New JGRO in Indiana - Enjoy

**akak1656** · 06-22-2008, 12:07 AM

Well after months of lurking, I've decided to pull the plug and start my own machine. I'm really looking forward to this and anticipate it will be a great hobby as it combines some of my favorite hobbies: Woodworking, Electronics, and Computers.

My wife asked what I would be building with this thing when I'm finished, and initially I didn't have a good answer as I just wanted to build the machine. Now when she asks what I'll be creating I respond with, "Whatever I can think of."

I've posted a few pics and I have more at my site: Angry Cider.

Please check back often as I'll be posting to this thread as well as my site.

**akak1656** · 06-22-2008, 01:22 PM

Just posting some more pics. Sorry these aren't very interesting as it's just a big pile of wood an plastic, but it will eventually turn into something...I hope.

And yes that is my little Altar to Villa.

-Dave

**Broken Balsa** · 06-22-2008, 09:44 PM

Dave: Looks like you have a handle on the job. I, to date, really enjoyed building mine. I am sure you will too. I wish I was the walking guru of info some of these fellows are but I am not. Still, when you do something like this its a real learning process. Will follow your progress. Ron...Broken Balsa

**akak1656** · 07-09-2008, 08:31 AM

I got some work done on the x-axis. I used Conformant Screws that I've used on other projects involving MDF and they hold up well. McFeelys.com has a great starter kit.

Here are a couple pics and I have more at: www.angrycider.com

-Dave

**akak1656** · 07-11-2008, 08:06 AM

Just posting some more pics. I completed the Lower Torsion box along with attaching the adjustment blocks. After doing this, I read another tip on the forum which said to clamp the ends together prior to drilling the holes for the rails. This applies to all guide rail holes. I wish I had done that, but overall, they don't look too bad.

As always I posted more detailed pictures at: www.angrycider.com

**akak1656** · 08-11-2008, 10:30 PM

I finally took the plunge and ordered my steppers and controllers. After a bunch of research, I ordered the 425oz 3-axis package from Keling.

I got the package the other day and took a bunch of pictures of the 'unboxing'

I've attached some pictures below and there are more detailed pics on my website.

Overall, I was very impressed with the package so far. I'll let you know how it goes when I get it hooked up. If all goes well, should be posting pictures of the enclosure next.

-Dave

**Glidergider** · 08-14-2008, 09:51 AM

May I suggest, get the McMaster.com acme rods. My preference is the 1/2-10x5start. You machine will scream. It's a little more expensive, but well worth the cost. Also, go ahead and buy the Dumpster.com nuts. Flange mounted type is preferred.

**silentreaper** · 08-15-2008, 12:12 AM

Originally Posted by Glidergider

May I suggest, get the McMaster.com acme rods. My preference is the 1/2-10x5start. You machine will scream. It's a little more expensive, but well worth the cost. Also, go ahead and buy the Dumpster.com nuts. Flange mounted type is preferred.

I agree, use ACME rods, I went with 1/2-8x2 start and it works so much better than the recommended 1/4-20 all thread.

**akak1656** · 08-25-2008, 10:22 PM

Just posting some more pictures of the Stepper wiring.

I've taken the advise of those above and I'm going with 1/2 Acme, but will likely just go with single start for now. I'm sure I'll upgrade later, but this is what the budget will allow for now.

I've also posted a video of some motors spinning on my website...just in case you want to see motors spinning.

**akak1656** · 08-27-2008, 10:24 PM

Just posting some more pictures of my electronics enclosure. I decided to use an old tool box that I found at a yard sale. Works perfectly so far and fit everything with enough room for the tool tray.

I ended up using XLR Mic connectors from www.futurlec.com. They ship from somewhere in Asia, but I had a great experience ordering from them. Very cheap prices and exactly what I needed.

I also wanted to share another tip that I had. I managed to find a laptop cooler at my local Fry's. After tearing it apart, I was able to scavenge 2 5v fans, 5v temperature and speed controller, fan grates, usb hub, usb cable, and 5v power supply.

I used the fans to move some air through the toolbox and plan on installing the usb hub in there as well.

As usual, there are more detailed photos at: www.angrycider.com