Millright-CNC-Router - Revision history

Chris: /* VCarve Pro Makerspace Edition */

2026-06-01T14:34:47Z

VCarve Pro Makerspace Edition

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:34, 1 June 2026
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	== VCarve Pro Makerspace Edition ==		== VCarve Pro Makerspace Edition ==

	GRM uses '''VCarve Pro Makerspace Edition''', a special licensing model		GRM uses '''VCarve Pro Makerspace Edition''', a special licensing model designed
	~~designed~~ specifically for makerspaces. ~~Here's what that means~~ for ~~members:~~		specifically for makerspaces. Members can design projects at home for free using
			the client edition, then bring their files to GRM to cut on the CNC.

	=== How It Works ===		=== How It Works ===

	* '''~~Design at home for free~~''' — Download the free VCarve Pro Makerspace		# '''Get access''' — A GRM administrator will send you an invitation link by email.
	Client Edition on your own computer and ~~design~~ your ~~projects~~ at ~~home~~,		Click the link to create your Vectric account, which GRM uses to confirm you
	at no cost ~~to you~~.		have been granted access to the Master Makerspace Edition.
	* '''Cut at GRM''' — Bring your file to GRM, ~~load it on~~ the ~~licensed~~		# '''Download the free client''' — [https://www.vectric.com/products/vcarve-makerspace-edition
	Makerspace ~~master edition~~, generate your toolpaths, and cut on the CNC.		Download VCarve Pro Makerspace Client Edition] on your own computer. It gives
	* '''Get access''' — A GRM administrator will invite you to join the		you access to all VCarve Pro features — the only limitation is that you cannot
	~~Makerspace in VCarve via email or a shared link. Once joined, your~~		save toolpaths without connecting to the Master Edition at GRM.
	~~home client and the GRM machine will work together seamlessly~~.		# '''Design at home''' — Create and refine your project at your own pace, at no cost.
			# '''Cut at GRM''' — Bring your file to GRM on a USB drive, log into the Master
			Makerspace Edition, generate your toolpaths, and cut on the CNC.

	~~This model means you can spend as much time as you want designing~~ and		Manage your account and makerspace membership at the
	~~refining~~ at ~~home~~, and ~~only use~~ CNC ~~machine time when~~ you'~~re actually~~		[https://portal.vectric.com/account Vectric Account Portal].
	~~ready~~ to ~~cut~~.
			'''Note:''' You must be CNC-certified at GRM before operating the machine.
			Contact staff to schedule orientation and certification.

			=== Cutting Your Project at GRM: Step by Step ===

			# Save your design file from the client edition onto a USB flash drive or
			external hard drive.
			# Bring the file to GRM.
			# Log into VCarve Pro Master Makerspace Edition on the GRM computer using
			the email and password you registered with.
			# Open your saved design file from your storage device.
			# Review your design settings, toolpaths, and machining parameters to confirm
			they are safe and appropriate.
			# Save out your toolpaths (G-Code), making sure to select the correct
			postprocessor for the CNC you are using.
			# '''Log out''' of both the software and the Vectric website when finished —
			failure to do so may allow others to access your account.
			# Proceed with machining, following all GRM safety guidelines.

	~~=== Downloading the Free Client ===~~		If you have questions or run into difficulty, ask a GRM staff member for assistance.

	~~[https://www.vectric.com/products/vcarve-makerspace-edition Download~~ VCarve		=== Learning VCarve Pro ===
	Pro ~~Makerspace Client Edition] — free for all GRM members.~~

	~~Once~~ you'~~ve created a Vectric account~~, ~~you can manage~~ your ~~software~~ and		If you're new to VCarve Pro, we recommend learning the software before jumping
	~~makerspace membership through~~ the		into your first project. A proven approach: watch a tutorial video and follow along,
	~~[https://portal~~.~~vectric~~.~~com/account Vectric Account Portal]~~.		then modify the project to make it your own. Repetition is the best teacher.

