Hi Mc
Pathpilot was the main reason I was looking at Linux but the advice seems to be that you need a good understanding of Linux. I just don't have the time at the moment and just need to get the lathe and mill working.

I'm not to bothered about transferring from machine to machine but having the same program to run all the machines would be good so I don't have to learn and remember multiple programmes.

I was looking at the 4axis controllers on ebay for 150 quid, they look like a good standalone option.