Axis pairing + 4th (rotary) axis question

[Blades]

I am running a G540 connected via the DB25 connector, and currently running axis pairing option with 'Axis 4 paired to axis 2'.
What will it require if I still want to use my G540 and add a 4th axis? Is it even possible to do this with my current setup using the DB25 output? Or would I have to 'hard wire' my G540 to the individual Acorn outputs (doubling up on Y axis output) in order to free up the Acorn 4th axis output?

I have an additional stepper driver for the new rotary 4th axis.

[Gary Campbell]

In order to add a 4th axis, you would need to determine if the internal G540 drive for your paired axis is capable of driving 2 motors, which is very doubtful. The best solution is to add individual drives for each motor and then you will be able to wire the drive signal wires to accomplish what you wish. You may also have to increase the capacity of the drives power supply(s)

[Ken Rychlik]

You "could" use some extra breakout boards or custom cable to hardwire pair 2 and 4, leaving the other signal for the rotary. You might need a larger power supply to carry the extra motor.

Probably, 5 leadshine drivers and a larger power supply would be the best route. Once you try leadshine, you won't go back. I have a drawer full of gecko drivers.

[Blades]

@Gary: the driver is already taken care of. I have 5 drivers for 5 motors (G540 + 1) The question pertains more to the DB25 port being internally wired to all 4 outputs on the Acorn.

@Ken... I've heard those sentiments before regarding the G540. I think Keith shares that opinion as well. The G540 has faithfully served me on several different CNC's throughout the past years, but Gecko seems like they're happy with it and have not made an effort to update it at all.

I will give some thought to replacing the old G540 though. At this point, it's not worth going to too much trouble making it work as required.

[Blades]

Update: found a DB25 breakout board, so I was able to use the outputs on the Acorn & still have axis 4 available.

[cnckeith]

gear we use but don't sell web page with db bob and other good stuff
https://www.centroidcnc.com/centroid_di ... _gear.html