New to CNC- need some help choosing a machine

[Max Power]

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]

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.!!