CNC manual combo machine

Hello,

I currently have a early 90's vintage Bridgeport mill with a Prototrak Plus control. The control is still fully functional, but is a bit cumbersome to use and more importantly does not EASILY allow the use of a Fusion 360 or another cam software. I am looking to upgrade.

I have used a newer Prototrak machine at work and that is why I purchased this unit, but the older version is just a bit to archaic. But, it was the right price, already has ball screws, DC Brush servo motors, motor encoders, etc.

My basic question and what is critical to me is I want to have a more modern control, but I want to keep what is so great about a Prototrak control, I want to still be able to use the machine in manual mode and switch back and force between CNC and manual mode on the fly. For example, run a canned cycle, move the x and y axis by hand, and run another canned cycle.

Basically can Linuxcnc be used as a DRO? If I move the table manually, will the DRO in the software update position? Or, does it only know what is going on when it is driving the motors?

I think I would like to add glass scales to all three axis and have both rotary encoder and linear feedback. I have already found threads that show that is possible. But, I have not seen anything that suggests that if I move the machine manually that the software will keep track of it?


Thanks in advance,
Tim

If your encoders are connected into the control boards linuxcnc is using then yes you can use it as a DRO.
When encoders are connected to control boards with linuxcnc, you can push the axis by hand and the dro will work.

How is the retrofit going? I would be very interested in your progress.
MarkD

I am still in the research phase. I am not even sure what system to go with yet. That is why I was asking the questions on here. I am currently leaning towards a different platform, not Linuxcnc.

Do you have a Prototrak too? If you do, we should exchange ideas. PM me.

Tim