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The DIYLILCNC: Open-Source Plans For a Low-Cost, Easy-to-Build CNC Mill.

(v1.0.2)
by DIYLILCNC on November 28, 2010

Table of Contents
The DIYLILCNC: Open-Source Plans For a Low-Cost, Easy-to-Build CNC Mill. (v1.0.2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Intro: The DIYLILCNC: Open-Source Plans For a Low-Cost, Easy-to-Build CNC Mill. (v1.0.2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Step 1: Download the Plans. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Step 2: Order Parts and Hardware. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Step 3: Hand-Cut a Few Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Step 4: Laser-Cut (or CNC) Gantry Panels. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Step 5: Assemble the Hardware. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Step 6: Set Up a Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Step 7: Make Something! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Related Instructables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Advertisements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Comments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

http://www.instructables.com/id/The-DIYLILCNC-Open-Source-Plans-For-a-Low-Cost-E/

Author:DIYLILCNC

http://diylilcnc.org
Help us produce more tutorials by supporting our kickstarter campaign! http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/chrisreilly/diylilcnc-20-open-source-plans-for-alow-cost-cnc
The DIYLILCNC project is a set of plans for an inexpensive, fully functional 3-axis CNC mill that can be built by an individual with basic shop skills and tool
access.
The DIYLILCNC project was started at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago in 2007 by Taylor Hokanson and Chris Reilly.

Intro: The DIYLILCNC: Open-Source Plans For a Low-Cost, Easy-to-Build CNC Mill. (v1.0.2)
The DIYLILCNC project is a set of plans for an inexpensive, fully functional 3-axis CNC mill that can be built by an individual with basic shop skills and tool access.
CNC devices are used to fabricate physical objects with a high degree of precision. Some CNC devices, including the DIYLILCNC , feature a gantry-mounted cutting tool
(like a router) that can move in two or more directions. The operation of the tool is controlled by a computer, which is tasked with translating a digital design into actual
tool movement.
The DIYLILCNC can be built for around $700. This cost includes all the stock hardware and sheet material used in construction. CAD files for custom laser-cut parts are
distributed along with the plans. Anyone with access to a laser cutter can use these files to fabricate all the panel parts necessary for construction; those without ready
laser-cutter access can use local or online laser-cutting services. Some users have even adapted the files to be cut using another CNC mill.
Plans and instructions for building the DIYLILCNC are distributed freely and intended for wide distribution and modification with few restrictions. The plans are formatted
to facilitate easy fabrication, especially for beginners. The DIYLILCNC can be built by an individual, a student group, or a class. Besides being immensely fun, building
the DIYLILCNC is a great way to learn about motion control and CAD/CAM/CAE.
Specs
-Cutting bed size: ~12 x 14 x 2
-Spindle speed: 0-35,000 RPM
-Total cost for hardware, sheet material, motors and driver board: ~$700
-Tested cut materials: foam, hardwood, acrylic, MDF, thin copper sheet
Licensing
The plans and source files for this project are released under a Creative Commons Attribution Share-Alike license. This license lets others remix, tweak, and build upon
our work and the work of previous authors, even for commercial reasons, as long as they credit all authors/contributors appropriately and license their new creations
under identical terms. This license is often compared to open source software licenses. All new works based on the information presented below must carry the same
license.
Attribution
Authors names and sponsor institutions referenced below must be attributed in any future modification or redistribution of these plans.
This project is a fusion of two instruction sets published by Stuart McFarlane/Oomlout : CNC1/desktop CNC router (2007) provided the basic design for a functioning
CNC mill; How to Make Anything (Using Acrylic and Machine Screws) (2009) details a solution for constructing 90 joints in laser-cuts stock using simple hardware.
The plans and source files presented below were adapted and expanded by: Chris Reilly (www.rainbowlazer.com , www.chris-reilly.org ) and Taylor Hokanson (
www.taylorhokanson.com ) with generous support in the form of funding and facilities from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) .

http://www.instructables.com/id/The-DIYLILCNC-Open-Source-Plans-For-a-Low-Cost-E/

Step 1: Download the Plans.

Visit http://diylilcnc.org/downloads and get the CAD Files & Assembly Instructions for version 1.0.2.

Step 2: Order Parts and Hardware.

