G540 Enclosure and CNC Computer Station
Posted by Chris Carpenter on
I've had a CNC machine for over 10 years. This is actually my second machine. The first was a small machine that I mainly used for cutting foam. The first control box I built was a mess and I built it in a plastic container. It was poorly done and I won't even show a picture. I've been meaning to build a proper enclosure for my G540 and just redo my work space in general.
First, I designed and laser cut a box for the G540. My machine is from Avid CNC and I use the limit sensors they sell. Avid also sells panel mounted connectors for the sensor cables. With those installed I can easily disconnect all the cables from the box. I put in holes for the power connection, power switch, emergency kill switch, G540, sensors and one extra hole for when I upgraded to a software controlled spindle.
I think it took more time for cable management than it did to wire everything up. I wanted the wiring to be neat and easy to access. Its not perfect but I think it came out nice.
I've been using old refurbished mini office PCs to control my machine for years. The dust is pretty hard on them so they only last a few years. Since I'm only running Mach 3, I decided a small fan-less PC would probably last longer and definitely take up less space. I purchased one off of Amazon with Windows 10 preloaded. I didn't have any problems getting Mach 3 or my UC100 adapter to work with Windows 10. The PC is velcro mounted on the side of my workbench.
I also ordered an arm mount for my monitor so I could push it back out of the way and save more space. I bought a wireless keyboard & mouse and built a slide out tray for them that tucks away neatly. I also built magnetic mount on the front of the. bench so I can easily access the wireless pendant.
Here's a quick video of it all.
Overall, I'm really pleased. If you are interested in building the box, I have a link to the DXF file below.
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- Tags: AVID, CNC, enclosure, G540, lasercut, lasercutting, MACH 3, woodwork, workstation