Thoughts on the masso controller

[Sampson Jones]

Seems cool that no external computer is needed but based on what I found and external thc is required . They claim they are developing an all in one with thc . Chime in please on this topic .

[robertspark]

opinion: it is a bit limited on inputs and outputs and you are chained to upgrade costs to enable some functions. you are also very limited in what M-codes can run in sync with motion. YMMV.... it's a LOT of money for what it is.... sure there will be a few differing opinions (let us know what you do/ how you get on to advise others in the future)

https://www.masso.com.au/product/cnc-pl ... roller-g3/

I would save a large percentage of my money and buy Mesa hardware with linuxcnc+plasmac..... or uccnc and CNCdrive hardware running on a fanless small board computer

touchscreen by default with uccnc if you have a touchscreen.... no extra costs...

[gomond]

The masso is not mature enough for a reliable or first time builder.
I have built Mach 3 , myplasm and masso plasma systems and by far the most awkward is the masso.
Their DTHC torch height controller doesn't seem to be very responsive or stable (though I used the proma and pokeys fiber versions on the masso with much the same issues). It may just be the firmware. My next build will be a LinuxCNC/Mesa with RPi 5.

[acourtjester]

Very good to have feed back from a user explaining the comparisons. It will help the DIY types in the future.

[SegoMan DeSigns]

Here’s my 2 bits worth :

My first plaz table was a “new to me” 2 x 2 T M Growth Series, it was going to cost over $4K to upgrade it to accu-move with THC, I opted instead to build the 6 x 12 with the funds. Once the frame was built and gantry rolling I had to decide what to run it with. Mach or Masso was the last two options on the short list.

The 2 x 2 demonstrated how dirty things get with the lap top that runs it and like posted the fact that Masso required no computer was very appealing. The 3rd Gen Masso controller was just released so I went with it thinking to myself it could always be used on a router table if I did not like it’s plasma features.

The installation and programming was straight forward and relative painless in conjunction with the ClearPath SDSK servos. Masso’s service / forum was always fast to answer any questions that I had. The accessory output signals from the G-3 is used with a TTL style relay to run the peripherals. All inputs are opto-isolated to help reduce any noise infusion.

3 years of use review (short list):

Pro’s

Once you hit the power button your cut ready in less than a minute.
It has been a reliable unit.
The unit generates no heat and can be mounted inside an enclosure.
Some of the upgrades are now free when you install their latest firmware.
My Strine is improving with all my Down-Unda conversations.

Con’s

Their proprietary O S makes finding a compatible touch screen monitor and peripherals difficult at times.
Upgrades to the plasma firmware is slow (but improving)
A re-write on the CAM software (SheetCam) is needed with some of their firmware upgrades
A simple easy to use restart feature is needed for a consumable change (the latest upgrade has addressed this partially - I’ve not upgraded and tried it yet)
There is cheaper all in one controllers in the market place.
The Masso crew needs to be a part of this forum if they want to play with fire.

Would I buy it again?

Maybe / Maybe Not, having to deal with 2 different machines software / G-Codes is a pain why do I want a 3rd ? That’s like having to stock consumables for 3 different styles of plasma torches.

Feel free to ask any questions.

G-3 / relays / terminal bars mounted under hinged key board shelf.

IMG_20200307_210207633.jpg

Control head.jpg

[weldguy]

Awesome real world review, should be very helpful to others. Have never worked with this unit. Thanks for the info Segoman.