Getting Started with CNC: Personal Digital Fabrication with Shapeoko and Other Computer-Controlled Routers

Getting Started with CNC is the definitive introduction to working with affordable desktop and benchtop CNCs, written by the creator of the popular open hardware CNC, the Shapeoko. Accessible 3D printing introduced the masses to computer-controlled additive fabrication. But the flip side of that is subtractive fabrication: instead of adding material to create a shape like a 3D printer does, a CNC starts with a solid piece of material and takes away from it. Although inexpensive 3D printers can make great things with plastic, a CNC can carve highly durable pieces out of a block of aluminum, wood, and other materials. This book covers the fundamentals of designing for–and working with–affordable ($500-$3000) CNCs.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1. What Is CNC?
Chapter 2. Mechanical Overview
Chapter 3. End Mills and Cutting
Chapter 4. CAD: Draw or Model Something
Chapter 5. CAM: Make Toolpaths
Chapter 6. CAD/CAM Project: No Machine Necessary!
Chapter 7. Creating Motion: Electromechanical Overview
Chapter 8. G-Code: Speaking CNC
Chapter 9. Practical Machining Tips
Chapter 10. Conclusion
Appendix A. Resources