[ Log In ]
[ Register ]

Question #: 710

Question: WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A PRINTER CABLE PORT AND USB MOTOR KITS

Current Solution

The parallel (printer cable) port is uses the computer as its main source of pulse trains to operate the motor driver directly. Parallel ports are a direct connection from the processor commonly referred to as GPIO pins (General Purpose I/O pins) and provides a convenient and powerful way to interface with the computer. The parallel breakout board is included in those kits only to condition those signals for use with the drivers.

The USB serves at the actual controller, sending the pulse trains, but the computer sends simple human readable instructions to the USB controller to tell the controller how to send pulses.

The non-technical differences that may serve as the most important information to you is that the parallel configurations allow for a wider variety of industry standard software that can be used to control the cnc machine. The USB that we offer requires the operator to use a software called Planet-CNC software which is a very well made and feature full cnc control software.

Additional Information:


Additional Information:


Additional Information:
USB Motion controller breakout board work with planet cnc software?

Respond:

Other Possible Solutions to this Question

  • WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PARALLEL AND USB ELECTRONICS COMBOS MOTOR KITS

    The parallel (printer cable) port is uses the computer as its main source of pulse trains to operate the motor driver directly. Parallel ports are a direct connection from the processor commonly referred to as GPIO pins (General Purpose I/O pins) and provides a convenient and powerful way to interface with the computer. The parallel breakout board is included in those kits only to condition those signals for use with the drivers.

    The USB serves at the actual controller, sending the pulse trains, but the computer sends simple human readable instructions to the USB controller to tell the controller how to send pulses.

    The non-technical differences that may serve as the most important information to you is that the parallel configurations allow for a wider variety of industry standard software that can be used to control the cnc machine. The USB that we offer requires the operator to use a software called Planet-CNC software which is a very well made and feature full cnc control software.

    Additional Information:


    Additional Information:


    Additional Information:
    USB Motion controller breakout board work with planet cnc software?

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PARALLEL AND USB ELECTRONICS COMBOS MOTOR KITS

  • What is the difference between a NEMA 23 and NEMA 24 motor? can I use either one on a machine?

    The frame size difference of the NEMA 23 and 24 is very slight and, depending on the motor mount both will most likely fit. The bigger difference between these stepping motors is the torque. Make sure that the motor that you purchase has the appropriate torque for the axis that it will move.

    Is is safe to go with the higher torque? Or if the torque is too high for what i need is that bad?

    You can use a motor with higher torque. Just make sure to select the correct driver for that motor.

    Additional Information:
    The frame size has nothing to do with torque. Nema 23 means a 2.3" frame. Nema 24 means a 2.4" frame. That's all. Either could have more or less torque depending on speed and power.

    Additional Information:



    Additional Information:



    Additional Information:



    Additional Information:



    Additional Information:



    Additional Information:

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    What is the difference between a NEMA 23 and NEMA 24 motor? can I use either one on a machine?

  • What is the difference between a NEMA 23 and NEMA 24 motor? can I use either one on a machine?

    The frame size difference of the NEMA 23 and 24 is very slight and, depending on the motor mount both will most likely fit. The bigger difference between these stepping motors is the torque. Make sure that the motor that you purchase has the appropriate torque for the axis that it will move.

    Is is safe to go with the higher torque? Or if the torque is too high for what i need is that bad?

    You can use a motor with higher torque. Just make sure to select the correct driver for that motor.

    Additional Information:
    The frame size has nothing to do with torque. Nema 23 means a 2.3" frame. Nema 24 means a 2.4" frame. That's all. Either could have more or less torque depending on speed and power.

    Additional Information:



    Additional Information:



    Additional Information:



    Additional Information:



    Additional Information:



    Additional Information:

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    What is the difference between a NEMA 23 and NEMA 24 motor? can I use either one on a machine?

  • what is the difference between parallel and USB electronics. I have a laptop that will run the mach3 program.

