where to begin to convert a Delta Tau CNC controller application to Linux CNC

We are in the process of purchasing two old CNC machines from the 1990's that make contact lenses.  The machine is run by a Delta Tau two or three axis motion controller.  Anyone's suggestion for where to go and how to learn the process of converting the data from assembler language to Linux CNC.  The entire program is about the size of a 1.44mb floppy disk.

The delta tau controller is now out of date and is no longer supported.  There are more on Ebay, I checked.  The idea is we need to update the controller sooner than later.

We could also use another controller, like the Galil motion control, but prefer the Linux for the real time kernel for this particular application.

We will be using Mesa 7i77 for servo control and encoder feedback, and a 5i25 for communication with the host.

What type of data is on the disk ? Gcode for grinding the lenses or the operating system for the machine?

Been working on this for months, and the process of learning is very slow. I have spoken with the manufacturer, and "everything is outdated" on the machine itself. They will provide support; although very slow. I will contact Delta Tau, and let you know.

Not yet known what type of data. Could be assembler. It could also be G Code, but the data will show it when we get it. We will be using either hyperterminal to get the program off of the host computer, or Omron (the new owner of Delta Tau), they have a tool using the serial port. Needs a USB to serial port (DB 9) to get the data out.

Thank you for your response, and will get back with you!

david

The idea of this post is to get some idea as to where to start. We have a program we assume works. Linux is primarily for DIY people, and there is the real time kernel for both making contact lenses, and making specialty molds.

One more thing I forgot to write...The machine runs from a host computer, it is not a stand alone application. This could be in gcode; but the machine dates back the the middle 1990's, and quite frankly, we cannot afford a new one at over $350K!

Thank you, again,

david

Pictures, lots of pictures, we are quite capable of figuring out a lot about a machine just from pictures.
What drives and drive control does it use?
That is the main thing to sort out, do they use analog +-10V or step/dir or PWM control? Are they velocity or torque mode drives, if not step/dir?
Etc...

I'm with Tommy, need a lot .ore info. I'm thinking that the system probably has a whole host of macros for lens grinding.

Can you walk us through the operation of the machine. From prescription by optometrist to final product output ?