Wednesday 31 December 2008

Learn CNC Machining

CNC

CNC Machining refers to any process that uses a CNC machine. This could be for routing, milling, drilling, or other types of work that is done with metal, wood or other materials. This is a manufacturing process that uses the automatic opportunity from the computer to create shapes or forms that must be precise.

Raw materials are used and they are put into a CNC machine that uses cutting tools to make these shapes. The CNC machining process involves computers that have at least one microprocessor and several units for storage. With CAD or CAM software systems added to CNC the computer can be programmed to produce the precise movements that are able to create the part.

In CNC machining the process is automated which saves the operator time and saves the business money. The operator is able to load the materials, program the machine and then the machine can work without attention when set up properly; the amount of time it is run without attention is also programmed in.

An important aspect of any Machining is for the operator to know the machine well. CNC is an addition to the general aspects of the machine. As an example, if you are doing routing, adding CNC to the process only automates it. However, for the operator, it means that they must understand the machine, how to put in codes or use CAD or CAM and how to operate the machine; they must also understand how basic routing works.

Another area that is important in order to understand CNC Machining is the basic components of the machine. Like anything around the house that you need working you need to have these machines operate at all times which means you really need to know how they operate in order to be able to fix them if something goes wrong. You really want the operator to get the most out of the machine and you really want that operator to know the limitations and capabilities of the machine in order to do this.

As CNC machining becomes a project the operator is in charge defining five areas. They will first think about the project they want to design and plan it out. Sometimes the best way is to really sit down and draw out some plans which seems old fashioned, but it works.

The next area is to understand CAD to translate the drawing into the computer and then an understanding of CAM to translate the CAD information into machine language. In the final area the individual must understand the Controlling function in order to make the machine do what is required. When all these areas are fulfilled properly they allow the individual to create the project in the way they saw it in their drawing.

CNC machining was traditionally only done in commercial settings with very large CNC machines. Today, there are mini-CNC machines that allow the process to be done on a smaller scale in a home workshop. What is nice is that now even a smaller business can take advantage of building parts and projects on a much smaller scale and where not available to them before unless it was a larger scale.

CNC machining can produce both simple and complex designs and can be used on a variety of materials including aluminum, foam, wood and other metals.


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CNC Programming General Information

CNC

CNC Programming is one of the most effective ways that people are using today in order to cut metal and do other processes in manufacturing. There are a variety of different CNC Hobbyist that are using CNC Programming today to make metal, foam, or wood objects. CNC has created a way for many people to manufacture or fabricate parts quickly and effortlessly.

CNC stands for computer numerical control and is basically the use of a computer to do certain types of operations. This is a process that can be applied to lathe, router, foam cutters and laser machines; it can also be applied to mini versions of these types of machines.

There are basically two types of categories that CNC Programming will fall into point to point positioning or continuous path positioning. If you are using very advanced software programs then your computer may not be able to execute both types but usually a computer can handle executing both types of programs. This means that the operator must understand both processes in order to run the machine.

Here is a simple explanation of these two categories:

Point to point positioning -- this category is mostly used when drilling, boring, punching or tapping is needed. This is a process used to position from one point to another when the machine process is being done. The program will work going to as many positions as it needs to in order to get the process finished whether that is from the X to the Y position or not.

Continuous Path Positioning -- You will generally see this being used when there is a milling machine that used for contouring or even a lathe that is being used for contouring. This means that the cutting tool moves in a continuous motion from one point to another until the piece is completed. This means that the operator has to be able to program the machine so that it continues on several axes at a time and simultaneously.

Continuous path positioning also uses a series of processes called interpolation which is the way in which the machine is programmed to go. Interpolation can be helical, parabolic, cubic, circular and more.  The basic function of this interpolation is to keep the programmed information stored and to monitor and direct the axes in how it should go.

What needs to happen first before any programming can start is that we are going to need a finalized design of the basic drawing of what the computer is going to make. This must be studied to make sure that the operator understands the intricacies of the drawing so they can translate the information into the computer software they are using.

This means that the operator must be skilled enough to understand how the paper drawing will translate to the computer, and then be able to program this information into the computer so that the machine will perform the cuts or the processes accordingly.

When you think about this process, it is a good idea to think about what you would do if you were producing the work manually because anything you would do manually, you will depend on the machine to do automatically. By understanding CNC Programming the individual will be more successful.


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Tuesday 30 December 2008

How Safe Is Your Data? Choosing A Reputable Data Recovery Provider

No matter if you have taken all the required precautions, when a server or a hard drive fails you can guarantee that the search for a company to sort out the problem will be the foremost thing on most peoples minds, but how do you choose the best comapny to do the job for you?

Choosing the right data recovery company is vital to ensure your data has the maximum chance of being successfully restored.

The company that gets your vote should have dedicated Data recovery staff that are professionally trained for the required task

Unfortunately some companies only undertake recovery tasks on an irregular basis and do not have either the skill set or necessary tools to carry out a full recovery of your data.

A true data recovery lab will be able to successfully recover data from Servers, Laptop’s, Desktop’s, CD/DVD’s and all other types of storage media, not simply just from a failed hard drive

They should be up to date with the latest hard drive technology and Raid recovery techniques and if top tier will also conduct their own research and development.

If they are leaders in data solutions they should also be able to offer a full gamut of data recovery services including full server and raid recovery capabilities. If the company are an industry leader they will also offer a call out service as this is often a key requirement for server and raid data recovery.

Most professional data recovery will have proper labs facilities not just a back office with a bench. The data recovery lab is often the heart and sole of the operation.

Most businesses also need to get their data back as soon as possible as downtime costs money so make sure that the company you work with don’t have to send your drive abroad if they don’t have their own lab facilities.

In summary your data has a huge value both on a personal and business basis so don’t rush in and make sure you ask the right questions to give you the best chance of getting your data back.

Small Business Data Backup Solutions

If you are a small business owner then chances are at least once you have thought about what would happen if you loss all your data.  The fact is most small companies do nothing to backup their data.  If you were to loose your data today would you be able to recover from such a loss.  Many companies go out of business for such a simple but costly mistake.

We found a great guide on this business data backup page.  The article is simple and blunt.  Basically this article gives you great options and tips on how to backup your data and what the cheaper and simplest methods are.  Don’t get caught losing your data now that you know better.

Data backup solutions are not just for people that own a business.No matter if you run a business or not you need to backup your data.  When selecting a client to backup your data you don’t just want one that will backup your personal and business files.  You need a solution that will backup your entire computer using an image.  That way if your hard drive fails you can use the backup to get your computer fully back to what it used to look like.Now you don't have to re-install all your drivers and custom software.  Saving time reloading software is worth the cost.  Once again we will refer you over to this small business backup solutions page.  Don’t worry the cost is very low considering what you are getting in return.

You should also consider getting software to protect your computer online as well.  Many people think that just because they only go to safe sites that they are free from viruses.  While we normally don’t recommend products you should check out this Vista spyware guide that talks about solutions to help protect your computer and remove any threats found.This may be a site for Vista but they encompass XP as well.

Monday 29 December 2008

CNC Software Info and CNC Control Software Basics

CNC

CNC Software is what any CNC machine uses to create the operations within the machine. Generally it is considered to be the "intelligence" that governs the type of operation performance or the overall capacities of the machine.  The software will be how the machine designs, cuts and operates the work that the operator programs into the computer.

CNC Control Software also uses electronic memory modules where information is automatically stored inside the CNC machine. In some case this information cannot be changed and in others, through the use of temporary memory, it can be changed.