    The parallel (printer cable) port is uses the computer as its main source of pulse trains to operate the motor driver directly. Parallel ports are a direct connection from the processor commonly referred to as GPIO pins (General Purpose I/O pins) and provides a convenient and powerful way to interface with the computer. The parallel breakout board is included in those kits only to condition those signals for use with the drivers.

    The USB serves at the actual controller, sending the pulse trains, but the computer sends simple human readable instructions to the USB controller to tell the controller how to send pulses.

    The non-technical differences that may serve as the most important information to you is that the parallel configurations allow for a wider variety of industry standard software that can be used to control the cnc machine. The USB that we offer requires the operator to use a software called Planet-CNC software which is a very well made and feature full cnc control software.

    Additional Information:


    Additional Information:


    Additional Information:
    USB Motion controller breakout board work with planet cnc software?

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    what is the difference between parallel and USB electronics. I have a laptop that will run the mach3 program.

  • WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MACH3 AND MACH4?

    Standard Version Features Mach3 Mach4 Hobby Mach4 Industrial
    Number of Planners 1 1 1
    Number of Axis 6 6 6
    Out of Band Axis (OBA) 0 1 6
    Slave axis (uses up coordinated axes) 3 N/A N/A
    Slave motors (does not use up coordinated axes) N/A 4 per Axis 4 per Axis
    API Interface - Open to All Hardware Yes Yes Yes
    Extended Plugin Support Yes Yes Yes
    User customizable GUI Yes Yes Yes
    Unified (GUI) Interface - PLC, CNC, etc.. Yes Yes
    Unlimited IO Yes Yes Yes
    Modbus PLC Yes Yes Yes
    PMC (Ladder Logic addressing for cnc/plc) Yes Yes
    Unlimited File Size Yes Yes
    Tool Path Display Yes Yes Yes
    Tool Path Speed & Quality Low High High
    Scripting - Customization Yes Yes Yes
    LUA Scripting - simple, fast, cross-platform Yes Yes
    - Lua sockets (ftp, http, smtp,..) Yes Yes
    - SSL (security layer) Yes Yes
    - LFS (manage large files and data storage) Yes Yes
    - Seriel port Yes Yes
    - Enraving of part numbers / serial numbering of parts Yes Yes
    - Plugin panel objects Yes Yes
    IPC Library for Data Sharing/tracking (Interprocess communication) Yes Yes
    Full Feature Screens/Controls Per Machine Type Yes Yes
    Currently Availabe: Mill, Router, Lathe, 3d Printer Yes Yes
    Multiple gcode Interpruters (Per Machine Type) Yes Yes
    Probing - Intergrated in standard screens Yes Yes
    Simulated 3d Machining (with additional plugin license) Yes Yes
    Tool Life Management (G10 L3 command) Yes
    Screw Mapping Yes
    Professional Screen Designer (advanced G.U.I.) Yes
    - Screen Animation Control Yes
    - Screen Integrated Tool Table Control Yes
    - Screen Integrated Work Offset Control Yes
    - Screen Integrated gcode editor Yes
    - Screen Artsoft Wizard Package Integration Yes
    Macro B gcode Programming (#variables) Yes
    - User definable gcodes via marco calls Yes
    - Macro Calls: G65, G66, G66.1 Yes
    - gcode via marco call (custom G codes via macro B) Yes
    - mcode via macro call (custom M codes via macro B) Yes
    - mcode via sub code (custom M code via sup program) Yes
    - Conditional gcodes Yes
    - set VN call - define variable names Yes
    gcode Editor Included Yes
    Scripted M code (custom M code via LUA script) Yes Yes
    Variable Speed Spindle Yes Yes Yes
    Spindle Relay Yes Yes Yes
    Coolant relay Yes Yes Yes
    Mist Relay Yes Yes Yes
    Threading Yes Yes Yes
    Rigid Tapping Yes Yes Yes
    Single Block Yes Yes Yes
    Block Delete Yes Yes Yes
    Optional Stop Yes Yes Yes
    MACH CNC CONTROL SOFTWARE MAIN FEATURES AND VERSION DIFFERENCES
    Standard Version Features Mach3 Mach4 Hobby Mach4 Industrial
    MACH CNC CONTROL SOFTWARE MAIN FEATURES AND VERSION DIFFERENCES
    Cutter Comp Yes Yes Yes
    Fanuc Type C Cutter Comp Yes Yes
    Fixture Offsets Yes Yes Yes
    G51 Scaling Yes Yes Yes
    G92 Offsets Yes Yes Yes
    G52 Offsets Yes Yes Yes
    Event Driven Yes Yes
    Multi Line MDI Yes Yes
    Subs In MDI Yes Yes
    OpenGL Optimization Yes Yes
    Multi-platform OS Compatibility Option Yes Yes
    Online Support Yes Yes Yes
    Phone Support Option Available Yes
    Support Priority Yes
    Available to End Users as "Do-it-yourself" Yes Yes
    Summary - Mach3 versus Mach4 :
    Mach4 Hobby is the closest comparable version to Mach3, yet it is still much more advanced. The price point of these versions is nearly
    identical. Mach3 is very popular for hobby enthusiest and is used in highly modified form by some great OEM's. In general, Mach4 is more
    complex than Mach3 and follows cnc industry standards. Mach3 has many customizations to make it easier for hobby users, but can lead to
    difficulties if users plan to apply their knowledge to more advanced systems. Mach4 is built as a full featured cnc controller capable of high
    speed machining for servo and stepper systems. Mach3's feature set is complete, while Mach4's will continue to expand. If you are new to cnc,
    Artsoft highly recommends using and learning Mach4 even if it appears that Mach3's feature set will be adequate for your needs.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MACH3 AND MACH4?

  • WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PARALLEL BREAKOUT BOARD AND USB ITERFACE?

    The parallel (printer cable) port is uses the computer as its main source of pulse trains to operate the motor driver directly. Parallel ports are a direct connection from the processor commonly referred to as GPIO pins (General Purpose I/O pins) and provides a convenient and powerful way to interface with the computer. The parallel breakout board is included in those kits only to condition those signals for use with the drivers.

    The USB serves at the actual controller, sending the pulse trains, but the computer sends simple human readable instructions to the USB controller to tell the controller how to send pulses.

    The non-technical differences that may serve as the most important information to you is that the parallel configurations allow for a wider variety of industry standard software that can be used to control the cnc machine. The USB that we offer requires the operator to use a software called Planet-CNC software which is a very well made and feature full cnc control software.

    Additional Information:


    Additional Information:


    Additional Information:
    USB Motion controller breakout board work with planet cnc software?

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PARALLEL BREAKOUT BOARD AND USB ITERFACE?

  • WHAT THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN 3 AXIS AND 5 CNC?

    3 axis machines cannot create undercuts in the part.

    These videos show the capabilities of 3 and 5 axis machining:

    3-axis CNC:

    &feature=fvwrel

    5-axis CNC:
    &feature=related

    Additional Information:


    Additional Information:


    Additional Information:


    Additional Information:


    Additional Information:


    Additional Information:


    Additional Information:

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    WHAT THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN 3 AXIS AND 5 CNC?

  • WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ROCK CRYSTAL ?

    The first number is the amount of chromium that is contained in the stainless, i.e., 18 is 18% chromium. The second number is the amount of nickel, i.e., 8 stands for 8% nickel. So 18/8 means that this stainless steel contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel. 18/10 is 18% chromium and 10% nickel. The higher the numbers the more corrosion resistant the material. 18/0 is a misleading designation. Both 18/8 and 18/10 contain nickel and are part of the grade family "300 series" stainless. 18/0 means that there is 18% chromium but zero nickel. When there is no nickel the stainless grade family is the "400 series". 400 series are not as corrosion resistant as the 300 series and are magnetic, where the 300 series are non-magnetic.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ROCK CRYSTAL ?

