I'm going to build my first CNC machine

[jimmycakes]

I stumbled accross Open Source plans for the CNC machine the other day while browsing Instructibles. I did further google searches and found a lot of interesting materials. I used to work in a sign shop with a 4' x 8' Gerber CNC table and I'd love to have something in the basement to do some of my own work on.

I'm looking at the JGRO design, because the plans are easy to find and there are files for the pieces. I still have access to the 4x8 table, so I plan on using it to help me build my first table. I also really like the look of the buildyourowncnc.com site. But it seems like the JGRO would be a better start especially with access to the table.

I'm looking at some of my printers and plotters laying around the basement and trying to figure out if I can get away with using those to start. I'm lucky enough to have a friend who is very handy with computers to aid me. Thanks for any advice and this is probably your typical nooby post and I'm interested to see responses.

[joecnc2006]

You can also look at my CNC Model 2006, which will give you a sturdier machine, since you have experiance and access to a large cnc machine would be easy for you to build.

http://www.cnczone.com/forums/joes_cnc_model_2006/

all files here.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/joescnc/

Joe

[davecaswell]

I'm thinking about building a CNC router/mill and since it seems that the consensus is that one's first DIY cnc machine will be used to help build the second one, I'm thinking that I'll try for small and inexpensive. I'm thinking of a working area around 8" x 8". How small can the working area be and still be usefull to make pieces of something like the 2006??

I'm also thinking that many parts, motors, drivers, can be moved over to a second machine when it's time.