There are always posts about problems with losing communication with the controller. Usually, the plan of action is to start shielding wires and grounding dust collection. That most likely is the main solution to the problem.
However, my experience tells me to solve some larger problems (like static, etc.) by doing one basic thing from the start … regulate power to the system.
I’ve done that in most of my career by never installing electronic gear without also installing an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) to maintain the power and eliminate power fluctuations and interruptions.
My ShapeOko system is operated from a UPS of about 1Kw rating. The meter on the UPS usually indicates that 25% of its capability is being used while carving (meaning less that 200 watts.) The UPS estimates that at that consumption level, I have about 30 minutes to find a stopping point in the job when I lose total power.
But that doesn’t explain that there are several power drops during the day of a duration long enough to make the ShapeOko (or at least the computer running it) reset or lose communication. I can hear the UPS click, but nothing happens other than that.
So, solve a lot of your electrical/electronic/woodworking problems with a UPS. I think a UPS should be sold as an option with the machine.
The UPS doesn’t even have to be a 1Kw size to protect your machine from the quick power drops. As long as it will hold that much power for the duration of the drop, you’re good to go!
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