Tiny Controls · Own design
TNC-M04 : 4 Axes CNC Controller
Four-axis G-code controller with step and direction outputs, three linear axes plus a rotary fourth.
Overview
The TNC-M04 runs a machine from G-code without a PC in the loop. It reads the program, plans the motion, and drives your existing stepper or servo drives through step and direction outputs — there is no breakout board and nothing to keep running on a desktop beside the machine.
Three axes are linear: X, Y and Z. The fourth is rotary and can be configured as A, B or C, so an indexer or trunnion can be added on whichever axis suits the machine rather than whichever the controller insists on.
Each of the four axes carries its own maximum velocity and acceleration. That matters on any machine where the axes are not alike — a heavy gantry and a light Z rarely want the same acceleration, and forcing a single figure across all four means tuning to the slowest.
Designed and built by Tiny Controls in India, and repairable for the life of the machine.
Specifications
| Axes | 4 |
|---|---|
| Output type | Step and direction |
| Programming | G-code |
| Linear axes | 3 X, Y, Z |
| Rotary axis | 1 configurable A, B or C |
| Per-axis velocity and acceleration | Independently adjustable |
Questions
Does the TNC-M04 need a PC?
No. It reads and executes the G-code itself. A PC is only used to write the program and transfer it.
Will it work with my existing drives?
Yes, if they accept step and direction pulses — which almost all stepper and digital servo drives do. No breakout board is needed.
Can the fourth axis be a rotary table?
Yes. The fourth axis is rotary and can be configured as A, B or C, so it can be assigned to whichever axis your machine's geometry calls for.
How does it differ from the TNC-M03?
The M03 has three linear axes only. The M04 adds the configurable rotary fourth axis.
How does it differ from the TNC-M34?
The TNC-M34 adds a dual-core ARM processor, a 7-inch graphic display, and a 36-key built-in keypad. It also introduces 16 opto-coupled inputs, 14 open collector outputs, 4 dedicated relay outputs, dual USB ports, and internal SD card support.