Help needed with plans selection

[DJ Morrow]

As I mentioned in my last post below, I ordered a set of plans form Crankorgan. But I'm thinking ahead still. From what I've read, he doesn't go into much detail on sources for the electronics and software.

I'm thinking also about the HobbyCNC because this is more of a one stop shopping place. According to the website, he appears a little fed up with people asking about enlarging the design and using a larger router. So I'll ask you guys. Has anyone enlarged it or used a laminate trimmer ? The 9x24 cut area and Dremel tool are a bit limiting as I'd like to cut 3/16" plastic and I'd like to get closer to 24 x 24 ( 30 x 30 would be better ). But going to one of the other designs gets you way up there in price. I can live with $1000 - 1500 or so for a first machine. Wood construction is preferred for a first attempt.

Also, as much as I love reading and learning about all the experiences on this web site, it's a bit too much of a treasure hunt if you don't quite understand the electrical and software issues when you first walk in the door. I don't mind the work, I just don't want to end up with a bunch of incompatible hardware, electronics & software.

So, can anyone elighten me a bit on enlarging the HobbyCNC or suggest another approach where I don't have to chase all over the country for parts. Hope I'm not asking for the impossible.

[balsaman]

The reason he gets fed up is because there is a limit to what you can do with MDF and inexpensive components. His design takes that limit into acount and that's why the size is the size.

J Klienbauer had a somewhat larger design, the routezilla.

In CNC all things become tradeoff's. You make it bigger you give something up...like rigidity for example.

I encourage you to build the machine according to the plan. There are enough hurdles to overcome without adding a few of your own.

Complete drive kits can be had from www.xylotex.com, Hobby CNC, and a few other places. If you are worried about compatibility, purchase a complete kit.\

Demo's of all the software are out there, so you can try all these before you buy.

Good luck. It's a fun hobby.

Eric

[steveald]

Hi David,

Welcome to the "Zone"
It's nice to see another member in the Vancouver area. Hopefully you planned ahead for New Year's Eve and don't have to do much driving today. Nice weather if you're a penguin
I have a number of items I purchased on eBay that I'm never going to use that you might have a use for such as 24V 6A power supplies and some linear bearings etc... I'll put together a list and some pics if you're interested. It would be nice to see someone make use of them.

Have a Happy New Year,

Steve

[DJ Morrow]

Steve, I'd love a list and pic's. More is better; I'm on ADSL