4g board vs 2.25hp HSD spindle

[kshores]

Given a choice of either purchasing a (4g board and faster computer) or (HSD 2.25hp spindle), which purchase would be a better choice to improve cut quality. I primarily cut 3/4 ply and MDF cabinetry, curved panels and some lettering. I only cut several sheets per week and my main focus is cut quality rather than speed. All opinions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
Ken

[conceptmachine]

Ken,
I just upgraded to an ascension 1000 from custom-cnc and all i can say is WOW! the speed is unbelievable,the motors are quiet(no more groaning and moaning)and the cut quality is remarkable.I,m still using my pc router with good result's. The ascension combined with mach3 software is the best upgrade you can do in my opinion.
shawn

[richards]

Ken,
It depends on what you are doing. I would recommend upgrading to the 4g first and then adding the spindle when you can. You'll get better speed and better quality with the 4g whether you use a router or a spindle. You can always enter a feed speed that works with a router.

There are some happy Ascension 1000 customers, but I prefer Shopbot software. Even though I have enough electronics on hand to build two complete controller boxes that would work perfectly with Mach3 software, I don't see the need to do that. Shopbot code is easy to use. PartWizard is a good tool pathing program. The 4g uses the same Gecko stepper drivers as the G-code conversion kits, so you'll get the same speed and the same resolution that you would with a G-code conversion kit - without the hassle of working with G-code.

[kshores]

Thanks Shawn and Mike for your input. I will look further into the Ascension 1000 but I too would like to stay with PW and ShopBot code.

[bleeth]

Ken: Spend your $ first on the 4g-the smoothness of the geckos is great. Even if you can't pick up much cut speed (I am assuming you have a PRT with the pre-alpha gantry) the smoothness and the increase in jog speed is most excellent. When it comes to spindle, I would then make sure I have enough $ to go to the 5HP. That will then be giving you all the torque you need for anything. In between you can modify or replace your gantry with something stiffer and get an even smoother cut and higher cutting speeds. For just a few bucks you can change out your PC for a Milwaukee the next time your PC needs maintainence and have a much better router. If you anticipate adding more "toys" like indexer, twin z's, etc. then go for the Agek board instead of the 4g. It does everything the 4g does plus has more expandability.

[kshores]

Thanks Dave. Yes I have a PRT96 w Milwaukee 5625 so I think the 4g bd is the way to go now. I'll put the 5hp spindle on my 2008 Christmas list.

[jeffreymcgrew]

We did the 4G upgrade, and are only using the Porter-Cable router, but the change was very significant. Our cutting speeds doubled, esp. with things like aluminum, and everything cuts very smooth. We too would love to get a spindle, but we don't have another breaker to put it on and would have to put in a sub-panel, which raises the cost even more.

[coolhammerman]

Ken:
I upgraded my 48x96 PRT to the 4g and the difference was tremendous. It had already had the running gear upgraded to Alpha, everything except the stepper motors.

I was told to expect a speed increase of around 2.5 times and resolution improvement about the same. WOW! It worked exactly as advertised. And the difference was dramatic.

I cut 3/4" plywood mainly into animal shapes for my folk art sign business. http://www.wildandwoody.com. Average size is 24" x 32" I do it in 3 passes with a 1/4" two flute carbide cutter. I use a PC 7518 Router. My new Jog Speed is 8 ips and my cut speed 4.5 ips. Cuts are smooth and the stepper motor noise was reduced by at least 2/3's.

I consider the upgrade the best money I've spent since I bought my Bot!

Just one fellow's opinion.

Ron