Centroid Acorn CNC Control System - Better Than Mach3 or Mach4
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- čas přidán 28. 07. 2024
- www.centroidcnc.com/centroid_d...
An overview of the Centroid Acorn CNC control system. This is an awesome product for the DIY CNC community. - Věda a technologie
Awesome video. Excited to see more videos of your conversion to Centroid's Acorn!
Thanks. More videos will be posted soon.
Nice work. Looking forward to seeing your conversions Franco!
Thanks. Once I get past all of the chaos Irma created, I'll be sure to post more videos about my projects.
Yes! You convinced me,
I’ll get one for myself on my birthday!!!
So much good information in this video, thanks for putting it all together!
Thanks. I'm glad you found it helpful.
Wow glad I stumbled on your videos, I think Im actually going with the Centroid Oak board over the hicon closed loop config. I run lots of production and that probing feature of the Oak would make fixture swapping amazing. Pair it up with 3 750w DMM DYN4 servos. Hell yeah!
I think you'll really like the Centroid products. I've converted over and I have regrets.
Wish I would have seen this 2 years ago but it looks like you're in the same boat 😃
Nice presentation Franco.
Thank you for this great video. I will put Centroid acorn on my wishlist.
Fernando Ascencio Centroid is a good system. I really like it.
Great video its good to see some one offering a true cnc control panel at a good price and best of all it's made in the USA
Yeah. They are really nice people, as well. I think their product is really good and they keep improving it as time goes on.
Would be nice to see feature for feature between Acorn CNC12 Pro, Mach4 and LinuxCNC
I'm really glad I saw this!!!
Cool. I'm really excited about this software/board. I wanted to make sure I spread the word.
I emailed these guys and they replied instantly, on a Saturday. They answered all my stupid questions.
They are good people. I like the way they operate.
Fabulous Video. Totally changed my plans. Thanks so much
I'm glad I could help. The guys at Centroid are nice folks their product is really good. I have no problems recommending their stuff to anyone. I've had several of my coworkers build CNC routers using the Acorn system and all of them are pleased with the performance.
THANK YOU FOR THE VIDEO!!!
Im looking to DUMP my WinCNC controller and software. I was really looking toward a MACH4-Hicon setup and I still may go that way for plasma. BUt after seeing this video I think I may go toward the Centroid. Under a grand for a Centroid WOW!!!
Hi, nowadays laptop with touchscreen features don’t have the lan port,, can just using an converter to communicate with acorn board?
Good review....just placed an order.
I think you'll really like it. If you've been using Mach3 or 4 for a long time, give yourself a few hours with the software to get used to it. Mach has some quirky ways of doing things and you may not realize that unit you are on a different control. The CNC12 software functions more like a standard FANUC control. For me, the first thing I noticed was that FEED HOLD actually works on CNC12 - very responsive without delay.
The fact that this can do while statements and macros that got me sold
Hi. Download the manual and check out the macro section. It isn't exactly the same a Fanuc Macro B but it has the ability to quite a bit of macro logic. Centroid is the only option in the DIY price range that has macro logic capabilities.
Amazing video. I have a concern about the board and ARM CPU. Do the board includes ECC Ram? thank you.
I'm currently working on building a new CNC Router and plan on using a Centroid Acorn controller. Are there any limitations to the Acorn board verses Mach3/4?
Suffers a bit from laboriously reading out what is already displayed on the screen. It would be nice to see it in operation, rather than as a power point presentation. Having said that though it is very hepful to be made aware of alternatives, so thank you for putting this up.BobUK.
I'm sold! Thank you.
You won't have any regrets.
Thank you for the video. I wonder if there's any real negatives to acorn compared to pathpilot/mach4. Certainly many advantages over those systems. I'll have to look if a centroid post processor exists for fusion 360. Thanks again for keeping the home cnc community uptodate!
Hi. I'm sure that for some users, Mach4 will seem like the better choice. The Centroid people seem to place a high value on stability. In order to provide stability, some of the flexibility that exists in Mach4 may not be there in the Acorn. I'm thinking iPhone vs Android. As far as the post goes, I think you'll find a generic FANUC post will be pretty close. Maybe the Centroid people can help with that.
Excellent content.
Can centroid acorn controller run 3 axes dc motors with optical encoders . Doing reto-fit . new to cnc . any help would be great , Thanks .
Great vid! Thank you!! It will be awhile before I can make the change, but I really want to dump mach3 asap! lol
You won't be disappointed. The Acorn will blow Mach3 out of the water.
:)
Franco is it that good?
It's pretty good. I haven't found any problems, so far.
What is the cost difference. Thank You.
Bill from Seattle
Are there any 5 axis acron board and post processor for siemens nx cam and mastercam
How do you feel that Centroid compares to LinuxCNC and Masso?
