[pmunizg]

Hi.

I am building a CNC mill machine. First choice was LinuxCNC.

But I'm more and more incline to build a embedded controller.

This might sound bold and naive, but a CNC controller seems like a trivial thing. I am asking you guys because although I developed professionally for many years and I am familiar with embedded programming I have 0 experience with anything CNC related. What makes me wonder it's why almost no one has tried it? What am I missing?

Besides interpreting G-code, communicating with stepper controller, spindle, speed, tool offset, error handling, emergency stop, zeroing, homing. What else do I need. All that seems like weeks work.

Also using a PC for other than CAD/CAM and G-code generation seems like a NO-NO to me.

[jfong]

The two popular embedded gcode firmware is grbl and TinyG. They can certainly use your help to add new features.

Linuxcnc has a version that runs in the beaglebone I believe.

Personally, I rather use a PC. All 4 of my machines use PC controllers.

[pmunizg]

Thank you jfong.

I am going to take a look at your recommendations.

[jfong]

I ordered a Arduino due just so I can play around with TinyG. I'm interested in the 5th order jerk and motion ability. I want to see if it can make my CNC run smoother. If it is that much better, just maybe I will replace the PC. You never know unless you try it.......