Generally speaking the computer is very important to the process of the CNC software because the computer numerical controls are usually outside the machine on a small or large keyboard. The computer is offline when it is performing the programming of parts and the computer controls the other parts that are necessary to create the product, depending on the type of CNC in use.

There are four basic software types that CNC uses:

Manual G Code Programming 
Many of the larger commercial machines use and it is used for simple machine processes. The drawbacks of this type is that it takes a long time for someone to learn how to program G Codes and if you want to use more complicated machines, it is time consuming to learn how to use it. Because if these issues, many operators would rather not learn how to do this and

Offline CAM Programming
This type of programming can be done using a local PC and generally is available for larger machines as well as some of the smaller desktop CNC machines. This software can't be used without a PC at the front end aspects of the machine. This software is also difficult to learn and takes a long time to completely understand for many people.

Conversational Programming
This type of programming is a better type of software program for the use of CNC because it is intuitive, which means it is simple to learn by the average computer person and it is similar to the programming in regular PCs. The reason this type was developed was so that it could do both simple and complex parts without having to take so long to learn.

Windows Based Programming
Many CNC Software programs are now Windows based which means it works through Windows XP or Windows VISTA. The operator can import CAM and CAD programs and it can import other types of software like dxf files depending on the type of machine being used.

There are so many CNC Softwares out there that you will need to check out because they each work with a CNC sytstem in a variety of different ways.

Also the purpose of each software program is to make life easier for the operator and make the machine do what is required. Remember that the easier a software is for someone to use to program then you will use the machine more. The particular software has also been used with CAD and CAM systems which makes this easier for many operators.


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CNC Mini Lathes Info and CNC Mini Lathe Tips

CNC

A mini CNC lathe is generally converted from a regular lathe when a hobbyist wants to experience a machine that can do twice the work they can do manually. Usually these are small machines that have a lot of power but that can sit on a desktop or workbench in the home.

There are certain people where starting with a CNC Mini Lathe is the perfect way to experiment with what these machines will do. The CNC mini lathes are good for metalworking in general and for making small parts that need to be made with precision. Generally speaking the individual starts with a CNC Mini Lathe that they buy and then convert it to do CNC.

Most mini-lathes are a smaller version of those used in commercial shops but they can be a different design than those that are made strictly for working with wood. The mini-lathe is able to shape plastics, woods and other materials. Since technology continues to evolve you will find that more and more manufacturers are making things readily convertable to CNC.

Mini lathes usually come in three sizes: 7x10, 7x12 and 7x14. Each one is measured by the length that length of the swing as it goes over the bed of the lathe. Today you can also find 9x models. The conversion of a general mini-lathe to include CNC has many benefits.

There are very different steps that some people take to do items which is why sometimes you will find that there will be manual and CNC instructions in various plans incase you want to do some things manually. At other times they may want to use CNC capabilities to produce repetitive pieces or ones that require a lot of time manually.

Converting to CNC also allows you to be able to produce both 2D and 3D contours which are unavailable when you are only working a CNC Mini Machine by hand. All you have to do is program the computer to create the part you need. You can use wood plastic or metal to make a mold and using the CNC portion you can produce a mold that you can use as many times as you want because it creates a perfect mold. You can do multiple holes drilling by creating the diameter of the whole and then programming it into the computer; from that point the CNC lathe does the work.

When converting to CNC Mini Lathe it will generally take one or two weekends to finish the conversion; however plans will vary depending on what you want your CNC mini-lathe to do. For under one hundred dollars you will find that you can get some pretty nice plans with step by step directions and really good pictures.

To convert to CNC you will need to understand either CAD or CAM software because currently these are the types of software that is used in the CNC mini-lathe machines. Usually you can control the lathe right from your PC because the software is created to run in that way. Generally it seems that you can make this conversion for under $2000.


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Sunday 28 December 2008

CNC Mini Machine Basics and Tips

CNC

The CNC Mini Machine is actually a smaller CNC mill that has been adapted for the use of hobbyists. You always need to think about the space that you have for a CNC Machine and a CNC Mini Machine may be your best bet for good projects and it can still fit in your home workshop. Some people have been able to take a basic small mill machine and turn it into a CNC machine by adding the computer control panel; this is called a CNC conversion.

This machine is also called a table top CNC mill. The mini-mill also allows an individual who doesn't have a lot of space to work within a chance to do so because they don't take up as much space as the larger CNC mill.

CNC has been used in commercial shops over the last ten years or so because of their convenience and ability to allow the operator to get more work done. For hobbyists, the prices have come down and there are more opportunities for the hobbyist to use these machines; many already understand CNC from their jobs so it is easy to convert a smaller machine.

Ideally when you use a smaller machine you want to make sure that it can produce the same quality as the larger machine and this is possible with the mini-CNC machine. These Mini Machines can really do a great job for cutting aluminum or for short finishing work. They also can cut steel because of the low-end torque they use.

Manufacturers like Haas and Syil make reliable CNC Mini Mill that fit on a desktop but have high capacity for work. These are usually bought as regular mills and then converted through the use of a kit into the CNC mill. There are some ways to convert these mills and usually you will find that is a pretty painless process that goes by quickly. Some conversion kits can show how to set up robotics as well.

The conversion process is much more cost effective according to those who have done it, than purchasing one out right. Buying plans and conversion kits can cost around $500 or less while buying a mini CNC machine can cost more than $2,000.

There are many advantages for hobbyists to use computerized programs for milling at home. Some of these include:

§ They can work more materials like soft waxes and hard steels and this allows them to experiment with materials they may not have used when they had to mill it by hand. They can also produce parts much faster than with regular milling machines.

§ This process allows them to work with more intricate patterns and produce higher precision components. This allows for more ideas to be produced.

§ The small CNC Mini Machine can create smoother finishes on their projects and make for a better design.

There are a variety of projects that can be done with a CNC mini mill and may are being produced by a company called Sherline Products. On their website they show many projects from a mini-steam engine to a small hobby church that people can actually duplicate. These are some of the ways that a CNC mini-mill can be used. These projects can be seen by going to their website at http://sherline.com/CNCproj.htm.

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Learn CNC Foam Cutting

CNC

A CNC Foam cutter is a machine that cuts blocks of foam into a variety of different shapes and sizes through the use of a computer that fully automates the process. This sometimes is referred to as a hot wire foam cutter because a hot wire is used to make the cut in a block of foam.

Usually the wire is made from stainless steel, nichrome and the wire can be very thick. What is unique about this process is that the wire never touches the foam because it is heated up very hot so the foam vaporizes before the wire can touch it. This process creates a smoother cut and produces a variety of shapes and sizes.

Depending on the length of the wire, the process will cut a shallow or deep cut. The wires have to be held in the machine under a very tight tension to keep the wire from sagging when making the cut. On many CNC Foam Cutter machines this wire is held vertically so that it doesn’t create the problem with sagging.

These shapes are cut by the cutting wire that is attached to the machine. They will cut either polystyrene or polyurethane blocks. The types of foam that a CNC foam cutter can cut include anything that is thermofusible and expanded. What this basically means is that the foam has to be able to melt at one of the lower temperatures. Some of them include:

§ Polystyrene -- these are blocks of balls that are expanded.
§ Polystyrene -- this is extruded foam and comes in a variety of colors that include green, pink, purple or gray and these are usually plates that are smooth.
§ Polymethacrylimide -- a very expensive material and it is rigid foam with a low density.
§ Polypropylene -- which is flexible and expanded and can be a solution to protection from shock.
§ Polyethylene -- these are foams that are tear resistant and flexible.

With the CNC Foam Cutter you can form a more prism like or tapered shape in the block of foam. A hot-wire that is under a high tension to cut the foam. There are two different types of components one is called a race that controls the tensin of the wire and the other are the stepper motors that work on precision and accuracy.