  • WHATISTHE DIFFERENCE WTIH THE PARALLEL BREAKOUT BOARD AND USB BOARD?

    The parallel is the most versatile breakout board we have and will work with most of the software out there, but many computers are not equipped with parallel connectors anymore. Parallel adapter cards are available if you don't have a parallel connection on your computer.

    The USB interface must be used only with the planet-cnc software, which is great software, but you are still limited to only that software application. This is actually the least expensive option unless you use linux and go with the above option.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    WHATISTHE DIFFERENCE WTIH THE PARALLEL BREAKOUT BOARD AND USB BOARD?

  • WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE IN A 2.5 AXIS MACHINE?

    An axis is a direction of motion controlled by the CNC machine control. It can be linear (motion along a straight line) or circular (a rotary motion). The number of axes a machine has determines it's machining capabilities. A 2.5 axis machine really has three moving axes, but only two axes can move together (most machines sold today are full three axis machines). For machining centers, a three axis machine will have three linear axes. A four or five axis machine will have three linear axes as well as one or two rotary axes.

    Note that 2.5 versus 3 axis has yet another context. 2.5 axis machining requires that the machine have three axes, but only two axes must be moving simultaneously at any one time. (Simple operations, like drilling and most milling, fall into this category). On the other hand 3-axis machining requires that all three axes be moving at the same time (More complex operations, like the machining of sculptured surfaces required in molds and airfoils, fall into this category.)

    Additional Information:


    Additional Information:

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE IN A 2.5 AXIS MACHINE?

  • What is the difference between the 3 Blacktooth laser packages offered? Specifically, one with/without a computer? Why do I need one? Also, is the $2100 assembled vs the $1700 which is not? What am I paying $400 more for?

    If you read the description the first uses a parallel interface for computer hookup. The second uses USB interface for computer hookup. The third utilizes an integrated computer which is built into the package thus you do not need an external computer.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    What is the difference between the 3 Blacktooth laser packages offered? Specifically, one with/without a computer? Why do I need one? Also, is the $2100 assembled vs the $1700 which is not? What am I paying $400 more for?

  • IS THERE A WAY TO GET RID OF THE PARALLEL CABLE AND SOMEHOW USE USB ?

    If you select the Settings Page and select or tick Auto Limit Override - this will allow you to back off the switch.

    Additional Information:
    limit and home switch

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    IS THERE A WAY TO GET RID OF THE PARALLEL CABLE AND SOMEHOW USE USB ?

  • Is there a wiring diagram for hooking up your hex inverter between your USB breakout board and the controller?

    The use of the hex inverter in the application to invert a direction signal to have a motor run in the reverse directions is relatively simple.

    First, go to this link and look at the chip diagram:
    https://www.buildyourcnc.com/item/electronicsAndMotors-hex-inverter-breakout-newbiehack-integrated_circuits-hex-inverter

    Connect 5V from the USB interface tothe VCC pin. The pin on the keyboard jog header can be used. Connect the GND pin from the USB interface to the GND pin on the hex inverter. Connect the CW terminal from the USB interface to the 1A pin on the hex inverter. Connect the 1Y pin from the hex inverter to the driver.

    Additional Information:
    I got a question??? I am a dummy when it comes to cnc. I got 6040 1500kw water cold engraver 3 axis from china. I can not get anything out of them pertaining help they keep telling me the same thing over and over and over and I'm doing it and send them pictures that I know. Anyway email me a wiring diagram for the PRT 1500 watt spindle motor control box and has the emergency stop on and off switch manual PC and of course yhe screanm fultonsbusiness@gmail.com

    Additional Information:
    I got a question??? I am a dummy when it comes to cnc. I got 6040 1500kw water cold engraver 3 axis from china. I can not get anything out of them pertaining help they keep telling me the same thing over and over and over and I'm doing it and send them pictures that I know. Anyway email me a wiring diagram for the PRT 1500 watt spindle motor control box and has the emergency stop on and off switch manual PC and of course yhe screanm fultonsbusiness@gmail.com

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    Is there a wiring diagram for hooking up your hex inverter between your USB breakout board and the controller?

