New to CNC- need some help choosing a machine

**jjpltd** · 22-05-2020

Hi all, Newbie here!
I have a company that makes interesting stuff for events and brand activations.
I've started researching CNC machines and want to dive right in with a decent purchase and learn on the job. I want a 3 axis 10'x5' bed machine with auto tool change. I've spoken to Opus about the Pegasus 1530 ATC and had a (lengthy!) whatsapp chat with Blue Elephant in china about the ELE 1530 (they got quite pushy). Also talking to MANTECH about the apollo 1530. These all look very similar....
Has anyone got and experience with these machines? Could you recommend any other companies I should talk to? I think I'd ideally like to find a UK supplier as I'm concerned about parts and servicing etc.. Thanks

**JAZZCNC** · 22-05-2020

I can build you a custom machine exactly to your needs but there's no way I can match the prices they offer in China. What is your budget.?

I'm actually soon going to be converting an Opus machine (olympus) for a customer. He's happy with the build quality but the electrical isn't so hot and the controller is a DSP so I'm converting it to an Ethernet-based controller. Also fitting a 5.5Kw ATC spindle.

**jjpltd** · 22-05-2020

Can you PM me through this site?

**Clive S** · 23-05-2020

Originally Posted by jjpltd

Can you PM me through this site?

Welcome to the forum

You might need another couple of posts to do that. But this one should help.

**jjpltd** · 23-05-2020

Thanks!

**Max Power** · 04-07-2020

Originally Posted by JAZZCNC

He's happy with the build quality but the electrical isn't so hot and the controller is a DSP so I'm converting it to an Ethernet-based controller.

Sorry to ask stupid questions, but I'm completely new to cnc. Can you explain the differences between DSP and Ethernet and the advantage it gives and price differential

**JAZZCNC** · 05-07-2020

Originally Posted by Max Power

Sorry to ask stupid questions, but I'm completely new to cnc. Can you explain the differences between DSP and Ethernet and the advantage it gives and price differential

Hi, No it's not a stupid question at all.
First off DSP is a Controller type rather than a Communication type which is what Ethernet is. Ethernet is a common communication type for newer controllers but it's not the actual controller just how it connects to the PC.

DSP is a standalone controller type that doesn't have a PC involved and uses a handheld pendant with buttons and no screen or at best a very limited Matrix screen for txt display only. You load the G-code from memory stick, set the Zero points, etc pushing buttons on the pendant and the push go. After that, you have no feedback other than watching the machine work.
For some this is ok but others like to see what's happening either by visual graphics on the screen or watching the G-code lines as they get processed or about to get processed. With experience, many a disaster can be avoided before it happens as you read the G-code before the machine actually processes it.

PC based controllers (which use Ethernet communication among others like USB etc) allow graphical and G-code file display while cutting among other things like Spindle speeds, Tool numbers, and many other options. They are also more flexible in what they allow you to do. ie: Toolchangers etc.

The Chinese DSP systems are also notoriously unreliable and often stop working for no particular reason, usually around 18mths from new.!!

**adanlicea** · 09-09-2020

Originally Posted by JAZZCNC

I can build you a custom machine exactly to your needs but there's no way I can match the prices they offer in China. What is your budget.?

I'm actually soon going to be converting an Opus machine (olympus) for a customer. He's happy with the build quality but the electrical isn't so hot and the controller is a DSP so I'm converting it to an Ethernet-based controller. Also fitting a 5.5Kw ATC spindle.

Hi JAZZCNC I'm actually looking for someone who can help me to build a CNC milling machine or that can build it for me, where can I contact you ?

**JAZZCNC** · 10-09-2020

Originally Posted by adanlicea

Hi JAZZCNC I'm actually looking for someone who can help me to build a CNC milling machine or that can build it for me, where can I contact you ?

I'll PM you details but if you want it this year then I won't be able to help you with building one I'm afraid but I'm more than happy to offer advise.