DSP F.A.Q

[twehr]

If yo have questions about the DSP, this FAQ is the best place to start.

bdring edit: http://www.buildlog.net/wiki/doku.php?id=dsp_controller (changed to Wiki page)

[naPS]

Can we get permission to edit the FAQ / Wiki?

[bdring]

I thought the same thing...I am installing a wiki right now.

[bdring]

I did a quick installation of DokuWiki. It is a lightweight Wiki written in PHP focused at documentation. I managed to muddle my way through creating my first few wiki pages. If you want edit rights just ask. It will probably break into multiple pages as the content grows.

http://www.buildlog.net/wiki/doku.php?id=dsp_controller

[naPS]

I'd like to get access to update the Wiki please. Been writing down a ton of information on what each set up parameter does, with units, calcs, etc. Would love to dump that information somewhere other than some random piece of paper here that I'll end up chucking on accident.

[twehr]

Some folks are having issues with Google Docs, so I am uploading a PDF of the docs and will link it in the Wiki.

[artag]

Is there any documentation available for the file formats (on the USB stick) and the protocols (on USB) for the DSP controller ?

It seems most people will use the supplied Windows software to convert from .dxf etc to the positioning commands, but I'm interested to know if it's practical to replace this with home-grown software, or by adapting existing software.

-adrian

[Knack]

It appears the wiki page does not exist so I will toss this question out there for the group:

Why would I use a DSP package vs a PC, mach3/emc, and stepper drivers?

The first is obvious: The DSP does not require a computer to run, but what about the rest?

Vector vs Raster?
Cutting vs Engraving?

Let me know if this needs to be moved else ware.

[twehr]

It appears the wiki page does not exist so I will toss this question out there for the group:

Why would I use a DSP package vs a PC, mach3/emc, and stepper drivers?

The first is obvious: The DSP does not require a computer to run, but what about the rest?

Vector vs Raster?
Cutting vs Engraving?

Let me know if this needs to be moved else ware.

DSP:
Network interface.
Combined Vector and Raster jobs.
Excellent quality engraving.
Better Workflow.

BTW - you will need stepper drives with both alternatives - the DSP controller still needs something to drive the motors.

[lasersafe1]

You forgot a couple others:

1. Highly accurate pulsing engine within the DSP, as opposed to not so accurate when a PC is involved where it must hop out to handle interrupts. This allows steppers to run at much higher step rates without losing steps.

2. NO GCODE EVER! None, zip, zilch, bye bye. This is what sold me.