			Built-in tutorials are accessible from the VCarve Pro home screen — click
			'''Tutorial Video Browser''' on the left-hand panel. Recommended starting points:

			'''Getting Started'''
			* How to create a simple sign
			* How to create a v-carved sign
			* How to add a clearance tool to your v-carving
			* How to import vectors and create profile toolpaths
			* How to import and machine a 3D model

			'''Creating Vectors'''
			* Drawing circles, ellipses, and rectangles
			* Using the polyline tool
			* Adding dimensions to your drawing

			'''Transforming & Editing Objects'''
			* Moving, resizing, rotating, and mirroring objects
			* Aligning and joining vectors
			* Node editing and grouping vectors

	=== Free CNC Project Files ===		=== Free CNC Project Files ===

	Vectric ~~maintains~~ a library of ~~over~~ 100 free CNC-ready project files		Vectric offers a library of 100+ free CNC-ready project files — a great way to
	~~compatible with VCarve. These are~~ a great way to get started or find		get started or find inspiration:
	inspiration:

	[https://www.vectric.com/vectric-community/free-projects/ Vectric Free CNC Projects]		[https://www.vectric.com/vectric-community/free-projects/ Vectric Free CNC Projects]

			=== File Sharing ===

			Members may share design files with other GRM members. Do not share any
			patented or copyrighted files from third parties.

	=== What You Can Do With VCarve Pro ===		=== What You Can Do With VCarve Pro ===
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	* Import SVG, DXF, and other vector formats		* Import SVG, DXF, and other vector formats
	* Full drawing and layout tools to create designs from scratch		* Full drawing and layout tools to create designs from scratch
	* Toolpath preview/simulation ~~before cutting~~ — catch mistakes before		* Toolpath preview and simulation — catch mistakes before you cut
	~~they happen~~
	* Double-sided machining in a single session		* Double-sided machining in a single session
	* No project size limits (Pro Edition ~~feature~~)		* No project size limits (Pro Edition)
	* True shape nesting to minimize material waste		* True shape nesting to minimize material waste

Chris: /* VCarve Pro Makerspace Edition */

2026-06-01T13:57:31Z

VCarve Pro Makerspace Edition

← Older revision		Revision as of 09:57, 1 June 2026
Line 107:		Line 107:
	[https://www.vectric.com/products/vcarve-makerspace-edition Download VCarve		[https://www.vectric.com/products/vcarve-makerspace-edition Download VCarve
	Pro Makerspace Client Edition] — free for all GRM members.		Pro Makerspace Client Edition] — free for all GRM members.

			Once you've created a Vectric account, you can manage your software and
			makerspace membership through the
			[https://portal.vectric.com/account Vectric Account Portal].

	=== Free CNC Project Files ===		=== Free CNC Project Files ===
Line 126:		Line 130:
	* No project size limits (Pro Edition feature)		* No project size limits (Pro Edition feature)
	* True shape nesting to minimize material waste		* True shape nesting to minimize material waste

	~~=== Fusion 360 Post Processor ===~~

	In Fusion 360, go to '''Actions → Post Process''' and select the '''Grbl / grbl''' post processor, then click Post. Do not use any other post processor — it will produce G-code the machine cannot read.

	~~[https://help.autodesk.com/view/fusion360/ENU/ Fusion 360 Documentation] \| [https://www.youtube.com/c/AutodeskFusion360/featured Fusion 360 YouTube]~~

	~~----~~

	== File Formats ==		== File Formats ==

Chris: /* VCarve Pro — Makerspace Edition */

2026-06-01T13:53:33Z

VCarve Pro — Makerspace Edition

← Older revision		Revision as of 09:53, 1 June 2026
Line 83:		Line 83:
	\|}		\|}

	=== VCarve Pro — Makerspace Edition ===		== VCarve Pro Makerspace Edition ==

	~~📄 [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1GRmUllWCRU5CWijUJGNBciV7FUCqNSrgM06p7rCUkOI/edit?usp=sharing~~ VCarve Pro Makerspace Edition ~~Instructions]~~		GRM uses '''VCarve Pro Makerspace Edition''', a special licensing model
			designed specifically for makerspaces. Here's what that means for members:

	~~VCarve Pro Makerspace Edition works slightly differently than a standard VCarve license:~~		=== How It Works ===

