Which CNC kit ?

[SScnc]

Hi,

My first post here, what a great site !

I just ordered my first mill this morning, a Grizzly G8689 and can't wait to get it. Also ordered some 3/8" shank end mills and the 52 pc. clamping kit. I also have a HF 9 x 20 lathe, ETC.

I have Mach3 installed on the laptop I plan to use for this mill once converted and have been trying to learn it, I still got allot to learn. I also am learning AutoCAD, been using TurboCAD for a while and know the basics.

Anyway, I'm planning to order the Xylotex 3 axis kit to use on the mill. I know I need to order or make the mountings for the steppers.

Question is, is this a good kit for the money or would you guys recommend another. I will be mainly milling aluminum.

Thanks for any advice,

Steve

[jalessi]

Steve,

Welcome to the Zone.

This is one option.

http://www.cncfusion.com/minimill1.html

Jeff Alessi

[jalessi]

http://www.cadcamcadcam.com/index.as...ROD&ProdID=216

[jalessi]

http://www.thompsonmachine.net/mm2kit.htm

[jalessi]

http://www.fignoggle.com/

[SScnc]

Thanks for those but I had seen them.

What I really want to know about is a 3 axis controller and stepper motor kit like the Xylotex. seen here:

http://www.xylotex.com/3AxSysKit.htm

The Xylotex kit looks great to me for the money I just want some of you who have already done conversions to tell me what you think about it and if that's the best for the money.

The fact is, I really can't afford to purchase the kits you both posted which is why I'll make my own mountings to start with. I do appreciate the info though.

EDIT: I see some posts were made while I was typing, thanks, I'll take a look.

I really appreciate all the quick replies !

[jalessi]

Steve,

If you can wait a little while longer Gecko is coming out with there G250, G251 and G540.

Most likely the new Gecko's will be far far superior to what you mentioned,
3.5 amp 50 volt micro step is a giant differential worth waiting for if you need the performance.

Ask Marris about the shipping date and pricing since they have not confirmed them yet.


Jeff...

[hoss2006]

If you don't want to wait on the Gecko's,
check the kits offered by KelingInc.
Kits A and C would work with the mill you ordered.
The KL-320-36 36V/8.8A 110V/220V $59.95 power supply would be better than
the 24 Volt included.
Contact them first, they are a great company, i'm sure they would swap the PS's for you.
The Xylotex boards are very touchy and easy to ruin if a short happens
or a wire gets pulled out under power.
The kelings have circuit protection and the drivers are separate not all in ones like the Xylotex.
Hoss

[jalessi]

Steve,

Keling is a well respected vendor.

As Hoss has indicated, having a modular driver is a very good idea.

If one axis fails you do not need to replace the entire board.

Jeff...

[SScnc]

That's the information I needed !

And I like the modular system better too. I'll go ahead and order their 3 axis system with the 36V PS for $359.00.

Thanks fellas, I appreciate the help,

Steve