Newbie: CNC controllers

[mbogucki]

HI All,

Been lurking on this site for awhile. Really impressed with some of the machines being built. I've been working on a cnc setup of my own using aluminium, rollerblade bearings and a 2 pairs of linear THK slides. When it gets closer to completion, I'll post some photos. Till then, I 've got a few questions...

I'm trying to determine which controller would be the best to consider. At this point since this is my first machine, I'm planning on going with stepper motors. I have a pair of Nema 34's, so I'll probably use them for now.

I have been considering either using the FET3 controller found on stepper world or the xylotex controller.

What are your opinions on these two??

Thanks in advanced.

--Mike

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[flyrc]

mbogucki,

I had the same question almost a month ago.....

I did not actually post it.. but I could not make up my mind...

I enventually deside on xylotex, I'm not sure that the FET board has microstepping...

but I did not like that I had to figure out and use some kind of limiting resistor...

I can only guess that those resistor can get very hot by the heat sinks I've seen on them..

(I'm loving my xylotex board.. ( Motors do not even get warm, I put to small fans on the driver chips but they also do not seem to get hot. )

well just my 2 cents !


Luis

[WOODKNACK]

I also have a xylotex board and am loving it! Very good for the money!

[balsaman]

The FET 3 is quite good, but I would also probably get the Xylotex, as it doesn't require the resistors, so it's easier to use a higher voltage power supply.

Eric

[mbogucki]

Hi All,

I wanted to express my thanks to all that have replied with your suggestions.

Hopefully if all goes well, in about a week or two I'll be ordering myself a xylotex board.

Thanks again!!!

--Mike

[HomeCNC]

Stepper world controllers are all Uni-Polar controllers. I would go with a Bi-Polar chopper controller. I think the Xylotex is one.