I have an ESAB router (1990 vintage) that came fitted with an Autopath 750 hand controller. You produced your cut file on the computer (in the office, i.e. nice and clean) and then downloaded the cut file via the dnc link to the Autopath 750 hand controller. The hand controller can store quite a few cut files in memory and was happy to do it's job all day long in it's dusty environment. It has a small key pad and lcd screen showing present x/y/z coordinates. It seems that the majority of systems that people talk about here on this web site seem to have an expensive computer/screen/keyboard sitting next to a dusty machine. I'll soon be upgrading my machine and I've been talking to Erie from shelbyvilledesign who has been very helpful. He, like the majority here seem to favour the computer next to the router type set up. I don't disagree with this set up and if that's what most do than I'll do the same. I'll probably go with mach 2 or onecnc and gecko or rutex and I'm not overly restricted by budget. I just want to do it making the best choice for my particular needs. Anyway regarding the hand controller matter, there are several points to consider. If I go with computer next to machine I'll probably use a "dirt bag" cover as suggested by Matt (Rekd).The other question is do I need a good computer to drive the machine or can I get away with a cheapy (P2000 for example).
(A) If I try to go with computer inside and hand controller outside: positive: I don't have to have an expensive computer outside in the dust. negative: I doubt that I'll be able to hook up the existing hand controller to the new mach2/gecko setup. (although I would consider buying another brand of hand controller that was mach2/gecko compatible if I thought this was the best route to take)
(B) If I go with the computer beside the machine route: positive: better control of machine???, real time graphic display of tool path. negative: expensive computer sitting in a dusty environment.
What's your thoughts everyone?
Phil
p.s. This is a great web site and I really enjoy the creative minds of the likes of ynneb (fellow aussie) and vacpress and everyone in general.  |