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USB and Ethernet CNC Control for Mach3 or Mach4 (Pokeys57CNC)
USB and Ethernet CNC Control for Mach3 or Mach4 (Pokeys57CNC)
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PoKeys57CNC for Mach3 & Mach4
The controller for builders who've outgrown basic motion boards. USB or Ethernet connection, up to 8 STEP/DIR motors, and built-in CNC features — analog inputs, isolated spindle output, pendant support, encoders, and expansion — that most boards require add-ons to replicate.
View Full Specs Add the Required CablePack
8STEP/DIR motorsUSB + ETHDual connection5Analog inputs0–10VSpindle output
Who should choose the PoKeys57CNC?
This is the right controller when basic motion control isn't enough — more axes, built-in spindle output, pendant support, or room to expand as the machine grows.
Mach3 or Mach4 users
One controller covers both platforms via PoKeys plugins. Start on Mach3 and switch to Mach4 later without replacing hardware.
Mach3Mach4
USB or Ethernet, your choice
Connect by USB for simplicity or Ethernet for a more stable, network-style machine-control setup. Switch between them without rewiring.
USB 2.0Ethernet 10/100
Builders who need more
8 motors, analog inputs, 0–10V spindle output, pendant connectors, encoder support, and the PoKeys expansion ecosystem. Built for machines that require it.
8 Axes0–10V OutEncoders
What the PoKeys57CNC does
It sits between your PC and your motor drivers — receiving motion commands from Mach3 or Mach4 and turning them into STEP/DIR signals that move your machine, plus a full suite of I/O most controllers leave out.
- Controls up to 8 STEP/DIR signal-driven motors
- Connects by USB 1.1/2.0 or Ethernet 10/100
- Works with Mach3 and Mach4 via PoKeys plugins
- Provides 5 analog inputs at 12-bit resolution
- Includes isolated 0–10V analog output for spindle/VFD speed control
- Supports HD44780 LCD modules, encoders, and pendants
- Expands via PoExtBus, PoNET, and I2C accessories
- Includes communication fail-safe for machine safety
What it does not do
Knowing the limits upfront prevents the wrong build. Plan your full control system before ordering.
- Does not drive motors directly — motor drivers required
- Does not include a power supply — requires 6–26V DC
- Does not work with analog or PWM servo drives — STEP/DIR servo drives only
- Most builds require the PoKeys57CNC CablePack for practical wiring
- Does not include Mach3 or Mach4 software licenses
Most installations need the CablePack. The PoKeys57CNC uses dedicated IDC connectors for many I/O pins. The PoKeys57CNC CablePack includes the flat ribbon cables and connectors needed to make those pins practical to wire. Add it at checkout.
Key specifications
Motion and software
| Software | Mach3, Mach4 |
| Connection | USB 1.1/2.0 or Ethernet 10/100 |
| Axes | Up to 8 STEP/DIR motors |
| Pulse engine | 8-axis, 125 kHz |
| Fail-safe | Communication interruption support |
| Power input | 6–26V DC |
I/O and expansion
| Digital I/O | 28 configurable I/O pins |
| Dedicated outputs | 4 digital outputs |
| Analog inputs | 5 × 12-bit resolution |
| Spindle output | Isolated 0–10V analog |
| Encoder support | Yes |
| Expansion bus | PoExtBus, PoNET, I2C |
Why builders choose the PoKeys57CNC
It's not the cheapest option. It's the right option when you need the full feature set.
More built-in CNC functions
Analog inputs, isolated 0–10V spindle output, pendant connectors, and encoder support are built in — not add-ons you wire around later when the machine demands them.
Upgrade-proof Mach4 path
Mach3 today, Mach4 later — same hardware covers both. No controller swap required when your software setup changes down the road.
An actual expansion ecosystem
PoExtBus, PoNET, I2C sensors, relay modules, and compatible peripherals let your control system grow with the machine — without replacing the core board.