I would like know more about it, I use usb cnc but do few informations, this your I would can deeping in matter
Hey Franco, where do you get the pins for the ends of the wiring that inserts into the screw down terminals?
czcams.com/video/-R8NYy2jz2U/video.html
Well, it's now 2021 and almost 22......I wonder how this device is performing now that 4 years have gone by since the video was made.
How to get this board.am vijay from india. mach3 not supported #G71 turning cycle..
I am using Centroid CNC Control for our Maatsura VMC since 2008, working on CNC Linux v2.64. Only money that I had spend in 10 years is replacement of my PC Motherboard, it burned out and was up and running with the new board within few hours.
Hi. I've had really good experiences with their products, as well. It seems like their boards are of high quality and made with good components.
Can you put up the link for the video on doing the wiring.I just got the Workbee put it together need some wiring help,Thanks
Check this out:
www.centroidcnc.com/centroid_diy/downloads/acorn_schematics/centroid_acorn_hookup_schematics.zip
acorn_start_here.pdf
S14952-ACORN_rev4_BASIC_POWER_AND_COMMUNICATION_Bench_Test.pdf
S14956-Acorn_rev4_PAIRED_AXES_AUTO_SQUARE.pdf
S14973-ACORN_rev4_MULTIPLE_KL-5080H_HYBRID_DRIVES.pdf
Does the cnc12 software only work with acorn or can you use any board?
Hi. The Centroid software only work with the Centroid Acorn board.
Man I wish I had seen this video sooner
If it weren't for Centroid, I would have given up on DIY CNC. They are really doing a nice job with their product.
Thanks will check it out.
Hello Franco... Do you think this Controller would work well for a CNC router, with an ATC spindle.. with a linear toolholders setup?.. Also.. I there a planned way to set up more than the included onboard inputs and outputs?.. .. Or what would you suggest?
Hi. I'm going to give you my thoughts but I'm hoping the Centroid people see this and offer a comment, as well. Follow this link to view some of the Centroid documentation: www.dropbox.com/sh/nx1chqyuiqzn2m2/AACZ0eFyEbLch7binan2d81ia?dl=0
If you look at S14826 ACORN STANDARD CONNECTIONS, you'll get a sense of what the Acorn board was designed to do. They made it very easy to connect and configure the equipment listed on that schematic. You can get it up and running quickly and easily.
I don't see any provisions for an ATC on the Acorn. But, there may be a way to get a simple Wine Rack tool change system going without too much pain.
Centroid folks, what is your position on this?
hey guys.. the Acorn has 8 inputs and 8 outputs. so yep, and ATC is possible but you are going to have to be creative on how and what you use the inputs for! Lathe ATC are pretty easy as alot of them only require 3 inputs . you have full access to the Acorn PLC program and can edit it and write you own code and create custom macros no problem. wine rack atc commonly found on a router is no problem. more complex ATC's may not be possible with current Acorn 8 in and 8 out. there is talk of expanding Acorn on board I/O or adding additional Ethernet based i/o to be compatible in the future. like this. www.controlbyweb.com/webrelay-quad/
Franco, thanks for posting this. I'm going to drop an order for this system. I use Mach3 and I know it is the standard in the DIY space but I've always wanted something better. And way safer especially when moving axes manually. With an xbox360 controller I've had uncontrolled axes runaways. Oh, and totally agree about the plug-in compatibility matrix nightmare with Mach. Kinda irritating to be stuck on an earlier version because the latest plug-in doesn't work or vice versa.
I just subbed your channel......hoping to see some vids on your change over from mach3 to the acorn. :)
Thanks for the sub! appreciated. I'll do my best to document what I find. Cheers!
Be sure to search CZcams for Centroid Acorn CNC for other machine refit examples and more info. I agree, great option for the DIY cnc'er and OEMs
I'm looking forward to it. :)
I hear what you are saying. The thing that really got me was the upgrade to Mach4. I did it because I thought life would get better. Unfortunately, I've learned that the Mach4 developers dumped a lot of issues in the laps of the motion controller developers and they are slow to resolve them.
acorn is going to be the bone of contention between cnc software and hardware creators while those who make their own cnc systems alone will love it for easy and fast, forgetting systems that are free and still do not come out in beta test!!!
Looks nice and nice review! Can it do serial comms via the PC's USB port ? I use Macro in mach3 to send serial commands to a separate micro controller for "expansion uses"
The Acorn board uses fast reliable Ethernet communication to the CNCPC. sorry no USB communication to a PC.
