TONEWINDER® DIGITAL PICKUP WINDER V1.3 ATC
Tonewinder 1.3 ATC is a computer numerical control ( CNC ) winder. Its main function is to wind musical instrument pickups (such as guitars and basses) in a fully automatic and autonomous way , without the need for a computer.
It is operated through the touch screen on the front and includes a magnetic field meter ( Gaussmeter ), a coil calculator and a fabulous case, to store and transport the unit.
This version includes the ATC (Automatic Tension Control) unit for programmable and automatic control of the thread tension. It also includes as standard a magnificent “tool-box” tray to store all the accessories of the winder.
TONEWINDER 1.3 ATC is designed to be quick and easy to program and work with, using CNC technology. The best thing is that it requires no programming knowledge, making it accessible to all users. With a winding speed that can reach 1500 RPM , it offers efficient and precise winding capabilities. The new motor control drivers (TMC2226) are much quieter and more robust.
One of the most outstanding features of our winder is its stand-alone system. You don’t need a PC to control it , thanks to the integrated 2.8″ touch screen . This intuitive interface allows you to operate the winder autonomously, providing convenience and flexibility. In addition, its small dimensions of 238x225x110 mm make it compact and space-saving.
Tonewinder incorporates a precise tension sensor on the guide arm. This sensor allows you to precisely control the wire tension , which is automatically adjusted from the software, using the ATC (Automatic Tension Control) . With the ATC you can program a constant wire tension during winding, or even make a ramp (up or down) during winding. With a precision of 1 gram , you will have exact control of the winding process up to 35/40 grams (depending on the wire used). It is capable of winding any gauge of wire used for guitar pickups, the most common being 38 AWG to 45 AWG .
It also has a powerful magnetic field meter ( GAUSSMETER ) installed, which allows you to measure your magnets accurately, with a linear range up to 2,500 Gs .
·CONSTANT mode: This mode ensures a constant fill factor across the coil. Fill factor refers to the percentage of space occupied by copper wire of a specific diameter relative to the total coil width.
·TABLE Mode: In this mode, you have the flexibility to customize the coil by selecting up to 6 different sections. Within each section, you can adjust the number of turns and the desired fill factor. This mode allows for fine tuning and customization to meet your specific needs.
·SCATTER Mode: With SCATTER mode, you can introduce randomness and variation into the winding process. The pickup is wound non-linearly, with the fill factor randomly changing every few turns. This creates a unique and dynamic character to the coil. To ensure a uniform appearance, a constant fill factor can be applied to the beginning and end of the coil.
·EMULATE mode: This mode allows you to vary the fill factor in real time by operating the potentiometer. It emulates the manual winding process. Once you achieve the desired pattern, you can save it in memory and replicate it as many times as you like.
·MANUAL mode: you have the option of winding manually, guiding the copper wire with your hands in the traditional way. This versatility adapts to the different preferences and techniques of users.
The advanced software includes a COIL CALCULATOR , which allows you to calculate the estimated number of turns and the final dimensions of the coil, for given data.
The pickup winder has up to 59 INTERNAL MEMORIES to store your coil setups. If you need more storage capacity, you can connect it to a PC via Wi-Fi to upload or download projects, giving you unlimited storage possibilities.
Software updates for the microcontroller can be conveniently performed via Wi-Fi from a PC, while software updates for the touchscreen are performed using a microSD card.
To assist you throughout the operation, Tonewinder features INTERACTIVE HELP on all screens. By clicking on the description of any parameter, a specific screen provides detailed information and recommended values for optimal use.
The new software version features a LARGE LIBRARY of the most commonly used guitar and bass pickup models, which also include a winding diagram for easy tracking.
The winder calculates the turns per layer ( TPL ) based on the entered parameters, ensuring the accuracy and consistency of the winding process.
Safety is a priority in our design. Tonewinder incorporates a light on the base, which flashes brightly to alert you of any problems during winding. This feature can be disabled from the software if necessary. In addition, before starting winding, it makes a programmed number of initial turns to accommodate the thread on the bobbin, just like in the traditional winding process, and when finishing the bobbin it always leaves the last turns of thread next to the lower base of the bobbin.
It is also possible to make adjustments during winding. If you have not set the base or height parameters correctly, you can correct this deviation while winding is in progress by changing the offset.
The “Delta” parameter is an important aspect of our pickup winder. It refers to a small distance set to the coil wings where there is no wire. This design element prevents wire overload or wing deformation, ensuring the longevity and quality of the final product.
REAL-TIME INFORMATION is provided during winding, showing the number of turns of the current bobbin, the layers wound, the fill factor, the time remaining and the thread tension. This data allows you to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments on the fly.
For consistent results, Tonewinder incorporates a Home sensor, which references the arm to the same point before any operation, maintaining a reliable home position.
Maintenance requirements are minimal . Monthly lubrication of the felts and bearings with oil ensures trouble-free operation, while an annual greasing of the guide arm drive mechanism keeps it in top condition.
The winder incorporates two safety triggers. One detects problems related to the winding plate, such as incorrect rotation or a complete stop. The other trigger stops the winding process if the thread tension exceeds the predefined limits (lower and upper), thus avoiding copper wire breaks during winding .
Our pickup winder platter includes holes to accommodate the magnets protruding from the individual pickups or the grommets on the base, improving compatibility with 99.9% of commercial pickup coil models.
Tonewinder 1.3 is supplied in a formidable ABS case , which protects it against impacts, pressure, dust and humidity.
It also includes as standard a magnificent “tool-box” tray to store all the winder accessories.
Finally, our Tonewinder is capable of winding coils up to 110mm in length . If you require a greater distance, this can easily be modified to suit your specific needs.