GNT 3601 tape punch docs?

[Chris Elmquist]

On Thursday (01/29/2009 at 07:22PM +0000), Tony Duell wrote:
> > It was probably better known in the CNC / automated machining world than
> > in computing but my hope is to resurrect it as a backup punch for copying
> > tapes I use with my ASR-33 and thereby save wear on the -33's punch.
> 
> I suspect it'll be considerably faster than the ASR33 too ...

I'm counting on that :-)

> > The unit has serial and parallel interfaces on DB25 connectors but I do
> > not have any pinout information for those.  The serial one I can probably
> > figure out.
> 
> The parallel interface on the Facit 4070 became a de-facto standard for 
> punchs. I would see if any of the signals matched up with that one, if 
> they do, it's a fair bet that it's that interface. 

OK. Thanks for that tip.

> > supply problem because as soon as you try to punch all eight holes with
> > the front panel test button, the power LED dims and the punch jams,
> 
> What type of mechanism does this punch use? In my experience there are 2 
> basic types : 
> 
> 1) Solenoids to driectly operate the punch pins (that is, the punching 
> force comes entirely from the solenoid), and a (stepper) motor to move 
> the tape. For example the Facit 4070
> 
> 2) A continuously rotating camshaft (normally with a mains-powered 
> motor). The solenoids operate linkages (or clutches) to operate the punch 
> pins, the punching force comes form the motor, not the solenoids. Anther 
> solenoid opeates the tape feed mechanism, again the power comes from the 
> motor. For example the Teletype BRPE, Tally 420, etc.
> 
> Needless to say the solenoids in the second type are much smaller and 
> take much less current.

I don't know yet which style it is as I have not opened the unit up.
But, lacking the docs at this point, that is the next step.

It does correctly punch the feed holes and will appear to do so all
day long.  It's only when I press the button with the big black dot
that it attempts to punch all eight holes and stalls.  The feed hole
punching screws up then too.

> > apparently from lack of umph to complete the mission.  It could also be
> > jamming to start with and that causes the power drop I suppose.
> 
> Can you tuen things by hand (power off, of course) and operate the 
> solenoids by hand to see if the mechanism can be got to work?

Will find out in a day or two as soon as I receive the round tuits that
I ordered for the weekend.

I appreciate the info.

Chris