Use the parts list on pages 19-22 of the instruction PDF to order all the parts, hardware and stock you'll need. The MDF and some hardware can probably be sourced at
lower prices from a local hardware store.
The parts costs for these plans include all of the hardware, stock and electrical components needed to build the mill/gantry, driver board and driver board enclosure. The
total cost does not take into account the cost of the controller PC, nor does it account for the cost of laser cutting services, should you need to use them. Prices listed
were accurate at the time of publication, but may currently be higher (or lower).
In addition to the parts on the list, youll have to acquire a PC that can be used to run the controller software (see page 62 of the instruction PDF for specs).

http://www.instructables.com/id/The-DIYLILCNC-Open-Source-Plans-For-a-Low-Cost-E/

Step 3: Hand-Cut a Few Parts

Some parts of the DIYLILCNC must be fabricated by hand. These are mostly done with easy table-saw or chop-saw cuts.
Pages 23-26 of the instruction PDF cover the details.

http://www.instructables.com/id/The-DIYLILCNC-Open-Source-Plans-For-a-Low-Cost-E/

Step 4: Laser-Cut (or CNC) Gantry Panels.

Use the .dxf file included in the CAD Files & Assembly Instructions for version 1.0.2 to generate your gantry panels from the 1/4" Masonite/MDF stock.
Beware, as not all 1/4" stock is exactly 0.25"-- we found materials to range in thickness anywhere from 0.2"-0.25", and this can make a big difference when trying to fit
parts together. Measure stock thickness with calipers before you cut your parts!
Too-thick parts can sometimes be sanded to fit toghether; alternately, you can visit the DIYLILCNC downloads page for an Illustrator symbol file that links all the
connection patterns to central symbol shapes--just change the depth of the symbols, and the new thickness settings will cascade out to all the cut patterns in the file.
If you don't have access to a laser cutter, you can use online service bureaus like Ponoko , or look for local providers at a site like ThomasNet . Several cities now have a
TechShop , sort of like a Gold's Gym for CNC fabrication. Additionally, many colleges and universities are now acquiring laser cutting equipment, and college students (or
professors, for that matter) can easily be paid off in beer and pizza!

http://www.instructables.com/id/The-DIYLILCNC-Open-Source-Plans-For-a-Low-Cost-E/

Step 5: Assemble the Hardware.

Follow the detailed assembly instructions, starting on page 35 of the instruction PDF.

Step 6: Set Up a Computer.

Find a computer with a parallel port, then install EMC Linux . Plug in your configuration settings and you're ready to roll!
Don't have a computer with a parallel port? Here's a detailed walk-through of setting up a $175 PC , including software installation and EMC setup.

http://www.instructables.com/id/The-DIYLILCNC-Open-Source-Plans-For-a-Low-Cost-E/

Step 7: Make Something!

For a detailed list of free/cheap design software for CNC milling, see this link . CNC fabrication can be very simple or very complicated depending on what you're doing.
Don't be afraid to ask questions at the DIYLILCNC forum , or at local hacker spaces near you.

http://www.instructables.com/id/The-DIYLILCNC-Open-Source-Plans-For-a-Low-Cost-E/

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Comments
50 comments Add Comment

view all 54 comments

yosheego says:

Feb 18, 2014. 5:49 PM REPLY

Hi, very nice! exactly what I'm looking for. Reading up on this on DIYLILCNC.org and saw it had a 2.0 version...This is the old version I assume?

???????? says:

Nov 20, 2013. 12:52 AM REPLY

Very nice

mambre says:

Apr 27, 2012. 1:57 PM REPLY

How big are your stepper motors and where did you get them?

halfmumi says:

Aug 29, 2011. 10:30 AM REPLY

Does it work with USB?

DIYLILCNC says:

Aug 29, 2011. 6:42 PM REPLY

The driver board we have specified in the current design only works with a parallel printer cable. We are looking into other options for version 2
(specifically, the TinyG) that support USB interfaces.

ddw_az says:

Mar 8, 2012. 9:40 AM REPLY

at work they use this

hytekautomation.com
for a "bed of nails tester".

pfred2 says:

Oct 3, 2011. 5:19 PM REPLY

Search "USB real time", read, then decide for yourself. For me the answer is no.

bramanti bekti says:

Mar 6, 2012. 6:31 PM REPLY

nice

ilpug says:

Oct 18, 2011. 6:01 PM REPLY

So... you use a CNC machine... to make more CNC machines? quite diabolical.
Very nice. I hope to make one soon, once i get a job.

