Wiring: Finding 120 VAC in a CNC Bender Lite operator station

About

Some original CNC Bender LiteControl operator stations use 24 VDC to power the computer. However, the newer Pro-face units sometimes come with 100-220VAC power supply requirements.

This document shows where to find 120 VAC in these operator stations.

WARNING!

Only experienced electrical technicians should perform what we describe next.

There can be high voltages and currents of electricity flowing through the electrical panel.

STEP 1: Open the operator station front cover

This cover uses a hinge at the bottom, so you can swing it down for work inside the operator station.

If the computer is powered - be sure to remember that it contains hard drive. Lower the front cover carefully so that not shock is imparted to the PC panel.

STEP 2: Find the 120VAC

You will find 120VAC on the back of the E-Stop button. (Test this with a multimeter.) The terminal with constant power is usually the right side.

Attach a terminal pin to a 14 AWG THHN wire.
Insert the wire in the E-Stop terminal.
Run the wire to the L terminal of the new Pro-face computer.
Attach a terminal pin at the Pro-face end.
Insert the pin in the Pro-face L terminal.

STEP 3: Locate a Spare Wire that Runs Through the Flexible Conduit

A spare wire is usually coiled in the operator station
Trace this wire back to the electrical panel
Attach the other end of this cable to a Neutral (you will need to find where you can tap into the Neutral in the panel. There will be a connection on the terminal strip at the bottom of the panel.)

STEP 4: Attach the Spare Wire to the Neutral

Attach a terminal pin to end of the spare wire in the operator station.
Attach the spare wire to the Neutral terminal in the

STEP 5: Attach the a Ground Wire

Attach a ground wire to the ground terminal at the Pro-face

Tools/Parts Needed

14 Gauge THHN stranded wire
Vinyl Insulate Terminal Pin for 14 gauge wire (See 159-1617 Kobiconn Terminals Pin Blue 16-14 at Mouser.com)
Possibly a jumper bar (Automationdirect.com DINnectors DN-82J10)
Crimper for terminal pins, screw drivers, diagonal cutters for cutting the jumper bar