Denford Software & Machines

I bought a micromill and microturn lathe at an auction last weekend. Some problems.

1. No keys for either machine. I saw that keys can be ordered, but are all keys for these machines the same? Could I just replace the key switch with another kind of switch?

2. No software. Can I download the software? What software programs are good for novice machinists (such as myself).

3. The lathe looks like it is missing the "work light". Can those be purchased/ordered? Where? How much? Cheap alternatives? If I need other parts are there any other compatible lathes or mills that could substitute parts for these machines?

4. I also didn't get any manuals or paperwork of any sort. I downloaded the product information but it wasn't very helpful in describing the parts and layout of these machines. Are the manuals or other materials available for download elsewhere?

Hopefully I didn't waste my money on these machines. I am a graduate student in film animation and I want to use the machines to manufacture parts for animation armatures (puppet skeletons). My wife was/is already irked that I bought them so I'd like to get them up and running soon to show her it wasn't a foolish purchase. Thanks in advance for any help you can offer. I'm looking forward to hearing your responses.

Jason

Weren't the older ones powered by a BBC computer?

I believe there's some old DOS software about the site for free download, I believe it uses the serail port to send the data to the machine, there was a recent topic discussing this. I think this was only for sending th e G-code to the machine no fancy CAD/CAM package

If it's a newer version I guess Denford wil be happy to relieve you of the remains of your well earnt cash for what you require Although the key switch can probably be hot wired....

Whatever the action required is be prepared for a steep learning curve....

I wouldn't worry about the light until it works