How to configure Mach 3 with Shapeoko?

[xplorex]

Hi,

I just got my Shapeoko to work with Grbl controller but I would love to have it running under Mach3. I see some implementations on YouTube, but from what I understand they use Gecko G540 or something different that Arduino board that Shapeoko came with. Could you please help me with the following:

1. Is it possible to run Shapeoko/Arduino/GRBL from Mach 3? If so, how to do it?
2. If it is not possible, what would be the best and most cost effective way to have Shapeoko connect to Mach3?

Thank you in advance!!!

Pawel

[jrsteensen]

I don't believe you can use the arduino based controllers out of the box.

The cheapest way is a TB6560 from ebay - I grabbed a 4 axis controller for beans. (To allow for dual Y drive.)

I'm considering picking up a SuperPID for spindle control of my DW660. http://www.vhipe.com/product-private/SuperPID.htm

[deejayspinz]

FWIW. I have a TB6560 4axis controller (like this one) configured with Mach3 and am very happy with it. Use it to drive 4 motors (2 paired to the Y axis) and the 4th for my 3D print extruder. If you go this route, would have happy to share Mach3 settings with you . IC may also chime in here, I followed his setup closely, and he has the same controller.

[Improbable Construct]

As deejayspinz said I have the same controller as he does. I have been running it for 8-10 months and it has been bulletproof.
I have it running at full power with a 24v Power supply and 175 oz/in NEMA 23 motors. I would say I average about 10-15 hours a week of cutting and have had absolutely no problems. At $88.00 or so its a nice inexpensive option.

It is possible to use mach3 / linuxcnc with the grbl controller. Edward posted some info here:
http://www.shapeoko.com/forum/viewtopic ... hilit=db25
and here:
http://www.shapeoko.com/forum/viewtopic ... t=db25#p38

you will have to read through to get the relevant info but it looks like you just need a db25 breakout board.

[northbear]

I have it running at full power with a 24v Power supply and 175 oz/in NEMA 23 motors. .

Where did you buy your NEMA 23 motors? (or what brand / model are they?) And do you you notice much of an upgrade from the NEMA 17 motors?

(sorry for the off-topic question!)

Thanks!

[Improbable Construct]

I bought them on eBay.
I have no idea who made them, there are no markings and they came in unmarked boxes.
They are not any faster but I can mill a bit deeper without stalling the motors.
For the average user I don't think they are all that necessary.

[northbear]

Improbable Construct,

Thanks for the response! I didn't think about it, but it makes sense that more powerful motors would be able to mill deeper (duh!)

Thanks again!