In over my head

[george uk]

what an ACE present.

There is lots you can do, can you post either a picture or a link to the macheen, if not.

what size is it ( cutting area )
What spindle does it have ( KV )

perhaps the better question is,

what do i need to learn to make it usefull or make things.

Basics with CNCing.

you need to turn and image or moddle, into a code that you CNC machen will understand ( G-Code ). There are many free and paid programs mentioned on here you can use.

Mach 3 comes with some tools that will convert wording to a stencle easy enough. or pick one of the many others.

TIP. keep it simple while you learn, maby etch you sons name into something ( the macheen is capable of so much more )

Tip. Some softawe, extreemly complex, some very simple, start simple .

Use ethe software to convert your image into G-Code. load it in mach 3.


From a Dad to a Dad, there are somethings you need to learn before you start playing
macheen limits, both switches and software ( stop your machine rcrashing into itself and causeing damage.
Cutter speeds and Bit speeds ( the harder the material, the more important ).
estops, both hard and soft ( absolutly a must ).

if you point to the machine, someone will tell you what its capable of

If your a tinkerer type dad, you can add a plastic printing head, or a chocolate printingg head if you like, If its got a fourth axis, you can make some quite complex stuff.