Best "training" model for economy

[mriehm]

I want to start a business using a Shopbot in my shop but have no experience with CNC. Eventually, I would like to own a larger PRS alpha, but I am not ready to invest that much money. I also don't have my shop built yet and the only workspace I have is a room in my house with a 32" doorway (no wife). I am attending a training session in Durham in a couple of months.
My question: If I want to buy a cheaper machine just to get familiar with writing files, learning the software, machining, etc., like a PRS standard "buddy", will this allow me to learn all the file writing and machining skills that I would use for a larger alpha?
If I bought a used PRT buddy, would the same apply? I guess getting the most current software would be most important. How much would I have to relearn when I make the larger future investment?
My thinking is that if I can start with an initial investment of under $5k, I can learn everything I need to know and then sell the smaller machine and not lose much money.
Any advice is appreciated.
mike

[richards]

Mike,
As long as the width of the PRS 'buddy' is large enough for your work, it would make a great 'learner' machine. Right now I'm really thinking of adding a 'buddy' to my shop. I've got a PRT-Alpha 60 X 120 machine and I sure could use a smaller machine to do 90% of what I need to have done. In my opinion, having a small machine and a large machine would let a one-man operation compete with large shops (that have lots of people and lots of machinery).

[burchbot]

Hi Mike
You won’t need to re learn anything when you go from a buddy to a larger machine
and the best software comes from Vectric.
Dan

[myxpykalix]

Mike,
The way you create cutting files is the same for a big machine or small. The deminsions you work within are all within the "3d" space of the computer so you can create a 6"x6" sign or a 60'x60' sign (with the right pgm) now cutting that is another story!