Torchmate table upgrade

[ETCWeld]

Hey everyone.
I just got my old 2014 TM X table running again (down for 4 years).
I need to replace the microstepping stepper drive, but supposedly it will work for now.

The software isn't sequencing the cuts unless i program all of my inside cuts one at a time and it doesn't read any of my EDU files.

On top of it all now that I used the newer versions, I can't stand the AVHC controller. I inquired about getting a retrofit to use the new VMD (Visual Machine Designer) with the touchscreen to eliminate the old computer cabinet but they are telling me I would have to replace my hyperther powermax 105 (we have two of these- one of wich is brand new in the box) with the flexcut 80.

My question is, have any of you converted an old torchmate to any of the the new controls or even hybrid between different manufactures. Tochmate is basically saying their stuff is proprietary

Thanks in advance for any help or guidance on this.

-Ray

[weldguy]

Replace the PMAX 105 with a Flexcut80, that's ridiculous, I am sure you thought the same!

Hopefuly someone else can answer your question but if it were me and I was willing to spend money on the machine I would be looking at the C&CNC retrofit so you can get away from proprietary stuff altogether.

[SegoMan DeSigns]

TorchMate went down hill fast after Lincoln bought them out, the previous owner was a rock crawler / outdoor guy that would show up to a lot of events with his tables and give free training on them.

Look into the CandCNC retrokits, Tom will probably chime in shortly. As for those 105 units I will be happy to dispose of them for you

They are a great machine, just ask Snoopy:

IMG_20200731_154351259~2.jpg

[ETCWeld]

Thaks guys! I appreciate the information and backing up my same thought process. I feel like the fexcut requirement alone is a deal breaker. There should at least be an adapter to let me keep using the Pmax.

My co-worker just reminded me that we have cases of the consumables for the 105, making it an even more ridiculous idea. I will start learning about the CandCNC as soon as I hit submit to this post. Any other suggestions are still appreciated.

[SegoMan DeSigns]

Here is another TM upgrade thread

https://www.plasmaspider.com/viewtopic. ... nc#p240461

[ETCWeld]

Here is another TM upgrade thread

https://www.plasmaspider.com/viewtopic. ... nc#p240461

thank you. I 'm checking it out now.

[The-Meerkat]

I bought a bundle from CandCNC back in late December to retrofit my 2014 Lightning CNC table. It’s my 2nd retrofit on the table. So far, I’m pleased with almost everything about it. The CommandCNC software is very easy to use. Way easier than my previous UCCNC software and before that Mach3. The new motors are about 40% more powerful than my old ones. Not any faster, but smoother acceleration and deceleration. The electronics were easy to install. Same Gecko Drive as my old system. The new mini-computer running on Linux is infinitely faster and better suited to CNC applications than my previous Windows based systems. Tom and Jon at CandCNC helped out a lot via phone, email and posts. Most of my issues were due not having one comprehensive installation manual for my specific bundle. The manual(s) are a compilation of pdf files and videos for the individual components. Many have not been updated to newer versions to match their most current products. I don’t like that. Especially to cut & install wiring and setting up screens with tons of information without a current info to reference. I was able to overcome that by simply calling by phone and asking to be walked through a couple sections. The DTHC was twitchy at first, but turned out to be because I was not adding the CandCNC “end of cut” post processor they have thoughtfully added in Sheetcam to my .tap files. Doing so, quickly fixed that issue and it was my fault. I can’t emphasize how important good after-sale customer support is. That’s one of several reasons I dumped UCCNC as they’re based in the Czech Republic. CandCNC are in Northeast Texas and have always been available to talk or call me back same day without fail.

Hope this helps.

[adbuch]

I bought a bundle from CandCNC back in late December to retrofit my 2014 Lightning CNC table. It’s my 2nd retrofit on the table. So far, I’m pleased with almost everything about it. The CommandCNC software is very easy to use. Way easier than my previous UCCNC software and before that Mach3. The new motors are about 40% more powerful than my old ones. Not any faster, but smoother acceleration and deceleration. The electronics were easy to install. Same Gecko Drive as my old system. The new mini-computer running on Linux is infinitely faster and better suited to CNC applications than my previous Windows based systems. Tom and Jon at CandCNC helped out a lot via phone, email and posts. Most of my issues were due not having one comprehensive installation manual for my specific bundle. The manual(s) are a compilation of pdf files and videos for the individual components. Many have not been updated to newer versions to match their most current products. I don’t like that. Especially to cut & install wiring and setting up screens with tons of information without a current info to reference. I was able to overcome that by simply calling by phone and asking to be walked through a couple sections. The DTHC was twitchy at first, but turned out to be because I was not adding the CandCNC “end of cut” post processor they have thoughtfully added in Sheetcam to my .tap files. Doing so, quickly fixed that issue and it was my fault. I can’t emphasize how important good after-sale customer support is. That’s one of several reasons I dumped UCCNC as they’re based in the Czech Republic. CandCNC are in Northeast Texas and have always been available to talk or call me back same day without fail.

