501a signal generator help

[Dan Kitchen]

Hello I'm looking for a reply on here while I'm at work. I purchased a new to me 501a signal generator for my TM 1 table and hooked it up this morning.

My first question is how do I know if I am able to run version 4 on this generator? It has a delivery date of 1/4/2010 so from my understanding it would require an upgrade fee (pre July 2010 delivery date) BUT the previous owner couldn't remember what version it used so it could have been upgraded in the past? The website says not to install a newer version because it might hurt the firmware...

My second question is that I can not get my table to move with this new to me generator. Currently have been using a 401a with the 2.5 amp stepper box 5000-0xx-1xxx running 2.20 beta 14 driver software. No issues.

I hooked up the 501a this morning, downloaded version 3.0.19 driver software and installed the driver needed for the usb connection. I can turn the generator online and when I go to jog the table the axis 1 and 2 lights will both come on as if it is working properly but no stepper moves. I know the stepper box works and I think my settings are ok but maybe I am missing something simple?

Looking forward to your reply, Thanks.

-Dan

 

[Dan Kitchen]

Update - any one of you TM techs come across this error? My signer generator does not have an expansion board but it says it does and I can not get online unless I check the box. When online I have no gantry movement still. SOS

 

[Dnmeistr-LECS]

I would recommend download and installing TM 4.0 driver software. Then go to File > New Setup and opening the TM2 setup file and change the Driver Model to TM2a Half Stepper since you are using the separate motor drive box.

 

[Dan Kitchen]

Thanks Dennie. I was told by one of the techs that my S/N generator was not able to run version 4. However when I went to help then about TM in the driver software of V3 my S/N for the generator does not match what the actual box says. The box says 211071 while the driver software says its 236478. It says main firmware is 3.0.63, usb firmware 5.2, del date of 1/4/10 and current software 3.0.19. The light sequence when I turn on my generator is correct according to your old posts on pirate. Maybe the S/N that the software says it is can run V4 and that's what the firmware is set for and the aluminum back plate on my generator is not the original one? Who knows but I will take your advice and let you know how I make out later, thank you.

-Dan

 

[Dan Kitchen]

Dennie I attempted V4 but asks for the security code which I do not have. Can you tell me how much it is for his upgrade code?

Also the funky issue is that my serial numbers aren't matching up. Box says 211071 which I was told is not new enough to run anything but V3 but the driver software says it is 236748... I know guys running V4 on generators older than this sn so I am assuming if it is fixed I can run V4?

With all that aside I have been chatting with Jake Reed and come to the conclusion that the signal generators parallel port connection that goes to the motor drive box is not sending the signals. It will have to be sent out for service.

 

[Dnmeistr-LECS]

The serial number is encoded in the motherboard, the info in the software does not match what is written on outside of box then that would indicate at some time the motherboard has been replaced, it is around $400 for the software upgrade. We have compact series signal generators on our website for a discounted price currently, it would probably be cheaper to purchase one of these then get the board replaced or fixed. This would replace your motor drive box and relay box as well, see link below.
https://www.torchmatestore.com/4-Axis-25-Amp-Micro-Stepping-Drive-Box_p_3258.html

 

[Dan Kitchen]

Oh yes I saw that listed on your e bay store. Can you confirm that this comes with version 4 driver software? If so I will go this ebay route as paypal makes it real easy. Thanks

 

[Dnmeistr-LECS]

Yes this works with TM4.5 software.