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SmartBOB controllers and dedicated accessories / Choosing PMDX-424 or PMDX-126?
« on: December 15, 2018, 12:15:22 PM »
Building my first (and probably last) CNC using ClearPath Steppers. After more than 2 years I finally have the hardware done (dual motor gantry) and its time up build the electrics. I originally assumed I would use the PMDX-126 and a smooth-stepper because Mach 4 was still not ready and the 126/SS was top of the line. The 424 is available now and Mach4 is also stable so I am wondering if I should reconsider.
The driving PC will not have a parallel port so I have to use USB or a Smooth-stepper. I was never a fan of USB as I thought it would be less reliable. Ethernet was meant for sustained traffic over hours and USB was not. However if that were really a problem, market forces would come into play and these boards wouldn't exist for long. So I must be wrong there.
I am also assuming that Smooth-stepper is not available/advisable/needed for the 424?
In addition I read that the 424 output pulses are independently controlled/timed separate from the control pulses, I guess thats the "smart" part of Smart-Bob? Do I understand that correctly? How well does that work out and what made that necessary? Will that be a factor when driving the clearpath motors?
So I guess I need some guidance, when would someone select the 424 over the 126/SS combo?
I appreciate your input.
The driving PC will not have a parallel port so I have to use USB or a Smooth-stepper. I was never a fan of USB as I thought it would be less reliable. Ethernet was meant for sustained traffic over hours and USB was not. However if that were really a problem, market forces would come into play and these boards wouldn't exist for long. So I must be wrong there.
I am also assuming that Smooth-stepper is not available/advisable/needed for the 424?
In addition I read that the 424 output pulses are independently controlled/timed separate from the control pulses, I guess thats the "smart" part of Smart-Bob? Do I understand that correctly? How well does that work out and what made that necessary? Will that be a factor when driving the clearpath motors?
So I guess I need some guidance, when would someone select the 424 over the 126/SS combo?
I appreciate your input.