mTECH and other DRO

1012- Dan (USA) - Sieg X3 Mill - TDS-3i

2011-07-17T11:52:00.000+08:00

Thanks Dan (Holden - MA) for the pictures of the Sieg X3 installation with:

TDS-3i DRO

Scales 170mm, 370mm, 420mm

======================

I have completed the installation on my Sieg X3 mill and I am very happy with this DRO. I'll be sending a few emails with pics.

Dan

1045 - Lochmann- Germany - Deckel FP1 Mill -

2011-07-17T11:46:00.001+08:00

Thanks Lockmann from Germany for the photos on the Deckel FP1 Mill.

He is using :
mTECH DRO-3M and scales: 120mm, 170mm, 920mm

1023 - Mario from Italy with DRO on Norwik C6236 Lathe

2011-07-17T11:41:00.000+08:00

Thanks Mario (Italy) for the photos on mTECH DRO-2L on his Norwik C6236
Lathe.

He is replacing the DRO with the DRO-2L, using back the existing scales:

Message from Mario:
====================
The DRO is in my workshop and it works great, I make model steam
loco 5 gauge, this is my hobby.

Mario

978- Dwight- Canada - CZ300/1 Lathe - TDS-2i DRO

2011-07-17T11:29:00.001+08:00

Thanks Dwight for the nice photos:

The equipments are :

TDS-2i DRO

Scales 170mm and 920mm

Message from Dwight:

==========

Here is some photos after my install I mounted the cross slide scale on the front of the carriage because the cross slide and carriage locks but added a extra splash guard.

921- Georg - Germany - Deckel FP1 Mill with TDS-3i DRO

2011-07-17T11:23:00.001+08:00

Thanks Georg for the nice photos:

Message from Georg:

==========================

thanks for the quick and reliable delivery.

The TDS and the scales were mounted in about 6 hrs. and work great. I use it
on a Deckel FP1 milling machine (very popular in Germany).

Here are some photos.
They show the Deckel FP1 milling machine in my cellar room.

This machine is nearly 40 years old, but in really good condition.
You can mill up to 1/100 mm measuredness!

So there is very less amount of space in this room, please make excuses for the messy afterimage.

a) the machine without DRO

b) scales on the Y- and Z-Axis

c) scale on the X-axis

d) Detail on Z-axis

e) The DRO is standing free on the cabinet. This is the most useful place...

Hope You can use this photos...

Best regards

Georg

No virus found in this incoming message.
Checked by AVG - www.avg.com
Version: 9.0.869 / Virus Database: 271.1.1/3261 - Release Date: 11/18/10 03:34:00

918- Vic from UK - C4 Lathe

2011-07-17T11:16:00.001+08:00

Thanks Vic from United Kingdom for the photos on his C4 Lathe.

He is using a TDS-2 DRO and a F5-370mm scale.

He is using back the short scale from a previous setup.

876- Rudolf - Germany - DRO Installation on Optimum BF20

2011-07-17T11:11:00.001+08:00

Thanks Rudolf from Germany for his photo on Optimum BF20 Mill with
mTECH-3M
Scale : 220mm, 320mm, 370mm

Message from Rudolf:
===========

I've finished my DRO installation on my OPTIMUM BF20 Mill.

Lasts about 2 days to install.
Y Axis brackets have been a little bit difficult to produce
and to install. X Axis went sooth as well as Z Axis.

DRO works as expected.

Attached a couple of pictures from my installation.

Finally thanks for all. Was a pleasure doing business with you. Never
thought to have a DRO for this money.....

--
With best regards

Rudolf Eineder

852- Trygve - Norway - TDS-3i DRO on Bridgeport Mill

2011-07-17T11:08:00.000+08:00

Thanks Trygve (Norway) for the photos on the Bridgeport mill.

The following equipments are used :

TDS-3i

Scales : 320mm, 470mm, 820mm

Message from Trygve :
===============================

Hi.

Sending you some pictures of digital readout. The company that I have installed this build cars for handicapped people.

Company name Rep. Tek AS

Thank you for the excellent follow-up after purchase.

Best regards

Trygve H. Kristiansen

(syvogtrygve)

1227 - Murray Blum- Australia - ZX45 Mill - TDS 3i

2011-07-17T10:49:00.001+08:00

Thanks Murray for the nice photos of the installed DRO on his ZX45 Mill.

He is using the :

TDS - 3i

with scales:

120mm, 220mm, 520mm

Message from Murray:

=============================================

Just finished installing the DRO, that I just bought from you.

A couple of pictures of the finished job.

I might save my penny’s and get one for my lathe.

Cheers

Murray Blum

DRO installation on Real Bull Mini-Lathe from Henry Thomas

2011-06-09T17:31:00.004+08:00

An excellent installation on a mini lathe.

The challenge in mini lathe is the space constraint.

Thanks for the photo, Henry, it will be a great help for our budding installer.

Here is an unedited email from Henry :

========================================

Just thought I would send some pics of my successful installation of your DRO on my Real Bull bench top mini-lathe. While it may seem overkill to mount a DRO on such a small hobby lathe, properly set up with lapped beds and ways, this is a very accurate and capable lathe, which I use for a lot of R&D work. So I wanted to add a DRO to improve my productivity. I had considered using calliper type scales, but didn't think they would be robust enough. In the end your package turned out to be only marginally more expensive. The biggest challenge was figuring how to get it all to fit, so I am really happy with how well it actually turned out.

My goal with this installation was to make minimal changes to the original appearance and operation of my mini-lathe. It has a pretty compact work space, so I didn't want the scales interfering with any of the slide movements. Below you can see how installing both the X and Z scales under the carriage has achieved this.

For the cross slide I milled out a 20 x 20 mm bar.

This is attached to the cross slide in the channel where the feed screw is located. It connects to the 120 mm X-scale under the carriage.

The X-scale is mounted under the carriage to a bracket that backs onto the same bracket that connects the carriage to the Z-scale. The other end is bolted to the under side of the apron. I had to mill a notch out of the X-scale bracket to clear the half-nuts, which protrude slightly below the apron.

Even though space was tight, I was still able to mount covers over both scales.

The Z-scale bracket spacer required a slot to be milled out to make room for the cross slide bracket.

Here you can see the Z-scale mounted to the bed and the bracket attached to the milled spacer (from above) which is attached to the back of the carriage.

I had to mill all the parts from scratch, which took a bit of time, but nothing was particularly difficult. The carriage travel is limited by the lead screw covers, but I added a stop to prevent the cross slide over-running the X-scale.

Kind regards,

-h

mTECH DRO2L , installation from Sam-Q from S.E Victoria, Australia

2011-05-31T11:29:00.001+08:00

Thanks to Sam-Q from S.E Victoria, Australia

Here is a complete, un-edited message from our buyer :

http://s-86.com/s-lathe.html

(The post is towards the end, just scroll down)

====================================================

Professional Digital Readout Upgrade:

In the normal use of my crude yet effective digital scale I found it would jump in 0.02 to 0.03 increments. Thinking it was the cross-slide being sticky I took it apart for a clean and re-grease. Putting it back together I found that it made no difference. Out of frustration I considered changing to a DRO with a higher resolution. The online company M-tech where offering SINPO branded kits on ebay (Username: Thethedrostore) with the optional extra of a 0.001mm resolution which was 10 times greater resolution than before. I was apprehensive about going for model of DRO that was sold online however I decided to take a chance due to the very helpful support from the company, the excellent easy to read documentation and in a worse case scenario the scales and screen where directly interchangeable with the common locally used DRO's. Upon ordering it took only a few days before a courier dropped off the relevant boxes to my workshop.

I ordered the kit which included the main screen, two slides and a very comprehensive selection of assorted pieces to mount everything such as brackets, shims, cable ties and clips. SO as to not have any accuracy issues I decided to use some very solid mounts, 10mm thick for the bracket that held the main scale and 8mm thick for the digital readout slider. It took about 3 days start to finish to do the job as I spend a considerable amount of time lining up the scales.

The scales had an automatic radius/diameter compensation built into it, this is used because when a lathe tip takes 1mm off a piece of round it gets taken off all round and hence seeing that 1mm is taken off both sides 2mm gets removed overall. Previously I had to halve all my measurements with a calculator to work out where I needed to end up at, now with this system I take a light cut, measure it, input it into the DRO and then I just keep cutting till I get close to where I want it. Because of this compensation the scale moves in 0.002mm increments instead of 0.001mm.

