Complete Kit -all inclusive

[matt-CNC]

I am new to the CNC world, so much out there. I am looking for a "complete kit" with everything needed to start cutting, with the exception of computer, software, router, and table (which I understand are personal preference or not efficient to ship). I don't mind assembling the machine, but I have no idea where to start about the electrical/motorized portion of the CNC machine.

About me and my needs...I have an architecture background and would like to start my own design firm. So having the ability to cut a 4x8 sheet would be preferable but not %100 necessary (furniture, art, custom wood design, etc). What other "complete kits" are there out there???? Or where can I get a kit for the structure and a kit for the electrical/motors (and combine the two)?

so far I have found...

1) http://www.finelineautomation.com/store/show/FLA100-00
Cut 2'x3' Price ~$1,300
2) http://buildyourcnc.com/blackToe4x8.aspx
Cut 4'x8' Price ~$3000
3) http://joescnc.com/kitsplans.php
Only the structure, no electrical components in kit (right?)
4) http://www.pcncautomation.net/router-36x60-p-48.html
Cut 3'x5' Price ~$4500

[ger21]

You can get complete plug and play electrical kits from www.candcnc.com

[FandZ]

I like options 1, 3, and 4. The black toe looks like it needs to go through a couple of revisions.

There is a good support community for Joe's cnc's and plenty of build logs. It's a proven design.

I know fine line has customized a few builds for their customers. You may be able to get them to make you a 4x4 machine for a few hundred more. They are also close to releasing a rack and pinion setup to make larger machines.

I've seen the pcnc one before but I've yet to read any reviews on it. That would keep me away from it.

[Hdale85]

The Fineline kit is high on my list atm. But I may just go nuts and build my own from almost all 8020 and plate aluminum.

[matt-CNC]

Originally Posted by ger21 You can get complete plug and play electrical kits from www.candcnc.com

This is all good information for electrical kits. So now I am worried about what to do about the getting the right plans to match my electronics. How would I go about selecting plans that are compatible with the electronics? The completeness of the electronic kit is great, but now I feel like I am spiting up the main components of the CNC machine into electrical and physical parts. And now I am afraid that I am going to create a "Frankenstein" that wont come to life cause the parts are incompatible. Any thoughts on that, anything is appreciated, thank you.

[johnmac]

Be very careful with "complete" kits. Be sure you know (don't just assume) what else is needed to make it run. Often, as with the Fine Line kit, no stepper motors or drivers are included. To me, this is NOT a complete kit. You will need to add the electrical parts to figure the total cost. And don't forget the controller software.

John

[Kelinginc]

Originally Posted by johnmac Be very careful with "complete" kits. Be sure you know (don't just assume) what else is needed to make it run. Often, as with the Fine Line kit, no stepper motors or drivers are included. To me, this is NOT a complete kit. You will need to add the electrical parts to figure the total cost. And don't forget the controller software. John

This controller is Ready to run
http://www.kelinginc.net/ControlSystem.html

[johnmac]

My point is, the "complete" kit will be more like $2K in the end. Kinda like buying a car then discovering there is no motor or transmission included.

John

[ahren]

Matt,

I'd suggest you go with a G540 based setup for your motors and drives -- you won't be disappointed. Fine Line is now selling my electronics with their kits, and they work exceptionally well. Keling also offers a solid product. Contact me or Nate at Fine Line for pricing on an electronics kit to go with the machine, including a G540, cables, plug and play motors, and a 48V 7.3A power supply. There's not much more you need -- an estop and limit switches are nice to have, but these can easily be wired in later to the screw terminals on the G540.

Ahren
www.cncrouterparts.com

[matt-CNC]

Originally Posted by johnmac Be very careful with "complete" kits. Be sure you know (don't just assume) what else is needed to make it run. Often, as with the Fine Line kit, no stepper motors or drivers are included. To me, this is NOT a complete kit. You will need to add the electrical parts to figure the total cost. And don't forget the controller software. John

Good to know, I don't consider that a complete kit either. Far from it actually! Compatibility of all parts is my main concern....that is what makes the completeness so important.

[tootalew]

I would be cautious of company that does not or can not show its products. How do you even know they have a legit product.

[Hdale85]

Originally Posted by tootalew I would be cautious of company that does not or can not show its products. How do you even know they have a legit product.

Is there a particular company you are thinking of?