Where do I start? Are there steps?

Yes! For anybody just beginning with CNC, the following steps are absolutely
essential. Even pros with many years of experience may be able to pick up a few
pointers. All machine controls are different, and even a person who has run,
worked on, built, or installed CNCs for many years using any particular control
will experience a learning curve when using a different control. Mach3/Mach4 is
quite capable of controlling a machine, but there will be differences between it
and any other controller. Also, the hardware used in a CNC can have a dramatic
effect on how the software and complete system operate. The bottom line: each
system will behave slightly differently. The control (no matter whose) is not
capable of understanding the operator; therefore the operator/designer must be
capable of understanding the control and creating their system.

1) Read the manuals. Even the most seasoned pro will often reference the
manuals when they have a question. Reading the “Mach3Mill Install and Config
Guide” in its entirety, and making notes of any questions it may prompt, is a great
first step. It is important to fully understand how the software operates to create and
use the system that is created. The knowledge the manual provides can reduce the
chance of expensive or time consuming rework.

2) Watch the tutorial videos. These are fairly short and loaded with information.
They can be found on the Tutorial Videos page of the website.

3) Establish requirements and write them down. List the requirements the
machine must achieve, such as the tolerance it must hold, repeatability, rapid
speeds, feed rates, acceleration, coolant, power source, etc.

4) Gather information. Collecting any and all relevant documentation available
from the outset of the project. This includes any manuals or data sheets for the
machine and/or the components. Components or machines with poor documentation
may require careful consideration.

5) Make an I/O map. Using a spreadsheet to list all of the I/O (inputs and outputs)
and document which pin of which device they will be wired, can save effort with both
configuring Mach3/Mach4 and troubleshooting any issues. This will likely be used for
the life of the machine.

6) Draw diagrams. Diagrams for the electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, coolant, etc.
systems can be important when troubleshooting a machine. If the machine is a
retrofit and did not come with any diagrams, it may be well worth the time to create
them.

7) Generate a parts list. Document what parts are needed, where to acquire them,
their cost, part numbers, etc.

8) Review, edit, and update. At this stage, there should be a solid understanding
of what type of machine is desired, what parts are necessary to produce it, and a
pretty good idea of how everything ties together. Chances are that along the way,
required adjustments have been made, so now is the best time to update the
documents accordingly to reflect these changes.

9) Gather components. It should now be possible to make educated decisions
about the components required to build the machine and feel confident they will give
the desired results. If this is not the case, it is time to backtrack as far as necessary
in the process to reach that comfort level before actually ordering any parts.

10) Bench test. Once the components are gathered, it is time to assemble and test
them. It is advisable to initially perform this process on a bench (desk, table, work
shop bench). Testing before permanently installing the hardware and routing the
wires in the machine will often save a lot of time, trouble, and frustration. It is not
unusual for things to fail to work exactly as expected with a new setup.

11) Assemble and test. After the hardware has been bench tested, it is time to
install it on the machine. It is the responsibility of the builder to make sure that
assembly is done correctly in order for the machine to meet the specifications that
were set. Care should be taken to ensure that everything is done properly the first
time. If questions arise, they should be researched and addressed before continuing
otherwise the machine may not perform as expected.

12) Purchase Mach3/Mach4 & Enjoy! If everything has been done correctly up to
this point, the only thing left to do is purchase a license for the software. If
everything has not been done correctly, the decision must be made as to whether or
not the results are acceptable or if things need to be adjusted.