PoKeys57CNC vs. other controllers
Choose the right architecture first. The cheapest board for your build is the one that doesn't require expensive workarounds six months in.
| Factor | PoKeys57CNC (this product) | Ethernet SmoothStepper | Mach3 USB Board |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Built-in spindle, pendant, analog I/O, and room to expand | Ethernet motion control with breakout-board architecture | Simple, low-cost Mach3-only machine |
| Software | Mach3 + Mach4 | Mach3 + Mach4 | Mach3 only |
| Connection | USB or Ethernet | Ethernet | USB |
| Axes | Up to 8 STEP/DIR motors | Up to 6 axes | Basic Mach3 axes |
| Spindle output | Isolated 0–10V, built in | Depends on breakout board | Basic output only |
| Analog inputs | 5 × 12-bit, built in | Via breakout board | None |
| Pendant support | Yes, built in | Via breakout board | Limited |
| Wiring style | Board connectors + CablePack | IDC headers to breakout boards | IDC headers to breakout boards |
Common applications
- CNC routers and milling machines
- Lathes and turning centers
- Plasma tables with THC planning
- Machines with VFD spindle speed control
- Machines with pendant or remote control panels
- Multi-axis builds up to 8 motors
- Retrofit control boxes with expanded I/O needs
- Custom automation using PoBlocks visual programming
What to add to your order
The controller alone won't get you moving. Build your complete control system.
- PoKeys57CNC CablePack — required for most installs
- Stepper or STEP/DIR-compatible servo motor drivers
- 6–26V DC power supply for the controller board
- Separate power supply for motor drivers
- USB or Ethernet cable
- Limit switches, E-stop, and relays as needed
- Mach3 or Mach4 software license (sold separately)
Related products and resources
PoKeys57CNC CablePackRecommended for most installs. Flat ribbon cables and IDC connectors for the board's dedicated headers. PoStep60-256 Stepper DriverHigher-current PoLabs driver for larger motors and more demanding builds. PoStep25-32 Stepper DriverCompact PoLabs driver for smaller motors and lighter-duty applications. PoKeys Software, Plugins & ManualsOfficial downloads: setup software, Mach3 plugin, Mach4 plugin, firmware, and documentation. PoKeys57CNC Video TutorialsBuildYourCNC video playlist covering setup, wiring, and Mach configuration. Ethernet SmoothStepper (ESS)Better fit if you want Ethernet motion control with breakout-board architecture and up to 6 axes.Frequently asked questions
Does the PoKeys57CNC work with Mach3 and Mach4?
Yes. It uses dedicated PoKeys plugins for both platforms. You can run Mach3 today and switch to Mach4 later without replacing the controller.
Do I need the PoKeys57CNC CablePack?
For most installations, yes. The board uses dedicated IDC connectors for many I/O pins, and the CablePack includes the flat ribbon cables and connectors that make those practical to wire. Check your build before skipping it.
Can the PoKeys57CNC control servo motors?
Yes — if your servo drives accept STEP/DIR input signals. It does not work with analog-only or PWM-only servo drives for motion control.
How does spindle speed control work?
The board includes an isolated 0–10V analog output. You connect it to a compatible VFD or spindle drive that accepts a 0–10V reference. Mach3 or Mach4 controls the speed through the PoKeys plugin.
PoKeys57CNC or Ethernet SmoothStepper — which one?
If you need built-in spindle control, analog inputs, pendant support, and an expansion ecosystem, choose the PoKeys57CNC. If you want Ethernet motion control with breakout-board-style architecture and up to 6 axes, choose the ESS. Both support Mach3 and Mach4.
Is it worth it for a simple Mach3 machine?
Probably not. For a straightforward Mach3-only build, the Mach3 USB Interface Board is a lower-cost fit. The PoKeys57CNC earns its price when you need the extra axes, spindle output, analog I/O, or expansion capability.
What power supply does the controller itself need?
The controller board requires 6–26V DC, separate from the higher-voltage supplies your motor drivers need. A 12V or 24V supply is typically used for the board.
The most capable controller for Mach3 and Mach4 builds
USB or Ethernet. Up to 8 STEP/DIR motors. Built-in analog inputs, isolated 0–10V spindle output, pendant support, encoder input, and the full PoKeys expansion ecosystem. When basic motion control isn't enough, this is the board.
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I had very few issues with getting it up and running with Mach4. The one issue is trying to get homing and limit switches (neg only) to work with the same switches. I can get the homing to work but not the limit. Other than that it’s been great. If you can help me figure this out it would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Ken