Messages

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FAQs / Re: Having trouble getting set up

« on: January 08, 2011, 09:40:03 PM »

Hi, I'm looking at all the parts and software that is needed to start up and am pretty perplexed by what all is needed. I would like to know what I need to get started. This is the list I've started with SX3 type mill. mach3, CAM program, and possibly Lazy Cam, Keling inc. KL-4813 power supply, C10 bidirectional breakout board, Gekodrive G320 Brush DC Drivers, Keling Technology KL23-130-60 DC Servo Motors, E4P OEM Miniature Optical Kit Encoder, CA-MICA4-SH-NC-4-Pin Micro unterminated shielded cable. That's the list so far. I'm looking at building a milling machine with XYZ movement. I've been reading about computers and I've figured out that if my computer will handle the CAD program it can handle the CAM/CNC part of the machining. I guess what I'm looking for is a list of generic termed hardware for a hobby CNC/CAD/CAM set up. I just don't want to think I have it all together and realize I've missed something and also so I can budget for it. Thanks for any help.
c.w.morrowiii@gmail.com

2

Mach4 General Discussion / Re: New people welcome !! Come in here and introduce your self!

« on: January 02, 2011, 07:29:05 PM »

Hi, I just started looking into CNC/CAD/CAM products in the past few weeks. I thought the cost of it was out of my price range but doing research I found out that I can get into it little by little and get what I need and want. I'm mainly interested in metal machining. I like making things and thought what a great idea to be able to make the parts I want instead of trying to hunt them down or have someone else make them. I'm also looking into heat treating metals and welding. That way I can make whatever I want and have it the hardness I need. Who knows maybe I can turn it into a business. The main reason I wanted to get on this site is because I want to buy a mill to start with and then a lathe later, but I've been looking at the smithy line of combo machines. I talked to a guy about a week ago and told me to stay away from the small mills and lathes from places like Harbor Freight. I've heard both good and bad things about the small machines. I'm looking at being able to turn metal on the lathe of about 1-1/4" diameter. I don't know if getting a small setup to start with will be beneficial or just add to the cost of having to replace it with a bigger lathe and mill at a later date. I have a work bench that's 5' long by 2' deep and can handle about 300 pounds, to work with Any help with this would be much appreciated.

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Mach4 General Discussion / Re: New people welcome !! Come in here and introduce your self!

« on: December 26, 2010, 11:53:04 PM »

Hey everyone,
       I'm writing this after getting up at 5:00am and it's quarter till 12:00am now, so bare with me if I ramble. I've been toying with the idea of getting into machining for about two years. I love to be able to make things that actually work. I've read here and there on the internet about some machining, CNC, and CAD/CAM programming. Right now I'm researching purchasing a Mill. I've looked at Harbor Freight and have read and heard both good and bad things about there milling machines. Just to give you an idea the things that I will be using it for are model helicopter parts, an engraving vise and air tool. and other various things. I wouldn't be doing any heavy duty milling, and am purchasing this one due to work space and money limitations. The price is about $600.00 if you guys have better suggestion in that price range, I would love to hear them. I thought about a Smithy 1220 machine but that will have to wait until next year. Thanks for any help. cmmachinist.