New to CNC Machines. Any advise on a low end machine?

[Millatime16]

Answered

[EddyCurrent]

This model is £799 http://stoneycnc.co.uk/stepcraft-s420-multifunctional-desktop-cnc-system/
I don't know what's included though but they are located in Ireland which is more favourable than China for support.
Maybe a second hand machine would be the best route ? or you could self build a fixed gantry machine if you want to try that but your budget is quite low.

Did you look in the 'for sale' section of this forum ? http://www.mycncuk.com/forums/188-Items-For-Sale

[njhussey]

The stepcraft machine was reviewed in RCM&E a bit ago....A Google search will turn up the review. Think it would struggle with 8mm hard wood and perspex unless you took it really easy.

[Millatime16]

Thank you for your advice chaps.

The Stepcraft S42 looks more promising but seems to need extras like the drill itself and bench plate which add a lot to the price.
I think I can get away with 5/6mm Acrylic, so maybe that would be ok?

Being on a tight budget, is there any free/cheap CAD software that I can import my DXF designs?
The Freebyte stuff looks promising.

[EddyCurrent]

Being on a tight budget, is there any free/cheap CAD software that I can import my DXF designs?

Have a trawl through this lot; http://www.mycncuk.com/threads/6707-List-of-CAD-CAM-Software
some are free some are not. I like FreeCAD best; http://www.freecadweb.org/ There's some great tuition videos on YouTube for it.

[njhussey]

As eddy said there's lots out there...i like Draftsight it's very much like AutoCAD but free...