Recently, among craftsmen, it has become more and more popular to use CNC (computer numerical control) machines for use at home. At this time, almost everyone has a personal, desktop or laptop computer, which can help control the execution of highly accurate and time-consuming routine jobs in the field of modeling, electronics, graphics, etc.
Why do we need a desktop DIY CNC machine?
Well, if a hobbyist has a solid background in precision mechanics and electronics manufacturing theory and experience, they are capable of designing and manufacturing an amateur machine for their own purpose. But not everyone can take on this task. To produce an inexpensive amateur machine, you need a desktop DIY CNC machine. For the “lazy,” a well-established, mounted machine with stepper motors would be a good choice.
Applications
By using the machine as a work tool, you can:
- Drills (manufacture of printed circuit boards);
- Mill in wood, plastics, particle board, MDF and similar materials;
- Cut complex shapes from plywood parts (for example, in modeling);
- Engrave on all non-metallic material.
When you use the machine as a ballpoint pen or other stylus, you can draw pictures and inscriptions on various materials and objects, including paper, film, CD and DVD drives.
When using the machine as a tool head with a laser diode, you can possibly:
- Record images of printed wiring on an amateur printed circuit board production;
- Engrave images, graphics, and labels onto a variety of materials (wood, plexiglass, plastics, leather, etc.)
- Cut letters, inscriptions and drawings in self-adhesive advertising film type on microporous materials of 1-6 mm thickness;
- Engrave on wood, plywood photos, take burning family photos;
- Laser engrave nameplates on plastic and metal;
- Cut non-thick materials into complex shaped pieces;
Recommendation
If you need such a machine for home use, I would like to recommend the Triaxial Desktop DIY CNC Machine. It is made of aluminum material, durable and solid. With the adjustable focal length, you can use it to carve wood, etc. Main purposes include wood plate engraving, laser engraving, PCB sculpture, acrylic sculpture, etc. In addition, this machine is equipped with a constant current driver board, which ensures stable optical output power. And no external controller board is necessary. So as far as I’m concerned, this triaxial desktop DIY CNC machine would be a good choice for home use.
