Suggestions on Computer Setup

[jim_vv]

I just ordered a PRSalpha 96-48. I would appreciate some recommendations on the physical computer setup for the machine; for example...a laptop? a desktop with a cordless keyboard? I read somewhere that someone suggested having the computer's keyboard and monitor close by when setting the machine up. Thank you in advance.

[myxpykalix]

I use a laptop for my setup. I find that I can use it in the shop and shut it down and take it with me. With a regular pc you have to decicate more space for the cpu, monitor, and keyboard. Then there is the issue of dust getting in the pc. There is less places for it to get into with a laptop although it still finds its way in. If i'm not using the bot that day the laptop isn't subjected to the dust i'm creating.

Then you have the issue of the cold and heat affecting it 24/7 with a pc. I have a rolling cart by my bot so when i need to set something up I can move it close to where i need it. Being able to rotate the screen and even move the laptop to the bed of the table to me is a big advantage. Although most of my work is done close to the 0,0 point.
I also have a stool i sit on that is lower and puts me at eye level with the bit and cutting surface. This lets me keep an eye on whats happening at the bit.
Also with the laptop i have taken a big clear thin plastic leaf bag and draped it over the laptop when working with real dusty stuff like mdf, for the time it is actually cutting and spewing dust having it covered won't get it any hotter than normal. Plus you can still see the screen and keep an eye on whats going on.
A laptop obviously costs more but i'd go for a laptop for those reasons stated above. Good luck.

[knight_toolworks]

I find it is best to have a seperate computer to run the bot with. that way there is very little chance of crashing and you can play with fiels while the bot is cutting. I use a wired network to transfer files to the bot computer.
myself all my wireless mouses and keyboards are nto super reliable. the spindle makes too much noise. one of my monitors is effected even though it should not be.
a used computer with a gig of memory is plenty and a cheap lcd monitor.
bluetooth may not be an issue a regulr wireless keyboard has a very short range anyway.

[Towersonline]

I run two desktop units one for design work and one to run the bot. The computer that runs the bot is an older Compaq with a 900 MHz processor and Windows XP. No need to get a speedy machine. You should be able to find a used one for 200.00 or so. I do nothing special to protect it from dust. However, I do periodically blow off the computer and keyboard with a low pressure blast from the air hose.

[Brady Watson]

Jim,
A desktop computer running XP Pro is probably the most robust solution. You can buy a brand new computer suitable for running the tool for about $400 (TigerDirect, NewEgg etc) that will last you a very long time. While the laptop seems like a good idea, don't forget that the tool does create a lot of dust, and laptops tend to be delicate - especially their cooling fans - when dust is involved. Many of us have a dedicated computer just for running the bot and one in the office for design. A cheap ($20) USB thumb-drive or network connection, makes it easy to transfer files to the bot's computer for cutting. If you do wind up using a laptop, keep an eye on the dust & cooling fan.

-B

[waynelocke]

Separate design and shopbot computers give you a backup to run the machine from in an emergency. I began with one computer and after what turned out to be a bad memory chip causing havoc in the middle of a job, quickly bought another for design and backup.

Wayne

[knight_toolworks]

if you have dust flying around you need to work on your dc setup. the shopbot is easy to keep the dust contained compared to other tools

[Brady Watson]

You can have the best dust collector & room filters in the world...you're still going to get dust sucked into the power supply & CPU cooling fans.

-B

[jim_vv]

To All. Thank you for your input.