Several members (including me) have made DIY CNC units.
I think the first question you have to answer is how much is your money and time budget for this item?
The budget will drive the type of machine, and the ability of the machine, you build. I went cheap, mostly scrounged parts, motors, switches, wiring, connectors,etc. The only substantial purchase was the motor drivers - LiniStepper (plenty cheap).
Stepper motors vs Servos? Don't get bogged down in this debate. Build what you can afford.
One problem with these questions (and answers) is that none of them are bad (or wrong).
I absolutely do not recommend the unit I built (Kleinbauer Brute - out of business anyway). Too many bits parts, too hard to adjust, too limited in scope. If you can find a copy of Klienbauer's PipeDream, that might be serviceable to you.
Again, money & time budget will drive your decision.
My next machine will be 'gantry' style. There are plenty of variations and the site Luke mentions has been around a quite a while.
This reminds me that I really need to update my CNC page...
Replies
Several members (including me) have made DIY CNC units.
I think the first question you have to answer is how much is your money and time budget for this item?
The budget will drive the type of machine, and the ability of the machine, you build. I went cheap, mostly scrounged parts, motors, switches, wiring, connectors,etc. The only substantial purchase was the motor drivers - LiniStepper (plenty cheap).
Stepper motors vs Servos? Don't get bogged down in this debate. Build what you can afford.
One problem with these questions (and answers) is that none of them are bad (or wrong).
I absolutely do not recommend the unit I built (Kleinbauer Brute - out of business anyway). Too many bits parts, too hard to adjust, too limited in scope. If you can find a copy of Klienbauer's PipeDream, that might be serviceable to you.
Again, money & time budget will drive your decision.
My next machine will be 'gantry' style. There are plenty of variations and the site Luke mentions has been around a quite a while.
This reminds me that I really need to update my CNC page...
-=Doug