Yes ,already understood. I don't think my question was understood. I'm not talking about the centroid software talking to the control board. I'm wondering if the centroid software,via Mcodes, can output a serial tx via the host PC's USB ports, like Mach 3 can. This is useful for expansion/more complicated automation than the control board can handle, very flexible....I'll ask centroid. Along the lines of Modbus.
This is a very good question. It may be helpful if you list a few examples of devices you control via the MODBUS serial communications.
How is This better than mach4 if Its limited to 4 axis only ?
They have other other versions that support more...Mach 3 was the poop back in the day. Now its a joke.
Donde se puede comprar un kit para un torno??
www.centroidcnc.com/centroid_diy/acorn_cnc_controller.html. Lathe software will be available next week!
Hi Franco,
Thank you for the great video.
I am struggling with the various vendors with regards Mach3 vs Mach4 and USB or ethernet. I have had a terrible experience with Mach3 and a USB motion board. I then ran a USB board from a different company with its on CNC control software and worked excellently but the support was bad as the owner got frustrated with my lack of knowledge with regards electronics! Surely, I am not the only customer that asks questions regarding wiring up a relay etc etc. My background is Mechanical not electronics and hence I am nervous with electronics and I ask lots of questions!
I am therefore again in a frustrating spot. I do not want to use Mach3 or Mach 4 and I want to use an ethernet connection as this seems to be a lot more reliable.
Apologies, for the long story. Basically, I want to know how you have got on using the Centroid Acorn system, is it worthwhile considering, it appears so from what I have seen.
I have purchased a board recently that uses either USB or ethernet but can only use Mach3 or Mach4.
I am just not sure what is best. Any advice and/or suggestions would be most appreciated.
Thanks.
Gary
Hi Gary. Your experience is similar to many others, believe it or not. In my opinion, Centroid does a good job minimizing this confusion. The software and board work well together many of the struggles with Mach are nonexistent on the Acorn. They also provide really detailed wiring diagrams which, if followed correctly, will get you up and running. The Forum and Facebook group are also a really good place to go for help. You can also purchase customer support by the hour. I've been really happy with their products on my mill and lathe. Now, there is always going to be a need for the DIY guy to know a little bit about electronics but I feel the Acorn system with its documentation helps to ease that pain. I have a lot of videos where i wire up things to the Acorn. Check them out and you'll get a sense of how it goes.
just out of curiosity, is this a paid promotion? and Damn- I wish I hadn't just bought Mach4 with Hicon
Not a paid promotion. I also have Mach4 and a Hicon sitting on the shelf. Truth be told, that was the direction I was moving in until I became aware of the Centroid Acorn. At first, I tried to dismiss the Acorn because I was so invested in Mach4 and the Hicon. But, I decided to give the Acorn a chance and I'm glad I did. Don't get me wrong, the Hicon is the best thing that happened to Mach4 (IMO) and it will support critical functionality but, all things being equal, the Centroid Acorn is always going to be more user friendly because the hardware and the software are supported by the same company. There is way less "fiddle factor" with the Acorn and CNC12 software.
It surely does look that way. I hope not however. Time will tell.
what is max pulse rate on this system? frequency?
Hi. The wizard will let you go up to 400 khz. However, the Acorn can actually output a 1 megahertz step and direction pulse train but it's kind of meaningless because most drives can't accept that. For my own personal machines, I keep the Acorn at 200 khz. That is WAY fast enough for me. Check out the video: czcams.com/video/YZR5c3Q2S2M/video.html
Franco my servo ac motor requires 500khz pulse. Maybe that 1mhz can cover that.
Hello Franco Thanks for the great information. Will this control operate a CNC Plasma with a THC I just received my First Acorn board and am setting it up on my test bench. I am looking forward to seeing how it works.
Hi. I'm not sure about the plasma torch. I think it will but you probably should check out the forum for more information: centroidcncforum.com/viewforum.php?f=60
Another question, if, let's say, CNC machine already have Getko 540 as control unit, why add Centroid Acorn control system on top of it? It becomes: Control unit -> control another control unit-> then control the CNC machine.
wolf gang, G540 is a stepper driver. It drives your stepper motors. Acorn sends the signals to G540 to command it to turn your stepper motors in the proper sequence. Search CZcams for Acorn DM2400 and you'll see my mill running an Acorn and a G540
martyscncgarage, Thank you so much for your reply. Has subscribed to your channel. I'm very much interested in CNC machine and bought a small one. It has already installed 3 stepper motors (NEMA 17 type, 3.15v, 1.8A). I need to buy and assemble the control unit, motor driver and power supply by myself. Flooding myself with lots of CZcams videos on the topic. Trying to figure out what kind of breakout board, motor driver, power supply etc I should use. I saw lots of videos on CentroidCNC, especially titled "Centroid CNC Controller Hardware Overview: "Allin1DC" based CNC Control Components". It mentioned that the Allin1DC has its own power supply to servo motor on the board. Therefore I thought the most economical board "AcornCNC" has the same function, eager to place the order. But hesitated a bit. But if I still want to use "AcornCNC", does that mean all I need to do is to buy a separate stepper motor driver and power supply for the motors (such as 24v, 10A, 6 outlet, since I have 3 stepper motors). Then it will work? I also wonder if the small power supply in "AcornCNC" kit compatible with 220V, which is the voltage we use here.
