QUIXDrive 3 Phase VFD Inverter help wanted please.

[fixit9660]

Hi.
I've recently acquired a lathe with a VFD Inverter motor controller. It works fine except I'd like to enable the "Jog" function, which is built in and almost ready to work, but I don't know why it doesn't. The manual refers to a removeable control panel, which I don't have, and RS485 access. Does anyone have any control software to run on a PC for one of these please. It's a QUIXDrive model 2-FM-0007. Any help appreciated.

 

[Sideways]

Industry uses a lot of customised systems where specialised industrial computers are used to control machines.
RS485 is a standard for the electrical communication that would be used between the controller and VFD motor drives.
It's like ethernet over twisted pair cables but different as it's intended for use in a "hostile" factory environment.
I doubt that your PC will be able to talk directly to the drive. Most don't have an RS485 interface and you'll need a box of some sort in between.

To me, "jog" is slow, speed limted movement where you turn a rotary dial (encoder) and the machine moves the selected spindle or axis as if you were turning it by hand. You will need some extra hardware for this at the minimum. It's essential for big and computer controlled machines but I don't see why you can't just turn a lathe chuck by hand if it's a small machine.

 

[fixit9660]

Hi Sideways, thanks for your response. I'm familar with RS485 protocols and signalling levels; I've spent my entire life in electronic communications
You need hands to turn it....

 

[Myfordman]

The manual explains all if you have it or download here http://lami.bcordes.free.fr/quixdrive_manual.pdf
Assuming the jog function has not been disabled by programming of IN4 pin 11,
if 5 is connected to 6 then the controls are "NPN" active low logic. Connecting 11 to 7 will enable jog

If 5 is connected to 7 then controls are "PNP" active high logic. Connecting 11 to 6 will enable jog

If this does not work, then get a control panel, far far easier than the RS485 route as you need the adapter, and old pooter with a real serial port (usb converter don't always work with bespoke interfaces), the custom software from Quix and a manual on how to drive the software. Simple MMI keypads are far easier to use. I've spent 20 + years dabbling with inverters and this is based on bitter experience!