CNC Interface Board ST V3 Wiring Diagram

CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines are used for precise cutting, drilling, and milling operations in various industries. A CNC machine is controlled by a computer program that generates a set of instructions that specify the movements of the cutting tool. To interface a computer with a CNC machine, an interface board is required. The CNC Interface Board ST V3 is a popular choice among hobbyists and professionals alike.

What is the CNC Interface Board ST V3?

The CNC Interface Board ST V3 is a breakout board that allows you to interface a computer with a CNC machine. It is designed to work with the popular GRBL firmware that is widely used in the CNC community. The board has a number of input and output pins that can be connected to various devices such as limit switches, spindle control, and stepper motor drivers.

The ST V3 board is small in size but packed with features. It has four PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) outputs that can control the spindle speed, and four power outputs that can drive the stepper motor drivers. Additionally, it has four limit switch inputs, a probe input, and an emergency stop input.

Wiring Diagram

Proper wiring is crucial for the ST V3 board to function correctly. Below is a wiring diagram that shows how to wire the ST V3 board to a typical CNC machine setup:

Pin Function Connection
1 Spindle PWM Spindle Speed Control
2 X Limit Switch X Axis Limit Switch
3 Y Limit Switch Y Axis Limit Switch
4 Z Limit Switch Z Axis Limit Switch
5 Probe Touch Probe
6 Emergency Stop Emergency Stop Switch
7 X Stepper Driver X Axis Stepper Driver
8 Y Stepper Driver Y Axis Stepper Driver
9 Z Stepper Driver Z Axis Stepper Driver
10 Auxiliary Output Optional Output Device

Note: The ST V3 board can be powered by a 12-24V DC power supply that can provide at least 2A of current.

FAQ

What is GRBL?

GRBL is an open-source firmware that is widely used in the CNC community. It is designed to run on an Arduino-based controller board and provides a simple and efficient way to control a CNC machine. GRBL supports G-code commands and provides basic motion control for up to three axes.

What are limit switches?

Limit switches are devices that are used to detect the physical limits of a CNC machine. They are typically placed at the ends of each axis and are used to prevent the machine from going beyond its physical limits. When a limit switch is triggered, it sends a signal to the controller to stop the motion in that direction.

What is a touch probe?

A touch probe is a device that is used to measure the distance between the cutting tool and the workpiece. It is typically used for tasks such as setting the tool height or finding the center of a workpiece. When the touch probe makes contact with the workpiece, it sends a signal to the controller to stop the motion in that direction.

What is an emergency stop switch?

An emergency stop switch is a device that is used to immediately stop the motion of a CNC machine in case of an emergency. It is typically a large red button that is easily accessible to the operator. When the emergency stop button is pressed, it sends a signal to the controller to stop all the motion and power off the motor drivers.

How do I connect the ST V3 board to my computer?

The ST V3 board can be connected to a computer using a standard USB cable. Once connected, you can use a software program such as Universal G-Code Sender or CNCjs to send G-code commands to the machine.

In conclusion, the CNC Interface Board ST V3 is a reliable and feature-packed breakout board that can interface a computer with a CNC machine. Proper wiring is crucial for its correct functioning, as shown in the wiring diagram. Additionally, the ST V3 board supports various input and output devices such as limit switches, spindle control, and stepper motor drivers. By using GRBL firmware, the board can provide basic motion control for up to three axes.