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Converting Chinese CNC Router from XHC Mach3 Motion Controller

Posted: Thu Apr 12, 2018 11:22 pm
by slodat
I have a large 5' x 8' Chinese manufactured CNC router with the following major components:
  • XHC MKIV Mach3 USB motion controller
  • Yako 2D811 v1.1 step motor drivers and motors on rack & pinion X and Y, ball screw Z
  • GDZ120x103-4.5 Spindle
  • Fuling DZB312B005.5L2A single phase input VFD
The XHC motion controller has proven itself unreliable. This led me down the path of investigating possible solutions. Then, I found the Centroid Acorn. Fundamentally, I'd like to get the router working reliably, with a streamlined tool change process.

I'd love input, advice, experience, etc from others. I do automation and controls for a living at my day job and I'm not intimidated by this project. I just want a reliable system that I don't have to constantly fiddle with to get it work.

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Re: Router conversion questions

Posted: Fri Apr 13, 2018 7:58 am
by cnckeith
looks like a slam dunk.. :-) looks like resuse everything but the controller board and mach3.
be sure to pick up the Mill Pro License so you can Pair the two motors used on the Gantry.

Re: Router conversion questions

Posted: Fri Apr 13, 2018 9:35 am
by slodat
Thank you for the reply. What post processor does Acorn use? I use Vectric Aspire for CAD and CAM and I want to make sure that will work too.

Re: Router conversion questions

Posted: Fri Apr 13, 2018 9:44 am
by cnckeith
Aspire has both a Centroid MM and Centroid Inch post. it works great.

Aspire can directly import Centroid .dig files as well.

see images below of Aspire projects cut on a Centroid equipped router.
lee's landing.jpg
sawatch.JPG
dolfin watch.jpg

Re: Router conversion questions

Posted: Fri Apr 13, 2018 12:30 pm
by slodat
Keith- Thank you for the quick responses! I placed my order for Acorn. About how long of a wait do I have for it to ship?

I found a good deal on a Dell OptiPlex 3050 all in one with touch screen. Excited to get this working!

Re: Router conversion questions

Posted: Fri Apr 13, 2018 1:02 pm
by slodat
Received shipment tracking number under an hour after I placed the order!

Re: Router conversion questions

Posted: Fri Apr 13, 2018 1:24 pm
by Gary Campbell
I'm with Keith...
Straightforward conversion. If you look at my "Acorn Project" videos here on my YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/Islaww1/videos

You will see that there are many of the same components. With your experience, it should be a snap.

Re: Router conversion questions

Posted: Fri Apr 13, 2018 1:39 pm
by slodat
Gary Campbell wrote: Fri Apr 13, 2018 1:24 pm I'm with Keith...
Straightforward conversion. If you look at my "Acorn Project" videos here on my YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/user/Islaww1/videos

You will see that there are many of the same components. With your experience, it should be a snap.
I’ve watched your videos. I’m sure I’ll have questions.

Really excited about having a proper, reliable control on my machine.

Re: Router conversion questions

Posted: Fri Apr 13, 2018 2:20 pm
by Gary Campbell
Your questions and concerns are pretty common, especially among Mach 3 users that have struggled with poorly operating machines for a decade or more with no product development. I just wish that a few of those mach guys that have converted would tell their buddies how their machines run on a real machine controller like Centroid.

I have always look at mach like I looked at MacDonalds. More popular than any other restaurant, and cheap, but no ever says how good the food is!

Re: Router conversion questions

Posted: Sat Apr 14, 2018 12:21 pm
by slodat
I’m looking over the Standard Connections drawing and have a couple questions..

1. I’m not seeing how to wire each axis drive. This is the drive inputs:

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2. Do I need flyback diodes on the build in relay contacts? One will be switching power for a small pneumatic solenoid. The other is an external PLC input (my dust collection has PLC controls) so I can’t see it necessary there.