Welcome to your PwnCNC Conversion Kit 🎉
If you’re reading this, your CNC is about to get a serious electronics upgrade. This kit replaces your machine’s original controller, motors, and wiring with a MASSO Touch based system and closed-loop steppers, the same core electronics used on our Dominator machines.
This article is your orientation point. Read this first, even if you’re experienced. It explains what’s already done for you, what is still machine-specific, and how to approach the install without creating unnecessary problems.
Core vs Advanced, What This Means in Practice
Both Conversion Kit Core and Conversion Kit Advanced are built around the MASSO G3 Touch controller and closed-loop stepper motors. The difference is how much integration work is already done for you.
Conversion Kit Core
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Core-level MASSO firmware (upgradable)
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Standard controller wiring using ferrules and phoenix connectors
Only exception is our Spindle which comes preinstalled as a GX12 6-pin connector. -
Best for simpler machines or users who want maximum flexibility
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Slightly more hands-on during install
Conversion Kit Advanced
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Advanced-level MASSO firmware
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Prewired inlets panel for spindle, probe, tool setter, rotary, and ATC
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Cleaner, more plug-forward integration
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Ideal if you plan to expand or add accessories later
Both kits are equally capable from a motion and reliability standpoint. The Advanced kit mainly reduces wiring effort by using clean aircraft connectors but this carries with it a minor future expansion friction.
What’s Already Done for You
Every Conversion Kit ships in a known-good, tested state.
We have already:
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Programmed the MASSO controller with safe, correct base settings for a simple 4x4ft machine
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Matched the firmware level to the kit you ordered
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Tested/Verified motor direction logic and closed-loop operation
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Built and tested the power box and controller assembly
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Labeled and prepared all cables for installation
Nothing in this kit is untested or random. The system worked before it left our shop.
What Is Not Done Yet (And Must Be Machine-Specific)
Because every CNC machine is different, some steps cannot be pre-completed.
You will still need to:
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Physically mount motors and couplers
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Install and align proximity homing switches
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Decide where to mount the VESA controller and power box
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Route cables and manage strain relief
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Ground the machine and cable shields properly
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Calibrate steps, limits, and homing positions
This is normal and expected for any electronics retrofit.
High-Level Install Order (Do Not Skip Ahead)
We strongly recommend following this order:
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Remove the original electronics completely
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Mount motors and couplers, do not fully tighten yet
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Mount the controller and power box
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Install homing switches mechanically
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Route cables loosely, no zip ties yet
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Complete wiring
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Verify grounding and shield drains
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Power on and confirm no alarms
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Perform Pre-Flight Checklist
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Perform first homing and jog tests
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Final cable management and strain relief
Skipping ahead or fully zip-tying before testing is one of the most common mistakes.
Typical Install Timeline
Every install is different, but most fall into one of these buckets:
Evening Project
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Smaller machines
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Existing motor mounts
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Minimal accessories
Weekend Project
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Larger machines
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Custom switch mounting
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First MASSO experience
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Careful cable routing
Rushing is the fastest way to create problems that did not need to exist.
When to Pause and Ask Questions
Stop and contact us if:
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A motor faults immediately on power-up
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You are unsure where to ground shields
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You experienced static shock events
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Something smells hot or sounds wrong
Do not keep resetting and retrying. That can turn a simple wiring issue into damaged hardware.
Next Steps
Once you’ve read this article, continue in this order:
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Conversion Kit Wiring Overview
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Your specific Core or Advanced wiring guide
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Proximity switch installation
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Closed-loop stepper configuration
Each article builds on the previous one.
Support
You’re not on your own.
📘 Browse the Conversion Kit Knowledge Base
📩 Email [email protected]
📞 Call 479-480-4337 during business hours
Our goal is not just to get it running, but to help you end up with a system you trust.
