Chapter 1. What Is CNC?
A CNC is a machine whose movements are controlled by a computer through a process known as Computer Numerical Control. Some examples of common CNC machines are routers, milling machines, 3D printers, vinyl cutters, laser cutters, pick-and-place machines, and many others.
Figure 1-1. CNC router in action
Although we’ll be talking mostly about subtractive CNC machines that remove material with sharp, spinning tools (as illustrated in Figure 1-1), the principles of CNC apply to any type of CNC machine you may encounter.
Note
In the Maker lexicon, it’s common to refer to a computer-controlled router or mill as a CNC, while ...
Get Getting Started with CNC now with the O’Reilly learning platform.
O’Reilly members experience books, live events, courses curated by job role, and more from O’Reilly and nearly 200 top publishers.
