Your new Spindle System is fully programmed for automatic control but also has a “Manual Override” switch which lets you run your spindle in manual mode via the VFD’s removable keypad controls.
If you’d like to run your spindle in manual mode, flip the “Manual Override” switch up or “1” to enable VFD Keypad controls. Then use the Run/Stop and Potentiometer dial on the front of your VFD to run your motor.
If you’d like to automatically control your spindle via g-code and your CNC machines’ controller software, perform the following:
Control Cable Installation: The control cable has been specially designed to allow for easy installation with your Fox Alien controller. The “Laser” port is where you’ll plug it in and ensure your Laser/Spindle switch is set to “Spindle”.
Software Configuration: You will need to make a few adjustments to your GRBL controller’s firmware settings. This can be done using the text console of your favorite controller software.
- $32=0 tells the controller you are NOT in Laser mode.
- $31=6000 means the minimum speed of your spindle is 6k rpms.
- $30=24000 means your spindle is capable of 24k rpms max.
After configuring these settings you’re ready to start using your spindle.
Testing:
Hit “Run” on the VFD’s keypad to enable the spindle for automatic control. Note that the manual override switch should be down or “0”. Now you can enter the gcode command M3S6000 which will spin your motor up to 6000rpms. M5 stops it. Look for the M3, M4, M5, and S# commands within your gcode files to identify places where your spindle is being “controlled”.
Note: Due to the various quality of the hobby level CNC controllers, if you tell the spindle to go 6000rpms, it will not always go exactly 6000. It may be 200-500rpms off; there is nothing wrong with your vfd/spindle, it is doing exactly what the controller is telling it to do, and unfortunately the controller is not giving the proper voltage for it to go exactly 6000rpms. It is ok to run your bits with upwards of a 1000rpms variance on hobby cnc machines due to their forgiving nature.
