Hi all,

I need an X-Y gantry for light-duty, but precision application (electronics pick and place system), and wondering if it would be better to buy a "kit" rather than homebrewing it. I expect that these are popular enough to get kits or pre-machined parts nowadays, btw.

My reqs: about 24" x 24" (somewhat flexible on size), and I need about 1mil accuracy.

To get this accuracy, should I use ballscrews or belt drives? I expect belts would be lower cost, but is there enough "stretchiness" over this length to not achieve the accuracy?

I can go out and pick up linear rails, etc, but thinking if something that fits my needs is readily available, that might be better.

BTW, other than McMaster, what other good sources are there for these components?

Thanks,
-Neil.