Thanks, Kenny, for the encouraging words. I know Clearpath motors on a mini mill is like putting lipstick on a pig. But it's what I wanted to do, just to be able to see what they're all about. Due to lack of space, I will never be able to own a machine much bigger than the X2...that's a fact that will not change. So, if that's what I'm stuck with and I can (and am willing) why not outfit it with some nice motors? I wanted a G0704 or something like that but even that would be a stretch to fit in my tiny work room.
Ray, I know you're right on all accounts but you're going in the wrong direction...I need small. :-) You've provided a wealth of great information but still haven't answered my humble question. Why does Centroid require such high precision encoders for use with their motion controllers when even a large machine like you are describing cannot hold tolerances that would take advantage of that kind of resolution?