wolf gang. I will work to make a video going over everything next week. You need Acorn you need stepper driver and power supply compatible with your stepper motors. Go here centroidcncforum.com and ask all your questions. We will answer them there so other users can get the benefit of learning too.
martyscncgarage, Thank you so much!!!! :-)))) 🙌 👏👍👍 Really appreciate your kindness and patience for a beginner like me. Yes, I'll do it.
the g540 is a stepper drive not a cnc control:-) the Acorn send commands to the G540 which then powers the stepper motors according to the Acorn's commands.
I'm a little late to the party, but great video, I'm in the process of building a Workbee, and I was on the fence of which software/hardware to use, I was going to use Mach4 and the PMDX-424, but after watching this I'm going with Acorn for sure, Mach4 seems complicated and after learning I might have to write LUA codes...no thank you.
Mach4 was a big disappoint for me. But, the Centroid stuff is working great. They keep working to add more features and make the system more powerful. I have no problems recommending their product.
@@FrancoCNC Cool, I was watching one of martyscncgarage videos and he mentioned that you must use snubbers (noise filters) on contactor coils and relays. Is an emergency stop considered a contactor coil? I won't be using a VFD, and plan on using shielded cable for e-stop, limit switches and motors, are these snubbers really necessary? Thanks again
@@Fenix2181 Marty is very smart and always gives good advice. That being said, I've never used a snubber on an E-Stop or a limit switch and I've never had a problem. Thanks.
@@FrancoCNC Thank you, I subscribed to both you and Marty
Did you ever look at Dynomotion KFLOP? 8 axis support, true closed loop control (back to the CNC controller). Plus almost all the PC side software is essentially open source (Windows based), and includes a very nice API if you want to write a custom application. Backlash compensation too.
Hi. I have not looked into that. I'm sure it's a good system but I'm happy with the Centroid Acorn. It just works for me and I don't have to spend too much time messing around with it. That's what sold me on the Centroid product - it works well without the need for a lot of customization.
What is the deal with all these parallel and serial port connections? Do these people not understand that those are dead tech? Can we please get an actual updated hardware solution?
Franco, my guess is you are sponsored or associated by centroid? Are you a professional machinist by trade? I’m asking because Mach 3 I can connect and make parts in a couple hours that are usable to me but centroid I’ve spent weeks trying to get the bugs out, learn the system, etc... centroid seems more geared towards a machinist by trade and not a beginner. It’s been very challenging for me in many aspects and some of the issues I’ve had seem to be a consensus on forums like cnczone and practical machinist where people can voice their opinions about products safely. I’m no where near an expert at any of the cnc aspects by any means but I’m a fantastic if not expert manual machinist. I.e: A part that took me two weeks to machine for the first time on centroid takes me about 45 minutes by hand. My issue is the demand for my products exceeds a one man enterprise so I need cnc to work in the back ground even if to cut out blank parts to finish by hand.
Did you try working up you parts in say Fusion 360 and post-processing and running that code on your Acorn mill system? If you are just using Intercon conversational programming I can see why it might take longer. But if you are used to Mastercam or Fusion 360 or even HSMWorks you should be ably to reasonably be able to make parts efficiently.
It still needs a gecko board ?
Doesn't need it. It will run separate driver /stepper combos in any combo that will take step and direction control.
I'm very new to CNC. Bought Proxxon MicroMill MF70 CNC ready that does not have control unit. Only have 3 NEMA 17 type (3.15v, 1.8A) stepper motor. My question is, if I decide to buy Centroid Acorn CNC control system, does it mean that I don't need to buy a separate stepper motor driver and separate power supply for stepper motor?
The Acorn board is a cnc controller that you use to command all popular step and direction Axis motor/drive packages, like the Geckodrive G540, Leadshine, Clearpath and many more.
It is my understanding that IF you use "Clear Path" motors, there is NO need for any kind of driver like the Gecko 540. This is because the motors have their own drivers built in. Also they are "servos", not "stepper" motors. But they are 100% compatible with stepper signals.
