NEW!  MP3000-DTHC:   BETTER, FASTER, MORE FEATURES and

LOWER COST!!!

MP3000-THC Digital Torch Height Control with I/O cards
Complete Port Interfcare including Motor Signals, and machine interface I/O

NEW LOWER PRICE!!!  $575
 with matching cards

 

With exclusive UBOB Universal Breakout Board

The MP3000-THC is our new 3rd Generation Digital Torch Height Control.  With features that are equal to units costing thousands of dollars, the MP3000-DTHC will set a new standard for cost effective torch height control.  Utilizing the latest in embedded processor technology, this unit has been engineered to not only do the THC function but to provide a new level of machine-software interface.  Built to work with the popular MACH3 software controller it can be controlled from the the MACH3 screens.  This is truly the next generation in low cost CNC controls and torch height.  Read the features list and discover that the MP3000-DTHC is more than just a THC.  It will be the hub of your CNC machine. We designed this to be as “plug-n-play” as possible. It requires the absolute minimum of user modifications.   It ships with the appropriate profiles for MACH3 setup and THC values.  Custom screens for THC are also included.The MP3000-DTHC is a complete interface solution.  No other Breakout cards needed for motor signals, added outputs or isolated inputs. 

You won't find another solution for building a professional plasma/flame cutting system at ANY price that has more features or is as easy to setup and use as the MP3000-DTHC.  Don't believe us?  Go to our handy comparison chart and use it to shop other vendors on a feature by feature basis then when you get to the all important $$$ columun, it makes the decison easy.  Don't forget you are getting a CNC interface system AND a modern Digital THC in one box.

CandCNC has been designing and selling CNC interface components including low cost Torch Height Controllers for over 4 years.  We have hundreds of our first, and second generation units in the field and WORKING!  We know how to use our products in real production cutting environments and how the software and hardware works together. 

FEATURES:

  • Uses PC based constant velocity MACH3 Software
  • Single parallel port solution. No second port card to install/setup/troubleshoot.
  • Buffered Step & Direction for direct interface to Motor Drives...no added cards or BOB's needed! 
  • 100% Digital Closed Loop Control
  • Run with presets or adjust on the fly.  On screen "Profiles" to let you setup automatic settings for any type of cutting. 
  • Control the cut gap (tip volts) on the fly or from a preset
  • Full THC features including CV tuning, Response Profile, Head Lock, and Anti-corner Dive settings
  • All Parameters are displayed and set from our custom screen menus.  You have total control over the way the THC responds and cuts. NO KNOBS to Twist!
  • Exclusive Self-test allows instant checking of THC to PC communications and proper THC functions; all at the press of one button.
  • Arc Volts Tracking within 1/4 volt
  • Buffered 4 or 5 channels of Step and Direction (one hardware slaved)
  • Expanded Opto isolated inputs (all inputs)
  • Exclusive PORT STRETCHER technology doubles the I/O from one port.
  • Up to six optional computer controlled relays for control of external motors, lights, and vacuum systems.
  • Input for Panic/Safety Stop Switches
  • Table mount I/O card (included) connects to Controller via standard DB25 cable
  • LED status indicators on Table I/O card for easy visual checks
  • Screen indicators of THC condition status
  • Simple wiring.. All connections to MP3000-THC are via standard DB 25 or DB 9 cables
  • One click software install for setup files (Profiles, screens, default settings).
  • Unit comes stock with Table I/O Card, AXIS I/O Extension Card (MTA100) and THC Sensor Card
  • Two Year Limited Warranty Parts and Labor (Depot only)
  • UNLIMITED FREE Support via e-mail and Support Site 

The Software

Mach3 has set a new standard for features and flexibility.  It is the first Windows CNC application to offer an open development environment for plug-ins, multiple machine profiles, advanced constant velocity motion contol and a custom developer API.  You have full access to the features that compliment plasma cutting using our custom screen and setup files. Every MP3000-THC ships with the files you need on CD   The MP3000-DTHC is the first THC product to take full advantage of the MACH3 interface to actually let the control software talk directly with the THC Controller hardware.  The Preset Torch Volts and the Actual Torch Volts are displayed and set from the MACH screen.

