Re: Low cost Servo/Stepper/CNC controllers? HELP! Questions too!

[Robert <robbates-at-emerge.net.au>]

Take a look over at rutex.com they make servo controller boards so you will be 
able to reuse the existing servo drives

On Wednesday 04 September 2002 17:20, you wrote:
> I'm on a very limited budget, and I am looking for
> inexpensive (??) PC based (PCI) 4+ axis controllers (3
> axis + rotary table + ...?) for use with EMC (or other
> softare in Linux, DOS, ...) for:
>
> -fixing/retrofitting my existing Bridgeport mill (has
> an OLD Retrotek 8800 CNC controller that doesn't work
> well).  The mill already has precision ballscrews, and
> DC permanent magnet servo motors.  This is one of my
> top priorities.  This current CNC control reads out
> and moves in 0.0001" increments, and I'd like
> something at least as good (but WAY better for the
> computer hopefully :-)
>
> -Controlling a 3 axis stage that (currently) has
> stepper motors on it.
>
> -Doing some experiments and making some motion tables
> with servo motors (DC, AC, brushed, brushless, 3
> phase, ...) and stepper motors.
>
>
> I know that there are some nice boards out there for
> $800+, but that is beyond my budget.  Anybody have any
> suggestions?
>
> If I can get a good deal on 3 to 5 PC based motion
> controllers.
>
> I know that I've got myself into an expensive hobby
> here, but we have to save our money for the bills now
>
> :-(
>
> Questions:
> -What board(s) should I be considering?  (especially
> for the Bridgeport retrofit).
>
> -Am I insane to expect to find something cheaper? (I
> guess I already know the answer :-)
>
> -What stepper motors (or servos) and controller would
> be good to use for driving a 3 or 4 axis mill or stage
> (say 20"x20"x8" travels)?  With Acme screws?  With
> ballscrews?  Say with 50lbs of table + work.
>
>
> -How is this project going?  What will the cost be for
> boards?
> http://www.unibell.co.za/servo.html
>
> -Any other public servo/stepper/cnc controller
> projects like that?
>
>
> Thanks!
> -Ralph
> rpseguin-at-yahoo.com
>
>
>
>
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