They are also almost dead quiet when running and they do NOT stall. Check 'em out. They are tantamount to "water cooled spindles" instead of "router motors".
yeah the clearpath motor/drives are very nice. direct connection to the Acorn board. fast, smooth and powerful. Alan has a few videos posted with his machine running clearpath motors and Acorn. czcams.com/channels/hA7ICxsJOy90yz4BicUXKA.htmlvideos?disable_polymer=1
Are there any reasons why DIY controllers like this shouldn't be used in professional industrial equipments?
I can only think of one reason: liability. Most DIY systems have a disclaimer stating the use is for educational purposes only. You can thank lawyers for that.
The 299 price is without any customer support. You have to pay etc for that
What did you expect? $300 AND tech support ? you're a dumbass
4 axis control isn't enough. I wouldn't even be able to control a rotary mount to carve things like table legs and small statues etc.
The biggest plus is the lack of Chinglish interpretation - misunderstanding.
I dont"t think Acorn is better than Mach3 its just another alternative of CNC control for the DIY"ers. I have been using Mach3 for years (15) on four different machines (DIY plasma, Hurco Mill conversion, Series one 4 axis & Seiki Jig Borer) and there are still running. Mod bus control for the spindles not analog (1-10v) all with one purchase of MACH3. Also purchased ACORN MILL & LATHE controllers with Pro software CN12 took me twice as long to get everything tune in. If I had to do it again I wouldn"t. Again
Acorn is good but not better just another alternative for those who love CNC.
Hi. I appreciate your point of view. It sounds like you are very familiar with Mach3 and it's working well for you. Speaking from personal experience, when I first started using the Centroid software, I tried to impose my "Mach3 ideas" upon up. Once I let go of the Mach3 paradigm, everything in the Centroid world became much easier for me. Now, I can rip through a Centroid Acorn machine configuration in no time and I'm really happy with the performance on my Mill and Lathe. Keep in mind, turning was a big weakness for Mach3 where the Centoid system really excels at turning. All of that aside, I'm glad Mach3 was out there because it opened the door to DIY CNC for me and countless others. But, now I'm sold on the Centroid products. And, they keep adding more features to the product - that's pretty cool.
- Industry standart with 8 unupgradeable in- and outputs? I think not.
- Is there an option for automatic tool-change? I think not
- up to 4 axis control but you can only use 3 at once -> industry?
I think this is industry:
- LinuxCNC controls industrial CNC: plasma cutters with high-control, engraving machines, mill- and turning (incl. threading) machines
- can control 9 axis simultaneous
- can control servo-motors as also stepmotors
- hardware is expendable to 1024 in- and 512 outputs with 10kHz(100 micro seconds) update rate
- supports tool change and probing
- supports MPG pendant (own made with push buttons and encoder or a ready solution xhc hb04)
- supports backlash and screw-pitch error compensation
- software: it's free!
- hardware (MESA 5i25 + 7i76): 199$ for 5-Axis hardware step generation, 32 inputs, 16 outputs, 1 encoder input,
1 analog output (for VFD), 1 RS422 interface for optional hardware like analog- and digital in- and outputs, encoder interface, servo interface...
Conclusion:
Oh my god, please don't call this industrial, it is definetly not!
And before I would spend 500$ for the ultimate version and 265$ for the unupgradeable hardware, I definetly would think about LinuxCNC.
Hi. LinuxCNC is great and I'm glad you like it. Not everybody is into Linux so it's important to have good options available for Windows. The Acorn is "industrial grade" in that is runs the same software you will see operating CNC machines in factories and machine shops all over the world. I've never seen LinuxCNC or Mach3 running in a true industrial setting - have you? Centroid has a facility in Pennsylvania full of engineers who have been supporting their products for over 25 years. They focus on stability and ease of use and that's what I've seen in their software/hardware thus far. The Acorn Centroid's basic entry level option. It's easy to setup but it is still very capable - and I think most people appreciate that. If you need more capability, then check out their Oak board. It has many more I/O ports.
- Acorn supports ATC. and unlike other solutions Centroid is making ATC support accessible for the entry level DIY with no programming knowledge required with a soon to be release ATC Wizard where user simply answers questions about the ATC you want to control and the wizard creates the PLC programming and Macros for you.
- Acorn includes both Mill and Lathe conversational programming software which is user friendly and makes part programming easy with nice auto programming features such as Threadmilling, Rigid Tapping, Threading and more...
- Acorn has a dedicated motion control CPU that operates with a 1Ghz processor and does not rely on the PC CPU for motion control (= smooth no hiccup machine tool motion)
- Acorn is a CNC hardware and software package, one source responsibility (= no finger pointing between hardware source and software source and driver sources, easy CNC support access no need to look in 10 different forums and hope to get an answer from one person only to be directed to another)
- Acorn can control both Stepper motors, Hybrid stepper motors, and Servo Motors in any combination.
