Controlling a VFD Spindle using 0-10V
Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) are a great way to control CNC spindles. A common method of control is using voltage (0-10V). This post describes how to use this with Brookwood Design's CNC controller boards - T41U5XBB or RP23CNC running grblHAL. Though, the information provided is broadly applicable to many other controllers running Grbl. Our examples are shown using the RP23CNC board but connections to the T41U5XBB are basically the same. What is a VFD? A Variable Frequen
Isolating the Teensy 4.1 from USB Voltage
The Teensy 4.1 is an amazing product not only does it provide incredible compute power in a tiny package but it also is able to supply a good amount of 5V and 3.3V power for numerous peripherals. The T451U5XBB can run a complete CNC machine electronics with just USB power. However, sometimes you need more 5V power than USB can provide. The solution, of course, is an external 5V power supply unit. But, in that case, you will need to avoid joining the external PSU to the US
Using gSender with Ethernet
Ethernet is a great way to communicate with your grblHAL based system. It is reliable and highly resistant to EMI. In the past, though, it has been difficult to set up to use with a CNC system. With grblHAL, a number of boards supporting Ethernet have become available and now a number of GCode Senders work well with Ethernet. We have covered using ioSender with Ethernet. This blog talks about how to use gSender, a very popular GCode sender, from Scienci Labs with it. Firs
Using a CNC Shield with grblHAL controllers
This blog shows how to use a CNC Shield that supports StepStick drivers with boards like the T41U5XBB or RP23CNC. I often receive questions about driving small stepper motors, typically NEMA 17 motors drawing less than 1.5A, with our boards. Using larger drivers like the DM542 for these motors is overkill. The smaller StepStick drivers are less expensive, but require a carrier for power, wiring, and secure mounting. Many people also want to upgrade their 8-bit Arduino Grbl CN
Which is better - Teensy or RP23CNC?
I offer 2 5 Axis boards, the Teensy based T41U5XBB and the RR2350 based RP23U5XBB. People frequently ask for help in selecting between...
