CNC Plasma Question

I though I would post this to my CNC Blog.  I had this question come in about converting  to a CNC Plasma Cutter.

"The plasma question….. How can we convert the manual machine.."

If you have a manual plasma cutter, you a quite a ways off from having a CNC Plasma Cutter.  A CNC Plasma Cutter is a system that uses a Control Computer, Control Software, a Controller, Stepper or Servo Motors and a Fabricated Table with X, Y and Z Axis.  You then hook your manual plasma cutter into this "System" so its cuts are directed and very specific.

As far as cost, your manual plasma cutters are anywhere from $800 to $2,000 USD.

Then Add:
$300 Control Computer
$150 Control Software
$1000 to $2000 CNC Controller with Motors and Cables
$1000 to fabricate the CNC Table

Most people who hang out in their shop have the skills to make one.  Most of the problem shows up with the funding and also the time involved piecing it together.

Thanks,
Ivan Irons