Shopbot CNC Router

Name: Shopbot CNC Router

Location: Main Wood Shop U4

Reservation availability: Available

Notes:

The checkout process for the Shopbot can be completed in 2 ways.

1 is to participate in a CNC Class that covers the same ground as a fully scheduled 3 session process.

Session 1: A virtual meeting where we go though the same content as the videos do.

Session 2: The in-person review of the Shopbot for safety and general operation. Includes a demo of the checkout project.

Session 3: Execution of you finished check project.

This Class is scheduled over 3 weeks.

2 is Self-paced version where you use the videos linked on this web page to learn the details about how to use VCarve. Then there is a session 2 and 3 that are in the shop. Session 2 is a review of machine operation and safety. Session 2 also includes a demo of a project you will be expected to execute for session 3. Session 3 is a one-on-one scheduled session where you execute your checkout project showing you know how to safely do basic design and operate the Shopbot to execute the design.

The 3rd session is key. Please be sure to review the General FAQ document below so you fully understand the requirements. This is not an opportunity to get really creative. Keep it simple. Get done the checkout and build on that once you are free to work with the machine on your own.

Additional reference documents:

The Install VCarve video was removed, it is no longer needed as of version 12.
Install the free trial version of VCarver Pro as instructed on the VCarve site.

Session 1 VCarve Part 2 (video)

Session 1 VCarve Part 3 (video)

Session 1 VCarve Part 4 (video)

Session 1 VCarve Part 5 (video)

Session 1 VCarve Part 6 (video)

Session 1 VCarve Part 7 (video)

Guide for Volunteers Session 2 (pdf)

Spindle warm up process (pdf)

Guide for Session 3 your first project (pdf)

Session 3 Expectations (the checkout project) (pdf)

General FAQ for the class checkout (pdf)

Checkout project resources. (zip)

Guide to choosing the right end mill (pdf)

Basic Chip load guide (pdf)( If the manufacturer has a guide on what the proper chip load is for a bit you purchase, follow the manufacturer's guidance over this guide. )

ShopBot User Guide (pdf) This is the manual for the ShopBot control software and general machine mechanical/electrical details. It is detailed in how the software works and how it can be reprogramed. It is only recommended reading for experienced CNC Makers.

Checkout Instructions

Open the related PDF instructions in a separate tab.

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