Some CNC foam cutters also offer different attachments like a lathe and this allows the machine to use either preformed or stretched wire. Also the machine is able to cut a variety of shapes including spirals or blocks of ornamental structure like balusters for stairways or planters.

There are a variety of uses for foam cutters that include making signage, model airplanes, protyping, lost foam cutting and more. The CNC Foam Cutter is a flexible machine and is only limited by the imagination.
Although many people prefer to purchase a CNC foam cutter there are also plans on the Internet that show how to make them inexpensively for hobbyists and others who are interested in working with foam.

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Saturday 27 December 2008

Learn about CNC Plasma Cutters

CNC

The CNC Plasma Cutting process has been in existence for over 50 years and was created during World War II. At that time the government needed a welding process that would weld together aircraft parts in a better way than what they were using. This process used inert gas that acted as a barrier to protect an electric arc that stopped oxidation from forming on the weld.

As this process was improved over time, people experimented with the openings in the arc to see how they could create the best way for the process to be done. There was another discovery where you could get a hotter flame if you restricted the opening where the gas passed through. If you look at it a different way, you can make the opening smaller and this in turn would cause the flow to speed up.

All of this experimentation led to the development of a plasma-arc cutting process and this process began to be used on a commercial basis in the early 1960s. It was found after looking into this system that you have to have a lot of capitol to take on this business.

Today, the process has improved dramatically and there are even CNC Plasma Cutter that are portable; some models even have air compressors build in for a fuller portability. Many are smaller and are able to cut sheet metal as their primary work but others can output a lot more in voltage and in work. Also as the CNC plasma cutter was created the process could be totally automated; all an operator has to do is key in how they want the plasma cutter to cut and it does the cut perfectly every time.

CNC plasma cutters come in a variety of sizes but they all basically work the same way. The process sends a gas that is pressurized through a channel. The gas could be argon, oxygen or nitrogen that is sent through this channel. Inside the channel is an electrode that is negatively charged.  When power is applied to the electrode and the tip of the plasma cutter is touch to the metal, it creates a full circuit.

At this point this circuit makes a high powered spark that goes through the channel; the gas is heated to a very high heat called the fourth state of matter. The result of this taking place is that you get a steam of plasma that when its applied right will turn metal into molten slag. What this means is that you have a very high heat and a very fast moving beam of light that hits the metal.

The plasma is what makes the electrical current and this power supply keeps working until the circuit between the electrode and the power supply is broken. Also the cutter nozzle has channels in it so that it can continue to create a consistent flow of shielding gas. This also allows the plasma beam to stay consistent on the metal to be melted.

Some CNC Plasma Cutter have robotic arms that do the work. The point to having this in the CNC mode is that the process is totally automated and it will continue to work to cut with precision as long as the information is programmed correctly into the computer.

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Friday 26 December 2008

CNC Router and DIY CNC Router Tips

CNC

Many people like to build their own CNC Router because they like having something that functions that they have built by their own hands. The decision really is if you want to do this or not because if you do, there are a lot of ways to be able to do this on your own.

Some people like to bypass some of the making of the CNC Router and they do this by purchasing a kit. Kits are a good idea to get a start on what you want to do because they show you, step by step, how your machine will work. If you are a visual person who needs something to look at while you build, this will be a perfect way for you to start your do-it-yourself project.

Plans vary however so make sure that the plan you use has the information you need. As an example, some plans give you a brief idea of what you will be doing to create the plan. Others will give you full blueprints that will show you step by step what to do and what it should look like at every step of the way.

Some people prefer to just wing it and try their hand at the building of their own CNC Router. If you are this type of person, having a plan to look at as a guide can be the perfect way to make sure your design is workable. Either way you will have a finished product.

The greatest reason to build your own CNC Router is that you can get the parts for a fraction of what you would pay in the store.

Things to Think About when Making a CNC Router
When you first think about making your own CNC Router the first thing you will need to do is decide on a design. There are basically two types of designs that you will have to choose from. Either you want one with a stationary gantry and a mobile bed, or you want one with a mobile gantry and a stationary bed. There are advantages to both types.

Unless you have a smaller machine which may use a mobile bed, really the industry standard is a stationary bed. You will also need to decide on how large you want the cutting area to be which will be determined by the size of the material you will want to cut. As you run through the project there are some things that may change as you start looking for specific parts.

Another item to take into consideration is how big a machine you want. If your space is limited, you will have to consider how far you want your router to travel. This may mean that it just goes the length of the space. In any case you won't want to have wasted space in the area where you are going to use your CNC Routing .

One of your last and final steps is to determine what the tolerance is that you want from your machine. This will speak to the accuracy and the precision of the machine. Once you understand what you want, it's time to look at the steps to building it which will be talked about in a different article.


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Wednesday 24 December 2008

CNC Wood Routing Projects and Machine Uses

CNC

 CNC wood router is something that every shop needs to work on a variety of wood products. The point of this router is that it uses a computer numeric control to cut the wood. This means that all you have to do is set it up and let it do the job. Usually these projects are easy to do if you understand the software.

Most CNC Routing use a CAM program so that you can use it with different grains of woods and you can use many different types of woods. If you decide to buy one you will see that many manufacturers carry them and they have many different designs.

Generally, these types of machines can be used to do small or large projects depending on the size of the machine. The CNC Wood Router has the exact cutting methods you are looking for and can cut just about any angle your heart desires.

Some of the uses that people have used a CNC wood router for include making furniture with intricate patterns and designs, curve and smooth corners on wood, make different designs in wood, or for cutting dados. The tool is very versatile and flexible.

It is easy to think of a CNC Wood Router as a tool that is only used for cutting and shaping but you can do so many things with it. In fact, you are only limited by your imagination as to what it does. When you gain skill at using the tool, you will find that it does many things and it saves you time and money.

There are a variety of projects that you can do with the CNC Routing . Here are a few ideas:

Making furniture -- many people decide to use a CNC Router to make a variety of furniture from tables to benches and chairs. They like to do elaborate patterns and designs into the wood and the router helps them do this easily. Many enjoy working with oak or wood for their materials.

Doll furniture - yes some children still play with doll houses and sometimes routers can be used to make doll houses depending on the bits that you use. This is an easy way to do something for your children and use your wood router too.

Toys -- there are a variety of toy projects you can do with a CNC Wood router. Sometimes people don't think about this part, but you can make board game pieces and even a full chess set if you would like. These projects are only limited by your imagination.

Radiator Covers -- some people specialize in intricately cut wood pieces. Some people do a variety of radiator covers for homes that still have radiators. They do them in old fashioned designs like Old English, Vienna and others.

Wine Racks -- if you are someone who has a wine cellar or just has a few bottles you want to sit somewhere try your hand at a wine rack. These are somewhat simple to create and your CNC Router can help you get it done quickly.


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Guice for Buying a CNC Router

CNC

When you are looking for a CNC Routing there are many things to take into consideration before you buy it. There are many manufacturers who have what you need and you can get a good bargain if you do some research ahead of time.

