Re: Mill/Drill CNC Conversion

Actually I'm a design engineer - I use CAD packages like Pro/E and
I-DEAS every day. I've currently got the table and base of the mill
modeled in 3D - that helped me figure out how to do a couple of things.

Adding steppers/servos to your existing screws is a perfectly good way
to get started. You'll just have to deal with the backlash issues.

Regarding Vector, I own that software at home, and I plan on using it
for most of my "basic" design work to generate my NC code. Along with
the hardware, I also built a 30v 15A power supply and three stepper
controllers from Camtronics. I'll be using CNC Pro as my controller
software.

-Jeff

--- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@y..., Alan Marconett KM6VV <KM6VV@a...>
wrote:

> Hi Jeff,
>
> Thanks for the reply. Maybe I'll take mine apart, just to get a "feel"
> for it! That doesn't sound too bad for ballscrews! And I like the idea
> of using the cheap nuts first, then one can graduate to the expensive
> ones later... if wanted!
>
> Still, it all adds up. I'm tempted to just make up some motor mounts,
> and try driving the acme screws for a while! I think I'd learn quite a
> bit that way.
>
> Fred has a good deal on the Vector CAD only package, a good way

to get

> your CAD started! I'd sure like to see some parts drawings! Also
> remember the other free CAD packages. And even the local

discount

> stores (CostCo?) have a TurboCAD for about $25, with a tutorial!
>
> Cincinnati is a little to far from the West coast! Sure like to see
> more!
>
> Alan KM6VV