CNC

[DDW_OR]

have been thinking of getting a CNC or 3D printer or laser engraver.
did some searches and discovered that there are all-in-one machines

has anyone ever used one?

[ronwood]

I have a cnc from Digital WoodCarver for 5 years. The CNC was designed and built by an engineer that use to work for Woodmizer. Good machine for the money. Not as heavy built has a shop bot or some of the other cnc routers. Just have to run a bit slower. Busybeaver also has the same unit.  If you decide to buy a cnc  I feel that the software used to design and generate the gcode is important. I use VCarve Pro for designing projects and producing gcode.  If you like to discuss via phone I will be happy to send my contact info via pm

Ron

[low_48]

If you want to use the laser for cutting, should be okay. If you want to use the laser for engraving, it will be incredibly slow. Traditional laser engravers almost have a flying head. A CNC can not duplicate those speeds because the Z axis is usually too heavy. 3D printers need to be more than just an extruding head to be successful. You need a heated bed to get the first layers to stick. Just like I think a Shopsmith is a horrible table saw, but with a fairly nice horizontal drill, an all in one CNC will definitely have compromises.