Here are some things to think about as you are deciding what type of machine you want to buy:

§ Do some research -- before you start looking for a CNC Router it is a good idea to do research on all the different types of routers available. If you already have used one, then you know what they can do.
§ Decide what you need -- from the research you do you will know the types of projects you want to do and what different machines will do. Its important to think about what you want to do with this CNC Router so you get a CNC Router that is specific to your needs.
Decide on your Budget -- a budget is critical as you can spend plenty of money on a router so you need to set a realistic budget to determine your router spending.
Buy what you need -- never settle for purchasing items that are extra that you really don't need as this will cost you more money. There are also machines that don't have enough for you, so a rule of thumb is to buy what you need with a little upgrade to make sure you get the performance you want.
§ Reliability -- you will want to know that the machine you buy will be reliable with larger work loads if you need them. ITs important to think about the load that you want your CNC Router to hold as this will also determine a few things before your buy your Router.
§ Durability -- check the materials in the main parts of your router to make sure that they can make intricate cuts or carvings and that it can withstand a lot of use. This will really depend on the materials it is made from.
§ Know the Software -- you will have some sort of software, usually CAD to understand so that you will know how to make the machine function properly. Sometimes vendors will offer training on this and if so, it's a good idea to take it.
§ Create a space -- sometimes people go out to purchase a machine and they find that it is too big for the space they have. This is an important component of buying a CNC router so make sure your router will fit in the space you have and that the floor you have it on can withstand the weight, if the machine is a large one.

Beyond these tips it is important to shop around. If you are willing to do a little footwork you can go where you may be able to try out the CNC Router . Although some people may have used machines it would be better to buy it new so you know its status. Also buying straight from the manufacturer would be better in some cases than buying from the distributor.


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Monday 15 December 2008

Definitions of CNC

cnc art

CNC Glossary

CAD (Computer-aided design)
Geometry authoring tool that involves software and sometimes special-purpose hardware. Current packages range from 2D vector based drafting systems to 3D solid and surface modellers.

CAM (Computer-aided manufacturing)
Considered as an NC programming tool wherein 3D models of components generated in CAD software are used to generate CNC code to drive numerical controlled machine tools

Computer Numberical Control (computer numerical control)
Refers specifically to a computer "controller" that reads G-code instructions and drives the machine tool.

CAD/CAM part programming
The computer calculation and creation of a toolpath based on part geometry information created in CAD.

Canned cycle
A predetermined machining sequence used to simplify programming.

Data
Information processed as the basis for calculations.

Database
Computer storage that holds data and is searchable

Detail Drawing
A drawing of a part giving a complete and exact description of its form, dimensions, and construction

Dimension
The desired measurement of a part

Documentation
A CAD process in which a part design is converted to a computer file or hard copy for reference and storage purposes.

Drawing Exchange Format
DXF. A standard storage format for personal computer-based CAD/CAM platforms

Driver
That portion of the electronic package that receives the stepping sequence from the translator and provides the switching of the windings in the stepper motor.

G-Code
Common name for the programming language that controls NC and CNC machine tools

Geometric Modeling
A modeling process in which a designer creates lines and text that represents the shape of a desired part. Geometric modeling is the first step in CAD.

Geometry
The measurement, properties, and relationships of the lines and points of an object that make up its shape

M Code
A code used to signal an action from a miscellaneous group of commands. M codes change cutting tools, turn on or turn off the coolant, spindle, or work piece clamps, etc.

Machine Control Data
Manufacturing instructions defined in CAM and enacted on a CNC machine.

Machine Control Unit
A small, powerful computer that controls and operates a CNC machine

Machine Tool
Powered mechanical device, typically used to fabricate metal components of machines by machining

Machining
The selective removal of metal or material

Numerical Control
The use of computers and special program instructions to execute the sequence of machining operations to make a part.

Part Program
A series of numerical instructions used by a CNC machine to perform the necessary sequence of operations to machine a specific work piece.

Personal Computer
PC. A computer designed for an individual user and commercial software. Desktops, laptops, and notebook computers are PCs.

Plotter
A large printer used to print blueprints. These output devices support vector graphics, unlike dot matrix and laser printers.

Post Processor
A software link in the CAD/CAM chain that communicates instructions from CAM to a CNC machine

Preliminary Blueprint
A design representing the rough dimensions of a specific part

Primitives or Primitive
Basic shapes such as cubes, spheres, cylinders, blocks, and cones that are combined in solid modeling to create a model of a part.

Prototype
The original test model of a part

Raster Image
A form of graphics in which closely spaced rows of dots form an image on a computer screen. Also known as bit-mapped graphics.

Ramping
The process of controlling the pulse frequency to accelerate or decelerate a stepper motor. Ramping increases the ability to drive larger loads at greater speeds by slowing the first series of pulses allowing the motor to overcome inertial loads and reduces overshooting by slowing the motor down more gradually than an unramped motor.

Scanner
A computer device that converts hard copy drawings into digital form

Software
The coded instructions, formulas, and operations that structure the actions of a computer

Solid Modeling
A type of geometric modeling based on solids in which all visible surfaces of a part are shown. In addition, solid modeling describes interior volume, mass, and weight.

Sub-Program
Acting as a part programming shortcut, a part program sequence that is called on as needed. Also called a subroutine.
Surface Modeling
A type of geometric modeling based on geometry only, in which all visible surfaces of a part are shown regardless of volume definition.

Step Angle
The angular increment the motor shaft will turn each time the windings (coils) are energized. The angle is specified in degrees. For a 200 step per revolution motor the step angle will be 1.8 degrees.

Step per revolution
The total number of steps to rotate the motor shaft 360 degrees. For CNC, 200 or 400 steps per revolution are usually used.

Stepper motor
A device that translates electrical pulses into precise mechanical movement. The output shaft may deliver rotary or linear motion.

Title Block
A portion of a blueprint that contains information such as the company name, part name, part number, designer, scale, and material.

Tolerance
A blueprint specification indicating an unwanted but acceptable deviation from a given dimension

Toolpath
The series of coordinate positions that determine the movement of a tool during a machining operation.

Translator
An electronic device that converts pulses into the correct switching sequence, which will operate the motor one step for each pulse received.

Unipolar
A bifilar wound motor. The current flows only in one direction through each winding. Normally there are two winding per bobbin and eight bobbins per motor. Usually is a 5, 6 or eight wire motor. One or more common leads are used per winding. Has less torque than a bipolar stepper motor but is simpler to drive. Bipolar stepper motor- just two windings. The electronic controls reverse the current alternately between the coils. This motor has more torque but requires more electronic controls.

Vector Graphics
A form of graphics that uses geometric formulas to represent images. Vector graphic images are more easily manipulated than raster graphics when dealing with CNC.

Wire Frame Modeling
A type of geometric modeling in which the edges of a part are represented by solid lines

Working Drawing
A drawing of a part providing data for manufacturing

X-Axis
An axis that is left or right. All movement left of a zero point is minus (-X), all movement right of the zero point is plus (+X).

Y-axis
An axis that is at right angles to the X-axis and intersect the zero point of the X-axis. All movement further away from the zero point is plus (+Y). All movement closer than the zero point is minus (-Y).

Z-axis
An axis that is vertically perpendicular to the X-Y zero point. All movement above the zero point is positive (+Z) while all movement below the zero point is (-Z).

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Sunday 14 December 2008

Hobby CNC

cnc lessons

Home CNC DIY
Hobbyists get into CNC for many different reasons.  It really has a lot to offer as a hobby.  There are many challenges to it and that is what draws in many people.  This is not something you do just to pass the time.  There is a result in mind.
Some people make it to CNC DIY through a side door.   They come from areas like Combat Robot and RC Modeling.  There are many small, precise parts in these hobbies, which CNC is perfect for.There are also people that like to customize things and need a way to make special parts that they can’t get anywhere else.

