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Machines
What machine should I buy?
In Module 1, I break down exactly what to look for based on your goals and budget. If it’s in your budget, the Shapeoko is the best place to start. It’s solid, reliable, and well-supported. If you need something more affordable, I recommend the Genmitsu 4040 Pro Max. Either one will handle everything we do in this course.I don’t know how to connect my machine to my computer.
Most machines connect with a USB cable and need a driver or control software installed to talk to your computer. The fastest way to get up and running is head straight to your manufacturer’s website, forums, or support team. Every machine is a little different.I just got my machine, I’m stuck setting it up. What should I do?
Totally normal, CNC setup can feel overwhelming at first. The best thing you can do is follow the manufacturer’s setup guide step by step. Most brands provide detailed manuals and videos to walk you through frame assembly, wiring, software installation, and your first test cut. Don’t rush it, take your time, follow their instructions closely, and you’ll be up and running before you know it. -
13 Replies
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My new CNC and new Dell computer will not talk to each other so the blue boxes at top right will not turn green to
carve so I’m stuck
And I have about 100 emails back and forth to the Lunyee company that is in China
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Hey Sherman,
I know that is frustrating! Based on what you’re describing, this sounds like a machine communication issue between your computer and the CNC controller.
With CNC machines, that connection usually depends on three things:
- The correct USB driver installed
- The correct control software installed
- Windows recognizing the controller through Device Manager
That said, every machine manufacturer handles this differently. So I would keep trying to get ahold of the support for your specific machine.
Good luck,
Miranda
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I was curious what right-angle corner supports/work registration were used in a few of the training videos. I’m sure there are several options, but what Andy had looked low profile and would help avoid crashes of spindle and support pieces. Plus it appears it’s mounted on t-slot nuts. If anyone knows what those are and could share, I’d be grateful! Thanks!
Bryan
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Hey Bryan,
Yes, we highly recommend having a right angle corner where you can register your workpiece. Andy has used a lot of things in the past. The one you see in the videos he 3d printed himself. But he’s used something as simple as 2 pieces of wood brad nailed to his waste board. Just use a square to get them aligned. He didn’t use the tslots to mount, but you totally could. He just used screws or brads. Hope this helps.
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I’m a newbie to CNC. I purchased a Genmitsu 4040 Pro Max, I’m using V-Carve. I’ve installed a CFL10-40 Laser Module. The machine moves around but I do not have a laser beam. I probably have set something wrong. Can I get help.
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Hey Maurice,
Since this involves the Genmitsu 4040 Pro Max, the CFL10-40 laser module, and V-Carve settings, this is most likely a machine/controller/laser setup issue or a software-specific laser output setting. Every laser module and controller handles that a little differently.
The best next step is to reach out to Genmitsu/SainSmart support for the laser and machine connection side. They’ll have the correct wiring, firmware, power, and controller diagnostics for that exact model.
For the V-Carve side, I’d also recommend checking Vectric’s official laser/post-processor support resources. If the machine moves but the laser does not fire, the issue may be tied to the post-processor, laser toolpath setup, output commands, or controller configuration.
Hope that helps,
Miranda
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Any idea how to proceed/connect to Genmitsu 4040 pro
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Hey James,
Carbide Motion is built for Carbide 3D machines, so it may not connect properly to a Genmitsu 4040 Pro. For Genmitsu projects in the course, Andy’s playbooks use UGS / Universal Gcode Sender with the Genmitsu setup, and the files are exported using the Genmitsu post-processor.
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Hi James,
Did this solution work for you?
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I have started the first section of the CNC Kickstart training. I’m already stuck at 1.8
I bought a Coolook CNC400 from Amazon. It’s not the greatest (actually cheap) but I thought it might be a good learner. It has a standard GRBL controller and comes with “Candle” software. I also have the trial version of VCurve.
In the 1.8 training video you are doing the Machine Configuration Management searching online for my machine. The first option is to select a manufacturer. BAM it isn’t there. Is this a real roadblock? You said it was very important so I don’t think I should just skip over it.
Is there a generic setup selection that would be appropriate?
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The Coolook CNC400 isn’t one of the machines we have a verified configuration for, so I don’t want to point you toward a generic machine selection and have you choose something that may not match your CNC.
For the machine-specific setup and GRBL configuration, the best next step is to follow Coolook’s setup instructions or reach out to their support team. Every machine can behave a little differently, and they’ll have the correct settings for your specific controller.
Sorry I don’t have a specific answer for you!
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I am working through the kick start course but not able to access the file for the first project as the trial version of v carve that I downloaded is out of date. What can I do ?
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It sounds like the version of VCarve you have installed may not be compatible with the project file. The best next step is to visit Vectric’s official website and download the current trial version:
https://www.vectric.com/free-trial/
If you still get a version error, I recommend reaching out to Vectric’s support team. They can confirm which version and edition you need to open the file and help you get the correct software installed.
One thing to keep in mind: the VCarve trial is great for learning and previewing designs, but it only allows test cutting with Vectric’s designated trial-compatible projects. To cut a regular course project, you’ll need the appropriate licensed version of the software.
vectric.com
Vectric CNC software is designed to make cutting parts on a CNC an enjoyable and productive experience, with the combination of power and simplicity.
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