 

Sample MACH3 MP3000-DTHC custom screen

When you push the CUT PROFILE Button a screen pops up that lets you select the cut parameters from a list or allows you to ADD profiles to build your own list. Some items (top section) are for reference only to save looking them up in a manual.  THC specific items such as TIP VOLT PRESET and the Head Lock and Fault Point values are set from this screen

ADVANCED DTHC Features

No other THC (ATHC;VTHC,etc) has the level of control and features as our new MP3000-DHTC.  Using advanced processor technology, the THC can be set to respond to cutting conditions that rival products costing thousands of dollars more.


Mach3 uses the standard parallel port(s) to control up to 6 axis of motion and numerous input/output functions. Using our Table/IO card (shipped with unit) that has two power relays (besides the Torch ON/OFF Relay on the THC Sensor) and the optional quad relay output upgrade, you can add the ability to turn on up to 6 loads (4 high current) and control them from the software. Direct interface between the MP3000 and MACH3 allows us to offer sophisticated options, like the built-in Anti-Dive, as well as methods to tune and optimize the Constant Velocity and THC cutting parameters for your machine. With the new Direct Communications via Serial we now have the ability to control settings from within MACH3 and to use the same screens for real time THC feedback.

The combination of MACH3 and the MP3000 will give you a professional solution with no compromises, at a very cost effective price. If you already own any of the MACH products the upgrade to 3 is free.  If you don’t we have bundled deals to get you where you need to be.

The Hardware

Built on the successful design of the MP1000 series (over 500 sold to date) , the new 1 Port MP3000-DTHC design incorporates proven technology and introduces several new concepts and features.  The PCB’s are full solder mask and double sided FR-4 high quality boards.  All units are fully tested and calibrated prior to shipping.  Quick connect headers are used for all connectors to make field replacement quick and easy, if needed.

 

WHAT MAKES THE MP3000-DTHC DIFFERENT

Using surface-mount technology we have shrunk the THC logic section of the older MP1000C-THC down from a card that was almost 7 X 3 (21 sq inches) to a tiny card anbout 2 X 3 inhes (6 sq inches).  Expensive components have been replaced with lower cost embedded processors. The readout of volts and other indicators has moved to the computer screen and the cost of those components removed.  In addition the DTHC is a full expansion module that can be added to ANY UBOB based product like the MP3000 series to turn it into a FULL FUNCTION Digital Torch Height Controller!

THE DTHC Expansion Module is installed inside the MP3000 Case and is accessed from the front panel.  The THC Sensor card plugs directly into the DB9 and a 16 pin ribbon cable attaches it to the Universal BOB.

Advanced Self Test functions allow a one-button test that confirm communication and proper signals to MACH.  Push the button and the MP3000-DTHC goes into a multi-test loop that sends simulated Tip Volts, UP and Down signals to the screen.  It checks the operation of the DTHC Expansion Module and the communications link (serial) to MACH3. 

THC SENSOR CARD   Shipped with MP3000-DTHC or DTHC Upgrade

The THC Sensor card is installed adjacent to the plasma unit and provides the interface for the Torch Switch, scaling, and filtering of the Tip Voltage.Also included (not shown) is the Current Sense Transformer designed for plasma machines that do not have an Arc Good (XFR) active signal. Circuitry is provided to adjust the sensitivity of the Arc Sensing and a front panel lamp indicates the Arc Good condition.  Interface connection to the controller is with a standard DB9 shielded cable. An can be up to 25 ft in length.

TABLE I/O CARD (*part of MP3000 stock unit)

 

One of the most time consuming processes in the build-up of CNC equipment is all of the individual wiring that’s required. The innovative Table I/O card mounts on the table itself (a clear topped box is recommended) and provides a convenient and quick place to connect up all of the Home, Limit and Emergency Stop switches on the machine. Has inputs for UP and DOWN manual signals that can be used for controlling Z while cutting for oxy-fuel falme cutting.  Once all the control switches are wired, it simply plugs into the front of the MP3000-THC Controller Box via one standard shielded DB25 cable.

LED indicators quickly and easily indicate the condition of each line. They also help in troubleshooting any table I/O problems.

