Re: Another Try

> My goals with the Retrofit are as follows:
>
> 1. Ease of future repair/replacement of parts.
> 2. Increase stepper resolution
> 3. Preserve machine Accuracy
> 4. Maintain or Improve Speed
> 5. Add an Additional Axis for rotary table
> 6. Additional expansion/automation (like tool changer or coolant
> control.)
>
>
>
> Mark

1. Try to stay with a solution that will allow you to use standard
PC hardware. It's easy to upgrade and it's cheap. While proprietary
cards may perform better (I have a ISA MicroKinetics controller card
that will put out a solid 25,000 pps on 3 axis's) they are usually
tied to that vendors software solution so you HAVE to run their
controller software...like it or not. I just switched to a Windows
based controller that I can replace in 15 minutes if I want.

2. While you can achieve good accuracy with steppers and the
correct "power train" (ballscrews, etc), the faster speeds and closed
loop control of servos make them a choice to fulfill points 2 - 4.
With the new step to servo drivers (Gecko 320/340) you can put
together a system with excellent performance for a reasonable price.


I have to respect the guys that love and use DOS. It's a fine OS for
dedicated controllers. I prefer Windows for selfish reasons. I like
the ability to run my CAD, CAM and Controller Software on the same
machine. I like the ability to display a Cut Path in 3D and simulate
the result. I enjoy the ease of networking my CNC box with my NT
Server and big CAD system in another room. I like working in the
same environment that I use 10 hours a day at work; its like a
comfortable pair of old shoes. At the end of the day the two systems
will cut out the same parts. I'm just spoiled and lazy. I enjoy
power seats, cruise control and AC. Sometimes I miss the good old
days but not enough to give up my DSS TV and DVD player!

The most IMPORTANT thing is to have FUN!!