Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use Paypal to pay for additional items?
I apologize for the payment system. There are Paypal BuyNow/AddToCart buttons for most items, but not for the many possible options. Please follow this link for instructions on how to pay for additional items with Paypal...

http://www.Stepperworld.com/PayPalHowTo.htm

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Can I run more than one board to control 6 or 8 axis?
Yes. If you want to run more than one board you will need another parallel port. This is fairly easy and inexpensive-  ISA and PCI parallel port cards are available at most computer stores for less than $50. These are new plug-and-play Windows compatible cards.  Keep in mind you will need software to control all these axis!

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What type of input switches should I use?
Use simple open-close type switches.  You do not need to add any voltage or resistors to the switch. Try "Lever" switches, which are inexpensive and commonly used for limit detection.

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Does SP3 have power enough to drive a desktop mill like a Sherline?

Yes, the SP3 has enough power to drive a Sherline mill or lathe. If you are unsure of your future torque requirements, however, you should upgrade to the FET3 board ($50) which can accomodate much larger motors.

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Do you have CNC software to convert G-Code commands to stepper motion?

(Background: Cad and CNC type programs use what is called G-Code software to automate the process of making a part. You design the part in a CAD program and use final G-codes to command your Mill/Lathe, etc.)

The software I provide is intended for basic motor operations via the computer. Source code is also available for people to write their own applications. You can also use third party software.  Here's how it works...

You can use a variety of programs to design your part, engraving, drill pattern, etc. These programs produce an output file which can then be read by a program called a g-code interpreter.  The g-code interpreter reads the output file, optimizes tool paths, and directs the CNC machine (the SP-3) to create the part.  A good g-code interpreter can read these types of files...

G/M code files
Excellon ASCII drill files(.NC)
DXF files(.DXF)
HPGL files(.PLT)
Gerber files(.GB0)

In addition to the VBStepDir Control Panel application, which allows you to manually test and exercise the complete system, each project comes with trial versions of popular g-code software (KCAM,CNC Pro,DeskNC, TurboCNC, Mach2, Mach3) on CD. After you decide which program you like it is up to you to purchase the full version from the appropriate vendor.

Click to visit Stepperworld Software page

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Does SP3/FET3/FET4 work with free software like DeskNC, KCAM, or Stepster?

Click here to visit the Stepperworld Software page.

Yes, these boards use a Step/Direction interface common among most CNC type software.  Detailed interface information is provided.  (SP2 uses what is called 'Phase Drive' interface (4 signal interface), which is not as common.)

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