TBKCNC says:

Feb 24, 2012. 10:33 AM REPLY

Im a Junior in highschool and we are building this exact model from the guys at DIYLILCNC and so far everything is running great. Its a very well
rounded group project that needs a verity of skills.

Electronics Man says:

Jan 19, 2012. 2:42 PM REPLY

Great Instructable!!! Im making a CNC machine of my own but I have a few questions. Has anyone used the HobbyCNC EZ Driver Board Kit or the PRO
series? Im not sure how to adjust the boards output voltage to match my steppers

http://www.instructables.com/id/The-DIYLILCNC-Open-Source-Plans-For-a-Low-Cost-E/

gbredemeyer says:

Oct 18, 2011. 9:37 PM REPLY

Project looks good. i know some folks who built a very similar model. It looked great, thanks for the post!
-Graham, www.pypline.com -The online community for makers

ProMt8Pge says:

Sep 11, 2011. 1:57 PM REPLY

It looks like the following page also provides a method for making your own CNC mill:
http://sites.google.com/site/calculatingrisk/Home/cnc-mill
Has anyone tried building it?

hussam.tech says:

Jul 19, 2011. 12:40 AM REPLY

Fantastico

nnsg says:

Jul 7, 2011. 3:02 PM REPLY

Does the software contain the calibration to tell the step settings, how do you configure software to the motor.

DIYLILCNC says:

Jul 7, 2011. 6:49 PM REPLY

Yes it does. See these links for explicit how-to's:

http://diylilcnc.org/downloads/ (grab the current CAD Files & Assembly Instructions)
http://blogs.saic.edu/axisofoutput/2010/09/17/cheap-cnc-linux-pc/
http://www.linuxcnc.org/docview/html/config_stepconf.html

88nightrider says:

Jul 2, 2011. 4:45 AM REPLY

Is this CNC meant only for wood or can it be used on harder materials as steel etc?
Looks like a nice piece of machinery.

DIYLILCNC says:

Jul 2, 2011. 9:12 AM REPLY

It can definitely work on other materials. Steel and ferrous metals are probably too hard, but we've had good luck with thin copper so it would probably
work with softer metals like aluminum or brass.

88nightrider says:

Jul 2, 2011. 12:02 PM REPLY

If applying this design to metal parts instead of MDF would it not be more rigid?
And converting all the movement to threaded shafts.
Then using bigger motors, and maby something other then my dremel, then It might machine harder materials?
Just looking at designs that would work for me.

DIYLILCNC says:

Jul 2, 2011. 4:19 PM REPLY

Ultimately, the DIYLILCNC--or any CNC for that matter--can cut any material that it's tool is capable of cutting, given enough time and the proper
setup (eg, coolant, ventilation, ect). So while the DIYLILCNC could technically cut anything a Dremel can cut, it may not be the most practical way
to go about the job.
When you're working with harder metals like steel and iron, you'll need to use lots of coolant & lubricant during milling. This would pose some
problems with the MDF, which generally doesn't respond well to moisture.
A more common way to incorporate CNC milling with harder materials is to mill a blank out of wax or plastic, then use that in a casting process,
similar to what's outlined here: http://rainbowlazer.com/cnc-fabrication/laser-cutting/bronze-casting-from-laser-cut-forms/
Hope that helps!

88nightrider says:

Jul 3, 2011. 7:39 AM REPLY

Thank you for your answer.
Well then im thinking about (like I have read in the comments) using Acrylic instead if the MDF.
The Acrylic should have no trouble with the use of coolant/lubrication right? Or heat?
So structurally there should be no problem to mill steel?
I am realy liking the idea of being able to make things in steel or aluminium myself, making parts for for my RC car etc.
Casting of parts would also be cool to do, but I dont see myself doing that with smaller parts.
No problems involved with making changes to the design? Like height and size of the table?

