Two contradictory thoughts run through my head:
1. Acquiring CNC knowledge would be an interesting challenge for me!
2. I have no idea how a CNC machine could integrate into my current hobby activities!
This means that I am missing practically all the selection criteria for a machine that is suitable for my needs! My magic word for such situations is: "Preliminary tests!" An Arduino Uno, a motor shield and a small stepper motor can be found in my electronics craft box. I quickly learn that grbl doesn't support my Motor-Shield. While looking for a cheap supplier of suitable stepper motor drivers, I came across a kit for a simple pen plotter from Makeblock.
Two contradictory thoughts run through my head:
1. Acquiring CNC knowledge would be an interesting challenge for me!
2. I have no idea how a CNC machine could integrate into my current hobby activities!
This means that I am missing practically all the selection criteria for a machine that is suitable for my needs! My magic word for such situations is: "Preliminary tests!" An Arduino Uno, a motor shield and a small stepper motor can be found in my electronics craft box. I quickly learn that grbl doesn't support my Motor-Shield. While looking for a cheap supplier of suitable stepper motor drivers, I came across a kit for a simple pen plotter from Makeblock.
Anyone who - like me - counted a sturdy construction set among their favorite toys as a child will have no problems with the mechanical construction! First I assemble everything exactly according to the instructions that I downloaded from the internet. I only replace the four perforated plates that are supposed to serve as legs with wooden feet. - After the first test runs, I will certainly think of further small adjustments to suit my needs!
The simple wiring is a blessing and a curse at the same time: On the one hand, it largely meets the requirements as a teaching aid and should also give technically interested laypeople a quick sense of success! However, if you like to use a soldering iron to make your own adjustments, you will quickly reach your limits! - You would probably be better advised to say goodbye to the system based on the Orion board completely. Luckily, suitable electronic components are available quite cheaply!
The official software for the kit, which you have to download from Git Hub, works almost straight away, but I don't get a WOW! effect! You'll definitely find something better!