Question about Arduino MEGA 2560 + RAMPS v1.4

Other Hardware Motors, Mechanics, Power and CNC
1

Hello,

I am completely new to CNC.

I am starting to set up my Arduino MEGA 2560 and RAMPS 1.4. I am powering my RAMPS with a 12v 10A power supply, which from what I've read, will be powering the Arduino as well.

I would like to have my Arduino connected via USB to the computer so I can feed axis positions continuously.

My fear is that since the Arduino is being powered from the RAMPS, having it connected to the USB port of my Mac might have some risk of burning either the Arduino or my Macbook.

Do I have to unplug the Arduino MEGA 2560 from the computer once I connect it to the RAMPS 1.4?

Thanks a lot.

2

I have a RAMPS board which I have only used a few times. I had no problem with the RAMPS board powered and the Mega connected to my laptop.

...R

3

The power connection on most of the cheaper ramps boards I have seen or have here does NOT power the MEGA.

AFAIK they are separate supplies for good reason in that a short on a 24 / 12 volt rail could kill the MEGA.
Some of the boards are 24 volt capable but more so the 1.6 versions and derivatives.
There is also the spikes from all the different attached devices which could also upset the MEGA when sending code directly from a PC.

4

RAMPS power is needed to drive the steppers and the heated bed if you have one. The Mega gets power from the USB cable. Unless you have an unusual setup, the Mega will need to be attached to a PC of some sort because it will be sending GCODE to the Mega.

In other words, yes, your Mega will need to be attached to your Mac via USB.