Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Cheap CNC Machines

In a message dated 12/25/2002 3:58:43 PM Central Standard Time,
drewid@... writes:

> Does anyone have any recommendations
> for a cheap machine that can make 3-D parts? I will also need a cheap
> CAD program to design my parts. If there is anything that I am
> missing please let me know.
>

BNH: Older guys with machinist-experience BARF at the idea of a "3-in-1",
but with that, ONE machine can do lathe work and milling-machine work better
than just a hack-saw and a file. But NOT as good as possible if you had
SEPARATE machines.

Look up Harbor Freight (Company) and Enco (Company) on the web. They both
offer "imports" which are much cheaper than "same size" American made stuff
(but admittedly no where NEAR as fine!).

You shouldn't bother thinking about CAD-CAM until you learn how to operate
these basic "beginning" machines manually, and fairly well, too! Thinking
about doing computer-aided stuff before you know what machine to BUY is about
the same as someone deciding to be a neuro-surgeon before learning how to
apply iodine-solution and bandaids!


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]