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AndrewBCN
So, this project follows exactly the same paradigm as all the others that preceded it, and right now I don't see how dc42 can bring down the costs of a Duet board ($120 + shipping) to the same level as that of a RAMPS + Arduino combo (around $20, shipping included), by just changing the ARM processor, removing four Allegro chips that costs around $1 each, and using a double-sided PCB, since these small changes certainly won't decrease costs by more than $20 or so.
Andrew, you are complaining about the paradigm and not "thinking outside the box", but the only alternative one you have suggested is a Linux box plus an 8-bit microcontroller. I have pointed out that the 8-bit microcontroller you suggested actually costs more than twice the price of the ARM processor I propose to use. IMO this solution is also too complex for most 3D printer users, even though I can see it may appeal to computer geeks, RPi owners and the like, and might even save money if you have more than one printer and use the same Linux box to control them all.
A Duet won't cost you $120 + shipping, it will cost you $100 + shipping + any import tax you are liable for. Go to the Think3DPrint3D web site, look up the Duet and observe that it costs £78 including VAT. Customers outside the EU are not liable for VAT, so if you are in the USA then the price to you would be GBP65, which equates to USD100 at today's exchange rates.
The AZSMZ Mini already shows that it is possible to make a budget 32-bit board, because it sells for $60 + shipping. If it becomes popular and gets cloned, then I am sure the price will come down. The board I propose will have a lower parts cost than the AZSMZ Mini.
I take your point about most users being likely to prefer WiFi to wired Ethernet. It's actually very easy and inexpensive to convert a wired Ethernet port to wifi, using a device such as [www.ebay.co.uk]. But you've got me thinking about the possibility of a WiFi daughterboard.