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This post is a first PoKeys tutorial in the series of the tutorials for PoKeys57CNC devices. This one will cover the basics on connecting your PoKeys device with the computer and configuring the network connection if it is used. PoKeys57CNC is a blend between general purpose PoKeys device and a USB CNC controller. The device is targeted primarily for controlling up to 8 STEP/DIR signal driven motors (stepper motors, servo drives, etc.) in various applications with the addition of powerful PoKeys device features. Device contains dedicated connectors for connections with motor drivers, pendants, (HD44780-compatible) LCD module, etc. In addition, 5...

Introduction to Mach3 tutorial This is the first Mach3 tutorial in a series of tutorials which will help you to know PoKeys devices and how to use them with Mach 3 software for controlling your CNC machine. The tutorials will begin with simple configurations which will describe how to setup Mach3 and PoKeys plugin properly and then advance to more complex features that the PoKeys devices provide. Installing software and drivers All of the devices interface with Mach3 software via PoKeys plugin which is the same for all of the devices. The devices use USB or Ethernet connection to connect...

This blog article is mostly to explain the confusing PoKeys57CNC pinout, as some users reported it. There is a myriad of connectors and signals, some are labelled as ‘PoKeys pins’, others are not, some have special function (e.g. limit switch inputs), some are general purpose… Short history of PoKeys devices Let’s start with some history on how early PoKeys devices led to PoKeys57CNC device, which has a lot to do on how PoKeys57CNC is laid out. It all started in 2008, when PoLabs presented a humble PoKeys55 keyboard-emulation device (shown below). The keyboard emulation nature is the reason for the...

What is machine homing? Machine homing is a CNC machine (automated) protocol – process, that returns the CNC machine to the Home (known) position which is accurate and repeatable. The homing process requires adding hardware (homing sensor to machine). Machine homing gives a reference position of each axis, Homing position is used to allow for job fixtures and automatic tool changes. Homing protocols – the process requires movement of each axis towards a sensor when the sensor gets a signal, the control software set a zero position on that axis. Zeroing an axis sets absolute machine coordinates to the (home)...

Plasma cutter software troubleshooting guide – Mach3 & Mach4 PoLabs team always listens to your feedback, considering ideas, and uses them for improvements. Support response times are short and always looking forward to solving your problems. The plasma cutter software troubleshooting is depend most on Mach3 and Mach4. We recommend the latest version of the software: Mach3 software and Mach4 software. Plug In For easier solving problems in the system, we recommend the latest Plug In version. The latest version you can find in downloads. Plasma cutter wiring troubleshooting guide Wiring troubleshooting, most open questions, and problems when building CNC plasma cutter and wiring...