Hey guys I'm hoping to get some input and suggestions from you guys cause I'm buried in trying to decide what I need.
I basically want 3 axis support with the option of adding a 4th rotary table.
ATC would be nice but lets just go with 4 axis to begin with.
I know I will need 6 limit switches (3 for homing)
I would like to use usb to control the system ( smooth stepper?) ethernet or usb? SmoothStepper Ethernet Motion Control Board for Mach 3 Automation Technology Inc
also automationinc also has this 3 Axis CNC USB Card Mach3 200KHz Breakout Board Automation Technology Inc
which is better and will work best?
I would like to have flood coolant as well and whatever else the basics feature most people use as far as inputs.
I would like a pendent to do manual machining.

I realize that if I get a smoothstepper i will have to buy additional boards for controlling the axis', but there are so many to choose from.

Lastly are closed loop steppers with the encoders worth the money. will they detect missed steps and keep my parts more accurate? They are definitely a lot cheaper than servos.

Any input would really help. I don't want to buy the wrong equipment.

Regards,