The Table I/O is shipped with one 10A rated relay and one 20A relay for interface to table operated devices like dust extractors, lights, misters, etc.

The Table I/O is a CandCNC only product and is designed to interface with the MP3000 and other third-generation breakout board products

The MTA100 AXIS I/O Extension card (part of MP3000 stock unit)

The MTA100 AXIS I/O Extension card (shipped with MP1000-THC) is a small breakout card designed to easily interface the step and direction signals from the Axis I/O port in the MP3000-DTHC to the motor drive modules.  4 channels of step and direction are available at the card screw terminals as well as a headers for one-cable connection of an optional EZplug Interface cards for quick and easy controller builds.  The MTA100 is designed to mount close to the Motor drives or Ezplug cards and can be connected to the MP3000 unit up to 5 meters away.  Interconnect is via a DB25 cable or for close connection a 26 pin IDC ribbon cable

DESIGNED TO WORK WITH ALL TYPES OF PLASMA UNITS

For those plasma units that are not designed to be used as automated or hava a CNC interface, we offer a low cost way to get the needed ARC GOOD (sometimes referred to as "Arc OK; Arc Xfr; Okay to Move, etc) signal.  Just order the optional AC current sense (CT) below.  It hooks directly to our THC Sensor Card and senses the increase in current when a valid arc is made. 

 

 
 

Pricing:

 

Complete MP3000-DTHC COMBO  with Full Cable Set (including PC to MP3000 cables), CD, instructions and all cards , a Licensed version of MACH3™ w/custom screens. Includes post processors for SheetCAM™ for Plasma and MACH3.

 

Note:  Mach3 software requires 1GHZ or better Pentium III CPU, 256M ram and Windows 2000 SP3 or SP4, OR Win XP. 

MP3000-DTHC COMBO

$765.00


 

 

MP3000-DTHC unit and external cards only.No external cables or MACH3 software.

$575.00

 

COMPLETE ELECTRONICS PACKAGES INCLUDING MP3000-DTHC HERE

 

Options:

MPG-101B  Hand Controller with Dual 4 Quadrant Proportional Jog Stick(plugs into rear panel) and PORT2 option card.  Needs 2nd parallel port in the PC to function (not included)

 

 

Comes with PORT2 card (mounts inside MP3000 case on Universal Mounting plate) and has cables to extend out the back (knockouts are on the case backs) and a 25' DB9 cable for working remotely from the electronics.  Stand at the work and drive the table.  28 functions for MACH3 and a fully proportional 360 deg dual axis jogstick.  One handed use and multiple modes of jogging and THC control.

$169.00

:

Optional AC side Current Transformer (CT) for 35 to 200A units.  Allows plasma units that do not have an accessable Arc Good (Arc XFER, Arc OK, Okay to Move,etc) signal to be used with our DTHC and automated cutting system.  AC cord (one leg) is passed through the CT and two small wires go to our THC Sensor and provides and ARC GOOD signal to MACH. If your plasma unit does not have a plug for the Arc Good signal (comes on when the arc has been established), you need to order one of these.  Manual has compete instructions for hookup.

$12.00

 

 

Plastic Case w/Clear top for TableI/0 (DB25 cutout)  With grommet top seal.

 

Designed to mount external to the controller cabinet (i.e.on the gantry or table side) you have single cable access to all your I/O signals.  Mounted on the table you can see the status of all the I/O signals including the Home Switches.   Comes with routed case and custom sub-panel.  Dust proof box with clear top.

$31.00

 

 

 

Protects and insulates the THC Sensor card used at the plasma.  Routed for the DB9 connector.  Can be used inside or outside the plasma cabinet.

$9.00


 

Black Plastic case for THC Sensor (DB9 cutout).  Gives protected mounting for your THC Sensor Card either inside or outside your plasma unit. 

 FROM HERE DOWN ARE MODULAR BLOCKS THAT MAKE BUILDING A FULL CONTROLLER WITH MOTOR DRIVES EASIER.  THEY ARE NOT NEEDED WITH THE MP3000 series but are included here to make selection easier.

Dual Stepper EZPlug Gecko interface.

Complete 3-4 axis Modular Plug components:  Just add your power supply and Gecko Drives and a cabinet for a complete solution. Does not include any power supply components or AC panel controls.

