4G control box

[Tom Bachman]

Ok, I couldn't get this box to work correctly on my PRT. I worked with Brady to try, but guessing my existing equipment isn't up to snuff. Instead of fighting it any longer I just went back to my old control box.

Brady's original description
4th Generation PRT Control System:

The 4G is from around 2006-2007. It is a complete control box from SB, not a 3G to 4G upgrade since it has a v204 controller (direct USB not USB to Serial converted) and a 63v toroid power supply compared to the 3G 48v power supply. The higher voltage permits higher speeds and a wider power band. This box came off of a BT32 and only had 3 drives. I bought 2 more G203v drives ($150 each) to populate the other 2 slots.

This box has 5 Gecko G203v 'vampire drives', which are way better in terms of durability than early 4G boxes with the black G202s. 5 drives will allow you to run X1, X2, Y, Z, B or X1, X2, Y, Z, A (2nd Z) - or a Benchtop/Buddy Standard 32/48 with a spare drive.

I've taken the liberty to tune out most of the mid-band resonance inherent with the Vexta motors at certain speeds. You can see the box setup and running full tilt here (it totally rips, by the way): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QiiQQrxyUYo This is running on the same computer as the 3G, except running USB directly. This computer was just refurbished with new install of Win7 Pro, all the updates and wiped clean of any nonsense that would interfere with CNC work. If you have COM problems and want something that 'just works' this is the setup for you.

I'm listing the 4G box @ $1495 + shipping. Add $400 if you want the PC shown. (no kb, mouse or monitor add your own) FYI, the cost for just a 4G board and nothing else from SB back in 2005 was $1795 or $1495 with old control card trade in. The 4G is no longer available from SB, which is a shame because it is a nice setup. I think the only upgrade option right now is a complete RBK control which will run you about $3000 or so...and the performance is no better than a 4G in my experience. This control box is compatible with any SB Tool from PR, PRT (including Benchtop) and Early PRS Standard. There are no provisions in either box for spindle control, but you could add it if you wanted. If you plan to run this on a PR, let me know because you will have to change some wires around at the motors.

(FYI - each control box includes the ShopBot software licence/control card a $345 value - no trade in required) The case is in good shape, but does have some dings and dents here an there.

For those that like to tinker...the 4G can be used to run other motor & drive combinations as well. You aren't stuck running the SB motors...I can give you details about this upon purchase, if interested.

PM or email if interested.

Thanks!
http://www.talkshopbot.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=31234&stc=1&thumb=1&d=1519566087 (http://www.talkshopbot.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=31234&d=1519566087) http://www.talkshopbot.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=31233&stc=1&thumb=1&d=1519566079 (http://www.talkshopbot.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=31233&d=1519566079) http://www.talkshopbot.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=31232&stc=1&thumb=1&d=1519566063 (http://www.talkshopbot.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=31232&d=1519566063) http://www.talkshopbot.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=31231&stc=1&thumb=1&d=1519566053 (http://www.talkshopbot.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=31231&d=1519566053)


Nothing was/has changed, it is exactly like I bought it from Brady. I just want my money out of it, so $1495 + shipping (I sent a bank money order to Brady for $1590) So I will ship it out within the US for that amount. If you have questions, contact myself or Brady.

[Tom Bachman]

Can't believe that somebody out there doesn't want this............:confused:

[Gary Campbell]

Tom...
Control boxes are like an engine for your car. No one will buy one until they need one.

Your smart move here would be to work with SB tech support (since they offered) and get the 4G box working and have your machine perform to the best of its abilities, and then sell your old control (since it is working) to someone that needs a less expensive solution.

FYI: In the near future many of the components that it takes to build those legacy controls will no longer be available. It is very unlikely there will be a sub $2K control option that replaces most of SB's legacy controllers.

[Gary Campbell]

Tom...
This individual is interested, but cant post:

Hi i do not know if you can help me i am not a member of the shopbot forum or maybe i am i cant remember


i am trying to get a hold of Tom Bachman about his control boxes do you know how i can do that thank you or maybe you could give him my email address and he could send me an email




thank you
jim coopjim6571@yahoo.com

[Tom Bachman]

Thanks Gary, I've emailed him.

[Tom Bachman]

The box is off to it's new owner.

[mhzministries]

Is the controller sold?

[Tom Bachman]

Ahhh.... yea, my previous post said, "Off to it's new owner". Sorry!