Hope this helps.

That's great to hear of your success installing your latest retrofit. It's too bad that they don't have current up-to-date documentation, as I know that can be frustrating. Now that you have successfully navigated this, and while it is still fresh in your mind - they should pay you to document it for them so at least the next customer will have an easier go of it.

David

[ETCWeld]

I bought a bundle from CandCNC back in late December to retrofit my 2014 Lightning CNC table. It’s my 2nd retrofit on the table. So far, I’m pleased with almost everything about it. The CommandCNC software is very easy to use. Way easier than my previous UCCNC software and before that Mach3. The new motors are about 40% more powerful than my old ones. Not any faster, but smoother acceleration and deceleration. The electronics were easy to install. Same Gecko Drive as my old system. The new mini-computer running on Linux is infinitely faster and better suited to CNC applications than my previous Windows based systems. Tom and Jon at CandCNC helped out a lot via phone, email and posts. Most of my issues were due not having one comprehensive installation manual for my specific bundle. The manual(s) are a compilation of pdf files and videos for the individual components. Many have not been updated to newer versions to match their most current products. I don’t like that. Especially to cut & install wiring and setting up screens with tons of information without a current info to reference. I was able to overcome that by simply calling by phone and asking to be walked through a couple sections. The DTHC was twitchy at first, but turned out to be because I was not adding the CandCNC “end of cut” post processor they have thoughtfully added in Sheetcam to my .tap files. Doing so, quickly fixed that issue and it was my fault. I can’t emphasize how important good after-sale customer support is. That’s one of several reasons I dumped UCCNC as they’re based in the Czech Republic. CandCNC are in Northeast Texas and have always been available to talk or call me back same day without fail.

Hope this helps.

Thank you for your input. I sent a request for someone to contact me on March 6th or 7th for a quote or response from them and the best I can tell I haven't heard back yet. Did you request info from their contact option on their site? I'll admit I haven't pestered anyone one
I just checked my junk mail because I also sent something to the ppl at flashcut requesting a quote on 3/14 and I haven't heard back from them yet either. My boss wants a decision from me on Monday, but I am going to stall a little longer if I can.

Thanks again for sharing your exp. I know I can always get help by people here, but it's good knowing there is support if needed on the company side.

[tcaudle]

That's great to hear of your success installing your latest retrofit. It's too bad that they don't have current up-to-date documentation, as I know that can be frustrating. Now that you have successfully navigated this, and while it is still fresh in your mind - they should pay you to document it for them so at least the next customer will have an easier go of it.

David

A large percentage of users refuse to read the manual. FULLY documenting something that can have a lot of variations takes a lot of time and detail. The controller manual alone is 189 pages. The separate DTHC manuals are almost as long . As upgrades and later software releases come out, trying to keep up without doing quick addendums becomes a daunting task. Our focus is putting out a modern product that performs at a high level and at a reasonable price.
We get equal complaints that we have too much information and its too technical .
Then you have the specific retro-fit like for example a Torchmate retro, and it gets more complex .

I have an opening for a tech writer but you have to double as a test tech and take care of the website and printed marketing. I does not pay much but you get to play with a lot of neat toys!

[adbuch]

Ok. It sounds like maybe he didn't read all of the pertinent documentation including addendums.

David

[tcaudle]

Yeah, the manuals are not as well updated as the hardware and software. An upgrade or retrofit is a challenge and its hard to think of every possible question .
Our current manual project is to pull the Control Software out of the Controller manuals since the entire line form the Home Shop series to the high end commercial controls, all use the same Software. A LOT of the hardware is the same too .
It presents a challenge when you have been doing this for over 20 years and have 5 generations of controllers and 3 generations of Control Software involved and thousands of installs . As second or third level owners get used and sometimes mothballed tables, we spend a lot time building replacement parts and doing online support . Things move crazy fast in technology Some things are just too old: electronics have lifespans in "dog years"

Being an Engineering company we are always looking at new designs and rapidly advancing chip technology . .