Root Controller - Calling for BETA testers

Root Controller
1

Hi all,

I have four of these CNC ESP32 GRBL motion controllers lying in my draw and was wondering if anyone would like to participate in a BETA tester scheme?

20210628_172621
20210628_1726214032×3024 1.91 MB

Price for BETA participation is £75 including UK shipping (overseas shipping will require an additional cost to cover shipping)

What do you get?

  • A fully isolated CNC motion controller, dubbed the “Root Controller” which runs the GRBL ESP32 software (please note: it is only fully isolated if external motor driver are used, IE the ones used on the Root 4 build).
    • 8 Isolated inputs - supporting VFCs, NPN inductive switches and normal switches
    • 3 Isolated MOSFETS - usefully for switching solenoids, LEDs and pumps
    • 3 Isolated Relays - great for turning on vacuum and dust extractions
    • 1 isolated RS485 interface - Used for Spindle control
    • 1 Isolated USB interface - Used for PC control through a type C connector.
    • 18 Non isolated outputs - Used for motion control (isolated through external stepper motor drivers)
    • SD card interface - Used for sorting Gcode (which can be loaded through the web interface - IE no PC required)
    • GRBL button on card and remote - used for macro buttons, job start etc
    • I2S expansion port
  • A non isolated Stepper motor driver breakout (For machine that run the DRV8825 or similar drivers).
    • 6 stepper motor driver port
    • 1 Fan header
  • Private discord chat with my self and fellow beta testers to help iron out any bugs.

What I am looking for:

  • Someone who’s currently in the final stages of their build and could provide feedback over the next 8-10 weeks (sooner is better).
  • Someone who’s willing to take on a little challenge and acknowledge these are pre-release cards and some information might not be ready?
  • Someone who is building one of the following: Root 3, Root 4 with external drivers, Root 3 LITE and Root 4 LITE. Ideally one of each.
  • Ideally someone who is using a RS485 VFD drive, Plasma cutter, PWM/Discrete controller of spindle and or a laser diode

Expected FAQs

  • Why is there a cost to the BETA tester scheme?
    • The cost is to cover the raw materials of the controller and is sold to you at lower than rate cost. IE the controller has cost me more to produce than the rate I am selling these to you as part of the BETA tester scheme, this is to help lower you cost and in turn I would like your feedback to help improve the design.
  • Is shipping included?
    • As I am not limiting this to the UK users, I have no including shipping in the advertised price. This will be added later. UK users will get free shipping.

How to apply
Please send me an email (root@rootcnc.com) or message outlining the follow:
2. Machine you’re building. IE Root 4 etc
3. Spindle/ Tool you are using. IE 1.5KW VFD with RS485 control
4. Stepper motor and drives your using. IE NEMA 23s with external drivers inc part numbers
5. Any AUX stuff you want to control. IE dust extractor or coolant
6. What you plan to use your machine for. IE machine decorative signs
7. Any photos are welcome.

Any questions please ask on here or on the discord channel.

2

Hi Pete,

I attempted to send you an email when this first came out. I just got the bounce back today. I think you need to modify your email address above. It is missing the T in rootcnc.com.

Thanks,
Brandon

3

Brandon, well spotted! I’ve corrected my typo and have received your email. I’ll be in touch shortly

4

Haha I experienced the same, but had assumed I’d mistyped it!

5

classic Pete and putting typos very where!

6

I got asked about the use of solenoids, the answer is yes. It’s designed to operate them.

You can hear my mechanical keyboard in the background