The problem with the machine has been diagnosed this evening and the loud crack from deep inside was indeed a capacitor letting its magic smoke out. no too much of a dilemma so it should be up and running again in the very near future. I have a sneaky suspicion that Santa will be bringing me a new addition to the machine…
one of these…
Thanks Mum and Dad, you know me well!
http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1651082654/jog-it-open-source-controller-pendant-for-emc2-and?ref=live