I also have a Lavricable Grand collecting dust if you find you’re wanting something to hold you over
Looks like fun. What kind of software does it use for programming?
It uses g-code for directing the spindle. Fairly basic and universal but, as I understand it, perfect for such a small machine and widely compatible. I’m making models in Freecad then using Fusion 360 for CAM conversion and export to g-code. Handily this type of cnc comes with a little Arduino based controller so you can either connect directly to a computer, or put the files on a micro SD card and let the controller run it. Depending how much I use it and how I feel I may later get a Pi 5 and touch screen to run linuxCNC os on as a more featured controller.
Right on. I use Virtual Gibbs but it is very far from free so I’m curious how programming in the free version Fusion 360 is.
Pretty much automatic so far. Has a decent preview run which helps. Am learning this stage still but I tried Fusion 360 and Easel and found Fusion much more like CAD programs and so way easier to pick up and use. Seems more featured too. Main limitation is that you can only have ten “documents” unarchived at a time.
It’s actually pretty good, I have to manually edit anything it produces for GRBL, because the filter includes unsupported G-Codes. It only really supports 2.5D milling operations, which isn’t a big restriction for most home users, you need to manually split out programs for tool changes. It limits rapid movements, but I don’t think there are any other restrictions.
The only real issue using it is the default Speeds and Feeds are designed for much more rigid machines than any small mill, so you have to pay attention setting up tools.
The UI takes some getting used to, and things like ramp downs, and multiple passes aren’t in the most logical of places in the operation configs.
It also defaults to climb milling for everything, which again makes sense for big machines, but can result in a lot of chatter for smaller ones. But it’s just a setting you can change in the operation.
I never really trust default feeds and speeds that much anyway so not a big deal there and 2.5D is definitely fine for a small home machine like that. I’m really curious to see what you make with it!
That’s not a bad idea because it will probably be a while before I can put in a Brise order. I don’t think I can deal with this spaghetti noodle for much longer haha ![]()
I’ll PM you, thanks
Wonders of home ownership, new furnace and water heater.
About the same as the cost of a Raal Immanis.
But at least now my heating works and I can take a hot shower.
Meh… cold showers are better for you anyways ![]()
Audioquest Niagara 5000
Had my eyes on one for a long time.
With the latest upgrades to my system, it felt like the right time to make sure it’s protected and maybe even improved.
I always like when repairs are equated to gear, helps keep perspective that the gear we own or lust after is a luxury not a requirement.
I feel for you my friend, the endless struggle to keep that roof over our heads comfortable and operational. I was going through my retirement list, should i be fortunate enough to actually live to see the day. If the general economic situation does not improve and i’m forced to retire in my current home at 30yrs it will need, roof, 34 windows, doors and their frames, both HVAC units (3rd replacement), 3rd water heater replacement, kitchen re-hab, master bath re-hab, full driveway re-hab and a re-seal of at least one spot in the basement that allows water to seep in during heavy rainfall…lol i cringe ![]()
Wasn’t a surprise, I knew the furnace was on it’s last legs before Covid, I just put off dealing with it, everytime I went in the garage, I could hear the fan bearing slowly failing. Died on Wednesday, it was $1K for a new control board (3rd one) or replace it.
Water heater was just easier to have done at the same time.
Did the roof about 5 years ago, probably should do the windows, not even going to admit what the 20+ trees in my yard have cost me over the years, and I’m not admitting that 200ft Douglas fir looks like it might be slowly falling over, but I really don’t intend to be here forever.
The hidden costs of house ownership.
We replaced the water heater recently, it lasted less than 100 years before it started to spring holes and rust. Everything was ~1/8th of an inch off in the wrong direction despite being the same model. Also fittings today are so bad. Out of rounds, like to leak, need to be tightened juuuust right.
Finally got the spikes for the little shelf. Thanks @oberon for running this set, and @j.fopps for the originals and sharing their design to be scaled down.
These are smaller but actually scary pointy.
I put them on Herbie’s glider feet which… dont glide as much as i hoped… but enough that i can probably pull it in and out well enough for easy cable swaps.
I had to replace my water heater a couple Saturdays ago. A small drip eventually destroyed a wall and caused some mold and fungi growth. New poorly installed drywall and a water heater (with new stand and pipes and braces) over charged by this place that rhymes with Gnome Repo. I’ll just say I put it off until I couldn’t, and paid the price.
Mold ick.
Rheems are great.
The next time I need to do this we might go tankless, but I like having the hot water heater as an emergency water supply.






