in the cam programme and how you zero the Z axis on the table, can in the beginning, can result in having the Z dive into the spoilboard, if not paying attention to what one is doing.
Putting on the limit for the Z axis can help in stopping it dive right through the spoilboard.
I am using leadshines' mx 4660 with Mach3 and all limits wired in series.
Most people seem to zero the Z to the top of their material. Easiest, especially when not cutting the full depth of the material.
I started to zero to the spoilboard and mic the material each time before cutting to ensure that I do not cut into the spoilboard, adjusting the cam toolpath if needed. This way I have set the limit of the Z to 0.1/0.2 mm below the surface of the spoilboard.