In testing I unwittingly discovered my previous problem of the jumpy readings; it was the old scale itself, or rather the thin metal mounting it had. The reading I was seeing was the scale holding in one position with the friction until the springiness of the bracket was taken up which would then cause it jump forward 0.03mm. With the new scale I could easily move forward the minimum 0.002mm at a time with ease. Setting the scale on a known diameter I found it was fantastic in always knowing exactly where I was and a was a real pleasure to use.

The only real downside is that the contrast on the screen is poor, in full light it's just not possible to read the screen at all. I will install a shroud around the screen in due time but for now I am fine as I usually use my lathe at night time, otherwise so far it's been a great unit.

	The official photo of what the kit is supplied with.
	The DRO installed and ready for use. I did make a longer screen mounting bracket to suit the machine though.
	The custom bracket that holds the scale, originally a 20 x 10mm solid bar but chopped length ways to all for the maximum amount of tail-stock movement. Shims where installed under one end to have the correct level.
	This 25 x 8mm bar is attached to the bottom of the cross-slide and holds the scales reader head. I purposefully chose an extra long scale so that I may install it on a different larger machine in the future. Only a small part of the dust cover could be used.
	The main slide scale shown with the dust cover installed. This scale is held in a very well protected position as it faces down and well inside the cover. The covers, clamps and most of the fasteners where all supplied with the kit.
	The mounting of the reader head of the main slide. It is attached to the cross-slide carriage where a steady would normally be bolted up. The cross-slide scale mounting is also visible. Again the brackets clips and ties where all supplied.

Installation of TDS DRO on Harbor Freight Milling from John (USA)

2011-05-31T11:21:00.002+08:00

Here is a great write up from

John Doig

California, USA

===========================

These are the installation photos on my Harbor Freight Milling Machine.

Installation is complete. I mounted the scale and reader on the front of the table as rear mounting limits the table in the Y axis.

X axis front mounting required the shield to be cut down on the bottom to have access to the table tightening screws.

X axis scale and reader mounting with shield removed. Both units are mounted directly to machine.

Y axis installation with shield removed. Scale is mounted on a cut down piece of aluminum angle that has been notched to clear table hand wheel assembly. Reader is mounted on a cut down piece of aluminum angle as well. Hand wheel was removed for photo.

Photo shows mounting of reader onto machine base.

Y axis scale and reader with shield installed.

Mounting of DRO unit and cables.

1216- Joey (USA - FL) - ZX7045, RongFu RF-45

2011-05-31T11:18:00.001+08:00

Thanks Joey for the nice photos on the installation fo the DRO system on the RongFu Rf-45 clone, ZX7045.

1216- Joey (USA - FL) - 10x24 Lathe

2011-05-31T11:17:00.001+08:00

Thanks Joey for the nice photos on the installation fo the DRO system on the 10x24 Lathe.

1227- Murray (Australia) - TDS- 3i on ZX45 Drill Mill machine

2011-05-31T10:56:00.001+08:00

Thanks Murray for his nice photos of his ZX45 Drill Milling mahicne.

He had used :

TDS-3i

Scale 120mm, 220mm, 520mm.

The installation on the Z is a nice touch.

Here's what Murray says:

"Hi,

just finished installing the DRO, that I just bought from you.

A couple of pictures of the finished job.
I might save my penny’s and get one for my lathe.

Cheers
Murray "

Differences between DRO 2L and TDS 2 and TDS 2i, selecting for lathe machine

2011-02-19T11:06:00.003+08:00

Below are the difference between mTECH DRO-2L, TDS-2 and TDS-2i

Nature;
the DRO2L is a specific model for lathe machine.
the TDS2 and 2i is a general model, with functions more cater for mill.

special functions;
DRO2L has a buttton for choosing radius or diameter display
TDS2 and 2i display of radius or diameter is done through the setup parameter

DRO2L has a taper calculation function for lathe
TDS2 and 2i has more of the mill fumction, like PCD, linear holes maching...

Physical;
DRO2L is made of cast metal, so it is hard and solid.
TDS2 and 2i casing is made of high impact plastic, it is strong and does not conduct electricity, making it safe.

Accessories;
DRO2L mounting is made specially for lathe mounting
TDS2 and 2i mounting is more for milling maching.

Conclusion;
if your machine is a lathe machine, i will highly recommend you to select the DRO 2L, if your machine is a mill/lathe or you have plan to use the DRO on a mill, i will suggest you choose the TDS2 or 2i.

745- Grizzly G-4084 Milling (Rong-Fu 45 clone) - Abe (USA) - TDS-2B- 220mm- 620mm

2010-09-19T10:55:00.000+08:00

Thanks Abe (USA) for his photos and his bracket design for Grizzly G-4084 Milling machine (Rong-Fu 45 clone).

Message from Abe:

" Y-Axis complete and functional checked

Some pictures are attached you may use them if you wish.

Installation is on a Grizzly G-4084 which is a Rong-Fu 45 clone. "

775-TIDA TD-6B lathe by Colin Behn- Australia - mTECH 2L - F5-270mm - 1020mm

2010-09-19T10:01:00.003+08:00

Thanks to Colin from Australia.

message from Colin:
" I have not put a splash guard over the cross slide scale as I have had to trim back Saddle lock to clear mounting bolt.

Reader is also wrong way round so I do not hit end of scale at full movement of cross slide and room for cable run.

Also had to turn my own spacers around the bolts to hold reader in place as casting not machined where mounted had to shim to get rear scale mounted without curve.

It is mounted on a TIDA TD-6B lathe.

All appears to work fine, now to get used to it.

It should not take long, as all my mills have DRO. "

806-Les Whiddon- USA - TDS-2B - 220mm,520mm, on JET Equipment Milling machine

2010-09-19T09:56:00.000+08:00

Thanks Les for his photo on a JET Equipment Milling machine.

Jerry - TECH-2 / TDS-2B on Bridgeport Milling machine

2010-09-19T09:43:00.004+08:00

Thanks Jerry for his effort to send me his installation on his bridgeport milling machine.

The Y axis installation.

The X axis installation

The TDS-2B DRO from TheDroStore

Overall view of the handsome machine

643- TDS-2B on 2axis bench Mill - Toshi Yoshioka (Japan), machine in Australia.

2010-05-11T10:00:00.011+08:00

Information from Mr Toshi Yoshioka, thanks for his detail explanation and photos.
All text and photo courtesy of Mr Toshi. his website :
http://yoshiokasyd.web.fc2.com/Annexes/Machine_Tools/Mill/DRO/index.htm

=============================================

I wanted DRO on my mill. The price of DRO came down recently with stronger OZ $. I found a two axis DRO priced A$325 + postage A$135 in eBay. It was much cheaper comparing to last years price. I ordered one. I thought Chinese Yuan would go up in near future and it would be good timing to buy one.

I installed the DRO referring to supplier's site.

以前より欲しかったんDROなんですが、このところA$高もありかなり安く手に入る用になりました。eBayでフライス用の二軸DROがA$325＋送料A$135で出ているのを発見。注文してしまった。この先中国元も上がるであろうし、タイミングとしてはいいんではないかと思ったわけです。

通販屋のサイトにある取り付け例を参考にできるだけ手間をかけずに取り付けることとします。

======================================================

デジタル・リードアウト (1)

DRO (1)

Brackets & Spacers

ブラケット、スペーサー

======================================================

I had to think of mounting method of linear scales. I decided to use table stoppers for X-axis scale since I never used the stoppers.

リニアスケールの取り付け方法を考えねばなりません。X軸は全く使ったことのないテーブルストッパを利用することにします。

The base had nice mounting holes (M5).

Y軸はベースにちょうどいい取り付け穴(M5)があいているんだが、

However the accuracy of the holes was terrible and made the holes quite useless. Really I could not understand how this inaccurate machining could be done. So I decided to make new mounting holes for scale. I would mount a bracket for the sensor at arrowed place.

ネジ穴の角度が凄まじくいい加減で使い物にならんあなー。新しく取り付け穴を開けることにしました。スケールをベースに取り付けセンサーは矢印の部分からブラケットを伸ばして取り付けることにします。

I cut out materials for brackets and spacers from t10 and t5 aluminium plates with mitre saw. It was very quick to cut them, but hot chips flew around 2 to 3 metres and cleaning up was bit cumbersome.

ブラケット、スペーサーの材料です。ｔ５とｔ１０のアルミ材から木工用の丸のこで切り出し。切るのは早くて楽なんだが熱い切子が２～３ｍも飛び散り後の始末が面倒である。

I made holes and counter bores,

穴あけ、座ぐりをして、

And cut out by slotting saw.

