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 now has a new US supplier, Wildhorse Innovations, but you can still get
the kit with more options available 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. This model seem to be discontinued but you may find
one thru National Supply Source from over 130 distributor locations throughout the country.
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
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