CNC controller Mk3

This product is available in our web shop: CNC controller Mk3.

PlanetCNC hardware:
PlanetCNC series of USB CNC motion controllers serve as a link between a personal computer and motor drivers that support step/direction control. PlanetCNC series of motion controllers are compatible with most motor drivers. Controllers use the USB or Ethernet port, available on all modern computers and laptops. PlanetCNC motion controllers can serve as direct replacement or upgrade for many parallel port breakout boards.

PlanetCNC software:
PlanetCNC motion control system provides a complete, fully integrated software/hardware solution. Additional machine control software is NOT required. The PlanetCNC TNG motion control software is a dedicated application, designed to fully exploit the features of the purpose-built hardware. It has many advanced features to assist day-to-day CNC machine operation.

• works with PC/Laptop running :
  • Windows 7,8 or 8.1, 10, 11 (32 bit or 64bit)
  • Linux 64-bit OS
  • Intel based iMAC with High Sierra or newer OS
• Raspberry Pi 3 and Pi4 running Raspbian
• advanced interpolation algorithms for smoother motion and toolpath optimization
• standard RS274/NGC G-code
• advanced G-codes - G40, G41, G42 (Cutter Radius Compensation) supported
• advanced G-codes - G43, G49 (Tool Length Offsets) supported
• advanced G-codes - G54, G59.3 (Coordinate System Origins) supported
• tested with SolidCAM, MasterCAM, ArtCAM, SheetCAM, Vectric, DeskProto, CamBam, MeshCAM, LightBurn… generated G-code
• Profili2 and DevFoam 4-axes and 3-axes G-code for foam-cutting supported
• import toolpath from DXF files
• import toolpath from PLT/HPGL files
• import toolpath from SVG files
• import toolpath from image files
• import toolpath from CSV files
• import toolpath from NC-Drill (Excellon) files
• import toolpath from Gerber (RS-274X) files
• export toolpath to G-code
• export toolpath to DXF
• export toolpath to CSV
• automatic homing procedure
• multiple languages supported
• import of language files supported
• built-in support for manual and automatic toolchange procedure
• import of backup machine profile supported
• export of backup machine profile supported
• multiple view of toolpath supported
• built-in manual gcode editor supported
• gcode program line bookmarking supported
• gcode program line search tool supported
• MDI command history supported
• Transformation of gcode program supported (Transformation from points)
• Gcode program manipulation tools supported (Shift, Scale, Mirror, Rotate…)
• Warp supported (curved surface compensation)
• Copy and swap tools for XYZ, UVW axes supported
• Machine Start, Stop, Pause, Estop control supported
• Start from selected program line supported
• Start from beginning to bookmark supported
• Start from bookmark to bookmark supported
• Start from bookmark to end supported
• gcode program loop execution supported
• Mist control supported
• Flood control supported
• Spindle CW, CCW control supported
• digital outputs control supported
• axis motor enable control supported
• soft limits supported
• hard limits supported
• probe trigger for simulation purposes supported
• tool table with integrated feed&speed calculator supported
• tool length measurement supported
• G28 and G30 home positions supported
• unwind tool for ABC rotational axes supported
• work position measure height supported
• coordinate systems supported
• coordinate systems edit table supported
• built in machining cycles supported
• probe measure procedures supported (inside, outside corner, edge, edge angle, hole center, slot, protrusion measurement)
• point measurement supported
• camera supported
• user commands supported
• gcode scripts for flexible machine behavior supported
• Expression file advanced functions supported
• USB file for advanced USB communication of external equipment supported
• Python scripts for advanced external processes supported
• backlash compensation
• customization of GUI supported
• SDK (software developers kit) available

• 1 GHz or faster processor
• 512MB RAM
• 500 MB available hard disk space
• Graphics with OpenGL support
• USB 2.0 or 3.0 port
• .NET Framework 3.5 SP1

• 2 GHz or faster processor
• 2GB RAM
• 500 MB available hard disk space
• Graphics with OpenGL support
• USB 3.0 port
• .NET Framework 3.5 SP1

