Welcome to Our Community

Some features disabled for guests. Register Today.

Controlling something like the ACRO programaticially from a PC

Discussion in 'Control Software' started by ThomasR, Aug 9, 2022.

  1. ThomasR

    ThomasR New
    Builder

    Joined:
    Aug 9, 2022
    Messages:
    3
    Likes Received:
    0
    Hello, I hope this is the right subforum. I'm thinking of getting an ARCO system and since I'm very new to the hardware side of things I'll be getting the BlackBox Motion Control System so that I'm confident everything will work together.

    My question before I get started is can I control the system from a PC in relatime? To give an example: I have a digital pad and have this idea me drawing on the pad and the laser burner copyies my drawing in realtime.

    I'm a dev and I know I'll need to write all the software side of that myself. I'm just checking before I invest the money, is it possible, in way or another, to stream commands to the device in real-ish time through some library or API?

    Thanks.
     
  2. David the swarfer

    David the swarfer OpenBuilds Team
    Staff Member Moderator Builder Resident Builder

    Joined:
    Aug 6, 2013
    Messages:
    3,237
    Likes Received:
    1,814
    Yes. The interface to the BB is a USB/serial connection, and you just send it Gcode commands.
    The Gcode commands tell it laser power and direction to move and how fast.

    The BB runs GRBL firmware, and you can read all about it at Home · gnea/grbl Wiki especially the "GRBL v1.1 Interface" section will get you going.

    But first get the ACRO and get it working (with openbuilds CAM and CONTROL) and then do your custom software (-:
     
  3. ThomasR

    ThomasR New
    Builder

    Joined:
    Aug 9, 2022
    Messages:
    3
    Likes Received:
    0
    Hi David,

    Thanks for the information! You're absolutly right about getting it working first, I just wanted to check I'm buying the right thing for my future ideas too.
     

Share This Page

  1. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
    By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.
    Dismiss Notice