	* ~~The full software is installed on the~~ '''~~GRM CNC laptop~~''' — you ~~can design and cut here~~		* '''Design at home for free''' — Download the free VCarve Pro Makerspace
	* ~~At home, download the~~ '''~~free VCarve trial~~''' ~~to design your files~~ — ~~save as a VCarve project (.crv)~~		Client Edition on your own computer and design your projects at home,
	* Bring your ~~.crv~~ file to GRM ~~on a USB drive~~, ~~open~~ it on the ~~GRM laptop to~~ generate toolpaths and cut		at no cost to you.
	* ~~You cannot generate toolpaths~~ or ~~save G-code from the trial version at~~ home ~~— only at~~ the GRM machine		* '''Cut at GRM''' — Bring your file to GRM, load it on the licensed
			Makerspace master edition, generate your toolpaths, and cut on the CNC.
			* '''Get access''' — A GRM administrator will invite you to join the
			Makerspace in VCarve via email or a shared link. Once joined, your
			home client and the GRM machine will work together seamlessly.

	~~'''Post Processor (critical):''' When saving toolpaths in VCarve~~, you ~~must select the correct post processor:~~		This model means you can spend as much time as you want designing and
	* Standard cutting: '''Grbl (mm)''' or '''Grbl (inch)'''		refining at home, and only use CNC machine time when you're actually
	* 4th axis rotary work: '''G-Code WrapY2A (mm)''' or '''G-Code WrapY2A (inch)'''		ready to cut.

	~~In VCarve v11+, go to Toolpath commands (arrow at top left) → '''Save Toolpath''' → select~~ the ~~correct post processor from the dropdown.~~		=== Downloading the Free Client ===

	[https://www.vectric.com/~~support/tutorials~~/vcarve-~~desktop~~ Download VCarve ~~Trial~~] ~~\| [https://www~~.~~youtube~~.~~com/channel/UCqkhkxqPPLdtYy8ybykTlzQ Vectric YouTube Tutorials] \|~~ [https://www.vectric.com/~~support~~/~~tutorials~~/~~vcarve-desktop~~ Vectric ~~Tutorial Videos~~]		[https://www.vectric.com/products/vcarve-makerspace-edition Download VCarve
			Pro Makerspace Client Edition] — free for all GRM members.

			=== Free CNC Project Files ===

			Vectric maintains a library of over 100 free CNC-ready project files
			compatible with VCarve. These are a great way to get started or find
			inspiration:

			[https://www.vectric.com/vectric-community/free-projects/ Vectric Free CNC Projects]

			=== What You Can Do With VCarve Pro ===

			* 2D routing and 2.5D machining (pockets, profiles, v-carving, inlays)
			* Import SVG, DXF, and other vector formats
			* Full drawing and layout tools to create designs from scratch
			* Toolpath preview/simulation before cutting — catch mistakes before
			they happen
			* Double-sided machining in a single session
			* No project size limits (Pro Edition feature)
			* True shape nesting to minimize material waste

	=== Fusion 360 Post Processor ===		=== Fusion 360 Post Processor ===

Chris at 16:57, 9 May 2026

2026-05-09T16:57:28Z

Show changes

Chris: Created page with "= MillRight Mega V CNC Router = '''⚠️ NEVER LEAVE THE CNC UNATTENDED WHILE RUNNING ⚠️''' '''⚠️ EYE PROTECTION REQUIRED WHEN MACHINE IS OPERATING ⚠️''' '''⚠️ DUST COLLECTION MUST BE RUNNING BEFORE STARTING ANY JOB ⚠️''' The MillRight Mega V is GRM's CNC router — a computer-controlled cutting and carving machine that uses a spinning router bit to remove material. It can cut, carve, pocket, profile, engrave, and create 3D relief work in wood, p..."

2026-05-09T16:39:55Z

Created page with "= MillRight Mega V CNC Router = '''⚠️ NEVER LEAVE THE CNC UNATTENDED WHILE RUNNING ⚠️''' '''⚠️ EYE PROTECTION REQUIRED WHEN MACHINE IS OPERATING ⚠️''' '''⚠️ DUST COLLECTION MUST BE RUNNING BEFORE STARTING ANY JOB ⚠️''' The MillRight Mega V is GRM's CNC router — a computer-controlled cutting and carving machine that uses a spinning router bit to remove material. It can cut, carve, pocket, profile, engrave, and create 3D relief work in wood, p..."

