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Making a CNC Router Part 3: Updates and Need Ideas

Posted on March 16, 2011 at 2:12 PM

I have not had much time or money to work on my CNC lately, but I did make some progress. Here are some of the things I added to it so far:

I added two shelves for the computer and electronics to go on:


I also bought 4 cheap casters from Harbor Freight and installed them:


Also, on an unrelated note, my dog loves the new shelf and sleeps on it all the time:


Now for some ideas:

I need some where to mount a computer screen to use for the CNC and I have a few ideas, but was wondering if anyone can build on them before I start building it. (haha)

This is what I got so far:




I would like to mount it on the end here but I think it might get in the way because it sticks out 8” from the table. I was also thinking about making it so it can fold down but the motor would be in the way. I also cannot mount it on the side because it would be in the way of the x axis. The monitor also cannot fit on the shelf and I would not be able to see it. I would like to have the computer monitor be mobile with the CNC, so it cannot be mounted on the wall or something. So far it looks like I am going to go with my idea but I know someone can add or give me a better idea.

I am currently working on saving up money to get the electronics for the CNC and hope to start getting them next month. I have been cleaning out my closet and selling all the junk I don’t need on Craig’s List and I have also been looking for a job to save up money. My dad also said he will help me out with buying the electronics so I can get this done sooner. I also want to thank everyone that donated on my website, it helps me out a lot!

All your ideas are welcome!

 

Categories: Making a CNC

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2 Comments

Reply Andy
09:29 PM on February 27, 2012 
Are you absolutely determined to mount that LCD on the top end of the table? Suppose you drilled the 4 holes the monitor requires on the back (the DIN mounts) to a piece of wood. At the bottom of this wood, some holes pre-drilled for the 3" or so lag bolts that will secure it to the sides where you have drawn your table. Not tightened, mind you, but attached. The idea is that the LCD will be facing like it is now; but you can "fold" or "swing" it under the top CNC area (if it can clear your CPU, or move the CPU) and it can snugly be protected up there. To keep it there you could use tightening machine screws instead of lags, a safety bar that could swing down made out of 1x2 or something...
I would also suggest if you're going to do a whack of work you may want to sequester that CPU and the vents on the LCD from dust. There's a couple excellent youtube/instructable articles on a vortex dust separator system .
Or...you could wait for a municipal auction. Emergency Services Dispatch centres (large ones) usually mount their LCDs on something I call a "bow" as in bow/arrow. These are capable of holding up to 3 LCD's each and they are made of metal. You may be able to pick one up for a song; or at least enough spare parts to make one for your CNC...Some centres use what is basically a swing-arm for their monitors...
Good luck with your mods!
Reply Kyle Ely
10:55 PM on February 27, 2012 
Andy,

Thanks for all the good suggestions! Although, I already solved the LCD monitor mounting problem, seen in my CNC Photo Gallery. I got a few suggestions on the dust problem with the computer. For that problem I think a may use a product called "Dirt Bag" that filters dust from getting to the computer, monitor, and keyboard.

Thank you for your interest,
Kyle

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