Hi,

I've decided that I need a CNC machine to mill and drill double-sided PCBs (0.4mm track size would be ok). I'll also want to cut fascias in FR4, mill custom PCB mountings (POM or ABS), and engrave casing for prototyping and maybe initial low-volume manufacturing.

The best combination I can find for my money is a Merchant Dice A4 ballscrew machine kit with 800W Kress spindle, combined with Motion Control 3-Axis Driver Kit-1 from Zapp Ltd (3Nm SY60STH86-3008 motors, PM752 drivers), and Mach3. This appears to be adequate and upgradeable, and will cost me around £1500.

I'm just looking for a sanity-check. Am I over-optimistic in thinking that a CNC machine costing that amount can give the repeatability and linearity to do double sided PCBs? (layer misalignment over 0.1mm can ruin the board)

Are there better options for similar amounts of money that I've missed? I'd prefer to buy from UK suppliers. All advice and opinions gratefully received.

Regards,

Kevin