Re: Newbie question on getting started

Graham,

I do not want to spend gobs of money, but I do not want to 'cheap" out
and have to retrace my steps too much.

How do I determin what size, type etc. for new stepper motors and what
driver I will need to get this heading in the right direction?

Then what is a shareware or entry level controll program that would be
a good starting point?

At present what I am envisoining is having a fixed drill head and a
moving table to get started. I eventually want to get some sort of
rotating device to do my fiberglass enclosures if possible, but that
will be in the future maybe 6 months or so after I hopefully get a
better grasp on the setup and operations.

Can a floor standing drill press be used by adding a belt drive to
operate the drilling? I have 3 so that would be the least expensive
way. Or should I start looking for a small mill/drill?

Just full of questions and visions of CNC sugar plums. LOL

Marcus

> > This uses a Compumotor CX driver and some Compumotor stepper motors
> > that unfortunatly have the model number worn off.
> > Is there some other spot on the stepper that the voltage or specs
> > would be stamped in?
>
> The current limit for the motor may be set on the driver via a
> resistor or similar, consulting the manual for the driver should get
> you the current for the motor.
>
> > From scanning the CX manual I think I will be able to figure out the
> > basic specs of the motors from the jumper selection on the CX.
>
> Ah yes you will :)
>
> >
> > Would the "hobby" drivers work on the Compumotor steppers? Or
> >should I just figure on swapping them out?
>
> They seem to be RS232 so no. Unless they have a step and direction
> mode or something I'd swap them out but not before trying them with a
> terminal program because that might be quick and fun.
>
> Graham
>