A simple Plug & Play upgrade for your older non-intelligent Driverack, SuperDrive, or MightyDrive based CNC milling machine, engraver, plasma cutter or lathe (Popular brands are Paxton/Patterson, Torchmate, and Magnum Technology) to the latest MN400 Advanced Motion Controller. The main benefits are to communicate through USB connection and use current operating systems and computers including laptops.

Most (pre 2007) MicroKinetics CNC machines worked with the older style ISA type card. These cards, OptiStep Plus or OptiStep Plus FR controlled the DriveRack, Superdrive or MightyDrive Multidrive Subsystems. Today, it is almost impossible to locate a new computer with an ISA slot and for that reason MicroKinetics offers an upgrade path for these machines.

There are two upgrade kits available - one for milling machines, routers and plasma/torch cutters and one for lathe type systems as shown below:

These kits include an MN400E, the cables and either the TurnMaster Pro or MillMaster Pro control software. This upgrade allows you to use a modern computer using Windows 7, Windows 8 or Windows 10. The MN400E connects to your computer or laptop with the included USB cable and then its output port connects to your existing Driverack or MightyDrive with a special cable assembly that is also included.

After this simple connection, just download and activate the new software to start using your machine with all the advanced features of the current production models offered.

Benefits include:

• Continuously updated digital readouts while in motion
• Accelerated jog speeds
• Independent front panel control
• USB interface allows use of newer computers
• Support for Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 10

 

These kits are also perfectly suited to upgrade all the PAXTON/PATTERSON High Performance CNC Milling Machine Centers and the High Performance CNC Lathes that were OEM built in the 1990's which used the Optistep Plus controllers. Also, many of the Magnum Technology's Phoenix CNC wood routers and CNC wood lathes which also utilized the same controllers. The milling machine upgrade kit is also suitable for upgrading the Torchmate torch and plasma cutters that use the MightyDrive unit.

While some vendors do not support older products and may leave the customer with no options, if you have a private label machine that includes a MicroKinetics product chances are support and service are still accessible. Upgrade kits are typically available from stock and offer good savings over buying the components individually.

MicroKinetics has been producing CNC machines and components continuously for more than 30 years. The vast majority of these machines are being run daily making products of value to the owner. Occasionally, some of these machines are no longer needed for the intended task and are resold to a new owner. The new owner will typically need support, replacement parts and possibly upgrades.

When purchasing a used MicroKinetics machine, it's valuable to know that you can still get support from the factory. All you need to do is transfer the registration. Registered owners receive service information and access to parts inventory. You can also obtain technical support by purchasing an annual tech support plan. Whether you buy a new MicroKinetics CNC machine or a preowned one, Microkinetics' technical support team is ready to help you maximize the benefits from your investment.