Time to say Hi

[JAZZCNC]

The ability to machine the edges of boards with a small changes to the design does seem like a good idea. What sort of overhang should I aim for ? I was trying to keep any overhang as small as possible to stop any possibility of ringing.

You don't need much at all 4-6" will do it as the way you have it already the cutter will partly come past the end of the bed but having that little overhang gives flexabilty for wider things you may want to work on. Also suits 4th axis on end as some times you want to be able to machine the whole diameter of cyclinder. IE flats. on spindles etc.
The overhang at either end doesn't cause any ringing at all because your not actually cutting on it just parked mostly.!

I have been considering having an adjustable bed, but can't decide if it is better than raising the work piece with a secondary bed.

Regards adjustable bed then from experience I can say it's not often adjusted. In use you tend to find a balance that works for most materials but when needed it's priceless.
Secondery bed is ok but got it's own draw backs in that it's fixed to a secondary height or you need several which then takes up room storing.

Personally If your only cutting wood then I'd stick with fixed bed and keep Gantry height to minimum needed. If cutting aluminium and wanting best finish etc then I'd go with an adjustable bed.

As a beginner it is very hard to decide if the available information is relevant to my requirements and if it is also good advice from someone who has real experience.

Yes the theorist's and those that just regurgitate stuff they've read else where but have no actual building or using experience can be a real pain in the arse. Most are giving advise with good intent and do make it clear it's just based on what they've read not actual experience but those that dishout advise like they've done it all really get my blood boiling at times. To me they stickout like flashing bollards but to those new or impatient they come over has Guru's.!
Edit: Must say this forum doesn't have many and those that do don't hang around long.!!

The other problem or gotcha to watch for is getting caught with following or copying one design.? . . . Why because you also copy there problems or Bad decisions regards electronics.!
Much better to look around ask people about any issues they've encountered or would change and what they use machine for.!
The frame and it's design are just one key area but the other is electronics. Good electroincs can make or break any machine no matter how well built or designed. So focus on this at the right time and again Ask those that you see using any components your thinking to use.
Try to avoid any advise from those that have no real world experience with using said electronics and ask the forum about any potential purchases.

From the beggining realise that to do this right doesn't need to cost the earth but it can't be done on the cheap either. Done right you'll build a machine to be proud of and equal machines costing several thousand's more. Do it wrong or in haste and it will cost nearly the same and perform like shit.!!

Good luck .!