Question Removable Tool Length Sensor

Thought I would share a small mod I made to the tool length sensor. I didn't like how it had to be hardwired to the control board as I could trip on it, people could pull on it or get caught on it. So I decided to make it removable when the machine is not in use. There is a small hole on the front plate, left of the E-stop, I haven't a clue what is needed for so this is where the plug would go. I used a headphone jack and socket (RS components parts: 505-1429 and 505-1334).

I shortened the cable attached to the sensor but still having enough length to reach every point on the tabletop, then I soldered and connected the headphone jack. The plug was tricker, I had to make a flange for the rear of the plug and secured it with epoxy glue and then made a washer for the front (acetal). A little bit of insulation tape added some thickness to the plug as it was a little loose in the hole. Very happy with how it turned out.

Good work. I did the same (but in the back side): https://www.stepcraft-systems.com/en/service-and-support/stepcraft-forum-uk/accessories/2309-diy-tool-length-probe

I was just thinking about accidentally pulling that cable, I might do a similar mod to my unit too.
Thanks

Will this work when using the laser?

They say that I have to keep the tool length sensor pressed when using the laser attachment.

I was wondering if I added your mod to the sensor and remove it when using the laser will it work?

Thanks
Hassa

Hi Evan,
I'm not electronically minded and without a solder iron, so I took my sensor to a local electronics shop to get a jack plug fitted. They insisted I needed a mono plug as there was only 2 wires on the sensor. I got one fitted but when I plug it into the stepcraft it immediately lights up the probe IO on the diagnostics - when I then press the sensor it goes off. This is the opposite of what it is supposed to do. I note from your first photo that you have a stereo plug fitted (2 black bands instead of 1 on a mono) which is something the shop said couldn't be done as a stereo plug needs 3 wires apparently?!?! and I'll take a leap of faith that that is the reason why I'm getting opposite readings on the diagnostics. If I take the plug back for replacement with a stereo plug, can you clarify for me where the 2 wires go so I can "instruct" the shop what to do.

Best regards
Craig

Craig,

The tool sensor works with shortcut the circuit.
So two wires lets say 1 minus (-) and 1 plus (+) when the two get connected the sensor is on and immidiatly the Z-height is set.
In your case the circuit is already made, so somewhere the two wires are crossed or make contact in the plug Female or male.

Is your female plug (on the machine) a stereo connector? if so check that your two wires are not both to the + are connected.

The problem is most likely not in your mono plug.

Good luck