Is there a digital version of the books available?

No digital copies of either book are available at the present time.

Are complete EDM kits available?

Not at the present time, only books and non stuffed PCB’s http://www.homebuiltedmmachines.com/dev/purchasing-books-and-starter-kits/

Are these standalone EDM’s?

The unit as described in The EDM How-To Book is designed to attach to a drill press or milling machine. The unit as described in the Build a Pulse EDM is a standalone EDM  though it may be built as an attachment to a drill press or mill.

What is the cost to build the electronics of each EDM?

That depends on your junk box and ability to scrounge. The Pulse system is about three times more expensive than the RC machine.  A large part of the expense is the costly transformers and power resistors.

Are Printed Circuit Boards (PCB) available?

Yes, non-stuffed boards are available for the RC as well as the Pulse EDM, see the Purchasing Books and Starter Kits page for additional information on purchasing.

Do you have a Bill of Materials (BOM)?

There is a Bill Of Materials (BOM) in each book but the suppliers part numbers may not be current. This is one of the most frustrating parts about supplying plans; suppliers are constantly dropping items and or substituting and changing part number. For individuals that purchase the PCB I attempt to keep the BOM supplied current as possible. The Yahoo users group is great source for parts availability especially for individuals outside of the U.S.

Is the design in the book and PCB the same?

No, individuals that purchase the PCB receive the most current design and BOM. The designs in both books work well but with each production run of the PCB I made a few minor changes from the original design. If you purchase a PCB follow the instructions you receive with the board, NOT what is in the book.

What voltage are the power supplies design to work on?

Both supplies are design to use 110-120 VAC which is standard for the U.S. There are many builders in the UK and Australia as well as other parts of the world (more than half of my  sales are outside the U.S.) have built successful working EDM’s by selecting transformers to step the voltage down to the voltage required.

Are there plans for a Wire EDM?

I do not have plans for a Wire EDM

Will either of the power supplies work for a Wire EDM?

I do not know, I have never attempted to build or use them for Wire EDM

How much machine work is required?

For the RC design minimal machine work (mainly lathe to machine the lead screw) if built as per the book. This lack of machine work of course limits the accuracy and capabilities of the mechanical aspect of the machine.

The Pulse machine, if built as per the book, requires the use of a Mill (primary) and a little lathe work.

What Electrodes are used?

Primary EDM grade Graphite such as sold by Poco. Low density carbon rods are not acceptable. As far as metallic electrodes, copper is most frequently used, brass maybe used, but expect high wear in most cases.

Where can I purchase electrode material?

I suggest utilizing online auctioning sites. Many companies sell “drops” or even used electrodes. For the hobbies this materials is usually very high quality and more than enough for your projects.

What dielectric is used?

Any VERY thin hydrocarbon oil maybe used, kerosene perhaps being the most common. Diesel fuel is to thick and does not make a good dielectric. Commercial EDM dielectric oils are not much more expensive than a good grade of low odor kerosene, I would recommend their use if possible. I have found WD-40 to also make a good dielectric, but it turns dark and particulate matter does not settle quickly.

 I am not really familiar with EDM lingo do you have a list of common terms?

There is a Glossary of terms found in each book

Are there any commercial publications related to EDM work

Yes, there is a free EDM publications called EDM TODAY  magazine that occasionally has information and tips that would apply to the EDM hobbyist.