Any experiences with MAXNC?

Folks,

I have recently purchased an ENCO 8x30" Machine Mill. I'd love to
explore the world of CNC by starting off with a simple 3-axis closed
loop system built by MAXNC. The motors used in this servo system use
the NEMA-23 format, the torque is about 150 oz./inch. at a maximum
speed of 1000 RPMs. I've been told by some that these motors would
be a bit small for my application and that I would require to gear
them down to produce a bit more torque at the expense of speed. I
would estimate that gearing the servos down for a 4:1 would still
give 250 RPMs to the lead screw. I believe this speed more than
adequate, and could gear it down even further. I guess my only
concern is that at this speed, the digital I/O to the LPT port may be
too fast for most computers and may be unreliable. My next concern
is that the ENCO does not use a Ball Screw, this will require making
a large allowance for backlash.

So, does anyone have any comments to share? I'm a newcomer, so much
of what I stated may be a reckless assumptions.

Thanks in advance,


Rickey