New guy that needs advice on software

[Rob Gunn]

This is all great information, you all bring up a number of points that I didn't consider. With all this said, I think the best option for me is to get the Vectric VCarvePro, this will give me most of what I need for 2D sign work. On rare occasions when I may need some 3D art I will use the VectorArt 3D and free 3D machine program. This combination should get me to where I need to be. Anyone see a flaw in my logic? Am I missing something? Thanks again to all for the great advise! Rob

[jerry_stanek]

That sounds good. You can also upgrade Vcarve Pro to Aspire later on

[Rob Gunn]

Wow, its hard to believe its been 3 years sense I got my ShopBot. We have kept it busy and I have learned a lot (both good and bad). Please undersatnd that I bought my vintage 2000 PRT96 used and didn't get any documentation with it so basically I have learned how to run it by trial and error. I do have a few questions that maybe already covered somewhere else on the form but I couldnt find it. I would like a better understanding of the "Input" and "Outputs" that I see on my control screen (see attached photo). I do know that the input #1 is what reads when my Z axis tool touch off plate is used and I always manually test it before running the command. I do see that Output 1 comes on when I start a toolpath program, I assume its to turn on the spindle if needed. What is my Output #4 telling me when it is on (and it always is). Why is my input #3 partially on? How and why would I use any of the 8 output switches on the yellow keypad? Why is my #4 output switch always on and what does it do if I turn if off.

I know that there will be some of you out there that will be wondering how I got 3 years into this ShopBot adventure and I dont know what these inputs and outputs do but if I dont ask, then I will never know. Thanks for any help that cam be send my way.

[adrianm]

From the command reference:

"Special Cases: Switch number 4 (default =
4,-1) is automatically activated when the tool is in motion. It is set to ON at the time the Warning Signal (see [SW]) begins to flash and beep, and in this way could be used to activate a relay that controls other processes, such as external warning signals or accessories such as dust collectors."

The other inputs/outputs can be used for all sorts of things. I use number 8 to switch a relay to control my dust collector (I don't always want it on so it's not linked to 4) and I have a proximity switch on 5 for setting the top of my Z movement.