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PMDX-122 Bi-Directional Breakout Board

Model PMDX-122

Buffered Bi-Directional Breakout Board
with "Charge Pump"

 

Click on image for larger view

The PMDX-122 is a motion control breakout board for interfacing with the parallel port of an IBM-PC style computer.

Features of the PMDX-122

  • Supports all signals present on a standard printer port. (8 data, 5 input, 4 output)
  • Allows the 8 bit data port to be used as outputs (step/dir/etc) or as 8 input bits.
  • Great for second parallel port usage when using encoders or lots of feedback signals.
  • Buffers signals to protect the PC's printer port.
  • Utilizes standard IEEE-1284 Centronics style printer cable for connection to PC.
  • Connection to PC can also be via a 26 pin ribbon cable which allows a remote DB-25 to be used.
  • Provides LED status indicators on all 8 data port signals,  5 input and 4 output signals.
  • Supports the MACH "charge pump" signal to inhibit outputs when the MACH software is not running.
  • The "charge pump" function can be daisy chained between boards
  • Inhibits outputs when E-Stop or Fault inputs are asserted.
  • Reports E-Stop to computer on loss of power, E-Stop loop open,  Fault input grounded, or printer cable disconnected
  • Provides one 10 Amp. relay on board for spindle or other I/O output function.
  • Inputs have pull-ups to +5 volts and are filtered to suppress noise.
  • Step and direction outputs from data bits can be common ground or common +5 volts for driving opto inputs.
  • All I/O connections are made via wire clamp screw terminal strips.
  • Auxiliary +5 volt DC output available to power sensors.
  • Three power supply options. (external DC, external AC, or USB port power steal)
  • LED to indicate "outputs enabled" status so "charge pump" status can be seen.
  • Jumpers to control "charge pump" functionality, E-Stop behavior, and data port direction

Breakout board feature comparison table

Note: The step and direction signals used to run this board as a real time CNC device require precise timing. These signals are normally provided by a personal computer motherboard with an onboard parallel port, a parallel port interface card plugged into a motherboard with ISA, PCI, or PCI-Express slots, or by an external device such as the SmoothStepper. You cannot use a USB to printer adapter because it will alter critical timing of CNC control signals. Laptop computers, even those with parallel port interfaces, are not recommended as CNC control computers due to design features that can alter critical timing. If you must use a laptop be prepared to deal with these design issues and/or plan on using an external pulse generating device such as the SmoothStepper.

Download the full manual in PDF format here (revision 1.11, 376 KB).

The PMDX-122 is priced at $81.00

See special pricing on G201X, G203V, and G320X drivers here.

Cables are sold separately, please order the ones that you need.

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Click here for international orders.

PMDX-122 >> Bi-Directional Breakout Board
Use PayPal shopping cart for USA delivery only,
click here for international orders.


$81.00

 

For International customers or for alternate payment options - click HERE

For Gecko motor drivers CLICK HERE

For accessory cables CLICK HERE

For accessory switches and sensors CLICK HERE