Thanks for the prompt responses guys
My machine shop is really my main project at the moment.
Colchester bantam lathe to which I have fitted DRO ( from singapore :
)
Deckel FP1 mill which has needed a bit of work on the more exotic features.
The shop is a sort of pre -retirement project which I hope will become more absorbing when I have more time to play
I was maybe thinking about a CNC mill or lathe as a project in itself, so get something basic and add a kit. I see reasonably cheap kits on Ebay (usually from Singapore)
and wondered about the functionality of those. Dont mind making the brackets and things. Redundant computer is never a problem these days so the actual outlay could be small.
Much potential though for mistakes :-
How do you size motors , drives , power units, etc ? What is the function of the breakout board? Do you( from the start ) give yourself the option of adding further axes?
Then having assembled what may be a working piece of kit , how do you make it do stuff.
Where In UK are there any courses.
Is it feasible to learn by trial and error
Is there easy software to start with and can you then step up to more advanced stuff.
In the meantime will have a look at some of your links - thanks again.