I'm starting to get frustrated, and I'm not sure where to start looking for answers. I figured that instead of spending (literally) days reading and researching (when "spare" time is rarely found when working 40+ hrs/week and trying to raise a son), I would see if someone here could clear a few issues up for me
I've got a HF X1 clone. Progress so far:
-ordered and installed X/Y extend kits from LMS
-ordered and installed motor mount kit from CNCFusion
-ordered and installed 4 axis dynamo kit from stepperworld (4th axis is going to be saved until later)
I've got everything set up and gave X, Y and Z motors their trial run with the included test program...so far, so good (except they're spinning CCW despite the CW button is checked on the program?).
I'm using the stock leadscrews for the time being (I already have what I need to convert to a larger, precision acme screw later, but I want to make sure everything works first, I can always upgrade all that later).
I have downloaded the demo of Mach3 to use (but will buy the license later when I can see that it will do what I need), but I'm have a few questions.
I suppose that my main questions relate to what else do I need to do before I start making chips? Do I absolutely need limit/home switches before I machine anything? Can't I just work off an origin point on the work, or do I really need a machine zero?
Another thing, some of the parts that I want to machine are basically just flat plates with some holes drilled in them. Since the Z axis moves so slow, can I just install an optional stop between X,Y coordinates and manually work the quill?
Any advice will be greatly appreciated. Right now, it doesn't "click." For the time being, I'll go back to trying to digest the 170+ pg. Mach3 tutorial....sure would be a lot easier to read/understand with a degree in electrical engineering....
-WRM