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A Tinkerer's Guide to CNC Basics
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We have already covered some of the basics of computer numerical control (CNC), but in this chapter, we will focus our attention on a specific machine that is widely available from various vendors on multiple shopping platforms (Amazon, AliExpress, eBay, etc.). The 3018 CNC machine is a very basic, rugged unit, well suited to modification and upgrade, and its design has proven to be workable. You can choose to acquire a fully (or mostly) built unit, a kit to make one, or you can build one from scratch. I have tried all three approaches with similar results. However, before a purchase is made, some criteria and use cases should be established.
For this chapter, our objectives revolve around understanding the anatomy of a CNC machine, going through a primer on the selection of a suitable unit, and getting set up and running, as outlined here:
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