すり割りフライスで切りわけ、

Steps were cut.

段差をエンドミルで削れば、

“1” is X-axis sensor bracket. “2” is Y-axis scale mounting bracket (rear). “3” is spacer for Y-axis sensor bracket. “4” is spacer for Y-axis scale (front). Arrowed holes had the same diameter as pilot hole for M5. They would be enlarged later.

こんなものができます。①はX軸センサーブラケット。②はY軸スケール取り付け後方ブラケット。③はY軸センサーブラケット用スペーサー。④はY軸スケール前方用スペーサー。すべてｔ１０。矢印はM5のタップ下穴と同径に開けてあり後で拡大。

======================================================

デジタル・リードアウト (2)

DRO (2)

Installation of Y-Axis Scale

Y軸スケールの取り付け

======================================================

I made mounting holes for Y-axis scale. I attached the spacer to the base by double sided tape and drilled using a hand drill. I though angle accuracy would be kept good enough with 10mm thick spacer.

Y軸のスケール取り付けの穴をベースに開けます。スペーサーを両面テープで張り付け、電動ドリルで穴あけ。スペーサーが10mm厚なのでそこそこの精度は出るでしょう。

When I tried to remove the spacer the paint of the base came out! The quality of the painting was very poor.

穴あけ後スペーサーを剥がしたら塗装もいっしょに剥がれてしまった！このような塗装が両面テープに負けるとは考えられん。シナの塗装技術恐るべし。

Cutting thread.

タップ立て。

Mounting holes for rear mounting bracket were made in the same way. The holes of the bracket were enlarged and counter bored.

後方の取り付けブラケットも同様の方法でベースにねじ穴を開け、ブラケットの穴を拡大、座繰りをいれて取り付けます。

Y-axis scale was temporarily installed.

Y軸スケールを仮に付けてみます。

Mounting holes for Y-axis sensor bracket were made.

Y軸センサー用の取り付け穴を開けます。

This was the material of Y-axis sensor bracket from t3 mild steel. It was impossible for me to bend this. So I asked a sheet metal works to make this.

Y軸センサー取り付けブラケットの素材です。ｔ３の軟鋼。自分で曲げるのは不可能なので、知り合いの鉄工所で曲げてもらいました。

Mounting holes were made.

取り付け穴を開けます。

Temporarily mounted Y-axis sensor bracket. The angle of the bracket was 30 deg.

このように30°傾いてつくわけです。

I shimmed the spacer to make the bracket parallel to the base surface.

シムをかませてベース面と平行になるように調整。

Aligning the scale. The scale was angled by 30 deg and movements of upper and side surfaces interfered each other making the alignment harder.

スケールの平行だし。30°傾いているので上面と側面の調整が相互に影響しあい面倒であった。

Sensor position was aligned by shims.

シムでセンサーの位置を調整して固定。

======================================================

デジタル・リードアウト (3)

DRO (3)

Installation of X-Axis Scale

X軸スケールの取り付け

======================================================

X-axis scale would be mounted using dovetail groove of the table for stoppers, but the position of the groove was bit low. So I decided to remake the dovetail nuts, originally used to tighten stoppers, to raise the position by about 1mm.

X軸のスケールはテーブルストッパーのアリ溝を利用して取り付けますが、アリ溝の位置が少し低すぎるのでアリ溝の中をスライドする写真の台形ナットを作りなおし、1mmほど位置を上げることにします。

I cut out and cleaned the material for the nuts, made M5 taps. The nuts had to have 10 deg slopes on both upper and lower surfaces. I cut slope in this way. I mounted small insert vice to precision vice at 10 deg. This insert vice is very handy to cut small parts in angle.

材料を切り出し、M5のねじを切り、台形の斜めの部分を10°に削ります。こんな方法を使いました。精密バイスに超小型の精密バイスを挟んで角度を出します。小さい部品を角度を付けて削るのにはこの超小型バイスは便利です。

Cutting a slope.

斜め切削。

Far in back is original nut and the front are new nuts.

後ろがオリジナルのナット。手前が作り直したもの。

Mounting position was raised a bit.

このように少しではあるが取り付け位置が上がる。

The scale was temporarily mounted and aligned. This case the alignment was quite easy.

スケールを取り付け、位置出し。

The mounting position of the sensor was adjusted by shims, but I could not insert the shims.

センサーの取り付け位置はシムで調整するんだが場所がきつくて入らん。

So I cut the shims and inserted them from sides.

シムを切って左右から入れることにした。

The sensor was firmly positioned and mounted.

センサーはこのように取り付けられています。

==================================================================

デジタル・リードアウト (4)

DRO (4)

Installation of Console

コンソールの取り付け

==================================================================

The console was supposed to be mounted to the mill column, but I did not want to make mounting holes on the column. So I decided to mount it on the mill table. Then I had a trouble because the console mounting bracket was only designed to accept column mounting. So I had to make adaptors.

コンソールはフライスのコラムから腕を伸ばして取り付けることになってますが、コラムに穴を開けたくなかったので据え付け台に取り付けることにしました。付属のブラケットが腕を水平に伸ばすことしか考慮していなく、腕を垂直に取り付けるための変換アダプターを作りました。

I converted the direction of the mounting arm from horizontal to vertical.

アダプターを介して腕の取り付け向きを垂直に変換。

The console was mounted to mill bench.

コンソールを据え付け台に取り付けました。

Wiring around console. The cables from the sensors were quite long and looped at the back of the bench.

コンソールの配線状態。センサーからのケーブルが長く、盛大に余るのでとぐろを巻かせてあります。

The sensor cables were fixed with enough margin to allow table movement.

センサーのケーブルはテーブルの動きを阻害しないように余裕を持たせて固定してあります。

Mounting X-axis scale on front side of the table made the cramp lever bolts too short. So I made longer cramp bolts.

X軸のクランプレバーがスケールに当たってしまうので長いボルトを作りました。

Installed X-axis cramps with extended cramp bolts.

延長したクランプボルトを取り付ければ、

DRO installation finished.

DRO取り付け完了です。

Parts left over. “1” is X-scale cover. “2” is y-scale cover. “3” is sensor mounting brackets. All these parts would be good for larger mills, but too large to use on small mills. “4” is screws, shims, etc.

余った付属品。①はX軸スケールカバー。②はY軸スケールカバー。 ③はセンサー取り付けブラケット。どれも大型のフライスにはいいかもしれないけど小型のものには使用できない。④は余ったネジ、シムなど。ネジは大量に余ったけど、必要な長さのものが無かったりした。

543- TDS-3 DRO on a Optimum BF 20L mill. (Ruud - The Netherlands)

2010-04-21T08:52:00.002+08:00

Thanks Ruud living in The Netherlands for sharing with us his TDS-3 LCD DRO on his Optimum BF 20L Mill.

The scales used are travel length 220mm, 420mm and 520mm.

It is a great job and paying lots of details in the installation.

Below are from his original email :

=================================================================

Scales on Optimum BF 20L mill.

X axis, mounted directly to the front of the table without using any spacers.

The sensor head of the X axis is mounted directly to the base of the Y axis with two allen bolts. In the picture you can see that the scale of the Y axis is raised with a small aluminium block. This block came with the dro, I only made the hole in the block a little bit larger to be able to move the scale up and down a little bit.

As the 220mm scale (total length 362mm) is longer than the base of the mill I made a bracket to extend the base at the back. The bracket is made from one of the angle plates that came with the dro.

The sensor head of the Y axis is mounted with a aluminium plate bend to the correct angle. A peace of aluminium is used as a spacer.

The scale of the Z axis is mounted directly to the column of the mill.

You can just see the aluminum foil I used to get the correct alignment.

The sensorhead of the Z axis is mounted to the head of the mill with a aluminium plate milled to the correct dimensions.

The cables of the scales are ty rapped to the back of the bracket of the display. The ty raps go through holes drilled in the bracket.

The original aluminium bracket is mounted to ta home made bracket. This bracket is made from a piece of angle iron with the U part of the original bracket welded to it. I welded some small brackets to the back of the bracket to hold the cables in place, while in the mean time the cables can still move back and forward when the display is rotated.

It shows an extra bracket I made to guide the cables.

584-DRO-2LC- China Generic Lathe -Victoria- Australia (Peter DEAN)

2010-03-23T12:36:00.003+08:00

Message from Peter:

The goods arrived very quickly in perfect condition and I fitted them to the lathe without much trouble although I did make a couple of extra brackets myself.

Had to go away Interstate for a few days then when I got back I saw your email pointing to the Blogsite that suggested a few different ways of fitting the slides.