• USB and Ethernet connection
• 9 STEP & DIRECTION axis outputs for stepper and servo motors
• 110 kHz maximum step frequency, configurable minimum pulse width, 50% duty cycle at higher frequencies
• 8 digital outputs on board (3 digital outputs configurable as:TTL, frequency, PWM or RC servo motors signal outputs)
• additional inputs and outputs with ExtInOut boards available(currently up to 32)
• jogging keyboard supported
  • Speed potentiometer, shift, step and ALT features are supported
• 8 limit switch inputs with shift feature (buffered for maximum performance)
• 8 digital inputs
  • Buffered for maximum performance
  • Tool length sensor configuration supported
  • Movable sensor configuration supported
  • Measure probe configuration supported
• Dedicated Inputs for spindle encoder and index signals for spindle synchronization (buffered for maximum performance)
• 4 analog inputs
• Wireless MPG pendant support
• I2C protocol interface supported
• UART protocol interface supported
• SSP protocol interface supported
• CAN interface (currently in development)

Installation of PlanetCNC Mk3/4 controller requires a USB equipped PC or a laptop, along with motor drivers appropriate to the motors in use. The Mk3/4 controller is compatible with the vast majority of motor drivers that use step/direction signals.

Optional support hardware can be employed to customize installation to suit user requirement. Such as opto isolative adapter boards for safer and robust connection with external equipment.

For maximum flexibility in controller layout, a ribbon cable and plug kit is available. This aids the construction of longer cables and ensures plug-in connections correspond to the USB CNC Controller pin outs.

Each connector controls one motor driver. Controller has 4 connectors for axes 1-4.

Pins 2, 4, 6,7, 8 and 10 provide the ‘Ground’ or common side of connections.

All signals are also available on screw type connector and 25 pin header.

Axes are usually named like this: Axis 1=X, Axis 2=Y, Axis 3=Z…

On some machines this can be different. For example foam cutter uses names such as Axis 1=A, Axis 2=Y, Axis 3=U, Axis 4=V. Lathes use Axis 1=Z, Axis 2=X. Configuration of axes, as well as their naming can be set in File/Settings/Axes.

CONNECTOR PIN DESCRIPTION:

+5V: +5V power. Motor drivers can take power for logic circuit or common anode connection from the USB controller.

ERR: Error signal from driver to controller

STEP: Provides a STEP signal of minimum 12 us pulse width to the motor driver.

DIR: Provides DIR or DIRECTION signal to the motor driver.

ENABLE: Provides an ENABLE signal for motor drivers. When the ENABLE signal is lost due to output command, E-Stop or limit switch activation, motor drivers will deactivate. A dedicated E-Stop switch connected to the CTRL or INPUT connector can control the signal. It can also be operated by limit switch activation, software command or on shutdown of the control software. This arrangement provides a useful safety feature that can be user-configured to operate under manual and/or computer control.

GND: Ground connections

Switched operation of JOG 1-8 controls manual jogging. Jogging keyboards can use a ‘SHIFT’ key, allowing Mk3/4 controller users to jog additional axes or toggle the option of jog ‘step’ mode. ‘SHIFT’ key function is defined in settings, as is the ‘step’ value for each key press. Jogging directions and axis assignment can be defined in 'settings'.

CONNECTOR PIN DESCRIPTION:

A typical use might be as below: JOG 1: Jog Axis 1 in negative direction.

JOG 2: Jog Axis 1 in positive direction.

JOG 3: Jog Axis 2 in negative direction.

JOG 4: Jog Axis 2 in positive direction.

JOG 5: Jog Axis 3 in negative direction.

JOG 6: Jog Axis 3 in positive direction.

JOG 7: Jog Axis 4 in negative direction.

JOG 8: Jog Axis 4 in positive direction.

SHIFT: Toggles 'step' jog mode or jogging for additional axes.