88nightrider says:
Maby a better question.
What is it that limits how hard of a material this CNC can work with?

http://www.instructables.com/id/The-DIYLILCNC-Open-Source-Plans-For-a-Low-Cost-E/

Jul 2, 2011. 3:23 PM REPLY

DIYLILCNC says:

Jun 24, 2011. 6:08 PM REPLY

We just launched a kickstarter campaign for DIYLILCNC version 2.0! Contribute now and we'll even name a part after you!
http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/chrisreilly/diylilcnc-20-open-source-plans-for-a-low-cost-cnc

mgauvin8810 says:

Jan 20, 2011. 9:58 AM REPLY

ok I received 3 quotes for having all the parts laser cut for me. On 1/2" MDF or Acrylic they were all over 3K$. Who would cut these for blue collar pricing???

arthurwhitt says:

May 12, 2011. 6:53 AM REPLY

I will be glad to quote you blue collar pricing for all your laser parts. Please send me drawings of what you want lasered and I will give you a quote. If
there is an interest here I will be glad to provide a complete kit of required lasered parts at one Price. If anyone is interested, I need a set of plans to bid
on. If you would be interested in the kit please also send me a email so that I can determine if there is enough interest to go ahead with the kit project.
Please send to arthurwhitt@gmail.com. My mailing address is Laser Etch 531 North 150 W, Kaysville, Utah 84037. My telephone number is 801-6828711.

DIYLILCNC says:

May 13, 2011. 8:40 AM REPLY

arthurwhitt, you can get the DXF file from http://diylilcnc.org/downloads. We've also been selling laser-cut panel kits for a few weeks now at
http://diylilcnc.org/buy.

mgauvin8810 says:

May 13, 2011. 9:13 AM REPLY

from your website "Sorry, panel kits are currently out of stock! "

DIYLILCNC says:

Jan 20, 2011. 10:43 AM REPLY

First of all you want 1/4", not 1/2" material. This project is specifically aimed at students or other makers with direct access to laser cutting (or with access
to friends with access, etc.). That said, DIYLILCNC is in the process of establishing an L3C (or low-profit, mission-based LLC) to provide inexpensive
laser-cut panels to folks like you. Prices will be about $250 for a Masonite/hardboard panel set including shipping. If you're interested, keep an eye on
diylilcnc.org. We'll post availability the moment we get a business bank account up and running.

mgauvin8810 says:

Jan 20, 2011. 11:10 AM REPLY

Thanks, I realized the size mistake, I guess I overlooked that in the excitement of the project. Would Acrylic work for this as well? Also, I would pay
$250.00 all day long for these parts! Have a great day! (^^,)

The House says:

Mar 27, 2011. 12:40 PM REPLY

700 dollars? what? Seems like a lot....

johnfanok says:

Feb 9, 2011. 10:00 PM REPLY

Assuming I build a machine to accommodate a 4' x 8' piece, will the software allow for any size material parameters? Also, how do you keep the material in
place while it's cutting? thanks!

DIYLILCNC says:

Feb 13, 2011. 12:44 PM REPLY

Double-sided tape is great for hold-downs, or just screwing into waste sections of stock.
The software will accommodate whatever size you want, however take a look at these posts on the DIYLICNC forum for some caveats on & examples of
building bigger.
http://diylilcnc.org/forum/topic/expanding-bed-sizeworkable-cutting-area
http://diylilcnc.org/forum/topic/a-very-modified-bulid

tgsnyder says:

Jan 11, 2011. 12:50 PM REPLY

I'd really love to see the plans in a format readable by free software (maybe svg for inkscape). I haven't been able to get the files open with any of the software I
can get my hands on, to see if the TechShop RDU laser cutter bed is large enough. I don't think it is.
Other than my file format problems, the instructions and parts list in this project are great!

DIYLILCNC says:

Jan 11, 2011. 1:49 PM REPLY

Hey tgsnyder, what software are you using? The DXF specs are out in the open, and most programs play pretty nice with the files. If you still can't get it
to work, there are a few other formats in the Sandbox section of the DIYLILCNC downloads page. If that still doesn't work, we'll throw some SVG's up
there.
What size is your laser bed? I think the longest piece is about 31". We're about to start work on V2, which will hopefully accommodate more of the laser
cutters out there. Keep checking the site for updates.

http://www.instructables.com/id/The-DIYLILCNC-Open-Source-Plans-For-a-Low-Cost-E/

tgsnyder says:

Jan 11, 2011. 8:01 PM REPLY

I have tried the AI files in the sandbox section, but the version of AI I had access to was too old, and both inkscape and Corel both didn't want to import
them. I tried a lot of different (free) software to open the dxf, and only had luck with one (which helpfully merged all the layers for me).
Unfortunately, the laser cutter at TechShop RDU is 18" x 24" so this version is out. I'll definitely keep an eye on the site though.
Thanks for the great documentation on this project!

jmatthias says:

