OK . It just so happens I have been looking at these drives
www.xylotex.com looks great they also sell the steppers used at a good
price.
as far as software turbocnc seems to take it hands down it is dos it is
shareware it does work not crippled if you register for $20.00 you get the
source code.
they also have their own groups.
as far as slides I have built some from linear bearings and hard shafts.
there is one thing many people will be interested in this project.
how about you keep a log of you experiences and post them at the group or at
your site or???
maybe tell what you used as far as components/software/????? and why
this way others can learn from this
maybe put in their own .02 cents worth.
regards
victor
----- Original Message -----
From: "starsnstripes_2003" <bwatson@...>
To: <Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Sunday, July 27, 2003 5:54 AM
Subject: [Homebrew_PCBs] Milling m/c bug
> Ok, all this talk has given me the bug to build a milling machine
> for pc boards. Something that will be semi-precision.
> Maybe some of you guys can offer some good tips for building an X/Y
> table?
> I am a poor person and want to hold cost down as much as possible,
> so ideas like the "Drawer Slide" linear motion bearings are greatly
> appreciated!
>
> Slides:
> I'm not sure how much play are in those drawer bearings. Probably a
> lot. I'll have to look for some good ones, or maybe make my own
> slides from brass or UHMW channels. I've dealt with different types
> of gibs and round shaft/ball bushings before, so can probably figure
> out something that is semi-precision at low-cost.
>
> Linear Motion drives:
> Stepper motors are the obvious low-cost solution, but I'll need to
> find some good resources for cheap parts that will work properly as
> a complete system.
> True servos? Better but not as available as "surplus" ?
> Either one would of course need suitable controllers and software.
> I can write some software (VB and Perl) but I think some
> shareware/freeware is available to handle conversion from different
> CAD programs...
> Then I'll need to fabricate the mechanical drive portions: Leadscrew
> or Timing Belt like printers?
>
> Design parameters:
> What are the largest boards I should allow for in the x and y axis
> travel? 8", 12"?
>
> Anyone who has experience with such things, please chime in if you
> know of some good sources for info or parts!
>
>
>
>
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