ALT1: Selects different jog mode

ALT2: Selects different jog mode

+3.3V: Power for jogging speed POT

POT: Jogging speed POT

GND: Ground connections

LIMIT 1-8 connects limit switches. Switches are connected between LIMIT pin and GND pin.

NORMAL: Each switch is connected to its own pin.

LIMIT 1: Axis 1 negative limit.

LIMIT 2: Axis 1 positive limit.

LIMIT 3: Axis 2 negative limit.

LIMIT 4: Axis 2 positive limit.

LIMIT 5: Axis 3 negative limit.

LIMIT 6: Axis 3 positive limit.

LIMIT 7: Axis 4 negative limit.

LIMIT 8: Axis 4 positive limit.

SHIFT: Toggle Limit switch options.

GND: Ground

SHIFT OFF: Axes 1 to 4 limits are selected

SHIFT ON: Axes 5 to 8 limits are selected

SINGLE INPUT: Both axis limit switches are connected to one pin. Direction of travel determines if positive or negative switch is triggered.

LIMIT 1: Axis 1 positive and negative limit.

LIMIT 2: Axis 1 positive and negative limit.

LIMIT 3: Axis 2 positive and negative limit.

LIMIT 4: Axis 2 positive and negative limit.

LIMIT 5: Axis 3 positive and negative limit.

LIMIT 6: Axis 3 positive and negative limit.

LIMIT 7: Axis 4 positive and negative limit.

LIMIT 8: Axis 4 positive and negative limit.

GND: Ground

E-STOP: E-Stop.

MD1: Mode switch.

MD2: Mode switch.

AX1: Axis switch.

AX2: Axis 3 negative limit:

EN1A: Encoder for MPG.

EN1B: Encoder for MPG.

IDX: Index signal for spindle synchronization.

+5V: Power supply for encoder.

EN2B: Additional encoder.

EN2A: Additional encoder.

EN3B/AX3: Axis switch for additional axes or encoder.

EN3A/MD3: Mode switch or encoder.

EN4B: Encoder for spindle synchronization.

EN4A: Encoder for spindle synchronization.

GND: Ground

Axis switch logic table:

Axis 1: AX1 pin activated

Axis 2: AX2 pin activated

Axis 3: AX1 pin and AX2 pin activated

Axis 4: AX1 pin and AX3 pin activated

Axis 5: AX2 pin and AX3 pin activated

Axis 6: AX1,AX2 pins and AX3 pin activated

Mode switch logic table:

Mode 1: MD1 pin activated

Mode 2: MD2 pin activated

Mode 3: MD1 pin and MD2 pin activated

Mode 4: MD1 pin and MD3 pin activated

Mode 5: MD2 pin and MD3 activated

Mode 6: MD1, MD2 pins and MD3 pin activated

INPUT1: Assignable input 1.

INPUT2: Assignable input 2.

INPUT3: Assignable input 3.

INPUT4: Assignable input 4.

INPUT5: Assignable input 5:

INPUT6: Assignable input 6.

INPUT7: Assignable input 7.

INPUT8: Assignable input 8.

+5V: Power supply.

GND: Ground.

OUTPUT1: Digital output 1.

OUTPUT2: Digital output 2.

OUTPUT3: Digital output 3.

OUTPUT4: Digital output 4.

OUTPUT5: Digital output 5:

OUTPUT6: Digital output 6.

OUTPUT7: Digital output 7.

OUTPUT8: Digital output 8.

+5V: Power supply.

GND: Ground.

OUT 1, 2 and 6 can generate PWM signal, RC servo signal or frequency modulation.

This connector allows use of EXT, I2C and UART protocol devices.

CLK: EXT CLK signal

MISO: EXT MISO signal

SCL: I2C1 SCL signal

TX: UART1 TX signal

+5V: +5.0V supply

SSEL: EXT SSEL signal

MOSI: EXT MOSI signal

SDA: I2C1 SDA signal

RX: UART1 RX signal

GND: Ground

This connector allows use of EXT, I2C and UART protocol devices.

