ShopBot PRSalpha, Assembly Manual

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Section 10: PRS Alpha Control Box Wiring • May 2, 2016
© Copyright 2016 ShopBot Tools, Inc. page 10-7
ShopBot Command Format
Note: This information is provided as a very brief overview to help keep up with the rest of the instal-
lation/setup instructions. Detailed information and a full list of available commands are available in the
ShopBot User Guide.
In the ShopBot control software, commands are used to give specific directions to the machine. Any
command that directs the machine to move must be followed by parameters. For example, an MX,20
command will “Move” the “X-axis” to an absolute position of 20.
Other commands are used as keyboard shortcuts to access items in the menu bar. These usually do
not require parameters. FP is a useful command that is a shortcut for “File” and “Load Part File.” After
entering this command, a window will appear prompting the selection of a part file.
To enter a command, click the command box in the main window and type the command followed by
any parameters (if applicable).
Movement Testing
Connect the USB cable from the control box to the computer.
Note:
Windows 7 computers can have both USB 2.0 and 3.0
ports. The control software works best if the control cable is
plugged in to a USB 2.0 port. USB 3.0 ports can be unsat-
isfactory, and are identified by blue color coding and/or the
initials SS. Reserve these ports for other uses.
Connect the RPM controller from the VFD to a separate USB
port on the computer.
Test machine movement using arrow keys.
X Proximity Switch
The X proximity switch is mounted in a threaded hole near the X1 motor
on the gantry end plate.
Roll the gantry until it is against the stop blocks. The proximity switch
hole should be centered over the target bolt. Adjust the proximity target
with a 1/2” wrench if needed.
Note: The powder coating process sometimes leaves residue on the
threads of the end plate and YZ car. If installation of the threaded proxim-
ity switch is difficult, an M8 x 1 tap will clean the threads.