Here are a few elements that have brought people into the CNC Fold:
Electronics – There are many electronic components you can build yourself.  Do you like to solder together power supplies, cooling fans, drivers and processors? CNC would appeal to you.
Design – Do you like to think about things in your mind?  Then conceptualize them into a computer.  Do you have a little inventor inside of you trying to get out?You would probably like CNC.
Manufacture – Do you like to make things in a process fashion?  Step by step, process by process.  Do you like to optimize and test and make processes more efficient?You would probably like CNC.
End Design – Do you have a result or end design in mind?  This is what happened to me.  I knew where I was.  I knew where I wanted to go.  I then used CNC as a bridge to get there.  If you have an end design in mind that is repetitive, then CNC would appeal to you.
Money – Do you like money?Is that a good question.  Many hobbyists get into CNC to make some extra money or start their own business.  Yes, you can make parts and sell them.  Guess what, after you design the part, you never have to do that again.  You can just call up the program and make some more.  Months and years later…forever.  CNC appeals to people who want to make money.
Challenge of Building a Machine – Some people just get bored and want a project to work on.  Building a machine that does something appeals to them.  Think of the Model Builders, Woodworkers, Metal Workers and any other type of builder you know.Computer Numerical Control appeals to the engineering builders of the world.
The Entire CNC process – I fall strongly into this category.  I started into CNC because of a problem, but stayed because I love the whole process of it.  I like to design things.  I like to build things.  I like to make money.  I like the challenge.  I like the whole enchilada.  That is what I want to share with you.

What personal attributes will help you with CNC?
I get this question a lot.  How do I know if CNC is right for me?  Guess what, I have seen it all.  Many types of people show up in CNC.Here are some common talents in the cnc field.   

Computers – Do you like working with computers?  If you said yes then that will help you out.  CNC is really computer intensive work on the front end of the process.
Software – Can you learn multiple software packages?  If you said yes you probably have a flexible software mind.  That will come in handy.
Shop Skills – If you have skills in the shop, you will be ok.  It doesn’t really matter if it is metalworking, woodworking or anything else.  Being comfortable getting your hands dirty will help.
Engineering Mind – I usually think of this as a problem-solving mind.  Trying to isolate things and pin them down.  If a problem come up, you test different ways around it.  Keeping track of things will help.
Artistic Mind – Can you imagine things?Think of the parts and pieces you make.  Guess what, creating is very important.  Using you mind and thinking of unique possibilities will help.
Crafty Mind – I don’t mean in a devious way, more in a building way.  Can you take things apart and put them together in your head?  Can you see a finished product, and then back track the processes to make it?  You will be well served if you can play with things in your mind.

“Wait, wait, wait,” you might say.  “I don’t possess all these skills.”  You don’t have to.  Having some of these skills will only help you on your quest to learn CNC.  Again, I have seen all types of people get into and succeed in this field.  Your desire to learn and get out there and do it will be the deciding factor.

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Review of the Garmin Nuvi 760 System

The Garmin Nuvi 760 GPS Navigation System is one of best tools on the market for navigations. The road directions that come with the Nuvi 760 offer insructins for North America so you can journey to the United States, Canada, or Mexico using your unit to aid you.

Features

The readout on the Garmin Nuvi 760 offers a big 3.8 by 2.25 screen that includes a backlight and an anti-glare screen. The display even offers a quality resolution of 480 by 272 pixels as well ass a 3-D image screen.

Your Garmin 760 also features an FM radio function so that you can keep up with the most recent real-time traffic reports that will let you miss congested traffic areas in the city. Every piece of the data that you need to input on the unit is on the touch screen so the package is manageable with slim lines and a smooth ball socket installation.

You stick the Garmin Nuvi 760 to your dashboard with a small suction cup that is easy to remove when you are ready to get out of your car. The small dimensions are perfect when you don’t like to leave the system behind; the product will simply slide into a pocket or purse as you go to work or to the store.

Extra Features

The Garmin Nuvi 760 Travel Assistant has the ability to store your favorite destinations. For example, if you travel to hotels fairly often, you can store the hotel address in the unit and then you just have to put in your destination address to get the quickest and most beneficial instructions.

You can even keep track of the names of the best restaurants and shops in the system to get to these places with no trouble in a new city. This is a favorite feature when you wish to find a certain piece of merchandise that is not available everywhere.

The Nuvi 760 is also the tool you want to use if you have a hard time finding where you have left your car in a sizable city or parking garage. The unit will remember exactly where you parked by saving the final location that the unit remembers. This is a good feature that is not included in the older Garmin Nuvi systems.

Adding Features and Maps

If the Garmin Nuvi 760 GPS Navigation System that you have right now must be modified, the only requirement is to visit the official website to load current maps and features onto the product. A few updates require a fee, including travel guides and maps. You Nuvi 760 package will come with a USB cable so that you can effortlessly connect your unit to your home computer for updates.

You will also have the option of selecting the look of the touch screen letters on your Nuvi 760. Many consumers are familiar with a regular keyboard and find it easier to utilize this layout when putting in data.

Saturday 13 December 2008

CNC Router Components and CNC Router Parts Information

CNC

A CNC Router has several different parts that make up its total machine. It is important to know about these components so that you can make sure each is working properly. This is especially interesting information when you are thinking about building your own Router.

The most important parts and components of a small CNC Router are as follows:

1. Worktable -- this is where you will sit the material so that it can be cut. You will use a clamp to hold the material down.
2. Router -- the router is the part of the machine that uses a high speed to turn the cutting tool.
3. Cutting Tool -- this is the tool that cuts the material that you lay on the table.
4. Collet - -this is the part that hold the cutting tool onto the router.
5.Dust Extraction Outlet -- the machine will make a lot of dust so you need this to remove all of the dust.
6.Guard -- whoever is running the router will want this because it will protect this person. It is important to keep this down when the machine is in operation.
7. Control Panel -- you can use the controls to use the router either manually or automatically.
8. Stop Button -- this is the button that will stop the machine in an emergency.
9. Door Handles -- this holds the guard into place and will not allow the router to move unless the guard is down.

What you are looking and talking about as far as components go is a small table machine, expect things to be much more complex with with a router. These machines will need the computer component which is the CNC Controller and you will need the CAD software to run it. There are many websites that will tell you more about how to build your own and will have a listing of all the parts necessary.

As you explore the parts and components of a CNC Routing you will find that they are made from a variety of materials. As an example, when you are choosing a machine to make, you will find some components in wood, others in aluminum and others in steel. What components you choose will depend on your budget and their availability.

There are almost too many stores to choose from when it comes to buying parts and components online for your CNC Router. There is some very good information that can be found here when you are looking for advice on the components and parts.

The parts that you choose will also depend on what you want to do with it and the types of projects you are going to use it for. Sometimes you need to take a moment to look at your space then you can design the router to fit that space.

The final consideration is whether or not you want a fully animated machine or not. If you want it fully automated it is obvious that it will need different parts than if you want to use the router by hand. When you are looking for CNC router parts and components it is a good idea to research what you need before you buy.

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Thursday 11 December 2008

Process of CAM

cnc machine

Process of CAM
CAM is a process just like the rest of the steps in CNC.  You need to do certain things before it spits out the tool paths and then the G-Code.  These things you need to define change with the type of CAM you are using and the CAM program you are using.  They are all similar, but a bit different.

Here are the CAM Steps:
Define Material
Define Stock Size
Define Coordinates
Define Tool
Define Feeds and Speeds
Simulate Machining
Post Process

Define Material
You will need to define your material before you begin your machining.  For example, if you are machining wax, your feeds and speeds you define later can be faster.  If you are machining steel, you will need to slow things down.  Most times the type or composition of the material will not need to be defined in the CAM program, but you will need to be very aware of it.

Define Stock Size
Next, you will need to let the CAM software program know what the size is of material stock you will be using.  You are usually defining the “box” or “cylinder” you will begin with.  The machine needs to know where the stock starts and ends so it can make sure to remove all the material it needs to.

