Hi,
Looks like you folks are way beyond me in cnc machine knowledge. I hope
to learn a few things from all of you. I do have a bit of machine shop
experience though. My Father owned/operated a machine/welding shop when
I was in high school during the late 60's- early 70. I did a lot of
repitious drilling/turning/milling for the various contracts we had.
After 30+ years of being away from machining, I recently purchased a
small lathe and a mill/drill machine as I'm trying to get back into
my "roots", and get ready for my impending retirement etc.

I do have some minor programming skills using QB 4.5 and recently
completed a bolt circle calculator written in quickbasic. Also a sine
bar calculator in the works. I'd be happy to upload them if there's any
interest from the group. I also have a small web site regarding "Solar
Tracking" that some of you may find useful in some way.
You can visit at http://pages.prodigy.net/rich_demartile.
Regards,
Rich D