PDA

View Full Version : 4G Upgrade - useful for my project?


kgracey
09-17-2009, 09:52 AM
Hey all,

Just picking up a NIB model year 2000 ShopBot PRT-96. This was long before the 4G upgrade. I'd like to get your thoughts on the necessity of buying this upgrade. I'm already familiar with CNC machining (Haas) and Gecko drives.

All I'm doing is routing out 1/2" thick plywood, baltic birch 9-ply. The shapes are somewhat organic - curvy lines. Just need to tab route some pieces about 16" in diameter.

Will I "see" the stepper's movements on the plywood edge as a jagged perimeter? Should I expect to upgrade to 4G and "just get it over with"? I see there are some big benefits with motor speed and going from a 4-1 to 10-1 microstep, and that's got to help.

I'm not all that concerned about precision, only finish. I can accept 1/64" accuracy as long as I get a smooth edge. Do you guys think I'll want the upgrade?
gerald_martin
09-17-2009, 01:44 PM
Hi Ken:

I previously owned a 2001 model PRT96. I used the machine for years with the Shopbot-built control board.

I did upgrade to the 4G board when that came out and there was an improvement.

I suggest you set up the machine and try out the control that came with it. It's not that it was bad - I'm sure many botters still use it - but the 4G did improve smoothness and speed.

I made more money using my machine with the old control than after I upgraded to the 4G - because after that I got bit by the PRS Alpha bug.
br928
09-17-2009, 06:58 PM
Ken,

Bite the bullet and upgrade. The upgrade is worth it in jogging speed alone! You can also run the latest release machine control software and stay up to date with future releases.
taskins
11-04-2009, 04:58 PM
There may be more variables to the 4g upgrade than you might expect for the older machines. The type motor used may not perform any better with the 4g. That's what I ran into with the Vexta PK299-01AA's that came on my used PRT 01 version. I'm still trying to sort out an upgade or just living with what I've got.
jerry_stanek
11-04-2009, 05:16 PM
I have a PR that I upgraded and I would never go back. My machine more than doubled in speed and accuracy.