These gave me some new ideas on how to simplify the install and mount both slides facing down to prevent cuttings getting on them.

Attached are a few photos that I took that you are welcome to use.

The lathe is a 10 year old generic Chinese lathe that I am sure there are at least a million others out there very similar! I removed the rear covers to fit the parts and take the photos.

I decided to mill an aluminium bar to hold the cross-slide transducer as I was restricted front and back by the saddle clamp bolt at the back and the lubrication hole stopper at the front.

The scale was bolted to the cross-slide and the transducer kept stationary. This makes it easier to clamp the cables as the cable from the cross-slide and saddle now both move together. To hold the cables more firmly I fitted a length of aluminium angle to the bottom of the brackets holding the saddle transducer.

The saddle scale is simply bolted onto the back of the lathe bed.

So the only extra parts I had to furnish were the milled bar and a couple of spacers for the cross-slide, a short length of aluminium angle, a couple of 2mm shim plates for the lathe bed scale and a 5mm nut. All the rest was in the supplied kit.

The readout is rock steady and clear. I was surprised at how steady it is.
If the lathe is running with an out-of-balance item and vibrating a bit, there is the occasional flicker of the last digit but it is still very precise and easy to interpret.

Overall I am delighted with the system and the excellent service from the DROStore.

Kind Regards,

Peter

622- Harrison M300 lathe with MEA-2 / TECH-2i DRO by Garry (Essex - United Kingdom )

2010-03-23T11:50:00.001+08:00

Thanks to Garry for his photo of Harrison M300 lathe

He had bought the MEA-2 / TECH-2i and using F5-220mm and E5-820mm scales

BLOG - 488- TDS-2B on 13" Southbend, circa 1947 Lathe -- Sherri (USA)

2009-11-06T00:06:00.002+08:00

Thanks Sherri from USA (FL) for sharing with us the TDS-2B DRO on 13" Southbend, circa 1947

Photos from Sherri:-

Anyway, I proceeded with the installation and got side-tracked with cleaning. So, here are the pictures you asked for.

Captions:

0869.jpg -- Here's an overview of the lathe, a 13" Southbend, circa 1947 or so.

0870.jpg -- This is a view of the x-axis. Note how the custom bracket I made mounts to the taper attachment and places the x-axis scale and transducer farther away from the work piece. This installation would interfere with the follow rest mounting, if I had one.

0871.jpg -- If you look closely in the shadows of the brown shelf, you can see I found an alternative use for the z-axis scale protective cover. It is now serving as a cable raceway, providing additional protection to the transducers armored cable.

0872.jpg -- A picture of the z-axis scale with the taper attachment in the distance. It doesn't show very well in this picture, but the lathe's saddle ways overhang the scale considerably. I opted to mount the scale as high as possible to make use of the protection offered by the overhang, instead of using the aluminum extrusion you provided in the kit. The taper attachment helps protect it as well and was ultimately crowding the installation of the provide scale cover.

0873.jpg -- The upper scale is the x-axis with the transducer mounted stationary. The lower one is the z-axis where the scale, itself is mounted stationary to the lathe bed casting. This picture show the z-axis transducer and all cable straps mounted to the underside of the taper attachment.

0874.jpg -- Another look at my custom x-axis mounting bracket.

Thanks for sharing your photo , Cheers

481 - YunNan Lathe with TDS - 2B, Quebec, CanadaB

2009-10-18T11:53:00.003+08:00

Thanks to Gilles for the photo of TDS-2B DRO installed on a Yunnan Lathes.

Here is what, Gilles says:"

Hi, heres are a few pictures of my DRO installed on the lathe, im super satisfied and will recommend you to all my contacts, will order soon for my new milling machine. take care"

BLOG - OLD DRO Photo : Acu-rite Master G ( 3axis DRO for milling machine)

2009-10-08T12:15:00.001+08:00

This is a record of an old Acu-rite Master G DRO.

I am keeping the photo of it on the blogs, so that those interested in knowing how it look like will be able to find the information here.

If anyone have more information, like how to setup the parameter or the wiring connection, just send me an email.

Thanks for sharing , Cheers

P20090908- Milling machine - from DIETRICH - USA

2009-09-24T11:30:00.002+08:00

Please find attached pictures of my DRO installation. I am very happy with this product and I also enclose a picture of my automatic long travel which I build from a windscreen motor with adjustable speed control and reverse switch connected with a dog clutch.

DIETRICH - USA

mTECH DRO on ENCO 1442 Lathe and mill is an ENCO 13x42 Milling machine - Florida, USA (Dave)

2009-09-24T11:09:00.006+08:00

mTECH DRO-2L on Enco 111-1445 Lathe

The connection at the rear of the DRO

a view of both the X and Z axis installation

Z axis scale installation

This is the X axis (cross slide) scale installation

I have routed the cable below the cross slide.

==============================================

Enco Milling Machine 13x42

Enco Milling Machine - X and Y axis scale view

Cabling through the arm and to the DRO

Rear view of the connection to the DRO-2M

putting on an additional plate before mounting the X scales, to get a good surface.

Close-up of the X reader head

Installation of the Y axis scale

full view of the X and Y installation and the cable tie

Close-up view of the Y reader head

The lathe is an ENCO 1442 and the mill is an ENCO 13x42.
The systems are working properly. Good quality equipment. Excelent installation information.
I will recomend these readouts to all.
Thanks
Dave - Florida, USA

360- mTech DRO on Storm Vulcon Surfacer - Manhattan,USA- (Daniel)

2009-09-24T10:28:00.009+08:00

Thanks Daniel for his photo on his installation of Storm Vulcon Surface Grinding machine.

It was a great job, and mTECH is capable of accuracy for grinding usage.

20090923- Bridgeport 2sv Milling machine - Melbourne Australia (Steve)

2009-09-24T10:06:00.003+08:00

Hi, I have sent a photo of the readout I purchased from you , I’ve put this on my 2sv Bridgeport, fits perfectly .

I am very happy with this readout , having purchased jenix readouts for my other three machines , I now intend to buy your mTECH DRO in the future. I have another mill that’s needs a readout and will be buying one from you in the near future.

Steve- Melbourne Australia

292- Scales on Optimum Milling BF20L and BF20 - from "Grasshopper" & "The Master" (Spain)

2008-09-12T11:21:00.006+08:00

Thanks "Grasshopper" and "The Master" - Spain (Madrid), for sharing their installation of mTECH scales on their Optimum Milling machine.

Thanks for providing the description in both English and Spanish. Cheers

Here is their introduction to mounting the scales:

Introduction
Photos show the procedure to mount glass scales
on a BF20L milling machine. Manufacturer is Optimum
There are several small milling machine very
similar to this, so, this photos can help the
people interested to mount glass scales
and forget the tedious turns counting of handle.

Introducción
Las fotos corresponden al montaje de las reglas
en una fresadora BF20L de la casa Optimum.
Existen fresadoras de otras marcas muy parecidas,
por lo que estas fotos pueden servir de guia para su montaje.
y olvidar el tedioso conteo de las vueltas de la manivela

Foto 11
General view Y axis(scale : 170 mm mod: JCXF5. )
Scale is fixed on the milling base and move the cursor

Foto general del eje Y (escala de longitud 170 mm mod. )
Se mueve el cursor y la regla está fijada a la base

11

Foto12
Detail right side fixation Y axis

Detalle de la fijación del lado derecho del eje Y

12

Foto13
Detail left side fixation Y axis. (It was necessary to use a little supplement)

Detalle de la fijación del lado izquierdo del eje Y (se necesitó un suplemento)

13

Foto14
Detail cursor fixation Y axis. It was used a
aluminum angle piece. Angle is formed between
the cross table and base of milling

Detalle fijación del cursor del eje Y. Se utilizó
una pieza de aluminio doblada con el angulo correspondiente a la base

14

Foto 16
General view Z axis (scale: 420 mm mod.: JCXE5 )
Scale is fixed on the column and move the cursor

Foto general del eje Z (escala de longitud 420 mm mod. )
Se mueve el cursor y la regla está fijada a la columna

16

Foto 18
Detail cursor fixation Z axis. It was used a
aluminum flat piece. It was necessary to use a little supplement too

Detalle fijación del cursor eje Z. Se utilizó una
pieza de aluminio plana para la sujección. También se necesitaron suplementos.

