CNC router, benchtop (SIENCI LongMill) ID:143: Difference between revisions

Added detailed instructions on how to power up and access the controls
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(Added detailed instructions on how to power up and access the controls)
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===Machine Overview===
===Machine Overview===
This is a SCENCI Labs LongMill ( See https://sienci.com/product/longmill/ ) with the short rails.  The web page says it is 12"x12" but in fact it is more like 10"x13".
This is a SCENCI (pronounced "CNC") Labs LongMill ( See https://sienci.com/product/longmill/ ) with the short rails.  The web page says it is 12"x12" but in fact it is more like 10"x13".
The controller is an Arduino running GRBL.   
The controller is an Arduino running GRBL.   


'''Bed size''': 250mm x 340mm (10"x 13")
'''Bed size''': 250mm x 340mm (10"x 13")


'''Spindle''': Makita Trim Router Model RT0701C  ( https://www.makitatools.com/products/details/RT0701C). This has a 1/4" collet and a variable speed spindle from 10,000 to 30,000 RPM.  It is manually controlled (Not controlled in GRBL).  There is a collection of bits in the red toolbox under the CNC.
'''Spindle''': Makita Trim Router Model RT0701C  ( https://www.makitatools.com/products/details/RT0701C). This has a 1/4" collet and a variable speed spindle from 10,000 to 30,000 RPM.  It is manually controlled (Not controlled in GRBL).  There is a collection of bits in the red toolbox under the CNC.  


'''File units''': Default units are Metric.   
Currently, the Spindle power is not controlled by the CNC Controller and must be turned On/Off manuallyThis is on the list of improvements.


'''Machine control software suite''': GRBL on a SIENCI Milling Labs Controller. The controller is also connected to a RaspBerry PI which has Universal G-Code Sender (UGCS) as well as bCNC installed.  
'''Machine Control:''' GRBL on a SIENCI Milling Labs Controller.  
 
'''User Interface:''' a RaspBerry PI is connected to the Controller via USB.  It has Universal G-Code Sender (UGCS) as well as bCNC installed.


'''RaspPi Login''': It is autologon on startup, so you do not need to log on.  But if you need it for any reason, it is pi/Protospace.   
'''RaspPi Login''': It is autologon on startup, so you do not need to log on.  But if you need it for any reason, it is pi/Protospace.   
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'''Hold down method''': Screws, nails, clamps(must make these).   
'''Hold down method''': Screws, nails, clamps(must make these).   


Note that teh mounting board is MDF but '''IS NOT A SACRIFICIAL BOARD'''.  The mounting board has threaded inserts on a 10cm x 10cm grid.  You can supply your own hold down board with whatever system you wish.  Simply drill holes in your board so that you can mount it to these threaded inserts.  The threaded inserts are 10x24.  There are a sample supply of different length screws for you to use.     
Note that the base plate mounting board is MDF but '''IS NOT A SACRIFICIAL BOARD'''.  The mounting board has threaded inserts on a 10cm x 10cm grid.  You can supply your own hold down board with whatever system you wish.  Simply drill holes in your board so that you can mount it to these threaded inserts.  The threaded inserts are 10x24.  There are a sample supply of different length screws for you to use.     


'''Dust collection?''': Yes, requires a shopVac.
'''Dust collection?''': Yes, requires a ShopVac.
Probing: plate style. Plate is 10mm thick as well as X and Y 10mm offset.  
Probing: plate style. Plate is 10mm thick as well as X and Y 10mm offset.  


Suitable stock materials: Wood, plastics, foams, other.
Suitable stock materials: Wood, plastics, foams, other.


'''Unsuitable stock materials''': Zero metal, metal alloy, or metal composites are to be cut on this''' machine'''
'''Unsuitable stock materials''': Zero metal, metal alloy, or metal composites are to be cut on this.  If the CNC machine was on the rolling cart, it possibly could be moved outside to do some aluminum milling, but for now don't do it. 


===Instructions and Training===
===Instructions and Training===


'''How to turn on the machine''': The main power is turned on by turning on the common power bar for the shelf.  This also turns on the lights as well as power for the MiniCNC.
There are 3 power switches to be turned on (not counting the monitor). 
*The Raspberry Pi has it's own wall wart with a switch.
*The SCENCI Longboard has a power switch.
*And finally, when you want to start the Router, you also need to turn on the switch on the router.  (Note: that this will be put on a more convenient switch and even maybe software control in the near future. )
Once the power is turned on, you will see the Desktop on the Raspberry PI.  You now need to launch one of the programs that will talk to the Controller.
* UGCS Platform (Universal G-Code Sender Platform),  ( https://all3dp.com/2/universal-gcode-sender/ )
* bCNC ( https://github.com/vlachoudis/bCNC#readme )
UGCS is written in Java, and bCNC is a Python program.  I refer bCNC and will document that here.
'''How to Jog and position the Router:'''
The LongMill does not have travel switches.  ( https://resources.sienci.com/view/lm-adding-limit-switches/ )  Instead, you manually jog the router to a position that you wish to use as a starting point, and then zero the XYZ references.
There is also a touch plate to assist in getting precise Z (as well as X and Y) references for you particular material. 


===Machine history===
===Machine history===