New page

= MillRight Mega V CNC Router =

'''⚠️ NEVER LEAVE THE CNC UNATTENDED WHILE RUNNING ⚠️'''

'''⚠️ EYE PROTECTION REQUIRED WHEN MACHINE IS OPERATING ⚠️'''

'''⚠️ DUST COLLECTION MUST BE RUNNING BEFORE STARTING ANY JOB ⚠️'''

The MillRight Mega V is GRM's CNC router — a computer-controlled cutting and carving machine that uses a spinning router bit to remove material. It can cut, carve, pocket, profile, engrave, and create 3D relief work in wood, plastics, aluminum, and more. This page covers software, setup, settings, safety, and tips to help you get great results.

----

== Machine Specifications ==

{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|-
! Spec !! Details
|-
| '''Model''' || MillRight Mega V (XL)
|-
| '''Cutting Area''' || 35" x 35" x 6" (889mm x 889mm x 152mm)
|-
| '''Router''' || DeWalt DW618
|-
| '''Drive System''' || Steel rack and pinion (X and Y axes); lead screw (Z axis)
|-
| '''Controller''' || GRBL
|-
| '''Motors''' || NEMA 23 stepper motors
|-
| '''Resolution''' || ~0.013mm on X/Y axes
|-
| '''Homing Switches''' || X, Y, and Z axis homing switches included
|-
| '''Compatible Software''' || VCarve Pro (Makerspace Edition), MillMage, Fusion 360, Universal G-Code Sender
|}

----

== Understanding CNC vs. Laser ==

If you're coming from the laser cutters, CNC routing works differently in a few important ways:

* The laser removes material with light — the CNC removes material physically with a spinning bit
* CNC produces '''chips and dust''' — dust collection is mandatory, not optional
* '''Tool selection matters''' — different bits are used for different materials and operations (unlike lasers which use the same beam for everything)
* '''Feed rate and depth of cut''' interact — too aggressive and you'll break bits or damage the machine
* Jobs take longer to set up but the machine can do things lasers can't — true 3D carving, joinery, cutting thick stock, aluminum machining

----

== Software ==

CNC routing requires two types of software: a '''CAD/CAM program''' to design your part and generate toolpaths, and a '''sender program''' to stream the G-code to the machine.

=== CAD/CAM Software ===

{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|-
! Software !! Cost !! Best For !! Notes
|-
| '''VCarve Pro (Makerspace Edition)''' || Included with GRM membership || 2D cutting, profiling, pocketing, V-carving, sign making || Primary recommended software at GRM; installed on the CNC laptop; Makerspace Edition is a special Vectric license for shared spaces — files can be designed at home with the free trial version and cut at GRM
|-
| '''MillMage''' || Free 30-day trial; Core $99; Pro $199 || Design + CAM + machine control in one program; great for LightBurn users || Brand new (launched Feb 2026) from the LightBurn team; connects directly to GRBL machines; familiar interface if you already use LightBurn; perpetual license, no subscription; [https://lightburnsoftware.com/products/millmage-core Get MillMage]
|-
| '''Fusion 360''' || Free for personal/hobby use || Complex 3D parts, mechanical components, aluminum machining || Steeper learning curve; powerful for 3D work; requires post-processor setup for GRBL
|-
| '''Easel (Inventables)''' || Free (browser-based) || Simple 2D cuts; beginners || Easy to learn; limited compared to VCarve
|}

=== Sender Software ===

The sender takes your finished G-code file and streams it to the machine in real time.

{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|-
! Software !! Cost !! Notes
|-
| '''Universal G-Code Sender (UGS)''' || Free || Primary sender used at GRM; runs on the laptop connected to the machine; open source; [https://universalgcodesender.com universalgcodesender.com]
|-
| '''MillMage''' || See above || MillMage includes built-in machine control — no separate sender needed if using MillMage end-to-end
|}

=== VCarve Pro — Makerspace Edition Notes ===

VCarve Pro Makerspace Edition works slightly differently than a standard VCarve license:

* The full software is installed on the '''GRM CNC laptop''' — you can design and cut here
* At home, download the '''free VCarve trial''' to design your files — save as a VCarve project (.crv)
* Bring your .crv file to GRM on a USB drive and open it on the GRM laptop to generate toolpaths and cut
* You cannot generate toolpaths or save G-code from the trial version at home — only at the GRM machine

