How long can the connection for the PC to the CNC breakout boards be? Thanks Kieran PS. coming along nicely
Actually, that rig is my main machine. To be honest I only do all the CAD/CAM work on that. I have a basic Athlon system that runs the ArtSoft Mach3 controller software - and is in the same room as the CNC machine. I just pull my GCode files from the network share. I looked at Mastercam, and it is nice. But XR has some really nice features, and excellent support. Plus, it works flawlessly with my IGES files from Inventor - so easy. I think it may be overkill for general etching though... Yeah, they toss it in with every order. I think they do it for the Wives/Girlfriends that put up with us guys! Mine is a 10ft...I don't want to go any longer than that. I am using a higher-end cable that has very good shielding too. DB25 male to DB25 male.
Darn, I wanted to keep reading! Looks like you have a great project coming along here, although as much as I would like to act like I knew what you guys were talking about with the more technical stats, all I care about is homebrew CNC machine! I will be watching this one, hoping for the best! Keep up the good work! -Brad
Looks cool...I'm looking to get a Sherline 2000 CNC/accessory package/computer for $3 grand. This thread makes me want to build my own. There's a manual machine from Grizzly Industrial for $925 plus $100 shipping (weighs 406lbs)...bit bigger than the Sherline. I'd probably spend more to convert it to CNC.
Very cool, you can convert a Sherline or similar for not too much actually. Judging by your name, you might find this interesting: CNC Gunsmithing
I can't speak for .308AR, but I got the money by cashing out a small percentage of my 401k. Since it was under a certain limit, I could do it without any tax penalty. I'm only 23, so it isn't any biggie - besides, I have to pay myself back with interest (better than a damn credit-card company though - every dime goes back into my 401k)!
I've been saving up for a new computer for a year and 1/2 now...decided I'd rather get a milling machine so I can make my own waterblocks/rads/whatever. I'll be getting the manual Sherline 2000 since the CNC is out of my reach till December. Not to mention I don't have a CAD/CAM program and only a 2.6 Celeron/256MB. I haven't messed with P2P or warez for a while and don't intend to go back. Any good Open Source CAD/CAM software?
OMG....this project looks absolutley awsome! i would love to build something like this. well all i have to say is GOOD LUCK! Subscribed
I'm planning on having this done (at least 95%) by Friday. Took the week off of work to finish it...ah, gotta love Paid Time Off! Now, just to stay FAR away from the Xbox!
I thought you guys might be interested. I drew up the schematic for my PSU in Photoshop earlier today: Click for full-size diagram!
Where did you learn how to draw up designs like that? Any particular books that taught you how do draw up schematics, and other electrical engineering stuff like that? Sorry for the nubbish question…
this is really cool and i want to see what its like when its finished!!! id love a CNC machine, would love ot make some of my own blocks using one!
This is sweet java. To bad i live in texas because i would have to barrow it lol This makes me wish i had the time/money for these kind of projects rock on man
