However, now we are in trouble with time to get the project underway.

Maybe you should provide for some lead time such as purchasing, shipping, installation, learning, machine setup, program implementation, etc before project execution.
Time is not of essence on our end. 

RICH

Thanks Rich, obviously you are correct, we have clearly not allowed enough time to account for all of the problems we encounted.
Be that as it may, we have received generous offers for help from fellow forum members. As electronic specialists, I'm sure once we get pointed in the right direction we'll be set.

Thanks for your help,
William