Touch Plate detection just failed

[Jim@HeirloomTable]

Been using Virtual Zero since using the machine, the other day on the center point of a zero the machine did the "slam the bit into the plate" trick. After a shut down and complete re-start, tried again, but the system won't detect the plate at all - not under the bit, not with the magnet touching the plate directly. I like using Virtual for fine jobs where detail is critical - any ideas on how I can toubleshoot this?
Thanks all - Jim

[Rando]

Jim:

Ack!

If there haven't been any recent modifications, I'd say that the 1/8" plug for the plate, going into the controller, might have come out a little. Make sure it's firmly in place. And, before actually starting the virtual-Z, I always use a short wire between where the plate is and the spindle, to make sure the circuit is working right. The other thing to check is whether the plate is shorting to the bed or a clamp and preventing it seeing it. If it works find with a piece of paper underneath the plate, and it's likely shorting to something and making it so it can't be sensed. (I reversed the polarity of the sensing circuit for exactly that reason).

Check those out; hopefully it's just a loose cable!

Regards,

Thom

[Jim@HeirloomTable]

Found the problem! picked up the plate to disconnect from the controller and inspect it, the small wire to the magnet came off in my hand - pulled loose from inside the heat shrink tube. Not sure I'll be able to fix that, but will give it a try!
https://1drv.ms/u/s!Ah_DERvpr7S1gopVXJZKEAlhZX5VVA
not sure I'm doing this image stuff right . . . thanks!

[Jim@HeirloomTable]

Anyone know if you can buy just the replacement cord for the touch plate? $100 for a new plate and cord seems a bit high . . .
I've messaged NextWave, but no info yet, Rockler's site suggested NextWave . . .

[monitoringpost]

I've had to repair mine so I can tell you it's straight forward if your comfortable using a soldering iron. I'd also suggest if you can pick-up a new banana plug at Radio Shack or something replace the Next Wave one while you're at it. Good Luck ...

[Kayvon]

If you don't feel comfortable soldering it yourself and you don't know anyone locally, I'd be happy to fix the cable for you. You cover the shipping and I'll take care of the rest.

You definitely don't need a new $100 plate over a disconnected cable.

[tonydude]

JIm,
It's $29.99
http://shop.nextwaveautomation.com/shop ... ?itemid=82

Tony