Book Image

A Tinkerer's Guide to CNC Basics

By : Samer Najia
5 (1)
Book Image

A Tinkerer's Guide to CNC Basics

5 (1)
By: Samer Najia

Overview of this book

Until recently, Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines belonged to the realm of heavy industry, but as technology becomes cheaper and smaller, these machines now can be used in home workshops. It’s not easy to get started, though, but thanks to this guide, you’ll be ready to take on a variety of projects in no time. A Tinkerer’s Guide to CNC Basics contains everything you need to get set up at home with computer-controlled machining and fabrication. Sparing you the theory, this project-laden guide helps you learn by doing. Once you’ve got to grips with the principles of CNC and installed the 3018 Pro CNC machine, you’ll gradually move from simple projects such as basic engraving to more complex milling and machining techniques. You’ll even learn how to upgrade your machine to accomplish more sophisticated designs. The plethora of projects in this book will keep you busy and give you the practice you need to get started with your computerized workshop. By the end of the book, your computerized home workshop will be one step closer to realization, and your machining skills will be taken to the next level.
Table of Contents (15 chapters)
11
Chapter 11: Building a More Capable CNC Machine

Emergency stop switch

The purpose of this switch is to bring everything to an immediate stop in the event your toolhead is about to damage something or go beyond its cutting borders (or any other emergency). It doesn’t matter what sort of switch it is, but it must have a way to positively break the circuit. I personally like big red push buttons such as the one you see here on my machine:

Figure 6.10 – My E-Stop switch, mounted right on my 3018’s frame

Figure 6.10 – My E-Stop switch, mounted right on my 3018’s frame

You can find these on Amazon or similar sources for very little. They will have three terminals but are wired with two wires. My controller board has a two-pin terminal for this switch, but if yours does not, wire it to your connector to the board (the live, i.e., positive wire). Do not wire it directly to the plug to the wall as that would be dangerous. Install the switch somewhere easily accessible from any angle on the board. The reason I like the big red button is that you cannot...