Research Machine conversion to CNC.

[Miata2k]

I'm not really sure where to go with this, so I'm starting here, so let me know if I'm in the wrong place.

I've been trying to build a CNC for years now, but I either have the time, or the money, but never at the same time.

A few months ago I found a machine at a surplus for $25 and just couldn't pass it up. It seem to be a 3 axis machine used for some medial research, but looked like it could be a CNC machine with just a little effort.

The Machine is a a Genomic Solutions Flexys Robot.



Here are the Specs:

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Technical Specification

Overall dimensions:
Width 1425mm 56.1"
Depth 780mm 30.7"
Height 900mm 35.43

Extent of Tool Travel from axis origin or reference datum:
X axis (left to right) 840mm 33"
Y axis (back to front) 380mm 15"
Z axis (top to bottom) 200mm 7.87"

Resolution of position in any axis:
100 microns (0.1mm) .004"

Maximum times for full travel:
X axis 1.5 sec.
Y axis 1.0 sec.
Z axis 2.0 sec.

Weight: 200kg 440lbs.

Power Requirements:
230 V, 50 Hz
115 V, 60 Hz
Depending on country
Power Consumption:
6.5 A, 230 V
7.5 A, 115 V
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So I'm looking to get some input on how to convert the machine to a CNC.

Here are some things I know so far.
1. I haven't powered it up yet, the #1 PSU has a bad fan, and I want to fix it before I apply power.

2. The stepper motors are driven by custom controllers using ST L6203 Drivers. Each axis has its own driver. Each driver is tired to a common serial bus and then back to the PC. I have PC software to test the machine once I get the fan fixed, but I'm sure there is no way to use the current drivers with Mach3.

3. The Steppers motors are made by BERGER / LAHR
X Axis is a VRDM 5910/50
Y Axis - Cant Read the lable.
Z Axis - VRDM 568/50 With some type of added module ?
I can't seem to find any documents on these motors.

4. The machine is driven with belts on all 3 axis.

5. The Z axis has some rust on the rails, what should I do to clean these and protect them?

6. Their seems to be a bit of play in the Y axis causing the Z axis to move slightly in the X-axis. Can this be adjusted?

I have more pictures up at this link:
http://picasaweb.google.com/miata2k/FlexysRobot#

Thanks in advance for any help.

-Chuck