[https://www.vectric.com/products/vcarve-pro Download VCarve Trial]

----

== File Formats ==

{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|-
! Format !! Use !! Notes
|-
| SVG || 2D vector design || Import into VCarve or MillMage for toolpath generation
|-
| DXF / DWG || 2D vector (CAD) || Good for precise technical drawings; imports cleanly into VCarve
|-
| STL || 3D model || Used for 3D relief carving in VCarve Pro or Fusion 360
|-
| .crv || VCarve project file || Native VCarve format; bring this to GRM to open on the CNC laptop
|-
| .nc / .gcode || G-code (toolpath output) || Generated by CAM software; sent to machine via UGS or MillMage
|}

----

== Bits & Tooling ==

Choosing the right bit is one of the most important parts of CNC routing. Using the wrong bit for a material or operation will produce poor results and can break the bit.

=== Common Bit Types ===

{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|-
! Bit Type !! Best For !! Notes
|-
| '''Upcut Spiral (End Mill)''' || General cutting, profiling, pocketing in wood and plastic || Pulls chips up and out of the cut; leaves a clean bottom edge; most common bit for general work
|-
| '''Downcut Spiral''' || Top surface finish on wood and plywood || Pushes chips down; cleaner top edge; can pack chips into cut — not ideal for deep pockets
|-
| '''Compression Bit''' || Plywood and sheet goods || Combines upcut and downcut; clean top and bottom edges; best for finished plywood panels
|-
| '''V-Bit (60°, 90°)''' || V-carving, lettering, decorative engraving || Angle determines width and depth of V-groove; used with VCarve's V-carving toolpath
|-
| '''Ball Nose''' || 3D relief carving, curved surfaces || Used for finishing passes on 3D work; produces smooth curved surfaces
|-
| '''Straight Flute''' || Plastics, acrylic || Reduces heat buildup; prevents melting
|-
| '''Single Flute''' || Aluminum, soft metals || Clears chips efficiently; prevents re-cutting; slower feed rates required
|}

=== Bit Shank Sizes ===

The DeWalt DW618 uses a standard router collet. Check which collet is installed before selecting bits:
* '''1/4" shank''' — most common; fits the standard collet
* '''1/2" shank''' — larger bits; requires collet swap

Ask a staff member or volunteer if you're unsure which collet is currently installed.

----

== Startup Procedure ==

# Connect the CNC laptop to the machine via USB cable
# Open '''Universal G-Code Sender (UGS)''' on the laptop
# Power on the machine controller (switch on the electronics enclosure)
# In UGS, click '''Connect''' — confirm the machine connects successfully
# '''Home the machine''' — click the home button in UGS or run the homing cycle ($H in the console). The machine will move to find all three axis home switches.
# Secure your material to the bed using clamps, tape, or the spoilboard hold-down system
# Set your '''Work Zero (X, Y, Z)''' — jog to your starting position and zero each axis

⚠️ '''Always home the machine at the start of every session.''' Without homing, the machine has no reference for where it is and jobs will not run in the correct location.

----

== Setting Work Zero (X, Y, Z Origin) ==

Work zero tells the machine where your job starts. This is separate from the machine's home position.

* '''X and Y zero''' — typically set to a corner of your material (usually front-left) or the center, depending on how your file was set up in VCarve
* '''Z zero''' — the top surface of your material. Use the Z-probe touch plate if available, or manually jog down until the bit just touches the surface, then zero Z

''Always confirm your work zero setup matches how your file was set up in VCarve before running.''

----

== Running a Job ==

# Load your G-code file in UGS (File → Open)
# Use the '''visualizer''' in UGS to preview the toolpath — confirm it looks correct before running
# Turn on the '''DeWalt router''' — set the speed dial to the appropriate setting for your material (see table below)
# Turn on '''dust collection'''
# Click '''Start''' in UGS
# Stay by the machine and watch the first few passes carefully — if anything looks wrong, hit the '''Feed Hold''' or '''Stop''' button immediately

=== DeWalt DW618 Speed Settings ===

{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|-
! Dial Setting !! RPM (approx.) !! Best For
|-
| 1 || ~8,000 RPM || Aluminum, soft metals (with single flute bit)
|-
| 2 || ~10,000 RPM || Hardwoods, dense materials
|-
| 3–4 || ~12,000–16,000 RPM || General wood routing, plywood, MDF
|-
| 5–6 || ~18,000–24,000 RPM || Plastics, light engraving, V-carving
|}

''These are general starting points. Consult your CAM software's recommended settings for your specific bit and material.''

