I am really new to this CNC stuff so would appreciate a bit of help.
I have been offered a Triac ATC from September 1994, which is currently at an engineering works that is closing. The machine has a couple of bashes on the cabinet and must be considered as a non - runner as I haven't seen it powered up. Price was originally £800 but dropped to £400 as I couldn't see it powered up but I think I could get it for £250.
I am guessing that the original electronics will be junk as the machine couldn't be powered up, but that suits me fine as after downloading Mach3 it looks incredible and, therefore, I need to know just how much I will need to spend to get the machine up and running.
For anyone not familiar with the Triac ATC, it has X,Y,Z axis with another motor rotating an 8 point tool holder. The tools are selected pneumatically, the motor just indexes them int position. Not sure what controls the spindle motor speed though.
Would like to be able to upload dxf drawings as I am not familiar with G code programming etc.
Don't really want to learn by mistakes again so would appreciate any help.
Is there a 'box' I can buy that fits in between my computer and the Triac that will control all the axis and tool changer, vary the spindle motor speed, trigger the pneumatics to select and lock in the toolholder and that will not cost me the price of a new Haas? There is a pneumatic/electric box on the machine which I guess looks after the toolchanger, I think it will just need a trigger signal.
Finally, I could do with any help asap as I will have to sat yes or no to the machine next Monday or Tuesday.
Thanks ...Richard