It Lives!!!

[yukonho]

Got my 24V power supply today, played around for a bit and badaboom! My first CNC router is a reality!
Took me a bit of figuring to get the software configured for the thread pitch, and had to free up the x axis thrust bearing a bit so the stepper would turn freely, and found out that plunging down is Z plus. (is that right? or is something backwards? no, I think something is backwards there)
Anyway totally coolness! Pictures when I can drag myself away to take some.
co

[Mr.Chips]

Congratulations!!!!!
You'll be knee deep in shavings before you know it.
You'r the envy of every want to be builder including myself. I'll be posting photos of my mechinical construction today. Also with questions.
Sorry I cannot comment on the "Z" question, but I'll be reading the experts answers too.

Hager

[Wjman]

Normally the Z is a negative figure to plunge, the reason for this is safety, If you were manually editing the NC code and had to alter the Z for some reason. Making it "A minus amount" sort of foolproofs it i.e. if you accidentally forgot the minus you would not plunge into the job.
Mark...

[boxwood]

Not sure what software you are using but you should be able to reverse the direction by changing settings in the software no need to rewire the motor

Ray

[yukonho]

I am using Mach 2. I checked it out, and in the software, the z acis was checked to be reversed. I unchecked it and all is OK.
Unfortunately I have been busy on other things all day so havent had too much time to play. Going to pick up a long serial cable tomorrow so this thing doesn't have to sit on the floor right beside the computer. I also found some 1/8 and 1/16" endmills for 2 bucks a piece. Quality is actually not too bad, I think they might even be carbide.
Any suggestions for nice boxes to house the controller and power supply?
co

[ToyMaker]

"Any suggestions for nice boxes to house the controller and power supply?"

old computer cases work very well, but they're kind a big.

robotic regards,

Tom
= = = = =
"I'd rather have a free bottle in front of me than a pre-frontal lobotomy."
unk.

[chuckknigh]

External "tape drive" peripheral cases work pretty well. I found a 3 drive enclosure, that worked GREAT! Had its own power supply, and everything...

-- Chuck Knight

[High Seas]

The old "low profile" mini atx cases or the "Packhard-Bell" PC cases are about 1/2 the size (height) but the same footprint of a desktop (non-tower). Can scrounge the Sallys or Goodwill and find 'em for about 25 bucks! Congradulations - I just recently know the same feeling!
Jim
_________________________
Experience is the BEST Teacher
Is that why it usually arrives in a shower of sparks, flash of light, loud bang, a cloud of smoke, AND -- a BILL to pay?
You usually get it -- just after you need it.

[jgro]

I bought mine off Ebay. Do a search for Pactec. You can get a decent size enclosure for under 20 bucks.

jgro