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DRO for Milling Machines
4-Axis with RPM and Touch Probe Inputs

DRO for Milling Machines
4-Axis with RPM and Touch Probe Inputs

The Wireless DRO adapter provides a way to connect the TouchDRO application to optical, magnetic, and select capacitive scales. This adapter is ideal for milling machines that require quill/knee axis summing, a touch probe or tool height setter input, an RPM display and an indexing head input.
$299.00 USD
$299.00 USD
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  • Ships in 2-5 business days
  • Free domestic shipping on orders over $200
  • 5 year warranty
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Expand the capabilities of your manual milling machine with the TouchDRO 4-Axis Digital Readout. Built by machinists for machinists, TouchDRO streamlines milling tasks, boosts precision, and keeps you focused on what matters most-machining. Whether you’re a beginner, an experienced hobbyist, or a professional, TouchDRO won’t get in your way; it works with you.

 

What is This?

TouchDRO 4-Axis wireless DRO adapter for metal milling machines allows connecting a wide variety of scales and encoders to an Android tablet running the TouchDRO application. It supports the vast majority of modern optical and magnetic DRO scales or rotary encoders with 5V TTL or RS-422 output (single-ended and differential), as well as capacitive scales, calipers and micrometers that use Mitutoyo SPC or "Chinese" BIN6 protocol (input converters sold separately). 

To complete your TouchDRO setup you will need:

  • A set of compatible DRO scales (supported pinouts are listed further down)
  • An Android tablet that meets TouchDRO system requirements
  • A 5V USB power supply (for example, an old phone charger that provides at least 1A of current)

* Android tablet and DRO scales not included.

Why Choose TouchDRO?

  • For Beginners

    TouchDRO's simple and intuitive user interface will help you improve your accuracy, make fewer mistakes, and build confidence in your machining skills. By providing real-time readouts and easy-to-use features, TouchDRO eliminates guesswork and allows you to focus on learning the craft, and achieving professional results faster.

  • For Seasoned Hobbyists

    TouchDRO is packed with features that will significantly enhance the capabilities of your milling machine. The graphical projection view simplifies the machining of complex parts, while the reference drawing overlay enables you to cut intricate shapes that would typically require a CNC mill.

  • For Professional Machinists

    TouchDRO’s advanced features optimize workflow and maximize spindle uptime. The touch probe and electronic tool setter streamline workpiece setup and tool offsets, and minimize downtime. Sub-datum import supports offline job prep during machining, while the reference drawing overlay enhances precision by reducing errors and rework.

Specifications

TouchDRO TDA-420 Plus is a four axis DRO scale interface adapter, ideal for mlling machines. It can be used with the majority of modern optical and magnetic DRO scales, and many common capacitive scales.

  • Up to four 5V TTL/RS-422 scale inputs (differential or single ended)
  • Tachometer/RPM input
  • Two touch probe/tool height setter inputs.
  • Compatible with DRO scales and rotary encoders (NPN, PNP, and Push-Pull) with and without reference track support
  • Support for Mitutoyo SPC and BIN6 data protocol (adapters sold separately)
  • Ability to combine any two inputs into a single output
  • Bluetooth and USB connectivity
  • Position retention during power loss
  • Access to TouchDRO Plus application
  • Support for over-the-air firmware update

Please refer to the TDA-4xx User Manual and Adapter Feature Comparison for more details.

Supported DRO Scales

The adapters support DRO scales and rotary encoders that output 5V quadrature signal. This includes:

  • Majority of modern optical, magnetic, and inductive scales. Learn more
  • Mitutoyo DigiMatic scales with SPC output  - requires a SIC-5V-MIT-A input converter (sold separately)
  • iGaging Absolute DRO Plus scales  - requires a SIC-3V3-IG-A input converter (sold separately)

Pinout Options

TouchDRO TDA-420 scale inputs use female DB-9 (D-Sub 9) connectors. The adapter can be purchased with several different pinouts to suit some of the most common scale brands:

Brand 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Acu-Rite SENC Scales   A A' B B' OV/Gnd Vcc/5V R R'
Electronica/EMS, PM MagExact +Z Z' Vcc/5V Shield OV/Gnd A A' B' B
Ditron, Sino, Aikron, Easson, Vevor A' 0V B' Shield R'/Z' A +5V B R/Z
Generic Chinese Pinout (ToAuto, etc.)  5V 0V  A  B  


If you intend to use a mix of the above pinouts, choose the "Mixed". Please use the "Order Instructions" field in the shopping cart to tell us the pinout options for each axis. Alternatively, you can purchase one of the pin mapping boards and change the pinout yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can TouchDRO display combined readings from both the knee and the quill?

Yes, TouchDRO supports axis summing on any of the three primary inputs. You can easily configure the Z-axis to combine readings from two scales, even if they have different resolutions.

I only have 2 scales on my mill. Can I still use this adapter?

Yes, TouchDRO works perfectly with just two axes connected. You can always add additional scales later if your needs change.

Can I use this adapter for a lathe?

Yes, you can. Besides the touch probe inputs, this adapter is identical to the lathe-centric TDA-410 adapter.

My scales are not listed. Are they supported?

Please check the "Supported DRO Scales" page for detailed information on how to verify if your scales are compatible.

The pinout of my scales is not listed. Can I still use this TouchDRO adapter?

Yes, you can, but you will need to rewire the scales to match the adapter's requirements.

Can I change the pinout if I get different scales later?

Yes, the adapter's pinout can be changed using a small plug-in board, which can be purchased separately. Switching the pinout is quick and easy—it involves removing 6 screws, swapping the board, and installing a new one.

Will a wireless DRO be reliable in my shop?

Yes. TouchDRO uses Bluetooth 4.2, a highly reliable protocol with excellent range and robust error correction. Additionally, TouchDRO incorporates extra data integrity checks and anomaly detection to ensure smooth and accurate operation in your shop.

Isn't an Android tablet too brittle for a shop environment?

Not at all. Tablets are built to withstand years of daily use in various environments. High-quality tablets feature tempered glass and are well-protected against moisture and dirt. For extra peace of mind, you can add a rugged case and a screen protector.

Will leaving my tablet plugged in damage the battery?

No, it will not. Tablets have smart battery management systems that prevent unnecessary discharge cycles, and most models bypass the battery when plugged in, protecting it from damage.

Still have questions? Contact us