CNC Resources

Re: CNC Resources *LINK*

Keith Newton

I don't speak that language but if you are a professional woodworker, the Woodweb forums have CNC as well as CAD forums, so I'm sure you could get some good advice there.


http://www.woodweb.com/cgi-bin/forums/cnc.pl

Probably not Woodweb *LINK*

Dick Coers

Since he is talking about using a 3d printer head and laser. Woodweb is strictly a professional only site, and the shops are producing lots of cabinets and furniture. They would not consider the little bench top machines like the Powermatic mentioned. A

I'd suggest you look at CNC Zone.


http://www.cnczone.com

Re: CNC Resources

mikeee12345

Thanks Keith, Looks like a really good resource.

Re: Probably not Woodweb

mikeee12345

Thanks Dick, Great resource!

Re: CNC Resources

Tony-Memphis

CNCZone is a good place to learn. Also, many of the machine vendors have forums on their sites. When I started researching, I looked a lot at those for reported issues. That really helped steer me. I ended up with a CNC Router Parts Standard machine. There were very few issues being discussed. They don't offer easy setups for lasers, etc., but they are really nice machines. I've been using mine since last August or so. Been real happy with it. I've done all kinds of stuff with it. Another surprisingly good source is Toolstoday.com. In their effort to sell tools, they supply a lot of good info.

Not sure what your budget is, but Inventables is another good site. Their machines are affordable and they have quite a following. That was my second choice.

Don't overlook software. I use Mach3 and Vcarve Pro (their website is very informative and they have a demo version available - Vetric is the parent company).

It is overwhelming to figure it all out! The "packaged" machines out there are expensive but easier to get going. I went for something less canned and got more machine for the money. I use a Bosch 1617 btw. I would like to add a rotary someday. It won't be hard with my setup...just a bit costly. Someday!...

I bought the 24x48 machine. I went a step higher in capacity than I thought I needed. So far, I have not used the capacity, but it is there when I need it. I have cut wood, mdf, circuit boards, plastic, and a small amount of aluminum and brass.

Oh, and don't overlook dust collection!

Tony

Re: CNC Resources *LINK*

Jim Barbour

I have used a Legacy Explorer for several years and have found it to be and excellent machine. I am using a Bosch 1617 router rather than a spindle to keep the cost down. Whatever direction you are leaning, try and find someone with a machine you can see in action as the seemingly minor points become large with use - like the ease of zeroing the machine, or whether it is 3, 4, or 5 axis, and the capacity of the various setups. Mine is 24X24 with vertical capacity and a 5"X18" turning center. I use it for small things - I would like the larger one but space and price preclude. If you wish, send me a PM and I'll forward photos and such.

Software is an issue. I use Vectric Aspire to design and Mach 3 to run the machine. The Mach 3 is included with the CNC, but Aspire is pricey. Depending on how much 4 axis work you are doing V-Carve may be a better call.

In the interest of full disclosure, I agreed some time back to serve as a demonstration point for Legacy.


https://lwmcnc.com/

See if you have a local maker space

Steven Antonucci

They usually have one, and you can pick their brains and maybe even try before you buy fairly inexpensively? I looked a buying an Epilog laser cutter, and it is far more cost effective to just go there when I need to use it than it is to buy one. You might come to same conclusion?

S