Projects

Digital Readout

The first project I tackled (actually before the CNC Conversion) was the DRO from
Shumatech. It's a Do-It-Yourself kit, parts ordered seperately, that will give you a nice
3 Axis readout with many features comparable to higher priced units. It uses Import
digimatic scales (check Ebay) and has ports for connecting a Tachometer and Electronic
Edge Finder. Plans for modifying the scales, tach and edge finder are included. They
didn't have any silk-screened overlays in stock when I ordered mine so I made my own
and printed it on photo paper covered with plastic sheet. I'll include it here, just cut out
openings for the LED's. I connected the scales to the Readout with S-Video cables.
Note: Shumatech isn't available in the US anymore but you can still get the kit with more
options available now from Europe. He has prices listed in US $ too.
Any Questions? Ask Me.

Here's Pics showing the installation.

DRO Components

DRO Digimatic Scales

Y-Axis Scale Mount

Z-Axis Scale Mount 1

Z-Axis Scale Mount 2

Z-Axis Scale Mount 3

X-Axis Scale Mount 1

X-Axis Scale Mount 2

X-Axis Scale Mount 3

X-Axis Scale Mount 4

X-Axis Scale Mount 5

X-Axis Scale Mount 6

DRO Cables

DRO with Control Panel 1

DRO with Control Panel 2

Shumatech DRO-350 overlay by Hoss

Engraving Attachment

I wanted higher RPM for engraving than the spindle could put out, so I built this Engraving
attachment. The spindle maxes out at 2500 RPM. This tops out at 34,000 RPM.
It's a Dewalt Laminate Trimmer Model #DW670. I bought mine at lowes for $99 but they
don't seem to carry them anymore. Amazon.com does, as well as Toolmarts.com.
It has a 1/4 in. collet ( I made an 1/8 collet for it). A very nice quality item with no backlash
in the spindle. It has a machined housing that fits nicely in the mount that I made to hold
it perpendicular and true. Very loud though so hearing protection is a must.
Note: The Fine Feed Assembly will need to be removed, It's unnecessary now anyhow.

Here's some pics.

Engraver Bracket 1

Engraver Bracket 2

Engraver Bracket 3

Engraver Bracket 4

Engraver Bracket 5

Dewalt .125 Collet print

Dewalt .125 Collet 1

Dewalt .125 Collet 2

Spindle Engraver Bracket

Spindle Engraver Bracket B Rev A

Engraving Attachment 1

Engraving Attachment 2

Engraving Attachment 3

Engraving Attachment 4

Spindle Lock

With the Engraving Attachment mounted on the side of the Mill, It was necessary to make a
Spindle Lock that mounts on the front. My version is a near copy of others seen around the
net. It requires removing the motor mounting bracket to drill the .390 dia. pin thru hole and
tap (2) 1/4-20 mounting holes.

Spindle Lock Print

Spindle Lock 1

Spindle Lock 2

Spindle Lock 3

Spindle Lock 4

Spindle Lock 5

Spindle Lock 6