----

== Feed Rate & Depth of Cut ==

These two settings control how aggressively the machine cuts. Getting them wrong is the most common cause of broken bits and poor results.

* '''Feed rate''' — how fast the bit moves through the material (mm/min or in/min)
* '''Depth of cut (DOC)''' — how deep the bit cuts per pass
* '''Step over''' — for pocketing, how much of the bit diameter overlaps each pass (typically 40–50%)

'''General starting points for 1/4" upcut spiral bit in wood:'''

{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|-
! Material !! Feed Rate !! Depth Per Pass !! Router Speed
|-
| Softwood (pine, cedar) || 1500–2500 mm/min || 4–6mm || Dial 3–4
|-
| Hardwood (oak, maple) || 1000–2000 mm/min || 3–4mm || Dial 3–4
|-
| Plywood (birch, cabinet) || 1500–2500 mm/min || 4–6mm || Dial 3–4
|-
| MDF || 2000–3000 mm/min || 4–6mm || Dial 3–4
|-
| Acrylic / Plastics || 1000–2000 mm/min || 1–2mm || Dial 5–6
|-
| Aluminum (6061) || 500–1000 mm/min || 0.5–1mm || Dial 1–2
|}

⚠️ '''When in doubt, go slower and shallower.''' You can always increase speed. A broken bit wastes time and money. Multiple passes at a conservative depth are almost always better than one aggressive pass.

----

== Workholding ==

Keeping your material from moving during a cut is critical — a shifting workpiece can ruin the job and is a safety hazard.

* '''Clamps''' — mechanical clamps on the spoilboard; most common method; make sure clamps don't interfere with the toolpath
* '''Double-sided tape''' — good for thin stock or when clamps would interfere; use carpet tape or machinist tape
* '''Screws into spoilboard''' — for larger sheet goods; screw through sacrificial areas of material into the spoilboard
* '''Tabs''' — add small holding tabs in VCarve to keep cut pieces attached to the sheet until the job is done; snap or cut off afterward

''Always check that clamps and fasteners are clear of the toolpath before running. Use the UGS visualizer or VCarve preview to confirm clearance.''

----

== Spoilboard ==

The spoilboard is the sacrificial MDF surface the machine cuts into. It protects the machine bed and allows you to cut all the way through your material.

* It's normal and expected for the spoilboard to get cut into — that's its job
* Periodically the spoilboard needs to be '''surfaced (flattened)''' — ask a staff member if it looks uneven or heavily damaged
* Do not cut into the aluminum bed beneath the spoilboard

----

== Materials Reference ==

=== ✅ Approved Materials ===

{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|-
! Material !! Cut !! Carve/Engrave !! Notes
|-
| Softwood (pine, cedar, poplar) || Yes || Yes || Easy to machine; watch for tearout with wrong bit direction
|-
| Hardwood (oak, maple, walnut) || Yes || Yes || Slower feed rates; sharp bits essential
|-
| Plywood (birch, cabinet grade) || Yes || Yes || Use compression or downcut bit for clean edges
|-
| MDF || Yes || Yes || Heavy dust — dust collection essential; dulls bits faster than solid wood
|-
| Acrylic (cast) || Yes || Yes || Use single or straight flute bit; prevent melting with correct speeds
|-
| HDPE / Plastics || Yes || Yes || Single flute bit; good chip clearance
|-
| Aluminum (6061) || Yes || Yes || Single flute bit; slow feed; cutting fluid recommended; no coolant system on this machine so take shallow passes
|-
| Foam (tooling foam, rigid) || Yes || Yes || Very easy to machine; watch for chips
|-
| Carbon fiber / Fiberglass || Caution || Caution || Extremely hazardous dust — full respiratory protection required; consult staff first
|}