18

Foto19
Detail upside fixation Z axis

Detalle de la fijación de la parte superior del eje Z

19

Foto20
Detail downside fixation Z axis

Detalle de la fijación de la parte inferior del eje Z

20

Foto25
General view X axis (scale: 520 mm mod.: JCXE5
). For BF20, this scale is 320 mm and mod.:JCXF5.
In this case, cursor is fixed on cross table and scale move

Foto general del eje X (escala de longitud 520 mm
mod. ). Para la BF20, la escala es de 320 mm mod.
En este caso, se mueve la regla y el cursor está fijo a la mesa cruzada.

25

Foto22
Detail right side fixation X axis. (back point of view)

Detalle de la fijación del lado derecho del eje X (visto desde atras)

22

Foto23
Detail left side fixation X axis. (back point of view)

Detalle de la fijación del lado izquierdo del eje X (visto desde atras)

23

Foto24
Detail cursor fixation X axis. It was used the
same hole where rubber protection is fixed
originally, plus a aluminium flat piece

Detalle fijación del cursor eje X. Para la
sujección se aprovecharon los orificios de
sujección del aproteccion de goma, además de una pieza de aluminio.

24

Foto 25
Scales connected to DRO

Reglas conectadas al DRO.

Thanks for the generous photo.

263- mTech DRO 2M on Grizzly Milling model G9903 -- Dick (USA)

2008-06-06T11:35:00.005+08:00

Thanks DIMITAR - USA (IL), DVA Metal Fabrication, Inc. for sharing with us his mTech DRO 2M on his Grizzly G9903 Milling

mTECH DRO2M with scale travel 14.6'' X 36'' is used for milling machine 9'' X 49'' table.

Dimitar :
" Thank you for feedback. I'll definitely will recommend to my friends and customers.
Great product and great price. Thanks again."

Photos from Dimitar:-

1) Grizzly G9903 Mill

2) X axis Scale installation

3) Y axis Scale installation

4) Neat cable management

5) mTECH DRO2M on Grizzly G9903 Milling machine

Thanks once again Dimitar of DVA Metal Fabrication, Inc. for sharing your photo , Cheers

208- mTech DRO 2L on Cadillac 14x42 Lathe -- Greg (USA)

2008-04-14T16:06:00.004+08:00

Thanks Greg from USA (AR) for sharing with us his mTech DRO 2L on his Cadillac 14x42 Lathe

Greg:
" Dear dro_trader,

As you might recall, i just purchased a DRO for a lathe from you.

A couple comments:
I was very pleased with the unit and the installation kit.
The variety of screws and brackets, made it very easy to install. "

Photos from Greg:-

1) Cadillac 14x42 Lathe

2) DRO mounting
Comments from Greg
"We mounted the display on the steel truss next to the machine.
The advantage is a very solid mounting and no vibration from the machine."

3) X axis Scale installation

4) X axis Scale -close up

5) Z axis Scale installation

6) Z axis Scale bracket

Here is some tips from Greg:"
1. Leaving the sensor attached to the scale made it much easier to set the spacing.
2. Take your time, it took me about 15 hours to complete.
3. I had a friend hold the long scale while mounting to protect it.
4. Adjustments should be done a little at a time, moving the carriage front to back each time.
5. Have a good metric tap set"

After the installation Greg did his his job with the mTECH DRO:
"The first project we did with the display was incredible.
What took time for us to stop an measure, the display and calculator (nearby) made the math easy,
and project was right on the first pass."

Great Job !! Thanks for sharing your photo and giving tips for installation, Cheers

187- mTech DRO 2L on Global TPG-1340 Lathe -- Rolf (New Zealand)

2008-04-14T15:32:00.002+08:00

Thanks Rolf from New Zealand for sharing with us his mTech DRO 2L on his Global TPG-1340 Lathe (also known as Jet Lathe or CO-632A)

Rolf wrote in his Feedback :
" Excellent trader prompt shipment and good value "

Photos from Rolf:-

1) Global TPG-1340 lathe overview

2) Close up with the DRO 2L

3) X axis - top view

4) X axis - side view

5) X axis close up

6) Z axis close up

Thanks for sharing your photo , Cheers

178- mTech DRO 2L on Grizzly G4003 Lathe -- Dick (USA)

2008-04-12T00:50:00.003+08:00

Thanks Dick from USA (WI) for sharing with us his mTech DRO 2L on his Grizzly G4003 Lathe

Dick :
" Your product inpressed me it was more than I expected. Installtion went very well. I have a Grizzly Mill so I will be in touch with you soon.
Thanks Dick "

Photos from Dick:-

1) Grizzly G4003 Lathe

2) X axis Scale installation

3) X axis Scale with Z axis Scale and cover

4) Z axis Scale (Front), Z axis Scale (Rear)
Dick has choose to extend the scale installation out with a L bracket.

Thanks for sharing your photo , Cheers

165- mTech DRO 2L on Ormaskiner GK185 Lathe -- Yngve (Finland)

2008-04-12T00:20:00.003+08:00

Thanks Yngve from Finland for sharing with us his mTech DRO 2L on his Ormaskiner GK185 Lathe (http://www.lathes.co.uk/ornmaskiner/)

Yngve on his machine:
"My lathe is an Ormaskiner GK185 Lathe. It's a pretty basic model, in other words suitable for repair works and DIY projects. "

Yngve on the installation:
"As I wrote earlier the Z-axis scale was simple to install, but the x-axis was a bit more complicated, my solution is not the most ultimate because I lost about 35 mm of clearance between carrige and tailstock, but i recon I'll manage this way. The X-axis cover is a PVC-liner so far, further on I will have to make a custom cover in sheet metal."

1) Machine Overall Look

2) X axis Photo 1

3) X axis Photo 2

4) X axis Photo 3

5) X axis Photo 4

6) Z axis Photo 1

Thanks for sharing your photo from Finland (Home of Nokia)

156- mTech DRO 3M on Capstan Lathe -- Trevor (UK)

2008-04-11T17:56:00.001+08:00

Thanks Trevor from UK for sharing with us his mTech DRO3M on his Capstan Lathe.

His Installation is unique, as he is installing 3 axis to his lathe machine. As such, he needs to use a DRO3M console to display all the 3 axis together. By adjusting the parameter setting on the X axis resolution, it is possible to make the X axis display as Radius or Diameter counting.

Email before his installation:

"Mine will be an interesting/unusual installation as I am installing the 3 axis version on a large Capstan lathe.
This probably isn't ideal as many of the milling type functions will have no purpose on the lathe,however I need the third axis for tailstock/capstan boring so the 3 axis DRO I selected is probably my best choice.

I did consider fitting a 2 axis one and using a serial switch to switch between the third and another axis but thought that might cause problems.

I believe from the manual it is possible to alter the counting resolution for the axis I will install on my cross slide in "system settings" so that it reads radius rather than diameter? If so this will be very convenient,if not It's no big problem.

regards for now will be in touch again soon.

Trevor"

Here is his photo of the whole installation process:

1 X axis during install

2 Y axis during installation

3 Z axis during install

4 overlapping x & Z covers installed

5 overlapping axis end view

6 Y axis cover installed

7 cables clipped

8 cables tidied

9 covers and cables

10 view of readout

Email after his installation:
"As promised I am now sending you some pictures of my finished installation.Everything works fine and I am very pleased with how it all worked out.

My X and Z axis share the same measured space so I have installed one overlapping the other. It would be poor practice normally to install an axis so far away from the slide as this would introduce accurracy issues. However my machine is extremely robust and tight so in practice I have no problems on that front.

A long axis with 2 read heads would have saved the need to do the overlap if one were available.I have sheltered my X and Y axis under heavy metal sections as well as fitting the supplied covers to give them maximum physical protection in the event of a workpiece coming loose fro m the chuck or some of the larger tooling from this machine being accidentally dropped. I am very impressed with the features of the display unit.I think I have achieved an unusual and imaginative use of the 3 axis mill unit on a lathe."

For information, if you need a long scale with 2 reader head, it is available on request. But most likely, it will cost more than having 2 scales separately.

Thanks for the great photo, cheers.

154- mTech DRO on Bridgeport milling machine and Nardini Lathe -- Jim (USA)

2008-04-11T17:17:00.004+08:00

Thanks Jim from USA (AZ) for sharing with us his mTech DRO2M and DRO2L installation on his Bridgeport milling machine and Nardini Lathe.

He has bought a DRO2M 2axis Milling DRO in November. After mTECH DRO has proven to be reliable and useful, he proceed to buy another set for his lathe in December, all within a period of 1 month.

Jim wrote :"

DRO Trader

The lathe and mill DRO were promply shipped and were a great value for the price . The attached pictures show my finished installation on a 12 " nardini and a bridgeport mill . The lathe cross slide was very difficult to fit in the limited space . There were several extra drilled and tapped holes before a final working position was found .

