Mach3/Gecko G540 setup questions

Hi Everyone,

I have some setup questions....as a total noob....

I've got the Rev3 G540 and the latest stable Mach 3 installed. I used the XML file supplied.

When I hit Page up/down nothing happens even though I have a stepper plugged into the ZAxis port on the unit. If I hit right or left arrow the stepper moves but it moves in only one direction no matter the key hit.

No other axis will take any commands.....

There are no faults on the G540 or in Mach 3.

Could there be a problem with my Parallel cable? I double checked the motor pins for step and direction and they are as stated in the G540 manual.

Any help would be great!

Anybody out there that can help?

Mlabruyere,

There is a good chance you are using a null cable "laplink" by mistake.

You need a straight through cable.

Check it end to end with a VOM.

Jeff...

Thanks Jeff, I think you are right. I have another cable but it's male female....so I tried to make a gender changer. This cable was used on my easy-cnc machine so I know it's a straight through. The gender changer I made didn't work....crud.

I ordered a real gender changer (Belken). Should have it tomorrow. This will take the cable out of the equation.

Matthew

Matthew,

Fry's is not that far away,

http://www.frys.com/isp/sanmarcos.html

Please keep me posted on your progress.

Jeff...

-edit...error

OK.....I got a new straight through cable (male male) and a gender changer for my other cable.

I used the gender changer on my cable I knew to be good and all the axis started to work except the "Y". The "Y" axis would stall and move in one direction then suddenly change direction without a new input.

I then tried the new cable and again everything but the "Y" worked.....frick.

So eliminated the cable as the problem. Software is setup correct......

:idea: Opened the DB9 housing and looky there....a solder joint failed. :mad:

Soldered the wire back and everything works! :wee:

Matthew,

Happy to hear you are on back on track.


Jeff...