Need More outputs!

[bstern]

I am slowly turning my PRS Alpha into something out of Monster garage.

I just picked up a HSD boring head with 8 selectable spindles for my second Z.
It is a beast!
I plan on using 5 together for line boring.
1 for single 5mm holes
1 for 10mm holes
1 for 20mm holes

This is going to take up 5 outputs one for each function and 1 to turn on the motor on the spindle.
I use one for turning on the vac and one for the Z spindle.

#4 seems to be in use.

So I am full.

Any of you electronic genius have a way to get more?

I was thinking you could use 3 outputs in Octal to operate
8 slave outputs, but do not have the slightest Idea of how to accomplish this from the electronic side.

I have plans for an unloading bar and other additions, so the more the better.

[br928]

It looks like you are getting into PLC (programmable logic controller) territory. You could have the PLC to decode the "octal" inputs and drive individual outputs. Check http://automationdirect.com . They have inexpensive PLC's.

[bstern]

Thanks Stan!

I meant going to binary. I used to boot with switches and we broke it down into sections of 3 binary to octal to make it easier to program I think.
Long long time ago!
Looks like I can turn 7 outputs to 127. That should do it.

I have never programed a plc but it sounds like the way to go.

Thanks for the link.

On first look, I think it can be done for under $200.

[ken_rychlik]

I hope your machine can handle the weight.

With a little trickery, four outputs could run 9 outputs easily.

Basically like a counter.

3 would run that by itself.
5" "
6" "
7" "
Then turning on 3 and 5 at the same time could run ghost 9 instead of 3 or 5
Next 3 and 6 on at the same time could activate ghost 10
And so on.... just a few "and or" circuits would do it.

You can't use 4. it's active anytime a file is running.

1 and 2 are usally router and drill.

The weight of what you are undertaking is my concern for you.

Kenneth

[Gary Campbell]

Bob...
I had the same problem a while back. If you have (or buy if it fits your machine) the V204 controller card, there are 12 outputs available on the card. You would have to acquire the pinout asdont think the ShopBot CNC interface board has connectors for more than 8. Not 127, but could get you going.