They do support a few more gcode functions, easy to write custom macros and canned cycles such as peck drilling etc. Plus there are a few features I would hate to give up if using a machine controller like mach3/linuxcnc. The last one was a Dell I bought off eBay for $25. Computers that run mach3/linuxcnc are cheap. All 4 of my CNC’s use the parallel port since it is cheap and very reliable. There are plenty of USB motion controllers for mach3 that work really good if you don’t want to use a parallel port. it’s nice to be able to dial out the last. I still use Mach3 and linuxCNC which does have backlash comp. These CNC routers do have nice anti-backlash ballscrews but that doesn’t mean it has NO backlash. Posted in cnc hacks Tagged 3040 CNC, chilipeppr, tiny g Post navigationĭoes tinyg support backlash compensation. In fact, ordered the CNC machine just to do this upgrade - and he’s sharing how he did it with everyone:Īnd while you’re at it, why not add spindle direction and coolant control to your 3040 CNC as well? Or how about learning how to machine foam, and then cast it into solid aluminum? The TinyG is a motor controller we’ve covered a few times before as well - it was just waiting to be fitted into a 3040 CNC in order to run a better control system, like ChiliPeppr!

Particularly in the fact that it uses Mach3 with a parallel port… Come on, who has a parallel port these days? We’ve covered it many times before. Problem is, the electronics are a bit out-dated.

A rigid all-aluminum frame, decent stepper motors and pretty good resolution? It’s not a bad deal for around $1000USD. The 3040 or 3020 CNC router is a popular Chinese machine used by many hobbyists - and for good reason. Looking to add a small CNC machine to your garage or hackerspace’s arsenal of tools? Like any tools - China has you covered for the cheap options - but the question is, is it worth it? Typically it depends on the tool, but when you can upgrade your 3040 CNC router to use USB instead of a parallel port with the TinyG motion controller… most definitely!

4 axis usb cnc controller mach3