 |
|
The CNC Controller
The CNC controller is the heart of any CNC system. Without a controller, there would be no CNC as we know it. A controller completes the all important link between a computer system and the mechanical components of a CNC machine. A controller’s primary task is to drive electric motors that in turn drive a CNC machine, with the help of a mechanical drive system. Before the advent of microprocessors or computers, NC controllers held the stage. Computerized Numerically Controlled (CNC) controllers are sometimes still refereed to as Numerically Controlled (NC) controllers. Although this term is still technically correct. The term NC controller is usually used when describing older controllers. A Brief History 
The program was edited and programmed with the very basic computers of the time. The program would then be transported to the controller via a tape. This permitted the program instructions to be read by the controller's tape reader only once and then stored in the controller's memory. Magnetic tape recorders and floppy disk drives were also being used for program recording and storage. There were no direct links between the computer and controller on early systems. Debugging an N/C program before the advent of the computerized NC required making a new tape, trying out the new tape, finding the next error, making another tape, and so on. The process of debugging a new program could require making a dozen or more punched tapes until an error free program was achieved. Engineering changes required a new tape to be made and debugged. Modern Controllers The controllers today do far more than drive motors. Some controller systems have the capabilities to detect and control limit switches , spindles speeds, coolant flow, and more. Modern controllers still require operators to create a program for the controller to follow. Operators today receive help from CNC Software Software such as Computer-Aided Design (CAD) packages and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software along with the controller software to are used to create the necessary numerical code such as G-code. The controllers’ today range from professional standalone system, with their own keyboard and
user interface
, to hobby use CNC controllers that require a personal computer. Types of Controllers CNC Controllers can be broken down into two broad categories. Further more, controllers can be broken down into two categories with respect to cost and abilities. Professional Controller Systems 
- found on high end machine, are usually standalone systems that offer their own user interface panel and many features. This section will discuss features and types of controllers that fit into this category. We’ll also look at some general pricing. Hobby CNC Controller systems - are generally much cheaper and usually require an external computer system and do not come with a user interface system. 
In this section we’ll look at all types of CNC controllers that fit in this category, including pricing, feature, brands, and more. This section continues the
Builder’s Guide section
. We’ll discuss what features and specifications you should look for and how to match a controller with your system. Building your own controller For those who whish to save a few pennies and just need a simple controller to drive motors there is the option of building your own. 
This section will cover a complete guide on building your own CNC controller. We’ll cover everything from components to circuit boards and soldering techniques. Back to the Builder's Guide
|
