New member lots to learn

[chillybo]

Hi my name is Chris and I am new to CNC. I don't have an engineering background but I have always been interested in engineering and manufacturing.
I am bullding a 4' x 2' cnc router moving gantry design. I'm aiming to cut wood plastic and occasionally aluminium. I know I've made some purchasing mistakes such as 5 mm pitch ball screws that means it will run slow but I've decided to live with this. As far as the build goes the mechanics are nearly done and i have purchased three low inductance nema 34 stepper motors for x and y (motors for moving gantry will be slaved). I have a nema 23 for z axis. I'm aiming for direct drive of the ball screws. I have already purchased a CS labs IPM controller. Next task is to decide between Mach 3 or 4 and to buy suitable stepper motor drivers and a power supply.
Inevitably I would welcome any advice on my build. Thanks in advance ....Chris