[ CNC Tutorial ] Makera Carvera Desktop CNC Machining Machine: 4 Major Applications - LED Lamp Holders, Laser Engraving, Relief Engraving, and 3D Sculpture - Learn in One Go!
Practice is the most direct and effective way to learn. Makera provides a range of work samples, materials, and tools to familiarize you with the functions and steps involved in creating detailed works using Carvera.
With its fully automated features, Carvera can significantly accelerate the process from design to prototyping and even commercial products. The CAM software used in this example includes CopperCAM, ArtCAM, Fusion360, and LightBurn.
This article will guide you through quickly mastering the use of Carvera CNC machining machines .
• LED lamp holder
Laser engraving
• Third axis relief
• Fourth axis 3D sculpture
Tool preparation
Please place the wireless probe and milling cutter in the positions shown in the diagram.
Tool 1: 1/8-inch 25mm single-edged cutting head
Tool 2: 1/8-inch 30-degree 0.2mm V-shaped cutting tip
Tool 3: 1/8-inch 0.8mm angle cutter tip
Tool 4: 1/8-inch 12mm single-edged cutting head
Tool 5: UV Solder Mask Removal Tool
Tool 6: 1/8-inch test stick
The wireless probes for the test sticks can be found in the accessory box, the milling blades in the toolbox, and the optional Tool 5: UV solder mask removal tool in the PCB packaging. The default tool installed is Tool 6: 1/8-inch test sticks .
Tool positions 1-6 are for example use. If you want to run your own toolpaths in the future, you can arrange your tools accordingly!
How to connect to Carvera control software
Tool 1: 1/8-inch 25mm single-edged cutting head
Tool 2: 1/8-inch 30-degree 0.2mm V-shaped cutting tip
Tool 3: 1/8-inch 0.8mm angle cutter tip
Tool 4: 1/8-inch 12mm single-edged cutting head
Tool 5: UV Solder Mask Removal Tool
Tool 6: 1/8-inch test stick
The wireless probes for the test sticks can be found in the accessory box, the milling blades in the toolbox, and the optional Tool 5: UV solder mask removal tool in the PCB packaging. The default tool installed is Tool 6: 1/8-inch test sticks .
Tool positions 1-6 are for example use. If you want to run your own toolpaths in the future, you can arrange your tools accordingly!
How to connect to Carvera control software
Connect to the laptop using a USB cable.
Carvera Control Software: Click here to download the software
The LED light in this example consists of four parts:
The circuit board , display panel ,base , and touch switches showcase the comprehensive capabilities of the Carvera intelligent desktop CNC machining center.
The circuit board , display panel ,base , and touch switches showcase the comprehensive capabilities of the Carvera intelligent desktop CNC machining center.
Preparatory work
• MDF scrap board (150*100*2mm)
• Single-sided PCB (150*100*1.5mm)
• Mini hand saw • Sanding block • UV solder mask roller • UV curing lamp • UV curable solder mask coating • Optional UV solder mask removal tool
• Single-sided PCB (150*100*1.5mm)
• Mini hand saw • Sanding block • UV solder mask roller • UV curing lamp • UV curable solder mask coating • Optional UV solder mask removal tool
Process Steps
1. Cut 2mm medium-density fiberboard (MDF) with dimensions of 150*100mm into scrap boards.
2. Secure the PCB and scrap board to the table as shown in the figure. Place them near the L-shaped bracket at positioning point 1.
* Secure the PCB using the edge of the top clamp, leaving enough space for dust removal and milling.
* PCB boards may warp after prolonged storage. It is recommended to flatten the PCB board before processing to improve accuracy. It is best to use some double-sided tape between the scrap board and the bed/PCB to maintain consistency.
3. Check that the milling cutter is in the correct position.
Tool 2: 1/8-inch 30-degree 0.2mm V-shaped cutting tip
Tool 3: 1/8-inch 0.8mm angle cutter tip
Tool 5: UV solder mask removal tool .
4. Open the remote directory Root -> Examples -> LED Folder and select the processing file.
Control software settings
✘ Do not use UV solder mask
1. Select the “ PCB-NO-UV-MASK.nc ” file to automatically run the PCB isolation, area cleaning, drilling, and profile cutting tasks.
2. Open the task configuration and operation dialog box.
2. Open the task configuration and operation dialog box.
3. Set the working coordinates to an X offset of 15 and a Y offset of 10 relative to the positioning point 1.
4. Check the "Scan Margin " option.
5. Check the " Auto Z Probe " option and set the probe point to be offset by 5 in both the X and Y directions relative to the origin of the path.
