How did you learn CNC

[bsharp]

Originally Posted by Geof You are probably a couple of decades away from it at the moment, but at one point as you get older you need to learn to start taking it easy and smelling the roses.

That's what I am counting on at the moment.

[wongstein]

My father was a machinist, but sadly he passed away many years ago. I did learn a lot from him anecdotally, however, and I have the use of all of his precision tools. It's an honour to be able to use my father's tools; I hope he would be proud, although I have to admit I'm quite sloppy by professional's standards.

My impetus for learning machining is to develop a prototype of product I'm working on. I also want to make my own turntable tonearms for fun, and generrally to get away from software developemnt which I've been doing for 10 years. The programming experience helps a bit. I picked up Sherline's book on tabletop machining, and bought a used Sherline machine already converted for CNC. I also bought Artsoft Mach3 Mill controller software. Sherline's book got my head quickly around the basic concepts. As for G-Code, I find that almost everything I need to know is in the Mach3 user's guide, but occasionally I google search, or search these forums. I haven't had to post any questions on this forum; I usually find the answers because someone else has already asked.

Now I'm making parts, mostly just Delrin because I don't want to run coolant in my spare bedroom, and I'm just using a big carboard box (wardrobe box from a moving store) to house the sherline. Now I want a bigger machine, like a Tormach, but I wonder if I'm ready for it.

Cheers,
Anthony