- Acorn has menu driven Probing and Digitizing cycles, (not merely “support” for such devices) Menu driven makes setting up and using these advanced features trivial, no programming knowledge required.
- Acorn has backlash and screw compensation as standard features
- Acorn Pro ($139) has true 4 axis simultaneous and axis pairing.
- Acorn Pro has axis pairing with simple setup via the CNC Wizard included with the Acorn
- Acorn has 1 analog output (for VFD) for fully programmable spindle speed, and facilitates ridig tapping, constant surface speed etc.
- Acorn has both Phoenix connectors and DB25 for connections to I/O and axis motor drives which facilitate the easiest connections for the user.
- Acorn is designed with the DIY non programmer users in mind that want to get their machine running and making parts as quickly as possible with many menu-driven and pre-configured features and options that do not require macro or other programming knowledge while still supporting heavy customization of PLC and Macros if the user so desires.
- While the Acorn Pro License ($99 at the time of this writing) is what most will users will opt for, the Acorn Ultimate License ($499) contains CNC features not found in any other system at this price point and gives access to DIY users features that would typically be out of reach, Acorn is bringing Industrial quality CNC Hardware and Software to the DIY market.
- Acorn CNC support for the entire system if freely availble on the Acorn CNC Community Support Forum. And direct access to life long CNC experts for CNC support on your project is availiable for $90/ hr. remote access support, email and phone and any combination.
- Acorn is made in USA by family run business located in Howard, PA in business since 1979
Acorn Future…..
- Acorn will have future expandable I/O that will be backward compatible with all Acorn boards, planned release date is 2nd quarter 2018
- Plug and play MPG wireless pendant is soon to be released for use with Acorn
- Acorn will have un-plugable Phoenix connectors by Jan. 1st 2018
Very well said!
@@FrancoCNC "I've never seen LinuxCNC or Mach3 running in a true industrial setting - have you?"
This is very silly argument because LinuxCNC costs $0. If you wanna set "industrial grade" with Centroid Ailin that costs $2500...$3500. (Ailin board is $2250 now)
Are you talking to DIY people who use cheap few hundred US$ systems, and you want to persuade them, that Centroid is much better, because its "industrial grade" for $3000 ? You could be right but this is not an option at that price level.
The cheap Centroid Acorn is not "industrial grade" at all, far from it, its worse than most popular DIY systems, but it costs more (its not really cheap for $299+$399 = ~ $700).
I'm happy to hear the fact if Centroid is doing good in the industrial market, but if they wanna enter to the DIY/hobbyist market they have to be competitive with prices and services. Slogans won't help too much.
@@telelaci2 Hi. The Acorn board and free version of the software (which also includes a good dual voltage power supply, a relay board and high quality cables) costs $299. A licensed version of the Mill Pro software is $139. For less than $450 dollars you get a really nice set of software/hardware to begin your DIY CNC conversion. Nobody gives you a hardware/software package for that price! And, it works really well. The software is really good - if you are used to operating "commercial" CNC equipment then you will be at home with Centroid. And, the hardware is rock solid. I've been running Centroid on a mill and lathe for many months and I have not had a single instance where the connection between the hardware and the software "glitched out". In fact, I just helped my friend convert his router over from Mach3 to Centroid because of the "glitching out" problem. He was impressed at how easy it was to get up and running. And, the Centroid software includes a really nice conversational programming interface that actually works really well. There are a TON of former Mach3 users who have switched to Centroid and are very happy they did so.
I have spent more time with Mach4 to drop it now,I have done awesome modifications on the software, my macro for all sorts of machines 😀, not now, I just love mach4
it is good for industrial retrofit of 3 axis milling machine。 even so。but。 the said 4th axis can only do the indexing and not simultaneously motion and also there is limitation of lines of code in standard version(don't play that type of game anymore)。it is frustrated。for hobby guys。they are hungery more for functions than those professional in-depth details 。5 axis simultaneously。 pendent。 toolchanging motions are their ultimate goals。 Mach3 can provide them。althought a long learning curve and adaptations needed。 the said package is indeed very good at that price point。it is understood that at its company point of view it needs to give the gateway to the sale of their high-end products。don't say Linux。it looks unfriendly。difficult to use and not so common。 although it is very good。
Hi. Keep an eye on the Centroid website. This week, they are going to expand the features offered with the CNC12 software - file size will no longer be a limitation. I think they are also going to let everyone have simultaneous 4-axis motion, as well. I think the Centroid people are listening to feedback and comments (like yours) and responding accordingly. Personally, I'm really impressed with what they are doing. They continue to add features and make the package even better. I think they are just getting started...
hello. Unlimited G code file size is now a standard feature of the latest release of Pro Level of CNC12.
