I am choosing to start a thread involving my purchase and rebuild of a 2000 Router Master 52. It is the SM (Spacemaker) model. I have used it a number of times but honestly the software is out of date and it is time for a rebuild of the electronics. Everything else on the machine is great and really robust so I would like to use the steppers, the control box enclosure, spindle, and the power supply.
I am by no means new to the cnc world, but I am unfamiliar with rebuilding the electronics. I have been planning this for 2 years and have done a lot of reading and I am now ready to start into this project. I am looking for some advice and direction from the experts on this forum. I have read so much on this forum, but I know I will need help to make this happen.
The machine will be used in a hobby environment, but I may take it over to our wood shop at a later date if I can make it a reliable cutter. With that being said I want to use the most reliable electronics and good easy to use software. Here are some details below:
I want to run the cnc of my surface laptop. It only has a usb port and I know that may cause problems so I am prepared to use one of my existing computers with a parallel port if this is better. I have another plasma machine that I can use the computer from if that is a better option. I would like to run it from my surface as I am often between jobs and looking for portability in my computer…and my thoughts are the less computers the better right…or wrong? Perhaps a stationary computer would be best?
I am not sure of the best motion controller and software…what do you all recommend? I was thinking mach 4 but I also like to looks of UCCNC. I am wondering what configuration would be the best to work for my application. If someone could point me in the right direction that would be great and I will start ordering parts. Basically, what software should I use, what motion controller, what drivers should I use. I also want to use the spindle and have control of it, and would like to add limit switches if possible as I make repetitive cutting. I have very little knowledge on the spindle control and limit switching. I also like the idea of the Z axis bit height metal pin pointer...I cant remember what they are called.
I use aspire, vetric, software for gcode. Truly I am looking for a simple solution, that won’t break the bank and is reliable. I will be upgrading in 5 years to a new CNC with a tool changer as we are in an agreement to purchase another business that will be in need of one. So, I really don’t want to spend more on this machine than necessary but I also don’t like to cheap out on anything I do.
It has a Perske 5.5 HP VS60 router/spindle head running 3 phase power with an invertor for spindle speed control. The machine runs off 220 volts, electronics are 110 volts. I will get a picture asson as possible for the spindle invertor. (picture attached)
The X-Y steppers are Superior KML091S-103 (pic attached)
Would there be any way to use the current pendant or is that just silly as it is quite old?