The problem with the machine has been diagnosed this evening and the loud crack

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

What’s the advantage of one of those over say an xbox controller which works in mach 3?

I suppose that the finished article will not be an Xbox controller so it will have that slightly more professional look. It’s a kick starter project which is a cause that I’m very excited about supporting and the real reason would be that my kids would kick off if I stole their game controller! Merry Christmas to all you like minded DIY CNC folk out there. Have a good one…