SignTorch
Artist
We will use the relay on output pin 1 on the BOB to fire the torch.
In Mach3, in the CONFIG menu, under PORTS & PINS
On the Output Signals tab set Output #1 to use pin 1
On the Spindle Setup tab set M3 Output # to 1, and spin up/down delays to zero.
Pin 1 actuates one of the relays on the BOB, wire the torch trigger to that relay's NO and COM terminals on BOB.
Now M3 and M5 will trigger the torch on and off.
You may want to make that BOB relay actuate an external double pole relay. That will be useful later for basic height control.
To tap into the plasma cutter trigger wires without cutting any wires, I was able to squeeze 2 standard header pins into the back of the torch board connector, and plug those into a standard .1 pitch two pin plug. I use IDC receptacles, but I solder the wires on, that way it works for any size wire up to 16 ga straight or right angle.
male header pins - 929700-01-36 3M | 3M11971-ND | DigiKey
2 pin plug - 3-643813-2 TE Connectivity | A31107-ND | DigiKey
This shows the plug on a Hypertherm Powermax 65, connecting to the orange and violet wires, which is parallel with the trigger, so either the trigger or torch rely can fire the torch. This would be for a hand torch. A machine torch can utilize the adjacent 4 pin CPC connector (see Arc Ok Signal)
Installed
In Mach3, in the CONFIG menu, under PORTS & PINS
On the Output Signals tab set Output #1 to use pin 1
On the Spindle Setup tab set M3 Output # to 1, and spin up/down delays to zero.
Pin 1 actuates one of the relays on the BOB, wire the torch trigger to that relay's NO and COM terminals on BOB.
Now M3 and M5 will trigger the torch on and off.
You may want to make that BOB relay actuate an external double pole relay. That will be useful later for basic height control.
To tap into the plasma cutter trigger wires without cutting any wires, I was able to squeeze 2 standard header pins into the back of the torch board connector, and plug those into a standard .1 pitch two pin plug. I use IDC receptacles, but I solder the wires on, that way it works for any size wire up to 16 ga straight or right angle.
male header pins - 929700-01-36 3M | 3M11971-ND | DigiKey
2 pin plug - 3-643813-2 TE Connectivity | A31107-ND | DigiKey
This shows the plug on a Hypertherm Powermax 65, connecting to the orange and violet wires, which is parallel with the trigger, so either the trigger or torch rely can fire the torch. This would be for a hand torch. A machine torch can utilize the adjacent 4 pin CPC connector (see Arc Ok Signal)
Installed