Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Black box again

Hi All,

I'm new to the group, but have been playing with CAD/CAM and CNC milling
for a couple of years and have leared a LOT in that time. (I have found
rec.crafts.metalworking and alt.machines.cnc to be invaluable
resources.)
In terms of designing your own black box - while it can be done, I am
convinced there are easier ways to derive enjoyment from this
hobby/career and ensure a good result. I have two mills, one already
CNC'd with a Flashcut CNC system and the second (a Bridgeport clone)
currently being fitted with Gecko 210 controlled direct drive steppers.
This system will also be controlled by a Flashcut "black box". The PC
software that comes with the Flashcut system supports all the G codes
you could ever want, back-lash comp works great, as does tool offset
etc. (It also supports custom M-codes so you can create macro commands
which take into account the states of signal inputs e.g. from a switch
if you are so inclined.) A lot of engineering has gone into their
solution, both on the PC software side as well as the controller box and
it is very reliable. You will be cutting metal a lot sooner if you go
with a commercial controller from any of a number of companies. Yes it
costs, but ultimately you get whet you pay for and I can certainly vouch
for their excellent after sales tech support.

Buy the controller already built, spend your efforts and save money
building the motor controller and power supply - this will save you a
lot (btw, I love the Gecko drives for ease of construction and a winning
price) and make all of your own motor mounting plates etc. This way you
will be cutting metal (or wood/plastic/wax/chewing gum/whatever) and
learning about all the other aspects of learning about and achieving
successful machining results.

Just my ten (Canadian) cents worth...

Cheers! Peter