When referring to the accuracy of a router, or any multi-directional positioning system, the word “backlash” is synonymous with the layman’s term, “slop”. Backlash causes the slop associated with directional changes of the router and translates into poor edge quality, inconsistent start/end positions, inaccurate depth control, repeatability problems and other accuracy related issues.

Unlike steel, aluminum can be molded, cast and extruded into virtually any shape. This provides our design engineers more flexibility in designing a machine which will incorporate all of the various design elements critical to the machines specific application.

The Gerber engineers are able to design components which are much stiffer, yet lighter in weight, than that of our competitors. A perfect example of this is the Tie Beam which is attached to the left and right beam support castings of the Sabre 404 and 408. This extruded aluminum component, located beneath the table, drives the main beam in the "Y" axis. Its stiffness is vital in order to maintain the system’s accuracy. The structural cross section used throughout the length of this component cannot easily be reproduced using steel. And, even if it could be, it would add unnecessary weight to the component, thereby increasing stress on the motors which drive the beam.