Your statement about the 4th axis not being able to perform simultaneous is misleading. the Word "Indexing" means that the 4th axis can only move by itself. The Centroid Acorn controller does not have this limitation.
The 4th axis on an Acorn board can move simultaneously with any other axis in any combination.
1.) The Free (no cost ) version of CNC12 is 3 axis only (you can jog the 4th axis but not move it with g code command)
2.) The Pro level of CNC12 ($99) allows the 4th axis to move simultaneous with for example the X axis..so if you had a rotary table you could put a spiral on a shaft no problem with this simple command. G1 X4W720 this command move the X axis and the W axis at the same time (fully interpolated as well) and would result in a Helix 4 inches long that is two full revolutions of the shaft. You could also do the same helix and add in a Z move to make the helix slot get deeper as it goes with this command G1X4Z.5W720. this command moves X Z and W simultaneously. these are just two simple examples of simultaneous movement of the 4th axis with other axes.. obviously you can do so much more than just make a helix.
3.) True 4 axis simultaneous is a feature in the Ultimate Level of CNC12. We are working on making true 4th axis simultaneous a part of the Free (and Pro) version of the software. When this is available anyone with an acorn controller can simply update to the latest version (for free) and will have the new features and capabilities that come with that new version. also interesting to note, with any new version of CNC12 comes automatic the update of the Acorn CNC firmware also written by Centroid, so you don't have to worry about old drivers not working with new software etc.. it all just works and self installs in minutes.
I really like the fact that I don't have to play that game with software versions and plug-in versions and then firmware updates! The fact that Centroid software and hardware work so well together is a huge perk, in my opinion. I think it's really cool how CNC12 just "takes care" of the hardware without me having to know much about it.
Franco it’s very expensive if you want conversational and digitizing. That’s $1,000 investment. The standard still limits lines available. Doesn’t help those of us who run large files. Presuming you don’t have to upgrade other hardware to make it work. Sadly I contacted them and wanted to convert several machines. They made no mention of the acorn as an option and wanted to sell me commercial packages at $3500 per machine. That’s more than a couple of my mills had cost manually. It’s hard not to just go with vital systems at this point and not be stuck paying for all the features to use the machine. Personally i don’t use much for I/O and most systems have more than ample offerings. To get the same features I have with Mach I’d have a considerably larger investment with centroid. It’s tough when they make things like digitizing a $400 option that comes standard elsewhere. In any event I may still give it a try despite my ill feelings for their attempt to oversell me at the time.
@@FrancoCNC of course cnc12 " just takes care of the hardware" ,it proprietary! To me it comes down to if your happy spending the extra $139 on top of the Acorn kit price, to get fully functioning 4th axis, and do not ever need more than that, you are good to go.!
400kHz pulse rate? it's not funny... :(
please expand on your thoughts
With a ClearPath motor which is configured to 6000 increments per revolution and a spindle pitch of 5mm, this gives a max. Feedrate of 20'000mm/min.
There is still room to go up!
this guy got a free unit from acorn a vital system 7766 mach4 is way better its 6 axcess to
koollakes i have a brand new Integra hobby board from Vital Systems for sale. Do you want to buy It? I'll give you a good price.
I have a 7766 now thanks ill pas on the hobby board
Realistically this is $ 300 you can't do much with the standard software, still too expensive, uccnc it seems is the only option
Hi. Look beyond the sticker price when comparing products. The basic package is now priced at $299 which is a good deal considering it includes the board, 24V/5V power dual power supply and a various cables (including a high quality shielded Ethernet cable). The basic software package is functional and will probably work well for those folks who are only programming basic shapes (profile milling / pocket milling / turning of diameters /drilling of holes / boring). The Intercon conversational programming interface is really nice, especially on the lathe. If/when you need expanded CNC functionality, the $139 upgrade fee for the software is really a small price to pay - I'll spend more than that on tooling for a single project!. I've been using the Acorn system on my Mill and Lathe for a while now and I really like it. I'm sure there are other good options out there but I'll stick with the Centroid products because they work well, are easy to configure and the company is providing a really good level of support for the DIY customer. Thanks for commenting.
Franco great video. you'll have to do a lathe setup video (tool setup, zeroing a part, machine setup) I've been waiting for something like this for a while. I've built a cnc lathe from scratch and want something better for the control, I've posted info on my lathe build on Instagram my name on there is (cncminilathes) check it out.
NIce work. I'll be working on a lathe setup after I finish my milling machine project.
