RE: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Re: What is everyone doing, building, wanting to learn?

Sounds like you pretty much want a turnkey package. I can certainly
understand that point of view. I think the only package that meets your
requirement at the moment is Flashcut and I am not sure if they have a set
of driver electronics that is up to the task of a Bridgeport sized machine.
A package that has gotten good reviews is Ahha. Turnkey and well supported,
but I don't think it is Windows based. Obviously going the route you are
considering is more costly than putting together your own. I think that if
you are willing to open you requirements up just a little then CNCpro and
the soon to be available Gecko higher voltage drives (how are we coming
Mariss??) would be a very cost effective solution with a small learning
curve.

Glad you came out from the shadows!

Tim
[Denver, CO]

> Tim,
>
> I am one of the silent majority on this list. I have read all the
> pertinent contributions to my cause for the last ten months and have
> learned many things.
> I am the proud owner of a Bridgeport Series I CNC Boss 6 rigid ram
> three stepper motor (x,y,z) vertical knee mill.
>
> My plan is as follows:
> 1. Build a phase converter, for which I have obtained the components
> and plans already (10 HP).
> 2. Attempt to fire up the mill with its existing Boss 6 control,
> just to see if it works, which, even if it does it may not be
> practical for me long term due to the high cost of maintenance(I've
> located a California based maintenance outfit).
> 3. Select a combination of hardware/ operating system/ software,
> etc. that is:
> A. PC based, because it is IMO less expensive in the lang haul and
> is and is my personal preferance and is the industry trend as I see
> it.
> B. User friendly. I do not wish to learn Linux, EMC, or any other
> mind bending topics if it can be avoided. Ideally I am looking for a
> windows based system possibly utilizing a PCI or ISA motion control
> card plus motor drivers from suppliers on this list and some
> relatively low cost, user friendly software.
> 4. This off the shelf control card will control either stepper
> motors (Bridgeport originals) or possibly some servo motors, on a
> future upgrade some time in the near future.
> 5. I am content to watch and learn from the pioneers on this list,
> the ones with arrows sticking out of their backsides, by virtue of
> their experiences. Therefore my contribution to this list will not
> be in the first wave but will hopefully follow closely behind. I am
> currently focussing on resolving numbers 3 & 4 above. Any input in
> these areas is greatly appreciated. As my progress unfolds I'll
> submit an update to the list. Thank you all for your numerous and
> insitefull contributions.
>
> Respectfully, George Maithonis
>
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