If your motors are hot to the touch, this is normal. Current is being drawn by the motor coils as the motor moves and as the motor stays at a position. If the motor is not using the current in the coils to move (holding it's position), the energy will be translated as heat (rather than motion, sound or light). Even while moving, some of the energy will be lost as heat. Remember that energy cannot be created nor destroyed.

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Additional Information:



Additional Information:

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Are the stepper motors on x and y axis suppose to be hot after running for approximately 30 min. I can touch them but they are hot.

I will check with the developer of the board and show the response on this FAQ.

Additional Information:
The response from the developer:
Are you referring to using Pin 17 for the spindle speed control? Make sure that you set the desired spindle speed in Mach4 by executing S1000 in the MDI or the G-code.

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Mach 4 is not triggering PWM pin 17 on Pokeys57CNC. I am able to get it to work through the Pokeys app but not Mach 4. I've made all of the setting changes prescribed in the manual.

For setting up home proximity sensors on the PoKeys57 board, it's typically recommended to use the designated limit/home terminal or pin. This is because these ports are specifically designed for connecting limit switches or proximity sensors used for homing.

If you've already connected your sensors to the limit/home terminal and they're not functioning properly, here are a few troubleshooting steps you might want to consider:

Check Wiring and Connections: Ensure that the wiring to the sensors is correct and secure. Sometimes a loose connection can cause issues.

Sensor Configuration: Verify that the sensors are properly configured in the software you're using to interface with the PoKeys57 board. This could involve setting the correct sensor type (NPN or PNP), and ensuring the software is looking for the homing signal on the correct pins.

Test Sensors Individually: Disconnect other inputs and test each sensor individually to isolate the issue. This can help determine if the problem is with a specific sensor or the board itself.

Firmware and Software Updates: Ensure that your PoKeys57 board firmware is up to date, and that you're using the latest version of the control software.

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On the pokeys57 board should I use the limit/home plug or just the block next to that plug form setting up home proximity sensors? I have them on the plug now and can not get them to work.

What are the voltage requirements for your proximity switches?

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On the pokeys57 board should I use the limit/home plug or just the block next to that plug form setting up home proximity sensors? I have them on the plug now and can not get them to work.

To home the z-axis using a plate:
- Connect the end mill using a large clamping device like an alligator clip with a wire connected to GND.

- Connect the plate (solder a wire to the plate) to one of the input pins.

- You can use the autoset to setup that pin in Mach3 simply by touching the two together once connected to the pin and GND.

Alternatively, the end mill can be connected to the pin and the plate connected to GND as long as there becomes a complete circuit when the end mill touches the plate.

To setup homing for the Planet-CNC homing and limits, go to the Planet-CNC Machine setup page which explains the process step by step: http://www.planet-cnc.com/faq/machine_setup/

Customer Response:
How do I get homing on z to work with planet cnc software using build your own usb board. I have gone to planet website and followed the instructions provided but my software will not allow entries in the required fields they are grayed out is it because I am not using planet-cnc's board, I have used this method for years with Mach3 and would like to use it with the usb board and software.

Answer:
Just received information from the developer. The instructions on how to use a plate for z-axis homing (moveable sensor) can be found here:

http://www.planet-cnc.com/faq/moveable_sensor/

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How do I get Homing on Z to work with Plate and Ground using Buildyourcnc usb board all the entries for the sensor in planet-cnc are grayed out. I am using input z- and I purchased the software

I have not come across this problem, but there may be USB, or firmware issues that you are experiencing. I would recommend going on the polabs website and using their support center (https://support.poscope.com/)and posing that question to them. Also, have you tried the ethernet port as an alternative to see if that helps?

Here is the response from an LLM:

Check USB Cable and Port: Start with the basics. Sometimes this error is due to a poor USB connection. Ensure you're using a high-quality, shielded USB cable and that it's plugged into a USB port directly on your computer, not through a hub. If possible, try a different USB port or a different cable to rule out any issues there.

Update Firmware and Software: Ensure that both your PoKeys57CNC firmware and the Mach4 software are up to date. Firmware updates for your PoKeys board might include optimizations or fixes that address connectivity issues.

USB Polling Rate: This error can also arise from the USB polling rate setting in the PoKeys configuration software. It might be set too high for your system's ability to handle it. Try lowering the polling rate and see if that resolves the error.

Computer Performance: Check your computer’s performance. If it’s running several heavy applications simultaneously, it might not be able to process signals from the PoKeys board fast enough. Try closing unnecessary applications or consider using a dedicated machine if your current setup is too taxed.

