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MakerOps
In this manual: Machine Controller

Installation & wiring

Mounting the controller and choosing between plug-through mains switching and dry-contact interlock control.

Electrical work belongs to qualified people. Plug-through installs are genuinely plug-and-play, but anything involving hardwired mains, contactors, or a machine’s interlock circuit must be done by a licensed electrician to your local code. This page describes what the controller expects, not how to wire your building.

Choosing an install pattern

Plug-through (benchtop and mid-size equipment). The machine’s power cord plugs into the controller, and the controller plugs into the wall. The internal motor-rated (AC-3) DPDT relay, internally fused, switches the mains directly and is 240 V split-phase capable. Ratings: 120 VAC up to 15 A; 240 V up to 15 A resistive / 13 A motor. If the machine is within these ratings, the install is “plug it in.”

Signal / interlock (large equipment). For machines beyond the plug-through ratings — or machines that should never have their supply interrupted directly — the controller’s two dry-contact signal relays wire into the machine’s existing interlock or e-stop loop, or switch an external contactor sized for the load. The controller closes the contact when a session is active and opens it when the session ends. The controller can also switch the AC coil of an external contactor for heavy equipment.

Placement

Mount the controller where the person using the machine can see the display and reach the panel — they will scan a QR code from it and press GREEN at the start of most sessions. Keep it clear of chip streams, coolant spray, and the machine’s own vibration where practical; the membrane panel is IP54 (dust-protected and splash-resistant), not submersible.

Wi-Fi signal strength matters more than it does for a phone: the controller drops the machine’s power if it goes offline. After mounting, use the admin menu’s SIGNAL METER page (see The admin menu) to check the live signal at the final mounting position — inside enclosures and behind cast-iron machines are the usual dead spots.

First power-on

A new controller boots into SETUP MODE and waits to be configured from the MakerOps mobile app. Continue with Connecting to Wi-Fi.