Define Coordinates
How will the machine know what is 0,0,0 in the coordinate scheme?  You need to tell it.  You will pick a corner of the stock box and let the machine know that is exactly 0,0,0.  That is also where you will need to “zero out” your machine at.  This is the beginning point for the CNC Machine operations.  It is also usually the ending point of the program as well.


So what is the best spot to pick for 0,0,0?  There isn’t one.  It depends on your machine and how the axis’ are laid out in your brain.  For me, I like to pick the “Highest Z Point” and the “South West Corner” because that is where zero is in my brain.  I have also set all my machines up that way.

Define Tool
Defining the tool is an easy process.  If you were going to use a tool, would you like to know what it is and how you are supposed to use it?  You need to let the machine know what tool it is holding and what size that tool is.  The machine needs to know the diameter, length, offset, and how far the tool sticks out from the spindle so it does not crash.  If the tool is a plasma cutter, the CAM program will need to know the width of the torch cut.  It can then compensate for it.

Define Feeds and Speeds
Next, you need to let the program know how fast you want the machine to move and how much material you want to take off with each pass.  This is where defining your material above comes in.  I will not get into the calculations here, but each material and tool combination has an optimal Feedrate.


You will also be adjusting the spindle speed in this step as well.  All these pieces of the puzzle interrelate with one another.  Imagine the spindle going slow, with a fast feed rate.  You will probably damage your machine.  Imagine the spindle going fast, with the feed rate extremely slow.  You will have low productivity and probably prematurely wear your tools.  All this adds up to the fact you will have to use your brain and gain some real life experience.

Simulate Machining
This is my favorite step.  Here you run your program on your virtual piece of stock and watch the material being machined away.  How cool is that!You get to see what you did before you try it out on your High Cost CNC equipment.  As I said before, this is like proof reading what you did while programming.I have found many problems and fixed them before I got out to my shop.

Tool Paths
When you are done simulating the machining, you will see tool paths.  Tool Paths are one of the outcomes of our CAM process.  Tool paths are literally that, the path that the tool will follow while machining.  CAM Software shows us these paths so we can follow what is going to happen.  The logic of the CAM Software determines where these paths will be and in what order they will happen.  The tool paths will then be converted into G-Code in the next step.

What are tool paths and how do you create them?
Tool paths are the paths the tool will take around and through the piece of material to create the part.  Tool paths show up as a very thin wireframe movement paths in the CAM process.  This is to show you where the machine will be traveling.  You want this so you can see if there will be any interference issues while machining.


Once the tool paths are generated, you can usually watch an animation of the action.  You can “virtually” watch the machine work and machine the material.  This is a very helpful feature of modern CAM programs.  I don’t know how many times I have found a problem in the simulation before I ever made it to the shop.

Post Process
Finally, you post process the cnc program you just created.  This is where the G-Code is created.You select the correct cnc post processor for your Machine and press a process button.  The CAM program takes all your inputs and spits out a G-Code program that you can load into your control software and away you go.


Post processing is literally a one-click process for most CAM programs.  The only pitfall as I said was that you must pick the right post processor that is matched to your machines set up.  Most CAM programs come with dozens of post processors and one is going to likely fit your setup.

CAM Programs
SheetCAM
RhinoCAM
LazyCAM
MeshCAM
MasterCAM
Alphacam
Artcam
Edgecam
Featurecam
GibbsCAM
OneCNC
Plasma Cam
SmartCAM
SurfCam
VCarve

Machining Simulators
Most Computer Aided Machining programs come with a machining simulator.  Some are basic and weak.  Others are outstanding.  There are a few stand-alone simulators on the market that you can run your G-Code through.

CNC Simulators:
Cncsimulator.com
Mach

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CNC Control Definition

Mach3

CNC Control Definition
Here is my definition of CNC Control and how I like to think about it.CNC Controlling is using a computer to direct functions and motion.  The control phase of CNC is closely associated with the Machining phase.  Why?  You are using a computer to “control” the machining process.However, there are different parts to CNC controlling.  Here we go again.  Let’s break it down and simplify it a bit.

CNC Control Software
Control Software is one of the critical things you will need for CNC.  The control software is what interprets the G-Code line by line and sends off commands to your machine controller.


Probably the standard in the hobby market is Mach.  There are different versions: Mach1, Mach2 and Mach3.  Mach is created by a company called Artsoft and has an excellent reputation in the marketplace.  The software is easy to use and very powerful.  The company also provides great service and is always working on the next generation of product.
I have used a couple other control software packages as well like CNC Pro, TurboCNC and Master.  They seem a bit outdated compared to Mach, but serve their purpose and work well.

List of CNC Control Software
Mach 3
TurboCNC
KCAM4
CNC Pro

Control Software Prices:
CNC Control Software prices vary all over the map.  There are some that are free and some that are Thousands of dollars.  If you are a hobbiest, expect to pay somewhere between free and $200.  If you are running production equipment, expect to pay thousands of dollars.  CNC Control software is essential, you need to make the monitary commitment.

CNC Information Free Community Site:
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You can join for Free and you get two free CNC ebooks. One is a GCode Quick Guide and the other is the CNC Info Site eBook. You get access to the Video Series...Image to CNC, when you join.

Wednesday 10 December 2008

CNC Router General Overview

CNC

CNC Router General Overview

Many people say that a CNC Routing is the best tool they have in their shop. One of the reasons why is because it is such a versatile machine and it cuts the time it takes to cut and prepare things down.

CNC Routers are machines that work in different directions. They can work in these directions simultaneously to develop patterns and shapes that the operator would take a long time to do by hand. The CNC Router moves along an axis to cut front to back, left to right or up and down.

One of the things that you will have to know as an operator of this machine is basic CAD software because this is what it uses to create the work. It is flexible enough that you can create the program you want at your own PC or through using the computer on the machine.

What you do with the CAD Software is to create files that you can put into the computer to show the Router the exact moves you want it to make. This allows you do pretty much whatever you want with it.

How A CNC Routing Works
The CNC Router is very easy to run once you have the software in place. All you have to do is take the material you are using and place it on the table where you have the machine. You hold it in place and then allow the router to do the work, following the specifications you put into the computer.

You don’t have to worry about getting dust in your lungs because there is a dust hood on the machine that collects any debris or dust that comes off the material so that the air is free of any materials that may be harmful to the individual.

There are certain motors that are around to help keep the system on its axes and make sure the cuts are made in all directions. The drive system is important to the machine because the better is it the higher the quality you will have in your routing. The CNC router bits are actually controlled by a spindle and these come in several different shapes and sizes like you would find if you were using a power tool with drill bits.

It is important to note that whenever you are operating any machine you have to think about safety first and this is true of using a CNC Routing . Although the machine comes with guards that can stop your hands from getting hurt while feeding materials, you should also use common sense when operating the machine. There is a system of stop buttons on various parts of the machine as well. However, you should make sure just as an added protection to wear gloves and sound blocking materials to avoid accidents.

The CNC Router is economical too because once you program it you don't have to watch over it. Instead, you can go do other work or take a break while it does the work for you. It also opens up the chance to do projects that used to require a team of people to do.


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Cable TV Delivery Methods

 

The television has been the most used entertainment device in almost all homes in the United States ever since it was invented. It is still the top media source in the home, though the home computer is gaining ground, and it looks like it will stay that way for a many years to come. It has bypassed both newspapers and radio transmission media in terms of use and profitability. But a television relies on a service provider and the two types from which we can choose from are satellite TV or cable television.

