DIY Arduino CNC Wood Router

A low-cost, open-source CNC router for woodworking, powered by Arduino Uno and GRBL firmware. Designed for cutting, engraving, and prototyping on wood, MDF, and acrylic.

Source: hackaday.com

---

Table of Contents

• Features
• Hardware Requirements
• Installation
• Hardware Setup
• Usage
• Folder Structure
• Contributing
• License
• Acknowledgments

---

Features

• GRBL 1.1 Firmware: High-precision motion control with acceleration management.
• Spindle Control: PWM-driven DC spindle (775 motor) with cooling fan.
• NEMA 17 Steppers: 1.8° step angle with A4988 drivers.
• Limit Switches: Auto-homing and safe operation.
• G-code Support: Compatible with industry-standard CAM software.
• Modular Design: Easily upgradeable frame (wood/aluminum).

---

Hardware Requirements

Component	Specification
Controller	Arduino Uno + CNC Shield V3
Stepper Motors	NEMA 17 (1.7A, 12V)
Spindle	775 DC Motor (10,000 RPM)
Power Supply	24V 10A Switching PSU
Linear Motion	MGN12 Rails + T8 Lead Screws
Frame	Plywood/MDF or Aluminum Extrusion

Full Bill of Materials

---

Installation

Prerequisites

• Arduino IDE (v2.x or later)
• CNC Shield V3 (GRBL-compatible)
• GRBL 1.1 Library

Steps

1. Upload GRBL to Arduino:

   # Clone this repository
   git clone https://github.com/yourusername/Arduino-CNC-Wood-Router.git

   • In Arduino IDE: File > Examples > grbl > grblUpload.

2. Upload Custom Code:

   • Open src/cnc_controller/cnc_controller.ino.
   • Install required libraries (if any).
   • Compile and upload to Arduino.

3. Configure GRBL:

   • Adjust steps/mm and acceleration in config.h.
   • Upload settings via $$ commands in CNC software.

---

Hardware Setup

1. CNC Shield Setup:

   • Connect steppers to X, Y, Z drivers (A4988/TMC2208).
   • Wire limit switches to X-, Y-, Z- pins.
   • Attach spindle PWM to Pin 11 and enable to Pin 12.

2. Frame Assembly:

   • Follow the Assembly Guide for mechanical setup.
   • Calibrate steps/mm using test_square.gcode.

---

Usage

1. Prepare G-code:

   • Use Inkscape with Gcodetools or Fusion 360.
   • Sample G-code: carve_lettering.gcode.

2. Run CNC Job:

   • Open G-code in Candle or Universal G-code Sender.
   • Set zero point (X/Y/Z) on your material.
   • Start job with Cycle Start.

3. Safety Tips:

   • Always wear safety glasses.
   • Perform dry runs before cutting.

---

Contributing

Contributions are welcome!

1. Fork the repository.
2. Create a feature branch: git checkout -b feature/new-feature.
3. Commit changes: git commit -m 'Add feature'.
4. Push to the branch: git push origin feature/new-feature.
5. Submit a pull request.

---

License

This project is licensed under the MIT License. See LICENSE for details.

---

Acknowledgments

• GRBL Contributors for the firmware.
• Instructables Guide for inspiration.