2008-Jan-5 - CNC Machining and CNC Control Computers

The CNC Control Computer can be basic and inexpensive. The computer will live in a harsh environment that includes dust and dirt. The CNC Control Software is what processes the G-Code program we made in the last step. You load it in and when you are ready, start the program.

The actual CNC Controller has drivers in it and translates the signals from the control program into motion. It sends the signals on to stepper or servo motors that move the various axis
All together these pieces can cost a lot or a little. You can also cut down the cost if you build the cnc controller yourself.

One thing we learn is that manual machining and cnc machining have similar issues. There is coolant, chips dust and dirt no matter if you are operating the machine or the computer is operating the machine.
CNC Machining safety is important during this step. We need to wear CNC safety glasses, protective equipment and appropriate shoes.

There are many different types of CNC Machines and types of machining. There are cnc routers, cnc lathes, cnc mills, cnc plasma cutters and on an on. Each of these types of machines operates in different ways and you must learn their differences to be effective.