SUPPORT

Are you new to CNC? No worries! OpenBuilds is here to guide you step by step through the process, providing education every step of the way.

Assembly - Software - First Cut: All Covered

Our approach is designed to make your journey into CNC seamless. With our easy-to-follow OpenBuilds Machine Videos, we cover everything from assembly to software setup, culminating in your "Hello World" first cut.

Project Size Consideration

Before diving in, let's determine the scale of your projects:

Your project size will dictate the most suitable machine bundle. If you opt for the largest one, you won't need to worry about smaller projects, as all machines can cut the same materials, albeit not necessarily to the same depth.

Our current machine bundles, in ascending size order, are:

• OpenBuilds MiniMill
• OpenBuilds C-Beam
• OpenBuilds LEAD 1010
• OpenBuilds LEAD 1515

For an in-depth comparison of machine bundles, check out our full machine bundle comparison page here.

Please be aware that our machine bundles arrive as well-packed and protected kits. You'll assemble them by following the step-by-step build videos available on our YouTube channel. These videos are filmed from a first-person perspective, allowing you to build right alongside us.

Functional CNC Router Parts

Curious about what parts you need for a fully functional CNC router? Here's a breakdown of what's required and what's optional:

Required:

• Driver Board: BlackBox Motion Control System
• Motors: Either NEMA 23 (Regular or High Torque)
• 24V Power Supply Bundle
• Router: Any suitable option (mind the voltage)

Optional Enhancements:

• INTERFACE CNC Touch
• XYZ Touch Probe Plus
• Dust Shoe compatible with your selected router
• Additional Software Options (details on available software here)

Fully Loaded Kits

Indeed, we offer Fully Loaded Kits for the LEAD series. These kits encompass all the essentials plus the optional products mentioned earlier (Pro software not included but available separately):

• OpenBuilds LEAD 1010 Fully Loaded
• OpenBuilds LEAD 1515 Fully Loaded

Computer Requirements

Any computer or laptop from the past couple of years should suffice. The CNC machine itself doesn't demand a powerful computer, but the software you use for project creation might have specific requirements.

Software for Your Projects

You'll need two types of software, both of which we provide for free: OpenBuild CAM and OpenBuilds CONTROL.

OpenBuild CAM: Design or import 2D vector lines (SVG, DXF, Bitmap for laser) and create CNC, laser, plasma, etc. operations. Generate toolpaths to send to your machine.

OpenBuilds CONTROL: Connect to and control your CNC, laser, plasma, etc. This software interacts directly with your machine controller like the BlackBox, executing the toolpaths you created in OpenBuilds CAM.

These software solutions are versatile. Additionally, you have the flexibility to opt for other commercially available, free, or open-source options. You can explore software that is compatible with grbl/grblHAL, broadening your choices according to your preferences.  A ddep dive into Software can be found here.

If you have further questions or need assistance, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to support you on your CNC journey!