Mach 4 and PoKeys Plugin Configuration: Dive into the Mach 4 plugin configuration for PoKeys. Ensure that all settings are correctly configured as per the manual. Incorrect settings might lead to communication bottlenecks.

Connection Quality and Interference: Consider any potential interference sources near your CNC setup or computer. Electromagnetic interference from large motors, other electronics, or long cable runs can affect communication quality. Try rearranging your setup to minimize interference.

Consult Documentation and Support: If the issue persists, consult the detailed documentation provided by PoKeys or reach out to their customer support. They can offer more specific advice based on the latest product updates or known issues.

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I HAVE FOLLOWED YOUR YOUTUBE VIDEO ON SETTING UP THE POKEYS 57CNC BOARD BUT WHEN OPEN MACH 4 GET A ERROR MESSAGE CONNECTION IS TO SLOW

We are currently working on a relay board that will connect to USB breakout board, and the router/spindle for both the on/off function. Unfortunately we still do not have it completed or ready to be placed on our website, but it is in the final stages of testing. Please check back regularly for updated stock!

Here is a link to a tutorial for a DIY relay circuit:

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I AM PUTTING TOGETHER THE BLACKFOOT AND USING A PORTER CABLE ROUTER. CONFUSED ON HOW TO RELAY ROUTETR WITH USB BOARD. IS THERE ANOTHER SWITCH THAT GOES BETWEEN BOARD ROUTER SO PLANET CNC CAN TURN PERHAPS VACUUM OFF?

I have not come across this problem, but there may be USB, or firmware issues that you are experiencing. I would recommend going on the polabs website and using their support center (https://support.poscope.com/)and posing that question to them. Also, have you tried the ethernet port as an alternative to see if that helps?

Here is the response from an LLM:

Check USB Cable and Port: Start with the basics. Sometimes this error is due to a poor USB connection. Ensure you're using a high-quality, shielded USB cable and that it's plugged into a USB port directly on your computer, not through a hub. If possible, try a different USB port or a different cable to rule out any issues there.

Update Firmware and Software: Ensure that both your PoKeys57CNC firmware and the Mach4 software are up to date. Firmware updates for your PoKeys board might include optimizations or fixes that address connectivity issues.

USB Polling Rate: This error can also arise from the USB polling rate setting in the PoKeys configuration software. It might be set too high for your system's ability to handle it. Try lowering the polling rate and see if that resolves the error.

Computer Performance: Check your computer’s performance. If it’s running several heavy applications simultaneously, it might not be able to process signals from the PoKeys board fast enough. Try closing unnecessary applications or consider using a dedicated machine if your current setup is too taxed.

Mach 4 and PoKeys Plugin Configuration: Dive into the Mach 4 plugin configuration for PoKeys. Ensure that all settings are correctly configured as per the manual. Incorrect settings might lead to communication bottlenecks.

Connection Quality and Interference: Consider any potential interference sources near your CNC setup or computer. Electromagnetic interference from large motors, other electronics, or long cable runs can affect communication quality. Try rearranging your setup to minimize interference.

Consult Documentation and Support: If the issue persists, consult the detailed documentation provided by PoKeys or reach out to their customer support. They can offer more specific advice based on the latest product updates or known issues.

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[596] I have followed your YouTube video on setting up the pokeys 57cnc board but when I open Mach 4 I get a error message the the connection is to slow

Can you provide the model number of your VFD?

Yes, I have the "YL600 - 2S - 2K20"

It just came with a small booklet that is all in Chinese...

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I WIRED MY VFD (2.2KW VERSION) AND TRIED TEST RUNNING THE SPINDLE. CONFIGURED TO YOUR SPECS ON THIS WEBSITE, ONLY ISSUE IS WE GOT AN ERROR CODE. ERR 02, DO YOU KNOW WHAT IS? OR HAVE A LIST OF CODES? THANK

Yes, we are currently redesigning the entire machine and we will offer plans for the Vertical Laser XL machine as well.

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Hello, I want to put together an XL verticle laser/cnc router. Need to do it on a limited budget. Can get many of the components and can mill most of the structure. Do you offer plans for such a project?

Yes, the 651 oz/in motor requires a driver that is compatible to the motors (the motor will draw 6 amps max and the driver paired with this motor will be able to allow for a 6 amp draw). I would also recommend a 36 volt power supply for better high velocity performance.