Jan 13, 2011. 10:10 AM REPLY

tgsnyder,
While both of those programs should be able to read the plans just fine, how about trying an intermediary program. There are actually many
versions of the DXF format (and then some are binary and some are ASCII), so you might need something that can play well with the distributed
files and your software. DraftSight is totally free and works really well. It's from the makers of Solidworks. It's out for both Mac and PC. Here's a
link:
http://www.3ds.com/products/draftsight/download-draftsight/?xtor=SEC-6-GOO-[]-[]-S-[draftsight]
Open the files in DraftSight and then "save as..." them, making sure to use R2000-2002 Binary Drawing .DXF. (I know the years are right, the
only thing you might need to change is to ASCII)
After that, the file should open in either piece of software just fine. Hope that helps!

XTL says:

Jan 13, 2011. 3:09 PM REPLY

has anyone put this on Ponoko ?

DIYLILCNC says:

Jan 21, 2011. 8:32 AM REPLY

Sure, one of our forum members did a while back:

http://www.ponoko.com/design-your-own/products/diylilcnc-version-1-0-2-no-part-names--4585

GlobalVillageIdiot says:

Jan 14, 2011. 10:16 AM REPLY

>>Anyone with access to a laser cutter can use these files to fabricate all the panel parts necessary for construction . . .
Could you use the DIYLILCNC to cut the panel parts for a second (third, etc.) DIYLILCNC instead of a laser cutter?

DIYLILCNC says:

Jan 14, 2011. 12:24 PM REPLY

That's right! With the exception of a couple pieces that are longer than the tool's working area, all of the gantry pieces could be fabricated with an existing
DIYLILCNC (or most any CNC mill). See http://www.flickr.com/photos/42433826@N00/4760445175/ for examples of designers who are trying to address
the issue by breaking down larger elements into bite-size pieces. You'll also need "bunny ears" to handle the enlarged kerf of non-lazer fab.

Steinzel says:

Jan 10, 2011. 3:31 PM REPLY

I built one from scratch that could handle a 4 X 8 sheet of plywood for around 1500.00 for making signs. It was mostly wood and used roller blade wheels.
This one is nice, I like it!

useraaaaa says:

Jan 11, 2011. 2:06 PM REPLY

1500 !!!
holly cow
http://cgi.ebay.de/CNC-2520-Router-Engraver-Drilling-and-Milling-Machine-/230569005568?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item35aefbd200
real thing
$780 with shipping

Steinzel says:

Jan 11, 2011. 2:17 PM REPLY

The bed on my CNC could handle a FULL SHEET of plywood. I think I got off pretty cheap. LOL

edknue says:

Jan 13, 2011. 6:16 PM REPLY

My hat's off to you. To make a cnc machine that can handle a full sheet of plywood is one thing but to it for $1500 that cool.

2ManyProjects says:

Jan 13, 2011. 1:36 PM REPLY

I started in with a group building one of these and abandoned the project. You really need a laser cutter to build it and I had trouble getting time on one.
Additionally, hardware cost was high and you have to tailor the size of the slots based on material thickness which is very variable from sheet to sheet.
Alternative plans that don't require a laser cutter are available at cnczone.com. I also like the plans solsylva.com is selling. Your mileage may vary, this is just
me 2 cents...

http://www.instructables.com/id/The-DIYLILCNC-Open-Source-Plans-For-a-Low-Cost-E/

iangclau says:

Jan 12, 2011. 7:56 AM REPLY

Fantastico

Jayefuu says:

Jan 10, 2011. 1:31 PM REPLY

Nice. Looks like a neat system. Got a laser cutter so tempted to make one, have been thinking about it for a while :D
This Instructable would be even better if you added more pictures of what it's capable, it might read less like an advert then. Though of course this is the best
kind of advert, since it's free.

fungus amungus says:

Jan 10, 2011. 1:04 PM REPLY

All right! You posted it here!

DIYLILCNC says:

Jan 10, 2011. 11:30 AM REPLY

Yes, we've seen a number of users make interesting modifications, like enlarging the gantry, or attaching a ballpoint pen to turn the DIYLILCNC into a
plotter.

kelseymh says:

Jan 10, 2011. 10:41 AM REPLY

Woot! What a really great project. And since you've made the gantry fairly customizable, this could be turned into a 3D printer with a relatively small
modification -- a dispenser unit and a third control axis as part of the gantry module.

http://www.instructables.com/id/The-DIYLILCNC-Open-Source-Plans-For-a-Low-Cost-E/