Newbie questions

I'm new here.

I'm getting ready to start building my first 3d printer/CNC, I'm on a tight budget and I would like to scavenge as many parts as possible at work I have access to many old computers and printers that are heading for a scrap heap.

I'm new to all this but I know how to solder, program, and macgyver. I plan to buy the parts slowly and learn as I go.

My first step is to get a Arduino mega and some sort multi purpose stepper controller that can work with a variety of steppers.

Can any one point me to some good beginner guides or recommend good beginner friendly parts?


So far in my scavenging I have acquired 2, 6 wire steppers from a laser printer.


And I may be able to get my hands on a huge HP plotter.

It looks like might be a bit wimpy and take larger steps than the 13.7 N-cm torque, 1.8 degree standards on [reprap.org] The plotter might be stronger.

The stepper driver boards should drive these OK for learning the interfacing.