Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] pcb router

Alan,

As our congenial friend at crankorgan points out, he is very successfully
making PCBs without zero backlash screws or precision shafting on a couple
hundred dollar machine. So we have living proof that it is doable is you are
willing to accept some compromises. The main compromise would seem to be
maintenance. John's machines will require replacement of the oversized
delrin drive nuts to keep the lash close to zero. Another approach that
would certainly get you up and milling PCBs rapidly and within the listed
budget would be to get a Sherline with the 10,000 rpm option and concert it
to CNC with some Geckos and TurboCNC. Should be able to have it up and
running for about $1000 - $1200.

Now don't get me wrong. I am a great believer in overkill. My plans for a
PCB unit are to use the micron resolution 6" x 6" travel crossed ball XY
stage I have with a Sherline mill column as the Z and a Fordom 15K RPM flex
shaft as the spindle. Will have great accuracy and precision when I get it
done. Only problem is the XY stage is a few thousand $$ piece if you don't
find it surplus.

Tim
[Denver, CO]

----- Original Message -----

> Hi Bob,
>
> More like $3-4K, sorry.
>
> I suggest you get some 12-18" zero backlash lead screws (ball screws),
> some round precision shafting for ways and some recirculating
> ball-bearing slides, and make one yourself!
>
> I found some surplus stuff several years ago, and am making a PCB mill
> from them. See the pix for this list. In addition to the ways and zero
> backlash lead screws, I've since collected motors and driver/PS modules
> from three HP (II's and III's) LaserJet printers, so I have some low
> cost drive for them also! The software, I wrote myself. You can get
> TurboCNC, at the list:
>
> turbocnc@yahoogroups.com
>
> Here is a list for PCB's:
> Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com
>
> Here is a recent PCB mill site:
> http://www.epsilon-international.com/Products/products.html
>
> Hope this helps.
>
> Alan KM6VV