[rob1066]

Hey everyone, new to this place, wanting to build at least a 4x4 plasma table, want to keep it reasonable on cost but would like the challenge to build myself. What is the best drive for the gantry, belt, rod, ? Want to build to last. Is it better to shop for parts, or bit the bullet and get a kit as far as motors and electronics. Guide system, I see many different ways, v rollers, flat rollers or rod? Some of the tables on here look really good, very impressive, gives me motivation, any help will be greatly appericated. Is there a guide of do and don'ts.

[jjellingson]

First of all welcome. When it comes to building your table, you have all the options of building a table. What usually determines designs are ones budget. Some of the methods of movement are expensive and time consuming, while others are not, and seem to work fine. You will find a great amount of information in these forums, just about every imaginable way to build a table. As far as the Do's and Don'ts, don't get discouraged and do some research on what appeals to you and Do follow through. Good luck on your build.

[KOC62]

This is a DIY site so you will see a plurality of ways to do the same thing. Some use whatever parts are available. Some make their parts where feasable. What tools do you have? What experience or skillset do you have? These type of questions may help you to determine what you can or can't do.

The basic idea is to make it strong and fast enough to do the job reliably - but no stronger. As previous poster mentioned - cost often dictates how far you can implement your desires.

Best to look at what successful builders have made and follow their blog - if they have one. You can't acquire all the good experiences in one build just by reading. Working through problems will give insight and having some understanding of basic mechanics, electricity and electronics. Otherwise it may be more appropriate to buy a kit if you want it right the first time.