(re)introduction

Hi All,

I have been monitoring this list off and on for several years and posted a
couple of messages. I think I introduced myself a long time ago but I
haven't been an active poster so I'd (re)introduce myself.

I am a retired software engineer (mostly banking/financial networking). The
major items in my home shop are:

Emco Maier Super 11 lathe that I have converted to CNC while maintaining
manual operation.

Enco 9x42 floor mill (Bridgeport clone) that I have converted to CNC while
maintaining manual operation. I only have X and Y on this machine because I
didn't like most of the quill retrofits I came across. I had designed a
retrofit that drove the quill axially from above but then along came ....

A 1981 vintage Bridgeport Series I that I have removed the Boss-6 controller
from and am in the process of installing an Ahha RC-500 12 amp driver on.

I have been using Ahha Artisan for many years (CNC pro before that) and
helped Richard and Doug debug some of the early 'lost step' problems in CNC
pro.

My long association with the Ahha equipment should by no means be construed
as having in-depth knowledge of Artisan or CNC in general. I enjoy using
CNC but I have probably developed lots of bad habits and non-standard
practices since I'm mostly self taught. In particular I'm just getting used
to the mill Z movements, tool length comp, et. al. and will probably be
bugging you all about such things.

I have monitored with interest the discussions of CAM packages. I currently
have BobCAD V17 and am continually frustrated with the user interface and
lack of good documentation. I am considering upgrading to either Dolphin or
Vector as they both seem to have many supporters here. Any comments as to
the strengths of each in a home shop environment where its small runs and
flexibility, ease of use are pluses? I do mostly Lathe and 2.5D Mill work.
I have not done any 3-D work but would like to attempt some in the future.

Unfortunately I probably don't have the CNC knowledge background to post
lots of answers but I will when I can.

I'm also on the 'Livesteamers' and 'Model Engineering' lists and some of you
may know me from there.

My main use of the shop is the care and feeding of a 7.5" gauge Live Steam
Locomotive (http://www.whitetrout.net/chuck/844/Index.htm).

Well, sorry for the long intro :-)

Cheers,

Chuck Hackett
Omaha, Nebraska, USA
7.5" gauge UP Northern 844