Build vs Buy. Considerations Before Starting a Machine Design Project

This paper looks at three different approaches for building an embedded motion control board that can drive typical NEMA 23 or NEMA 34 sized Brushless DC motors or step motors. It focuses on a positioning motion controller used in end applications such as laboratory automation, mobile robotics, test equipment, packaging equipment, and robot arm control. It examines the design effort, types of resources needed, and per unit cost for each approach.