Routing and sawing narrow pieces

[ScooterX]

I'm sure this can't be that complicated, but I just can't wrap my head around it. I've got a Festool router (OF 1010) and the saw (T55), and two MFT tables...

I want to cut 1.75" wide strips of 1/2" plywood (MDO), and I want to route out a .25" wide x 0.125 inch deep groove that starts .25 inch from the edge. The strips are 4' long. This is sort of like making a drawer frame. I just can't figure out how to set everything up so it won't all move about. The strips are a bit narrow for my guide rails. Do I route the grooves and then cut the strips?

 

[tbellemare]

That's what I'd do. Cut a clean edge on the sheet. Rout the groove. Cut the strip.

Tom

EDIT: The Festool Router Edge Guides are nice for something like that.

 

[EvilNuff]

Definitely route the groove first, its always safer to act on a larger sheet so trimming to the small strips should be the last step.  Don't forget to account for the kerfs when you lay out the routing though.