Older vs new machine

[ljdm]

What are some of the most notable differences between a 2000 and a 2007 PRS? Can a 2000 be upgraded without breaking the bank to come close to a newer machines performance? Any info appreciated.

[brian_harnett]

I have a 2003 PRT it is not as fast as the new machines but I do mostly one off stuff.

Design time is usually the bulk of my work.

My old PRT is accurate I have done a lot of inlays that fit perfect.

If you are mass producing a new machine will be more cost effective in the long run. Since besides the table you will have to replace most of the bot

[jamesgilliam]

Lou, I have to agree with Brian. My old PRT has been doing the job I need it to do. Most of my work is one or two of a kind pieces and speed is not a big factor for me, accuracy is. My best advice is to consider what it is that you need and purchase accordingly. If you require multiples of the same part in a hurry get the latest model, it has been designed to perform that task. I have a rule that I like to stay with, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”. Has worked for me for the last six years with my bot, I still use the old DOS based operating software for control, and will as long as the good people at ShopBot keep it available. James

[br928]

Lou, I have a 2003PRT w/ steel table. It is a very stable platform. I initially blew a motor driver chip a couple of times but I attributed that to infant mortality. I used the machine w/o any problems for about 3 years. One day on power up I let the magic smoke out of the chip once again. At that time there was talk of an electronics upgrade so I went with the predecessor of the 4G upgrade, the AGek. My jog speeds went from 4IPS to 14IPS. Cut speeds were equally improved as well and @ 2.5 times the resolution. In my opinion an older PRT with the 4G upgrade is a solid tool. On top of that I can use the latest release of the machine tool software, keeping my machine right up to date.