=== ❌ Do Not Cut These Materials ===

{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|-
! style="background:#ffe4e4;" | Material !! style="background:#ffe4e4;" | Why
|-
| '''PVC / Vinyl''' || Toxic fumes when machined
|-
| '''Polycarbonate''' || Melts and chips unpredictably; poor results
|-
| '''Steel / Hardened metals''' || Machine is not rated for ferrous metals
|-
| '''Anything with unknown composition''' || Always verify material before cutting
|}

----

== Safety Rules ==

* '''Always wear eye protection''' — chips and dust fly unpredictably
* '''Hearing protection recommended''' for long jobs — the router is loud
* '''Never reach into the cutting area while the machine is running'''
* '''Keep hands away from the bit at all times''' — the DeWalt DW618 spins at up to 24,000 RPM
* '''Always stay by the machine while it's running''' — never leave a running job unattended
* If something looks or sounds wrong: click '''Feed Hold''' in UGS to pause, or hit the '''Emergency Stop''' on the controller to cut power immediately
* '''Turn off the router before making any adjustments''' to workholding or bit height
* '''Dust collection must be running''' before starting any job — wood and MDF dust is a fire and health hazard

See [[Laser_cutting_and_etching#Emergency_Procedures|Emergency Procedures]] on the main laser page for emergency contact and first aid kit location.

----

== Helpful Tips ==

=== Always Run a Test / Air Cut First ===
Before cutting your actual material, raise Z by 10–20mm and run the job in the air — watch the toolpath trace out and confirm it matches your expectations. This catches origin errors before they cost you material.

=== Climb vs. Conventional Milling ===
* '''Conventional milling''' (default) — bit rotates against the feed direction; safer for wood; less chance of grabbing
* '''Climb milling''' — bit rotates with feed direction; better finish on some materials; can grab or pull on less rigid setups — use with caution

VCarve defaults to conventional milling for most operations, which is correct for the Mega V.

=== Tabs ===
For profile (cutout) operations, always add tabs in VCarve to keep parts from flying loose when the last pass finishes. Set tabs to at least 3mm high and 6–8mm wide for most work.

=== Save Your Settings ===
* Save your VCarve files with descriptive names (e.g., ''oak-box-lid-2025.crv'')
* Store files in Google Drive or on a USB drive
* Note your bit, feed rate, DOC, and router speed alongside your project — you'll want them next time

----

== Design Resources ==

{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|-
! Resource !! Description !! Link
|-
| '''Vectric Tutorial Videos''' || Official VCarve tutorials from beginner to advanced || [https://www.vectric.com/support/tutorials vectric.com/tutorials]
|-
| '''MillMage Documentation''' || Official docs for MillMage setup and use || [https://docs.millmagesoftware.com docs.millmagesoftware.com]
|-
| '''MillRight CNC Support''' || Official MillRight support and community forum || [https://millrightcnc.com millrightcnc.com]
|-
| '''Maker World / Thingiverse''' || Free CNC-ready files (STL and SVG) || [https://www.makerworld.com makerworld.com]
|-
| '''Etsy''' || Paid and free SVG/DXF files for CNC || [https://www.etsy.com etsy.com]
|-
| '''GRM Discord / Volunteers''' || Ask for help with settings, file prep, or troubleshooting || Ask at the space or in Discord
|}

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== Troubleshooting & Staff Notes ==

* '''Machine won't home:''' Check USB connection; confirm controller is powered on; check that homing switches are not physically obstructed
* '''Lost connection mid-job:''' USB cable issue or laptop went to sleep — disable sleep/screensaver on the CNC laptop before running long jobs
* '''Bit breaking:''' Feed rate or DOC too aggressive; wrong bit for material; bit not secured properly in collet; material shifting
* '''Chatter / vibration:''' Feed rate too fast; bit too long; workholding loose; reduce DOC and feed rate
* '''Rough surface finish:''' Bit dull; feed rate too fast; step over too large; try a finishing pass at higher speed and shallower DOC
* '''Job running in wrong location:''' Work zero not set correctly; check that VCarve origin matches where you zeroed on the machine
* '''Questions or issues:''' Leave a note on the whiteboard by the machine, or flag the on-duty volunteer.