2015-11-26 project

Problem: I got this system 8 or so years ago to learn machining and build robots. At the time I was learning plenty with manual milling and didn't really step up to do real CNC machining until much later. That's when I realized:

• Didn't come with spindle CNC instructions (encoder, driving)
• This is not a Sherline option
  • Although the encoder does look like the Sherline one
• The company that did it went out of bussiness

I could try poking around CNCZone and such (probably still should) its probably simple enough that some reasonably quick tinkering will get it working. I tried guessing settings in the Axis GUI before without success.

Standard Sherline driver box has a mini-DIN connector on the side labeled “Spindle”. This goes to the spindle controller that has a matching plug as well as an RJ-11 for a tachometer. The spindle controller also has a switch for “manual” or “CNC”. When flipped to CNC the spindle stops.

The driver box has a 26 pin header (J6) that is presumably for accessories. An IDC cable runs to an IDC to mini-DIN converter board is mounted to the top of the driver box. It has a few capacitors (PWM smoothing?) but is otherwise blank. There are unused pads for some ICs and other components. I suspect the mini-DIN is essentially directly connected to the DB-25.