I need some basic help. I am working with an older CNC machine controlled by a PCB (which controls 24vdc step motors). I wish to use an Arduino or Pi to control this from my computer interface (i.e., digitally)
I have 7 lines from the MASTER PCB that need to go to the ARDUINO to control everything.
Line 1 - Ready analog voltage READY LINE. Once we power up the CNC PCB and it does a physical initiation this line goes from 0 to .75vdc and allows then
LIne 2 to go to 5VDC- CREDIT/TIME ADDED LINE-If this line then goes to ground then it pulses the MASTER PCB and adds time and credits (Its a simplified circuit for this explaination). Once CREDITS (for lack of a better word) are pulsed by grounding the pin, credits are added and allows.
Line 3-7 to go to 5VDC contstant. These 5 lines used to be attached to an actual joystick with limit switches. Grounding any one of them results in the cutting head moving in whatever 4 directions you desire. The 5th line when grounded from it's 5vdc contant voltage starts the cutting head.
I had started with these 7 pins in the PWM headers 3-9pin positions on my MEGA 2560 but found that WHEN ARDUINO IS POWERED UP THESE PWM PINS ARE ACTUALLY DEFAULTED TO GROUND and I have blown up another MASTER PCB. I actually need these 7 pins to be DEAD and NOT grounded at all to anything until I need it. Only when I want to switch them to ground via my software.
Do I need a relay breakout board? Can I do this with programming the microcontroller itself? I really need some detailed guidance despite my lack of IC's.