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MassMind.org Low Cost Servo System - Stepper Replacement

1,885 views · Published 25 April 2016 · 4:26 · Indexed 14 October 2026

Channel: James Newton · 2016 · Science & Technology

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First run of a new high power, high speed, but very low cost servo system. Total electronics cost for what you see expected to be around $40 in partial kit form.

Encoder: Magnetic, does NOT require shaft mount, 360 ticks/revolution, 77,000 RPM. Fully assembled and tested for around $20... And no need to mount it to a shaft... just epoxy a special (provided) magnet on and place the encoder within 1/2" of that. Available in a few weeks. If you have an immediate application, contact us about our beta test program now.

PID controller: Accept step / direction or serial commands. Tune on the fly. Easy connection to encoder, motor driver, and motion controller (e.g. RAMPS/ Marlin) via PMinMO standard cables. Well under $20.  Or use an Arduino or compatible with PID library.

DC Motor driver: 40 volts, 17 amps so about 1/2 HP. Details to come. Or use any off the shelf DC or BLDC driver that accepts direction and PWM signals. 

Not shown, but coming later is an ultra low cost Motion controller: Interpret g-code into step and direction for 4 axis drivers. The critical / base functions of a RAMPS/Marlin grbl for less than $20. Options for LCD panel and switches,  USB connection, Spindle or relay control. 

We expect to have fully functional CNC controller electronics... all electronics except power supply and motors... for fast and powerful servo drive under $150.

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