Thanks Jim"

Lathe Nardini - X axis:

Lathe Nardini Z axis:

Lathe Nardini -X and Z axis:

----------------------

Bridgeport Milling : Y axis

Bridgeport Milling Overall view:

Thanks Jim again for your time and effort to take those photos.

184- mTech DRO-2L on Longem Lathe -- Pat (Canada)

2008-04-11T16:46:00.004+08:00

Thanks Pat from Canada for sharing photos of his Longem Lathe with 12" swing and 42" bed.

"Here are the pictures of the DRO-2M

on my Longem 12 " swing 42" bed lathe. I

haven`t done the final cable routing, this was

just done for inital testing which went perfect.

thanks for everything Pat"

X axis installation

Z axis installation

Thanks once again.

131- mTech DRO-2M on RF31 milling machine -- Al Betzwieser (USA)

2008-01-25T16:15:00.000+08:00

Thanks Al for sharing with us his mTech DRO2M installation on his RF31 milling machine.

Al has taken great care to install the X axis : " I mounted the X scale on the front of the table because I didn’t want to lose any Y travel. I also had to mount the X scale guard a little different because it would interfere with the X axis table locks. "

Overview of his RF31 Milling machine

Y axis installation (side view)

Y axis installation (front view)

Y axis installation (side view)

X axis installation (without cover)

X axis close-up with the cover installed

X axis installation with the cover installed.

Thanks Al again for your time and effort to take those photos.

Cheers

166- mTech DRO-2M on Clausing Kondia milling machine - Charles S. (USA)

2008-01-24T17:39:00.001+08:00

Thanks Charles for sharing with us his mTech DRO2M installation on his Clausing Kondia milling machine.

Here is what Charles had commented (no editing was done) :

"Just a quick note of thanks for an awesome DRO package. I couldn't believe it arrived in only 6 days from Singapore. I looked at a number of DRO's on Ebay before deciding on your 2M Mill package. Only yours offered the mounting and hardware package and I must say that this made all the difference in the world. Had it not been for the scale mounting brackets, generous hardware assortment, cable clamps and shims, I would have exhausted countless frustrating hours hunting up material, fabricating the mountings and searching for the right metric hardware. In addition, the free E-book was invaluable for mounting hints and especially noteworthy for the proper scale alignment proceedures. The trouble free, neat & tidy installation was due wholly to the the extra thought that you put into creating the complete DRO package. Just as your ad stated, there was nothing else to buy. Thank you for your extra effort & detail that you put into your DRO offering. C.S. Florida, USA"

Front view of the mTECH DRO

I used the supplied cable clamps on the readout for cable strain reliefs.

The X axis installation

The Y axis installation

X and Y axis installation

He had made full use of the cable clamp to tidy up his loose cables.

Thanks once again for contributing the photos for our fellow mTECH 'er

Cheers

113- mTech DRO-2L on Harbor Freight HF 40576 14x40 lathe from Ed Boysun (USA)

2008-01-24T17:11:00.001+08:00

Thanks Ed for sharing with us his mTech DRO2L installation on his Harbor Freight HF 40576 14x40 lathe.

Here is what Ed had said about the installation :

"I received my DRO package on Monday of this week and started installation Tuesday.
I completed the install on Thursday and took time to take some pics and post them on my website.

You may want to take a look here http://www.boysungrain.com/dro-2l.htm

Feel free to include the link to prospective customers or any who may have questions on installation.

I am very impressed with the quality of the equipment and your prompt shipping. "

1) 1st step for X-Axis scale mounting

The cross-slide has been removed, drilled & tapped, and the scale bracket has been mounted to the tail-stock side

2) Mounting holes for the reader head.

The carriage has been drilled & tapped in preparation for mounting the reader head. Spacer block, shims and mounting bolts are lying atop the carriage.

3) Scale and head mounted.

The scale is mounted and the signal cable has been tied to a bolt. The cable will route beneath the carriage and exit on the chuck side of carriage.

4) X-Axis complete

The protective cover in place and the display setting on the bedways as operation of the scale is tested.

5) Slide plate removed.

The slide plate has been removed from the rear of the carriage. It will be drilled & tapped to serve as the mounting point for the Z-Azis reader head

6) Slide plate prepared

The area that the mounting bracket will contact has been lightly touched with an end mill to remove paint and true up the metal surface. It has also been drilled & tapped.

7) Bracket mounted

The bracket has been mounted to the slide plate and it is ready to be re-attached to the carriage.

8) Z-scale mounted.

The scale has been mounted to the bed of the lathe. Spacer blocks set the scale out .10" from the side of the lathe. A suitable shim has been added to one end of the scale and the scale has also been adjusted vertically so the reader head maintains proper spacing throughout the complete range of travel.

9) X-Axis cable.

The X-Axis cable crosses under the carriage and is clipped in place.

10) Z-Axis complete

The scale guard has been installed and the cables secured to the bracket. The cable is then fastened to the X-Axis and lamp power cable. Install is complete here and the back-splash can be re-installed.

11) Lathe install complete.

Display head has been mounted and the cables suspended from the backsplash to allow them full range of travel and also keep them out of the swarf that collects in the chip tray.

12) Lathe and operator

Ready for work.

Thanks so much for the detail instruction and the photos.

Once again here is the link to his original website :

http://www.boysungrain.com/dro-2l.htm

Ed says "Feel free to include the link to prospective customers or any who may have questions on installation."

Cheers

152- mTech DRO-2M on Milling machine from Dugson (Australia)

2008-01-24T16:58:00.001+08:00

Thanks Doug for sharing with us his mTECH DRO2M DRO installation on his Milling Machine

An overall view of his machine with the mTECH DRO2M

Doug comments on the X axis : " the X scale is on the front to keep maximum Y movement and packed out 30mm to clear stops, locks and oilers.I will have to make a special removeable cover for this. "

The X axis installation

Doug has an easy time with the Y axis :" The Y axis was easy just needed a bracket to attach to the saddle"

The Y axis installation

Thanks Doug for his contribution. And thanks to his compliment to our service and product.

"Dear Scott,

Yes you could add that I think the product and service are both excellent.

I have no website or services as I'm happily retired now and building a miniature steam locomotive amongst other things.

Regards

Doug"

140- mTech DRO-2M on Van Norman Mill from Rob Kraaijenbrink (Netherlands)

2008-01-24T14:27:00.000+08:00

Thanks Rob for sharing with us his mTech DRO2M installation on his Van Norman Milling machine.
Here is what Rob had said about the installation :
"I finally completed the installation. It works like a charm, I almost regret I did not buy the 3-axes version."

Overall view of the machine

A close-up view of the mTECH DRO2M

Rob is kind and patient enough to document the whole process and has given explanation on his mounting method.

Here is his X axis mounting:

"I did not want to miss any Y travel, so the X-scale had to be mounted on the front.

The ideal position would be horizontal (pict X_00)
against the front of the table, but this would render the gib adjustment screws (pict X_01) unreachable as well as an oil hole."

pict X_00

pict X_01

"So I mounted the X-scale vertical, some 3 cm away from the table (pict X_02). The head can be seen in pict X_03."

pict X_02

pict X_03

"Because the risk of bumping against the scale (apart from chips and coolant of course) I wanted to make a strong cover (pict X_05 and X_06) that does not touch the scale and is supported (pict X_04) solely by the table. "

pict X_04

pict X_05

pict X_06

Below are the Y axis installation:

Thanks Rob for the great effort to explain and took those great photos to share with us. Cheers !!

66- mTech DRO-2M on Pallas Mill from JOHN GRAY (UK)

2008-01-24T14:12:00.001+08:00

Thanks John for sharing with us his DRO installation on his Pallas Milling machine. The mTECH DRO2M system is used.

Here is what John had said about the installation:"

"I have installed the DRO onto my milling machine, and I have attached some photos as you suggested. I plan to fit the cover to the X axis slide to protect it, however the Y axis one I think will be more difficult to cover and in any case it is quite well shielded where it is. The Y axis slider was the most difficult to fit because it was mounted onto the cast surface of the knee and there wasn't a convienient place to fix the bracket to, so I utilised the mounting bolts of the lead screw nut. I had to space the X axis slider out from the table so that it would miss the auto feed 'knock off' plungers.

I have been using the machine today, and it all seems to working fine. The readout agrees exactly with the dials on the machine, as you would expect!

Thanks for your prompt replies to all my questions.. "

regards, John.