Plugs directly into the MTA100 card (stock with MP3000 products) for a quick and easy interface

Just one cable for each two drives and two DC power connections and you are through wiring!.  ON-board motor connectors and matching posi-lock screw terminal cable connectors for each axis

You can build a complete control cabinet and save hours of tedious hand wiring and troubleshooting.

GECKO DRIVES are NOT INCLUDED

$39.00 per card 


 

Dual Servo EZPlug Expansion Card

 

Same concept as the EZPlug Stepper Cards (above) but with added interface electronics for noise immune encoder feedback and proper reset and fault signals.  Using advanced differential senders (pigtail at the motor) and differential receivers we solve the problem of having to use shielded cables to each encoder.  These are the modular cards used in all of our RouterPaks and PlazPaks.  Order two sets for 3 or 4 axis.  Steppers and servos CAN be intermixed on the same build (1 or 2 of the same type per card)

GECKO DRIVES NOT INCLUDED
$69.00 per card
Encoder cables are standard UTP Network Cables (not included)

 


EZPlug Gecko Mounting Plates

 

Stacked plate design offers efficient cooling and compact maounting.


 

Complete CNC routed thick aluminum plates (2) with mounting hardware and spacers to mount two EZplug Cards and up to 4 Gecko Drives (not included).  Functions as a mounting plate and heatsink.

Controller Builders PAK ONE

A complete sub-assembly of four Gecko Stepper Drives (G203V's) with 2 EZPlug Stepper Interface Cards, all mounted and tested on a EZplug Mounting plate. Ready to plug into the MTA100 card we provide with any MP3000 product  using the included 10 pin ribbon cables.  Just add a 48 to 75 V DC supply for the motor DC and you are well along the way to having a complete controller solution.

4ea G203V Gecko Drives (mounted)
2ea EZplug Gecko Stepper Interface cards
EZPlug Mounting plate Kit
Assembled & Tested

$561.00


Controller Builders PAK TWO

 


A complete sub-assembly of four Gecko Servo Drives (G320's) with 2 EZPlug Servo Interface Cards, all mounted and tested on a EZplug Mounting plate. Ready to plug into the MTA100 card we provide with any MP3000 product  using the included 10 pin ribbon cables.  Just add a 48 to 75 V DC supply for the motor DC and you are well along the way to having a complete controller solution.

4 G320 Gecko Drives (mounted)
4 Differential Pigtail Senders *
2 EZplug Gecko Servo Interface cards
EZPlug Mounting plate Kit
Assembled & Tested
4 25ft color coded Encoder cables

$575.00


* Differential Sender Units ONLY work with USDigital 5 pin single ended encoder units like the E2S or E5S series rotary encoders. 

Super Builders PAK with 3ea 740 motors and one 600 oz in (Z motor)

Picture shows two 740 oz in and one 600 oz-in motors but PAK comes with parts listed

Note: there are NOT step by step instructions on building up a power controller.  The other components listed are up to you.  There is NOT a list of sources or parts to complete a build. Each CandCNC part has detailed information and how it connects and how to install and use MACH software.  If you are a novice builder and need a turn key finished package you need to go HERE..

SUPER STEPPER BUILDERS PAK.
4 AXIS KIT

$1255.00

  • MP3000-DTHC COMBO with cards & MACH3
  • Interface Cables for all cards and PC
  • 4 axis Stepper subassembly w/4ea Gecko 203V's
  • Drives mounted and tested with motors
  • Motors with 20 ft cables
  • Connectors for motor cables
  • Support CD with Plug-ins and MACH3 Screens

You will need to add:

  • DC Power Supply.  50 to 75VDC at 10A (650W)
  • Enclosure
  • Riser blocks to mount Plate assembly
  • Cooling fan
  • AC components (Switch, primary side fuse, etc)
 

Option pricing is based on being part of the original order.Contact factory for pricing of options for shipped units 

Terms:  Paid in full prior to shipping.

Contents of this document contain copyrighted photos.  No unauthorized use or reproduction is allowed
without permission of the author.

 

All content copyrighted 2008-2009 by CandCNC.  All rights reserved

 

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