CLK: EXT CLK signal

MISO: EXT MISO signal

SCL: I2C2 SCL signal

TX: UART2 TX signal

+5V: +5.0V supply

SSEL: EXT SSEL signal

MOSI: EXT MOSI signal

SDA: I2C2 SDA signal

RX: UART2 RX signal

GND: Ground

This connector allows use of CAN protocol devices.
PLEASE NOTE: CAN INTERFACE IS CURRENTLY UNDER DEVELOPMENT

GND: Ground

CANL: CANL CAN signal

+5V: +5.0V supply

+5V: +5.0V supply

CANH: CANH CAN signal

GND: Ground

PLEASE NOTE: Input pins on this header are not filtered and buffered.

AUX1: Auxiliary analog/digital input pin

AUX2: Auxiliary analog/digital input pin

AUX3: Auxiliary analog/digital input pin

AUX4: Auxiliary analog/digital input pin

+3.3V: +3.3V supply

+5V: +5.0V supply

GND: Ground connections

A potentiometer attached to this connector provides a manual jog speed control when using jogging keyboard connected to JOG connector. Mk3 controller also has this pins on jogging connector.

+3.3V: +3.3V power supply for use with potentiometers. POT: 5k or 10k ohm, logarithmic taper potentiometer can be connected to provide a jog speed control. GND: Ground

The Mk3 USB CNC controller connects to computer via the USB port. The port uses the USB 2.x standard.

The Mk3 USB CNC controller connects to computers via the Ethernet port.

The controller should be powered with an external power supply.
Mk3 controller hardware requires 8 - 24V DC supply
Power supply should be at least 200mA

The user is provided with helpful feedback and live ‘status’ information via on-board LED indicators.

There are four indicators:

POWER: Lights when the controller is powered.

DATA: Indicates controller functions.

LINK: Indicates controller communication.

STATUS: Blinks to indicate controller function is ‘good’.

Mk3 controller has 8 dedicated limit switch inputs. You can use 'Normal' or 'Single Input' method of wiring.

-When 'Normal' method is used, each axis limit switch has its designated limit pin.

-When 'Single input' method is used, both limit switches are connected to one limit pin. Either parallel wiring of NO switches or serial wiring of NC switches can be used.

Since Mk3 controller does not have screw type connector mounted on the board, 16-pin screw adapter or OptoIso Limit optoisolative adapter board for safer and more robust connection can be used.

NO or NC type switches can be used. When NC type switches are used, 'Invert Limit' function must be enabled in software.

Each limit switch is connected to its own limit input pin:

'Normal' wiring method of limit switches using 16-pin screw adapter board(on picture for one axis only):

Single input parallel wiring method of NO limit switches using 16-pin screw adapter board(on picture for one axis only):

Single input serial wiring method of NC limit switches using 16-pin screw adapter board(on picture for one axis only):

Mk3 has eight assignable inputs.

Since Mk3 controller does not have screw type connector mounted on the board, 10-pin screw adapter or OptoIso Input optoisolative adapter board for safer and more robust connection can be used.

Bellow is wiring diagram and picture of connected tool sensor to Mk3 controller using 10-pin screw adapter board:

Wiring diagrams for COMMON CATHODE and COMMON ANODE connection of motor driver:

Picture bellow demonstrates the connection of 2.5A Motor driver to Mk3 controller and connection of stepper motor and power supply to 2.5A motor driver. Since this motor driver uses 10-pin header and ribbon cable, connection is pretty much trivial:

Picture bellow demonstrates connection of motor driver to Mk3 controller with screw type adapter and connection of controllers external power supply:

• use Ethernet connection. Ethernet is more robust and resilient to external EM interference
• use double-shielded USB cable, with its length not exceeding 1.8m
• Mk3/9 controller should use dedicated power supply, 8-24VDC, 200mA
• use shielded cables for connection of motor drivers and stepper/servo motors
• for safer and robust connection of limit switches and control inputs, probes, sensors use OptoIso adapter boards