(Exact wording from John's reply, no editing was done)

Overall view of the machine

Close-up look of the mTECH DRO2M

The X axis installation

The Y axis installation.

Thank you John for sharing with us.

141- mTech DRO-3M on Birmingham Mill from Steve Henning (USA)

2008-01-05T01:18:00.000+08:00

Thanks Steve for sharing with us his DRO installation on his Birmingham Milling machine. The mTECH DRO3M system is used to replace his Mitutoyo Digimatic DRO.

Steve:" The Y axis mounting brackets were part of the Mitutoyo Digimatic DRO that I replaced with the m-TECH 3 axis DRO. I attached the scale covers with silicon sealant (no screws) as my experience with this product is if you have a good fit, it will take a good amount of force to remove it."

Overall view of the X and Y axis.

Close-up view of the Y-axis.

Steve has a clever way to fine-tune the alignment for the Z axis, by mounting a bar.

Steve:" As you can see I elected to first install aluminum bars to attach the scales too. I like doing it this way as I can dial-in the bar and then simply mount the scale to it."

Steve has chosen to mount the Rubber side facing the work table. We will recommend to install the Z scale with the rubber side facing out, so that it will reduce the chances of flying chips and coolant "attacking" the scale.

Steve is really neat and attentive to details. He has coiled up and cable-tie the wires nicely.

Thank you for sharing.

158- mTech DRO-2M on YCM Milling (Bridgeport lookalike) from Horace (Taiwan)

2007-12-31T13:42:00.000+08:00

Thanks Horace for sharing with us his DRO installation on his YCM Milling machine (a bridgeport lookalike).

It is an honour to sell to a Taiwan customer, as Taiwan is well-known for their machine tools export.

mTECH DRO-2M on his YCM Milling machine (made in Taiwan)

The Y axis scale installation.

The X axsi scale installation.

Thanks Horace for sharing with us.

134- mTech DRO-2L on Birmingham lathe from John Stanke (USA)

2007-12-31T13:02:00.000+08:00

Thanks John for sharing with us his DRO installation on Birmingham lathe.

Photo of the whole setup.

Photo from behind, wires are too long and has recommend John to tied them up together with the DRO stand.

View from below showing the Z axis scale and reader head installation.

John has chosen to install the mTECH Scale in the front for the X axis.

Here is John explanation: "My Birmingham is different than the one shown in your blog. On the tailstock side of the carriage there are some things that get in the way. The cross slide lock down screw and the the carriage lock down screw. If I installed the scale on that side I would have to remove the screws. So I tried to install to the spindle side of the carriage. "

Thanks John for sharing with us.

103- mTech DRO-2M on Milling Machine from Charles Weyrauch (USA)

2007-11-26T17:27:00.001+08:00

Thanks Charles for sharing with us his Milling with mTECH DRO installation.

Charles has chosen to install the mTECH Scale in the front for the X axis.
He has also made some clear plastic sheet to prevent splashing coolant.

This is a picture of the X axis with the cover installed.

Below shows the picture of the X and Y axis scales with their covers on.

Charles says" X axis install was pretty straight forward but the Y was interesting because there was no existing surface to mount the reader head on."

Here is how he managed to install them.

See the special bracket that is made to hold the reader head. Ingenious.

Charles : "The scales arrived last Tuesday and I finished the installation yesterday. Everything worked out perfectly, thank you for a very impressive product"

Thanks again Charles for sharing with us.

102- mTech DRO-3M on Bridgeport Milling Machine from David Ralston (UK)

2007-10-31T09:26:00.000+08:00

Thanks David for sharing with us his Bridgeport Milling with mTECH DRO installation.

David has chosen to install the X axis Linear Scale on the front, he has a good reason:" The x axis is mounted on the front to save losing the 35mm on the y axis as you always need it. The locking screw on the x axis may have to be modified. Fitting to rear is much easier though"

David on his preference for a 3-axis DRO system :"The z axis is worth the extra money could be fitted neater but will do for now. may need extra guard to protect from coolant. "

Here is the photo of the Y axis. For this Y axis, most people will find it the toughest of the 3 axis.
But David thinks otherwise : " y axis straight forward. "

Installation is well done and Here he summarized his project :
"great to have it, very much needed and worth the money many thanks ."

96- mTech DRO-2L on Harrison L5A (1961) from Ross Crymble (UK)

2007-10-25T12:12:00.000+08:00

Thanks Ross for the excellent photo of his Harrison L5A from 1961, which is beginning to show his age. However, with the addition of the mTECH DRO-2L, it is given a new lease of life.

Here is Ross :"Hi Scott, finished fitting my DRO to my 1961 Harrison L5A.
Everything is working great and your equipment is fantastic, it has given my machine a new lease of life."

Photo showing the completed machine with mTECH DRO-2L

This shows the bracket mounting details for the X axis of the lathe.

Photo showing him checking the alignment of the scale with a dial gauge.

Mounting of the X scale reader head

The Z axis scale with the reader head mounting bracket in detail.

This shows the Z axis from the top.

We strive to answer any questions within 8 hours regardless of time zone. We also have a team of experience engineers whom can answer any questions on the installation of the machine.

At the end of the day, Ross has done a good and professional job in the installation.
Ross:“Thanks for you quick response to my other emails and advice.”

83- mTech DRO-2L on Birmingham model 1440 from Hamilton/ITS (USA)

2007-10-19T00:25:00.000+08:00

Thanks a lot to Michael from Hamilton/ITS (www.hamiltonits.com) for the excellent installation and the photo taking.

The lathe is a Birmingham model 1440. 14 inch swing, 40 inch travel.

mTECH DRO offer professional features with an affordable price. Michael says "We are very pleased with the system. It is easy to use and has a lot of features."

Here shows the mTECH DRO-2L in action.

Another shot of the DRO-2L

The X axis mounting and the cable neatly clipped.
This is the professional way of doing. Excellent job !!

A direct view of the X scale installation.

The Z axis installation. I also personally like the use of the block to elevate the scale.
This will let the metal chips fell through and coolant to slip through.

Michael on why he didn't use the cover "I mounted the Z spar on the backside of the lathe and didn’t use the cover – simply as we don’t use the lathe for production work."

Conclusion is EXCELLENT JOB!!

070917- Pinacho Lathe machine (Spain) with mTECH DRO-2L

2007-10-17T01:22:00.000+08:00

Thanks to Inaki from Spain for sharing his photo on a DRO installation on a Pinacho Lathe machine.

This shows the X axis installation, Below that is the Z axis scale

This is from the front, it shows the X axis installation.

Great Job.

070827-CHEN HO milling machine with mTECH DRO-2M

2007-10-17T01:14:00.001+08:00

Thanks to SUNNY for his photo on a DRO installation on CHEN HO Milling machine.

This shows the X axis installation, though we could not see much with the cover on.

The Y axis is done in an unconventional way, it had to be done this way due to space limitation on the Y axis.
This shows that it is possible to install a scale on any machine, your imagination is your limits.

This is another angle shot of the Y axis.

Thanks for demostrating to us your interesting way of mounting the Y axis.

070831- Shizuoka VHR-A milling machine with mTECH DRO-2M

2007-09-05T00:13:00.000+08:00

Thanks to Prakash for his photo on a DRO installation on Shizuoka VHR-A Milling machine.
This is an excellent Japanese machine and the installation had been nicely done.

Prakash has bought our mTECH DRO-2M to replace his faulty Heidenhain DRO. He had used the arm of the previous DRO.

Here shows the brand, model and serial number of the machine.

This shows the X axis installation, though we could not see much with the cover on.
He has also used back the previous cover for ease of installation.

The Y axis is done nicely, though he said "I spend the most time on the Y axis and finally figured out the correct configuration of bracket for the Y reader head. Your advice from the visual guide had been pretty useful."

Thanks once again......

070817- ST Profile Projector with mTECH DRO2M

2007-08-25T01:26:00.000+08:00

Thanks to Thomas for his photo on a installation on ST Industries Profile Projector.
It is installed with a 0.001mm mTECH scale.

The overall view of the machine

A view of the X axis installation

A view of the Z axis installation.

Great photo and shows that mTECH DRO is capable of displaying highly accurate positioning information. It is trusted in even the most critical application. Cheers.

Can we use 1 unit of DRO-3M and use it for both Lathe and Milling machine?

2007-08-20T23:50:00.000+08:00

Can we use 1 unit of DRO-3M and use it for both Lathe and Milling machine?
The answer is YES.

