Time for a purpose built motion control computer.

[i2i]

The trouble with this concept is the multitude of different machines and and variants of those machines that require a specific setup to be "turn key" controllers. This is where Mach3 comes into its own, as a generic controller that can be setup to suit the machine used. Mach3 has a file called mach3mill.xml, mach3turn.xml, ect, that contains the setup of the machine so you can transfer this file to another computer and your precious machine configuration can be restored.

A register of these .xml files would be a good idea with the specific machine and variant listed so that a newcomer to the cnc world could download this .xml file and get up and running.

But to most, is this defeating the object when you build your own cnc machine, the learning process, the skillset that you gain that only comes with a full on initial setup of mach3. I prefer the knowlege gained having to setup mach3, but then i wouldn't go to the trouble of building a cnc machine.

So a section in the forum with these .xml files would be nice, wink, wink.

[GeoffV]

i2i

Thank you for going to the trouble of replying to my new thread.

As things stand the field is catering well for people like yourself for whom the machine and computer are as or more interesting than the machining. I also understand your comments about catering for different machine configurations with .xml files. However, had I explained my thoughts more clearly, it would be implicit I was not necessarily suggesting that Mach3 needs replacing. What I am looking for, and I would think those who are considering using such a machine for use in their business, is a computer built specifically for this application. When one purchases, allbeit at much greater cost, a commercial machine the buyer can start to machine components accurately and reliably the moment the installation engineer has departed. Currently the micro CNC market is limited to the capable enthusiast with time and patience a plenty.
I started life as a car mechanic and have over the years saved myself a small fortune in garage repair bills. However most car owners have to pay the price and have their cars repaired by a proffesional!! Surely it is possible to assemble a computer specifically for this application rather than cobbling together a time expired box of tricks which may or may not work properly. I would gladly pay a premium knowing the computer and machine are working in harmony and I can concentrate on machineing components.

Geoff Vaizey