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I HAVE ONE OF YOUR SMALLER STEPPER MOTORS RUNNING MY X AXIS BRIDGE CRANE AND IF IT IS MOVED TO FAST THE MOTOR SOUNDS LIKE SKIPPING STEPS WILL 651OZ REQUIRE A DIFFERENT POWER SUPPLY CONTROLER?

Software specific questions for Planet-CNC will have to come from them or other sources as we are not fully equipped to troubleshoot all issues. If the issue is related to motor tuning or setup involving our electronics, then we will gladly assist you. You may contact techsupport@buildyourcnc.com with inquiries.

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What do I need to purchase from you to get me running. I have planet cnc control board but it is difficult contacting them when I need help.

The Breakout Board is a single product assembly, it will not include a short ribbon cable nor connectors. You can find the parts required to build or make your specific ribbon cable in our motion electronics page or follow the links below:

25 Conductor Flat Ribbon Cable: https://buildyourcnc.com/item/electronicsandmotors-connector-DB25-conductor-ribbon-cable

25 pin D-Sub Male connector: https://buildyourcnc.com/item/electronicsandmotors-connector-male-dsub-DB25-ribbon

25 pin D-Sub Female connector: https://buildyourcnc.com/item/electronicsandmotors-connector-female-dsub-DB25-ribbon

You can also buy a complete DB-25 cable:
Male to Female Parallel Cable: https://buildyourcnc.com/item/electronicsAndMotors-cable-wire-db25-male-female
Male to Male Parallel Cable: https://buildyourcnc.com/item/electronicsAndMotors-cable-wire-db25-male-male

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Does the break out board come with the short ribbon connectors? Mine was soldered together and the new one comes with a plug. If it does not come with one where do I get one, I need the short ribbon connector to go with it.

To assemble the blueChick v4.2, you will need two sets of instructions, the assembly instructions for the main body and mechanicals of the CNC machine, and the instructions to connect and test all of the electronics.

The assembly instructions are located at this URL towards the bottom of the page (click on each picture to get a larger view):

https://www.buildyourcnc.com/blueChickVersion42CNCMachineKit.aspx

The instructions to connect and test the electronics can be found at this URL:

https://www.buildyourcnc.com/CNCElectronicsandWiring.aspx

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I have a blueChick version 4.2 CNC Machine with no schematics for it is there anyway possibly i can get them so i can finish putting my cnc together

Yes, we can ship to the UK. We ship there often. The shipping time will be based on the selection you make in the shopping cart when you press the calculate shipping button. We work with many universities and we can process the order according to your administration's needs.

Here is our canned response for general shipping questions:
You can determine if the country is serviceable by:
- selecting the items you want to purchase on the website
- go to the cart (shopping cart top left of any webpage)
- log in, or register
- Enter the address and click on calculate shipping.

The webpage will return the direct rates and whether your area is serviced or not. Feel free to enter any address as long as you are able to receive the package from that address.

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I am running a research project at Bath University in the UK based on desktop CNC machines and their potential use in the department of engineering. Will you guys ship to the UK & what is the estimated time? Thank you.

I looked at a YouTube video and figured out the configuration for the motor mounts.

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Still working on GreenBull 5x10 assembly. Putting together the Z axis my motor mounts don't like the video, so I don't know which one goes where and in what orientation?

WE don't have an actual file that contains the instructions for the machines as they are a part of a larger database file that is queried during the product page's rendering in the browser. The best option would be to print the webpage on a printer and use that as notes.

I know this will not provide larger images, but you could use the paper version to write your notes while assembling the machine using the larger images on the website.

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On the blackFoot 4'x8' CNC machine do you have the instructions under one file that I can download, I want to print them out and make notes as I am building the machine.

That is correct, the only manner to get our machines is to buy one of our kits. We do not provide or sell our plans, the only CNC machine you can find on our website will be the scratch build kit and plans which is a 20' x 40' , (https://buildyourcnc.com/Documents/CNC%20Kit%201-1.pdf).

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So the only way to get one of your machines is to buy it already cut, and/or assembled? I can't cut one on my existing machine?

Could you specify which breakout board you have? If you have a parallel port version, be sure that you have purchased the "legacy" parallel port version from Mach4. If this proves not to be the problem, please feel free to email us directly at techsuport@buildyourcnc.com or call 281-815-7701 for troubleshooting instructions.

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I need a resource, we bought 2 redfly systems and mach 4, We put one motor on for the x axis but cannot get it move. Can you direct us to some tutorial?