Cable TV is transmitted through optical fiber cables and coaxial cables. The major advantage of cable TV is that it the quality of its signal is not deterred in any way by mountains, trees or any other geographical features. The bad part of things from the cable company perspective is that it is very expensive to constantly expand and maintain the wiring needed to deliver the signals. Today cable TV is offered by more companies compared to satellite, as the market is more fractured. Such companies are Comcast, Charter cable, Mediacom, Time Warner, and Bright House cable. The competition to be the biggest and best cable company will ensure you that you will get your money’s worth.

Satellite TV on the other hand is offered by just two companies in the United States. First is Dish Network and the other is DirecTV. Both of which rely on the receivers given to their subscribers and they use communication satellites in order to deliver their programming. They offer more networks compared to Comcast basic cable and usually cost quite a bit less than cable. However, the costs involved here are the satellites that must be launched into orbit.

The good news for any consumer is the wide variety of choices they can choose from. Whether the preference be based on programming, prices, packages or customer service; the consumer will be able to find a suitable provider for him or her.

Monday 8 December 2008

What is CNC?

What is cnc?

CNC Intro
Questions, Questions and a few more Questions
What is CNC
What do the letters “C-N-C” stand for? 
How can it help me? 
Why would I want to learn it?
Where do I begin?
Do I need special software?  If so, which one?
Do I need a machine?  If so, how much?

We will get to all of these questions shortly and cover each of them thoroughly.  What has probably led you here today are questions?  You have problems you want to solve and you think CNC can help?  Guess what, that is exactly how I began the CNC journey as well!

So, where am I at with CNC today?
Today I have a few machines that I work with.  Each have their own nuances, software, capabilities and functions.  The point of it is that they are all CNC.They follow the same basic overall process.That process is gold if you know it.You can move from cnc machine to cnc machine and know what is going on.  That is what I want to teach you.

CNC Machines I own today:
CNC Plasma Cutter Machine – My 1st CNC machine.  A good first project if you want to build a CNC machine.  Born out of necessity.  She is a little rough around the edges, but a solid friend.
Vinyl Cutter – This is a unique type of CNC Machine.  This machine uses a small knife to cut out vinyl in any shape or size.  Think “sticker machine.”  You know the stickers on the back of every jacked up truck you have ever seen.  You know, “P_ss on Chevy, Ford, Dodge, etc.  So a vinyl cutter is actually a “Redneck sticker-making machine.”  I actually bought it to cut sandblast resist, which is a whole different story.
CNC Mill Machine – My third machine.  This one I purchased.It is a CNC Bridgeport Clone if you want to get exact.  It is funny how addictive this hobby is.  I bought this machine to make the parts for a CNC Wood Router.  “Wait, you bought one CNC Machine to build another CNC Machine?”  The answer is…. YES!  I love this hobby.
CNC Wood Router – My fourth machine.  My father likes woodworking and I like steel working.This is kind of a transition machine for me.  I have found woodworking with CNC to be really cool.  It has gotten me into 3D milling on the cheap.  Think of the cost of 3D milling a brick of aluminum or a block of wood into a shape.  That’s right.  No Brainer.  Wood is free in comparison. 

CNC Hobby Growth Story
CNC as a hobby has really seen a huge growth spurt over the last 8 years.  I think I stepped into it about two years after it started cooking in the late 90s.  When I jumped in there were a few CNC Groups going already and about three different CNC Plasma Tables available at the hobby level.  I don’t know where the other machine types were at the time because I came in through the plasma path.  I would guess they were further behind as CNC Plasma Cutters was one of the first areas of CNC to take off in the Hobby arena.
Most of the growth I would attribute to the Internet.  Groups formed, ideas were shared.  Feedback was given.  People started making “chips” and didn’t look back.  The Internet brought a very expensive technology into garages across the country.  When I built my $4000 CNC Plasma Table a hobbyist class machine was around $10,000 and a commercial machine was $100,000 to as high as you wanted to go.

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Choosing The Best Bluetooth Keyboard

Time and again attempts have been made by various computer equipment manufacturers to produce a truly portable keyboard.  The new portable bluetooth keyboard choices that have recently come onto the market seem to finally fulfill the promise of hi-tech future we all watched as kids in movies and cartoons.Every body's needs and wants are unique and hence your choice of best bluetooth keyboard is your personal choice.

 

How do you want your portable bluetooth keyboard to look?

 

 I know people who will not buy certain computer equipment because it’s the wrong color, and doesn’t match the rest of their computer system.  Some people want all the computer equipment to look the same, and some don’t care how it looks, as long as it works.Before starting your search you need to be sure which one you are.Your would not like to change to choice for a long time.

 

What keyboard configuration do you need on your portable bluetooth keyboard?

 

 The choices now available allow you to choose between the mini keyboard and the QWERTY keyboard.  Since many people have become so comfortable with their mini keyboard configuration they wish to continue with it and some people cannot wait to have a regular (QWERTY) keyboard again.  Which bluetooth keyboard is the best bluetooth keyboard for you will depend on your ease with the keyboard configuration.  Make sure that you are most comfortable with the keyboard you choose or you may choose not to use it for portable computing.

 

Do I require a physical portable bluetooth keyboard or do I want a virtual portable bluetooth keyboard?

 

 This question may seem a bit strange if you haven’t been watching the tech new lately, but you now have a choice of a virtual keyboard.  How the virtual portable bluetooth keyboard works is that a device, a small one, projects a virtual protable bluetooth keyboard onto any flat surface.  You use that virtual keyboard to type.The tech-savy users would love this one.You can use it when you actually need to type and thus gives you more space freedom.It would give you the flexibility of locating it, if you have very limited space available.

 

What Is Bluetooth?

 

A portable bluetooth keyboard incorporates the bluetooth communication protocol for computer component connection and works along a standardized set of guidelines.The standardisation on how the bluetooth hardware should work has brought real value to bluetooth.It would work fine if its bluetooth compatible.  That is the genius and convenience that is bluetooth.

Registry Cleaner Reviews - Find the Best Registry Cleaners

If you already confused by the many registry cleaner reviews websites, I might just be able to help you! In this article, I will outline different types of review site and show you how to use them to find your own consistent result and best registry cleaner.

Some guidelines to follow:

Rule #1 - Does not believe what they tell you. You should always prepare to test your result, if you have limited time, just select 5 to 10 of the recommended products and do some simple test on your machine.

Rule #2 - Reference the review sites and set your own guidelines. You can easily set your own testing guidelines with reference to what already being used.

Rule #3 - prepared your testing environment. I urge you to use Microsoft Virtual PC as an evaluation tool to help you in your testing process. Replaced the tested registry cleaner with the backup operating system, ensure each registry cleaner has the same testing ground.

Some suggested guidelines:

Guideline #1 - How many errors detected, the more the better because the more errors found, the windows registry size can reduce to smaller and faster!

Guideline #2 - How fast the software finished scanning will determine how optimize the software is.

Guideline #3 - How safe to repair, any auto-backup provided?

Guideline #4 - Any advanced tools or extra features to accelerate the computer speed?

Guideline #5 - Provide protection to known ActiveX dlls from spyware and unknown thread!

Guideline #6 - How effective is the deep scan? will it be able to capture indepth registry problems?

Guideline #7 - How effective in restoring computer speed after repairing your registry? Do you really feel the speed?

With 3 rules and 7 guidelines, you don't have to rely on other registry cleaner reviews sites to tell you which is the best registry cleaner, because you tested it, and you know what is scam and what is not!

Sunday 7 December 2008

Freeware Registry Cleaner VS Commercial Registry Cleaner

We can compare both freeware and commercial registry cleaner, highlight the differences between them and how you can use them to your advantage.

Advantages of freeware:

Pros #1 - No Cost. You need not pay any money to use them.

Pros #2 - Can combine many cleaners for best errors detection and result.