I like the 54 input and out puts of the smooth stepper and the easy reconfiguration of mach 3. The bugs have been worked out of Mach 3 and if you understand mach like i do it's fits my needs. I don't like All in one boards that are expensive that you have to keep two on hand in case of one going down. It is better to have separate components controlled that can be stocked on priority of need Than having it all on one board. Mach and Smooth stepper is 350 dollars compared to the centroid. Mach 3 has backlash compensation and alot of other . You sound like you are a salesman that doesn't know much about Mach 3. You basically have to know how to setup Mach to have Backlash work this video is from years ago. czcams.com/video/A27nOkTFYDY/video.html
Hi Bob. I used to use mach3 on my mill and lathe. It was OK on the mill but terrible on the lathe. I thought I was going to switch over to mach4 but that's when I realized that a lot of basic functionality (like backlash comp) wasn't fully implemented. Then, I came across the Centroid stuff. I'm very pleased with it on my mill and my lathe. In my opinion, there is a lot less frustration when configuring the Centroid products compared to Mach3 or Mach4. The performance of the Centroid is very stable - I don't have the glitches that I had using Mach. And, the Centroid people are becoming very aggressive on the price of the Acorn system. All that aside, it's a big world and there's room for lots of different DIY CNC control solutions, but I highly encourage people to consider the Centroid products when shopping for a solution.
Shows $299 !
hmm,you need buy drivers, this is not have, why buy all breakoutboard, you can buy 10$ breakoutboard and use same at linuxcnc all same have. and can make macros and lua program all external, servos,pendants,touch probe etc, easy. why waste acorn breakoutboard money if same can do or better can do cheapen board and software free.
Hello. Why have indoor plumbing or automobiles with air-conditioning? Why use cordless tools when corded tools with extension cords work just fine? Why buy a smart phone when you can just use a cheap flip phone? The Centroid Acorn is a very good, well thought out solution that is easy to use and works really well. It's a very good value when you consider how well it works and the amount of time is saves when setting up your machine. I believe it is well worth the money.
Buyer beware when purchasing the Acorn controller I purchased and had problems with the axis not moving and tech support could not help sent back for refund. Also downloaded old CNC12 software while they had new version so just be aware.
In this case Centroid provided free bend over backwards technical CNC support and service. We responded to Criag's forum post with a phone call and email. Craig was having issues with getting a G540 to move correctly. Suspecting the Acorn was at fault, we tested an Acorn controller with a G540 in our shop, then we shipped him that replacement Acorn control board at our expense overnight UPS Red. Upon receiving the replacement Craig was impatient didn't follow the Acorn hookup instructions and when it didn't work he then threw up his hands and gave up even though he clearly did not follow the simple hookup schematic (he couldn't get the estop working) The replacement board didn’t work since he did not have the board wired correctly. Frustrated, he requested his money back which we fully refunded including the original shipping cost. When we received the replacement Acorn control board back from Craig we hooked it up on the bench and everything worked with the G540 and passed inspection and testing. fyi.. step by step installation videos are on this page. www.centroidcnc.com/centroid_diy/acorn_quick_start_guide.html
And on the comment about old and new software… that was us simply installing for him the latest beta CNC12 software as we were curious if that would solve his issue (which it did not). It is also interesting to note that we installed that software for him on his CNCPC thru remote technical support via Teamviewer. We always will have a beta version of the CNC12 software available as we are constantly adding new features and making improvements. The latest version of CNC12 is on this page for all to download for free. www.centroidcnc.com/centroid_diy/centroid_cnc_software_downloads.html
Hard to believe you could complain about this level of support provided on a DIY product, success was not achieved because he just gave up with not even putting more than a few hours of effort into it. Craig, so sorry the Acorn CNC controller was not for you, good luck with Mach3. -Keith
@@cnckeith Oh yea I remembered reading this post on the forum and thought I would give up on centroid. Now you have converted me.
why buy this if not have better, need be cheapen than mach3 or other boards and can use linuxcnc software have lot lot better make hall,lua,makros,etc own better cnc, and if go one axle somethink broken no need buy all box new, this waste money lot. and not have flexiple than linuxcnc make own cnc.
anybody NOT use shit gecko drivers anywere today, clearpath,hmm leadshine expensive many NOT buy, were have popular TB6600 driver ? waste money use gecko or clearpath but economy hobby user use cheapen better drivers.
it is good for industrial retrofit of 3 axis milling machine。 even so。but。 the said 4th axis can only do the indexing and not simultaneously motion and also there is limitation of lines of code in standard version(don't play that type of game anymore)。it is frustrated。for hobby guys。they are hungery more for functions than those professional in-depth details 。5 axis simultaneously。 pendent。 toolchanging motions are their ultimate goals。 Mach3 can provide them。althought a long learning curve and adaptations needed。 the said package is indeed very good at that price point。it is understood that at its company point of view it needs to give the gateway to the sale of their high-end products。don't say Linux。it looks unfriendly。difficult to use and not so common。 although it is very good。