This question is asked by Jim (ebay ID : cutaway3 in New Zealand).
I find this a very interesting way to save cost, as long as you do not need both machine to work the same time.

--------------------------
Jim is asking if the "1/2" function in the mTECH DRO-3M is the same as the Rad/Dia selection?
The answer is NO.

The 1/2 and Rad/Dia selection does not work like the way you want.

The 1/2 button when pressed after selecting an axis (e.g. X), it will half the current value.

For example

X is now 100mm

After pressing the button "X" "1/2"

X will now show 50mm

For Rad/Dia selection, it will always show the axis in "Radius" mode as Radius (normal counting) or "Diameter" mode as Diameter (double the reading).

--------------

How are we going to use the TECH DRO-3M in Lathe mode especially making it count in Diameter for X axis?
The answer is setting the resolution to 0.010mm (10um).

By changing the resolution parameter in the DRO, you can use it either as a Radius counting or Diameter counting.

In normal milling mode, the resolution is 0.005mm,

when it travel 0.005mm, DRO will display 0.005mm.

when it travel 50.000mm, DRO will display 50.000mm.

In Lathe mode, you can set the X axis resolution to 0.010mm

when it travel 0.005mm, DRO will display 0.010mm.

when it travel 50.000mm, DRO will display 100.000mm.

The only catch is that you must power on/off the DRO if you want to switch between Radius or Diameter mode.

But since people will alway use the Lathe in Diameter mode, this will not be a problem.

55- mTech DRO-3M on Sieg X3 Mill - Jeffrey (UK)

2007-08-19T22:13:00.000+08:00

Great Details went into the installation and also taking of photos which show a step-by-step guide for installation for a Sieg X3 Milling machine. Thanks to Jeffery for sharing.

DRO installed on the supplied arm with cables neatly tied up.

-----------------------
Below is the installation for Y axis.

Jeffery make some blocks to be fitted to be used as a base for the scale installation.

He also adds another base for the reader head to rest flat on.

The scale is then added on.

The cover for Y axis is then fitted on.

This is the X installation, with block at each end to elevate the scale.

Top view of the X scale.

This is after the X cover has been added.

This is the installation for the Z scale

Here shows the mounting for the reader head.

Another view showing the Z reader head mounting.

Overview of the Z axis scale.

Thanks again for the great effort to make this installation steps so clear. Cheers

59- Mill/Lathe machine - Aaron Nelson (USA)

2007-08-08T17:52:00.000+08:00

A good effort by Aaron Nelson from USA again, on a Mill / Lathe Machine.

We have sold him a Reconditioned Fagor NV20 DRO unit with Brand New mTECH scales.

The Fagor NV20 counter install with the arm kit.

It is installed in a very neat and clean manner.
The red plastic on the reader head has to be removed.

Aaron comments:
"It was pretty easy to set up with the DRO, but I have to cut down the guard for the Y-axis in order to install it properly. I haven't had a chance to do that yet. "

He has done a great job to make a special bracket to fit the reader head.
The red plastic on the reader head has to be removed.

Aaron comments:
"The X-axis slide on the back side of the lathe is impossible to install the guard on- it's just that the way the lathe is designed is not very good. I had to fabricate a bracket for that as you can see in one of the pictures."

It is a good piece of work. Cheers.

59- Bridgeport milling machine - Aaron Nelson (USA)

2007-08-07T21:26:00.000+08:00

Thanks to Aaron Nelson for the photo from USA on his Bridgeport milling machine.
(Aaron has so far bought 2 sets of DRO from us, you can see his lathe installation on next blog)

The overall view of the Bridgeport milling with mTECH DRO-2M.

Quoting him from his feedback:" The tool-holder is a nice touch, BTW- It's really convenient to keep the tools I use most often, rather than the holder on the side of the machine I used to use. "

View of the X and Y linear scale.

Aaron has this to say about the X-axis installation:
"The X-axis bolts directly to the bed, and then the pickup for the x-axis bolts directly to the saddle. No special bracket necessary. Using a dial indicator, I got the runout within 0.004" The X-axis didn't require many shims. The Y-axis required many shims because the knee is not very flat on the cast surface."

Aaron has really done a very good job in installing this milling machine. He is a real PRO.
This is what he says about the Y-axis installation:

" I had to modify the brackets in the kit to mount the Y-Axis slide on the bridgeport. You will see the two brackets used together in one of the pics. Basically, I milled one down shorter and then slotted it. The other I drilled tapped to match the slotting. It bolts right to the slide pickup. The only flat spots for the Y-axis on the brigeport are the underside of the saddle and the faces of the saddle- but if you use the side face, you lose 1/2" of travel in one direction."

Great Job, we can all learn from you, cheers !!!

29- Harbor Freight Milling machine - Mike Deines (USA)

2007-08-07T17:19:00.000+08:00

Thanks to Mike for the photo from USA

Harbor Freight Milling machine : ZAY7032G

X axis installation with the cover painted Red.

\
Y axis installation. The Red plastic holding the reader head should be removed.

A close-up photo of the Y axis.

mTECH DRO-2L (Lathe) -- by Alex in Moldova

2007-08-07T16:58:00.000+08:00

Thanks to Alex for the photo from Moldova.

mTECH DRO travels to Moldova (a country in Eastern Europe, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moldova )

Believe it gave them better productivity. Cheers

FAQ - installation: Do I need to remove the red plastic on the scale?

2007-08-02T11:52:00.000+08:00

2 functions of the Red Plastic

- to secure the reader head during shipping
- to help to a guide for the gap between the reader and the scale during installation

So they should be remove.

Suggested time to remove the red plastic

We suggest to remove screws (8 screws) before you start the installation of the scale.

This is because in some case the space constraint make it difficult to remove the screws after you have install the scales. If there is no space constraint you can remove it after you install the scale.

BUT THE SCREWS SHOULD BE REMOVED BEFORE YOU START TO MOUNT THE READER HEAD.

How to use the plastic to check the gap between the reader and the scale.

1) There are 2 plastic on the reader head, the short plastic can be discarded.

2) The long plastic can be used to check the gap between the reader head and the scale.

3) Install the bracket and align the reader head with the red plastic, so that they rest nicely

on the scale.

4) Tighten all screws and slide out the red plastic.

5) Move the table and observe that the read head does not rub against the scale.

6) Check the gap with the red plastic, at both end limits and the middle of the scale.

7) The gap should fit nicely; else you will check your alignment of the scale/ reader head.

FAQ - What scale length will suit my machine ?

2007-08-02T11:48:00.000+08:00

The best way to determine the length of scale that you required is to measure it.

Just follow the procedure to measure the "TRAVEL LENGTH" of the scale that you need.

(The physical length is 142mm(5.6inch) longer than the travel length of the scale, e.g. travel length is 820mm (32.28inch), physical length is 962mm (37.87inch).)

(We always mention the travel length for DRO as it is a more important piece of information than the physical length.)

1) Move your X axis to one extreme end and make a marking.

2) Move to the other extreme end and make another marking.

3) Measure the distance between the 2 marking, this is the TRAVEL LENGTH.

4) Select the correct travel length from our available list of travel length.

(E.g. you measure 780mm (30.7inch) travel length, the nearest is 750mm(29.5inch) or 820mm (32.28inch), we will choose 820mm(32.28inch), so that it will cover the entire travel distance).

5) Do the same for the other axis/axes.

mTECH Linear Scale Detail Drawing and Dimension

2007-07-26T00:26:00.001+08:00

Here is the detail drawing and dimension of the mTECH scales.

There are 3 types of scale model, the number (1 & 5) at the end of each model indicate the resolution of the scales (e.g. JCXF1 is a 1um resolution scale, JCXF5 is a 5um resolution scale):

1) JCXF1, JCXF5 - these are small profile scales and they have a maximum travel length of 600mm

2) JCXE1, JCXE5 - these are regular profile scales and is more commonly used. They have a maximum travel length of 1000mm

3) JCXG1, JCXG5 - these are large profile scales and is used when long travel distance is needed. They have a maximum travel length of 6000mm

Drawing of JCXF scale (click on drawing to enlarge it)

Drawing of JCXE scale (click on drawing to enlarge it)

Drawing of JXCG scale (click on drawing to enlarge it)

Welcome to mTECH DRO blog

2007-07-16T12:20:00.000+08:00

We hope to use the blog as a platform to communicate with all our user and also those looking for information on mTECH DRO or any other DRO (as we are the professional in DRO).

You can email to us directly at dro_trader@yahoo.com.sg for any questions.

We have an eBay Store at http://stores.ebay.com/DRO-Trader

Cheers