Pros #3 - Some will provide protection for known ActiveX Errors.

Pros #4 - Some will provide auto-backup as well as full backup for Windows registry.

Disadvantage of freeware:

Cons #1 - Not effective when using them alone, must combine few for best result.

Cons #2 - Need human intervention for most of the time, try not to use automatic repairing with freeware registry cleaner.

Cons #3 - Most the freeware cleaner does not provide backup functionality, you need to use regedit and do manual backup.

Cons #4 - No support or limited support from freeware vendors.

Cons #5 - Scan slower, scanning algorithm not optimized.

Cons #6 - Not always updated.

Advantage of Commercial software:

Pros #1 - Detect more errors and scan faster, easier to repair even with only one software.

Pros #2 - Automatic backup before any repair or cleaning, easy to restore when ever the Windows starts to break.

Pros #3 - More advance tools to speed up Windows.

Pros #4 - Some allow schedule scan and auto repair, further enhance user experience with automation.

Pros #5 - Better support from the vendors.

Pros #6 - Provide immune against known ActiveX errors.

Pros #7 - Constantly updated with the operating system.

Disadvantage of Commercial software:

Cons #1 - Not free, and some cost a lot.

Cons #2 - No guarantee of investment, you might buy a commercial registry cleaner that don't work.

Cons #3 - Some required monthly recurring charges while most required yearly charges.

Hope the list of pros and cons help you determine when to use freeware registry cleaner and when to use commercial software, you can find the best registry cleaner here or visit the registry cleaner reviews, although there are no strict rules but you can use them as guidelines for your advantage.

Delete Virtumonde and stop it Dead in it's Track

virtumonde removal

When it comes to the Virtumodne Trojan you have your work cut out for you.This is the hardest threat you will ever have to remove.  In fact even as a pro at removing viruses and spyware the first time I battled with this threat it took several hours to remove.  Of course then there were no guides on How to Remove Virtumonde or dedicated sites out there to remove this threat.  The world has changed since then and you can now find help.  Check the link highlighted above for some good steps on removing Virtumonde.

One of the best sites out there that is dedicated to this threat is this Virtumonde Removal site.You will like what you learn on this Virtumone trojan removal site.

Like we already stated this threat can be very hard to remove and you may need to purchase a better virus removal client then the one you currently have.  It kind of makes sense.  After all whatever you are using failed at protecting you so why would you keep trusting it.

There are other sites out there as well that can help you fully remove Virtumonde.  For instance this computer Repair site that we came across many years ago does a great job.This online computer repair company guarantees thier work or you don't pay a dime.  They remote into your computer and you can see them work.  It’s really cool.  You get to see them work and even chat with them if you like.  The price is around 89 bucks and well worth it.

Virtumonde is also related to Vundo.  The removal process should be treated as the same so the afore mentioned site should work the same for you.  Regardless of what Virtumonde removal method you go with you should take action sooner then later.  Ask a tech savvy friend for help if you are broke.  Just be sure to backup all your data first just in case they mess the computer up.This is no joke, many times friends make the issue worse.

Saturday 6 December 2008

High End Home Theater Speakers: Why You Need Them

Home theaters are getting to be extremely popular among American homes. This modern technology is slowly giving movie theaters a run for their money. Basic knowledge of home theater system and its basic components may be best for people who want to bring home relaxation and entertainment.

The most important consideration in the design and complete set up of your home theater is the size of the room. You'll need to take into account the size of your room when choosing home theater components. Too small rooms for your home theater may not require so many speakers. Only three speakers may be good if the room is quite small. Do not overload your small room; you may not be able to get the entertainment and relation you want if you feel overloaded with so many home theater speakers. Because you only need three home theater speakers in your small room, you may need to acquire the high-end brand of home theater speakers to compliment the size of the room and the other equipments for your home theater. If your room is of an awkard arrangement, you might wan to consider wireless home theater speakers .


If you have a bigger room however, the basic three home theater speakers may not be enough. You may need to put up to six speakers around the room, you may also consider complimenting your home theater speakers with subwoofer to complete the surround sound like in movie theaters. In addition to the speakers, you may also need to purchase a high-end television set which should not be smaller than 27 inches. It may not be reasonable if you buy a smaller television set because it may drown in the fineness of your home theater speakers.

Additionally, the DVD player needs to be of high quality, having progressive scan your DVD Player may help provide sharp images and flicker-free pictures for your home theater system. The home theater speakers, television and DVD player are the basic components of a home theater system especially if the room is quite small. However, for bigger room, adding home theater furniture and home theater projectors may be necessary to complete the package. Again, it may be worth it, if your home theater speakers are of high quality. This is because of the need to provide a surround sound for the home theater set up. The DVD player and the television set may answer for the requirement of sight in a movie theater setup. Your home theater speaker needs to answer for the sound requirement, and if your home theater speaker is not of high quality brand, it may not be able to do the job for you.


In order for you to avoid making mistakes in your choice of home theater equipments including home theater speakers, and home theater furniture, you may require the services of a home theater designer. They will be able to provide the best recommendation that will ensure you will get the most out of your home theater system including topnotch home theater speakers. Additional home theater furniture may be necessary to complete the package and to dress up the whole room. Since they are the designers, they will be able to recommend the best for your home theater system set up. If you have a properly designed home theater, you will get the best entertainment possible.

Your home theater designer may take on the huge responsibility of choosing the most suitable home theater speaker to attain the best design for your home theater.

Bring home relaxation and entertainment right in your own living room, home theater system can provide this to you and your family.

Friday 5 December 2008

The Importance Of Build,Function,Style And Size When Purchasing A Backpack Computer Case

As the holiday season approaches, you may find yourself looking for a gift for a business professional who seems to have everything.  Get them something stylish and practical this year, and purchase a backpack computer case.  These bags are a comfortable way to carry laptop computers, while still leaving the hands free.  Traditional laptop bags seem to get heavier with each step.  Ease that pain and get organized by choosing a backpack instead.

Finding the Right Fit

When you are choosing a backpack computer case, it is important to keep in mind the particular laptop that will be carried in it.Laptop sizes are judged by the size of the screen, and it may not add up to purchase a bag that fits the largest possible laptop.  The computer will shift around within the case, causing problems or irritation for the person carrying it.  It is difficult to “fill up” extra space in a bag without risking the safety of the laptop.  Extra items should be carried in a separate section or pockets instead of the main compartment.

After checking the fit to make sure that the bag is not too big, take a look at the padding offered within the compartment your computer will sit in.  You should make sure that the laptop will be protected from any small bumps or accidents.  While these cases are not designed to withstand heavy abuse, you want to make sure that it will be fine if you are pushed on a crowded train.  If you are worried about your computer all the time, then it is not worthwhile to purchase that case.  Don’t let style override your decisions about the safety of your computer.

When you are considering different backpack computer cases, think about when and how you will be using the bag.Where will you be bringing it?  How long will you be wearing it?  Will you be performing any strenuous activities with it on?  If you commute on a bicycle, for example, you will need a backpack with sturdy straps that can adjust so it will fit snuggly to your body.  Choosing a waterproof material may also be a good choice in case you will be outside with your bag.  Waterproofing is another way to keep your computer safe.  If you are going to be taking your computer to multiple meetings, you want one that slides on and off easily over your work attire.

Take a look at the price before you buy your bag.  Frequently, cost can be an indicator of the quality of your bag.  While many of the cheaper bags will do a good job at getting your bag from place to place, make sure to take a close look at the construction if you consider buying one of them.  Having a strap or seam break at an inopportune moment can be more than inconvenient if you are carrying an expensive computer.  Make sure you are buying the highest-quality backpack computer case that you can afford.