Just getting ready to build and was planning uses, and wanted to know is software like VCarve and Aspire is compatible to use with the MPCNC? And use projects like these listed here on the Vectric website?
http://www.vectric.com/cool-stuff/projects.html
Thank youJason
I am pretty sure there are a few vectrix users, Before you spend the money you might want to spend some time with EstlCam. As for the projects I have no idea what is in the files. I don;t see any reason they wouldn’t work they should just be a 3d file like thingiverse and a parts list.
Estlcam will open STL files and do carving like that… I was going to go the Vcarve route but realized I didn’t need to for anything I’d be doing so far. Estlcam will do more than just flat cuts.
I started with EstlCam (paid for) and it works great. However, I’m now using VCarve simply because IMO, it’s an easier interface. I can do things faster and more things with VCarve. I suggest you get the free demo version of vcarve and watch some videos on how it’s used before you decide to buy it. Maybe EstlCam meets all of your needs. There are some things you can carve using the demo verision of vcarve. You will need a marlin post processor which you can find with google or message me.
Can the LowerRider do stuff like this at these feed rates? This is my 3040 at actual speed
running GCode through Mach3 generated from VCarve Pro 9. It is the top of their
“Paradise Box” project. > https://youtu.be/W66fS4MrJmE
I ask because know slower feeds can burn the wood or dull the bit etc.
Thanks
I don’t see any specs. The questions itself is much too broad for a direct answer.
That seems to be moving a little fast for the LowRider considering most build it at 5’x9’ not 8"x10" But you can compensate by slowing down the rpms. Running the same gcode on multiple machines is not ideal either.
I just got my MPCNC hardware kit. Can I run the Mini-Rambo on an OLD laptop with Windows XP and Repetier-Host? Repetier Host seems to act fine, but when I hit manual control, nothing happens.
In reading, if I get the full graphic smart controller, I can simply cut from SD cards, exactly like I already do with my Anet A8 3D printer? No PC necessary IN the shop, I would just compile a G-code in Repetier, and load it to a card, right?
It should, depending on how old the laptop is, you might need special drivers or maybe just slow down the buadrate? Not really sure XP was a long time ago.
Yup, the way a majority do it I would suppose.
I’ll put in the order first thing tomorrow. 2 lengths of timing belt as well. Thanks! Do I have to do some special flashing or something? I got the mini-rambo from you as well.
Nothing special.
If you are new to this really try to make the work envelope as small as possible, as you are going to be making a pretty big machine, and do a bunch of tests in HD foam first.
I’m not new to CNC machines at all, but totally new to these controllers and sysytems, LOL! I think I’m backwards perhaps? But yes, that’s exactly my plan, to make my machine as “plug and play” as possible. Mechanically, I’ll be fine, I’ve helped friends build and troubleshoot CNC machines before. And I can program in straight g-code if I have to [barf], but i don’t know anything about setting up the interfaces between the PC and the MPCNC, and have no desire to become a leading authority in the field. As for foam, this will primarily be a DTFB airplane machine. 
Thanks for the help! Any other advice for narrowing the envelope of work? I’m listening!
OK, work envelope is still WAY big. Arduino library, file changes, altering code? I just want to move a pen. Ugh.
Where is a good “turn on the Mini-Rambo with LCD Controller for dummies” tutorial?
I don’t know what you are asking by “work envelope” the size of you machine is never defined. Not in the firmware, software, CAD or CAM.
How to use the machine, in the link below, you should try testing, then the Basics linked in that page under first use. From there just let us know what is unclear and I will fix it ASAP.
https://www.v1engineering.com/assembly/software/
The LCD does not need to be used for anything other than a card reader. Load your file on it and hit print from file. I suggest you use my file in the Crown tutorial first, then try to make your own.
I haven’t powered up the first time yet, I just want to jog it right now. I plug it in, and it lights up, chirps, and powers off. Then repeats.
Sounds like a bad power supply or bad wiring you should upload a picture of your board all plugged in ready to go.
As for moving it, that is exactly what is laid out step by step on the page I linked.
I guess if you wanted to skip the Repetier part you can use the control like this.
click the button, scroll to- prepare, move axis. From there only do 1mm at a time to make sure everything is correct, 10mm and you can break things if your steppers are backwards from each other (why I didn’t use to provide such High powered steppers).
I can’t get my phone to play nice enough to upload a pic. I’ll use the PC in a few minutes. I plugged #1 into #1, and #2 into #2. One end is keyed, so cant get it wrong, the other end, I used the picture of the plug and turned it that way. The LCD blinks and chirps, the mini Rambo light stays solid.
I absolutely want to skip the Repetier part! I just want to run code from the SD card, and for the entire machine and controller to stand alone. I never could get the Mini Rambo to talk to to the PC, so hoped this was a work around.
Thanks a LOT for all the help. I apologize if I’m getting crabby. Just anxious from being stuck SO CLOSE to the end! LOL!
More concerned with the power plug and how you have it. As for the LCD being plugged in I have pics of that, but the board side can go either way, two of the 4 will light up the screen and only 1 of those is correct.
It absolutely should not be turning off by itself on and off under any circumstances.