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One thing (and probably more) that I forgot is spindle speed. What did you all do about that (if anything)?
I have the Gecko 540 and it is a Parallel Port interface - and I would NOT buy it again ...!If anybody would like to know why - one of the channels in it skips steps (the rest are fine), and I can't just change the single channel for a new unlike the other models from them. I was trying to go too their site for model info, but my Anti Virus will not allow me as the site is infected.
You could do something like this . That would allow buying CNC ready machines but using them manually for a time. Don't know the difference in cost but would avoid the trouble of switching parts for CNC.
I'm still somewhat stuck on spindle speed control. I understand Ron's point (i.e. probably not needed) but having some feedback as to RPM would seem nice.But...little stuff can be added anytime.
CAM: CamBam (Linux or Windows). The question is what else (free or cheap) is available. Must support lathe and mill. If Windows base can move output to a Linux based machine.CAD: I have CubifyDesign and like it. Runs on Windows but output can be moved to a Linux based machine. I keep promising myself to look into Fusion360 but not happy with the cloud requirements.