  • WHAT LENGTH OF MOTOR CABLE SHOULD BE USED WTIH THE BLUECHICK V4.2

    The recommended total length of motor cable should be 15 feet for the blueChick v4.2

    Z - 6 feet
    Y - 5 feet
    X- 4 feet

    20 AWG 4 conductor

    If your drivers will be positioned farther from the machine, you may need longer cable.

    Additional Information:

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    WHAT LENGTH OF MOTOR CABLE SHOULD BE USED WTIH THE BLUECHICK V4.2

  • What is the number of pole pairs and rotor inertia for NEMA 23 Stepping motor?

    You can find the wiring diagram, and technical specifications for the NEMA 23 motor, on it's product page, found here,

    https://www.buildyourcnc.com/Item/electronicsAndMotors-nema23-100ozin-newbiehack-motors-stepping_motors-100_ozin

    There is a datasheet below the product description. This image will expand to be easier visible once clicked on.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    What is the number of pole pairs and rotor inertia for NEMA 23 Stepping motor?

  • What is the usb port for on the 5 Axis Breakout Board with Relay ($28.50)?

    The USB port located on the parallel 5 axis breakout board is for powering the board. There is no communications related to this port.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    What is the usb port for on the 5 Axis Breakout Board with Relay ($28.50)?

  • 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?

    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:



    There is no vacuum control on the Planet-CNC program, however you could use the same concept of the router/spindle on/off using the relay circuit. Although you will have to use either the flood or mist function for the vacuum.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    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?

  • What power supply would be adequate for the whiteAnt 3D printer?

    The whiteAnt will work with a 6 amp 12 volt power supply. If you add more peripherals to the machine, like heating bed, you will want higher current. Each motor draws 3.0 amps at full torque. Most of the time, only the x and y axes are moving at the same time, and the drivers are only allowing a max of 2.5 amps and they should be set for about 2.0 amps so they don't overheat (they have overheat protection and the LED will light up, so you will be fine if it does overheat, but your model may suffer). The remaining current will be enough to keep the hot end heated.

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    What power supply would be adequate for the whiteAnt 3D printer?

  • I am wiring my breakout board and it has a USB port on it. Is the USB port there to supply the 5 volt power to it?

    For our parallel breakout board (https://www.buildyourcnc.com/item/electronicsAndMotors-parallel-breakout-relay#prettyPhoto/2/) the schematic will show the connections going from the BB to the drivers. The parallel breakout board uses the 25 pin parallel connection to communicate from the computer to drivers, and the USB is used to power the main-board itself, supplying 5V.

    Additional Information:



    Additional Information:



    Additional Information:

    Click the link to add information to this solution:
    I am wiring my breakout board and it has a USB port on it. Is the USB port there to supply the 5 volt power to it?

Get Help with:
This Product
Orders
Tech Support
Sales
This Product
Order Query
Tech Support
Sales
Not logged in. Log In Register
Track Order(s)
View Order(s)
I Want to Schecule a One-On-One Paid Tech Support Session
Book an Appointment Pertaining to a BuildYourCNC Product (Free)
Ask a Quesion Below (Free):
Book an Appointment Pertaining Other Equipment ($60/half hour)
Book an Immedite Appointment Pertaining Other Equipment ($120/half hour)
Ask a Quesion Below (Free):
Waiting for response... I may not answer immediately, but I was notified on my cellular phone so my response is forthcoming. If I don't respond immediately, you can always go to the [My Account] page to see all of our chats at any time.