6. Check the " Auto Leveling " option, set the X detection point count to 5, Y to 5, and the detection height to 2.
7. Check the configuration and click " Run ", then wait for it to complete.
8. After the operation is complete, remove the PCB board and use the handsaw in the accessory kit to cut off the edges.
4. Check the "Scan Margin " option.
5. Check the " Auto Z Probe " option and set the probe point to be offset by 5 in both the X and Y directions relative to the origin of the path.
6. Check the " Auto Leveling " option, set the X detection point count to 5, Y to 5, and the detection height to 2.
7. Check the configuration and click " Run ", then wait for it to complete.
8. After the operation is complete, remove the PCB board and use the handsaw in the accessory kit to cut off the edges.
✔ Use a UV solder mask (if you purchased a PCB kit)
【PART 1.1 - PCB Isolation and Area Cleaning】
1. Select the file “ PCB-UV-MASK(PART1).nc ”.
2. Open the task configuration and operation dialog box. (This step is the same as the first step without using a UV solder mask.)
3. Set the working coordinates to an X offset of 15 and a Y offset of 10 relative to the positioning point 1.
4. Check the "Scan Margin " option.
5. Check the " Auto Z Probe " option and set the probe point to be offset by 5 in both the X and Y directions relative to the origin of the path.
6. Check the " Auto Leveling " option, set the X detection point count to 5, Y to 5, and the detection height to 2.
7. Check the configuration shown in the first image, then click " Run " and wait for it to complete.
8. After the operation is completed, the machine can be moved to the cleaning position to reduce interference with subsequent operations.
【PART 1.2 - Using UV lamps for solder resist】
2. Open the task configuration and operation dialog box. (This step is the same as the first step without using a UV solder mask.)
3. Set the working coordinates to an X offset of 15 and a Y offset of 10 relative to the positioning point 1.
4. Check the "Scan Margin " option.
5. Check the " Auto Z Probe " option and set the probe point to be offset by 5 in both the X and Y directions relative to the origin of the path.
6. Check the " Auto Leveling " option, set the X detection point count to 5, Y to 5, and the detection height to 2.
7. Check the configuration shown in the first image, then click " Run " and wait for it to complete.
8. After the operation is completed, the machine can be moved to the cleaning position to reduce interference with subsequent operations.
【PART 1.2 - Using UV lamps for solder resist】
1. Use the sanding blocks in the accessory kit to polish the PCB surface.
2. Use a roller to evenly apply a thin layer of UV solder mask.
3. Place the UV lamp above the PCB and wait for the UV layer to cure.
4. Use alcohol wipes to clean excess solder mask from the rollers and other parts.
【PART 2 - Drilling and Cutting Contours】
2. Use a roller to evenly apply a thin layer of UV solder mask.
3. Place the UV lamp above the PCB and wait for the UV layer to cure.
4. Use alcohol wipes to clean excess solder mask from the rollers and other parts.
【PART 2 - Drilling and Cutting Contours】
1. Select the file “ PC B-UV-MASK (PART2).nc ”.
2. Open the task configuration and operation dialog box (automatic detection has been completed in step 1, so it does not need to be repeated here).
3. Uncheck the "Scan Margin " option.
4. Uncheck the box The " Auto Z Probe" option.
5. Uncheck the " Auto Leveling " option.
6. Check the configuration and click " Run ", then wait for the task to complete.
7. After completing the operation, the machine can be moved to a clear location to minimize interference with subsequent operations.
8. Remove the PCB board and use the handsaw from the accessory kit to cut off any remaining blades. Use sandpaper to smooth the edges.
*Apply a small amount of UV tinning adhesive first, then add more later. Applying too much will make cleaning difficult. Curing time varies depending on the type of UV tinning adhesive and the UV lamp used. Please wait until the tinning adhesive is completely cured before proceeding to the next step.
2. Open the task configuration and operation dialog box (automatic detection has been completed in step 1, so it does not need to be repeated here).
3. Uncheck the "Scan Margin " option.
4. Uncheck the box The " Auto Z Probe" option.
5. Uncheck the " Auto Leveling " option.
6. Check the configuration and click " Run ", then wait for the task to complete.
7. After completing the operation, the machine can be moved to a clear location to minimize interference with subsequent operations.
8. Remove the PCB board and use the handsaw from the accessory kit to cut off any remaining blades. Use sandpaper to smooth the edges.
*Apply a small amount of UV tinning adhesive first, then add more later. Applying too much will make cleaning difficult. Curing time varies depending on the type of UV tinning adhesive and the UV lamp used. Please wait until the tinning adhesive is completely cured before proceeding to the next step.
Preparatory work
• MDF scrap board (150*150*2mm)
• ABS plastic sheet (150*150*2mm)
• Mini hand saw
1. Cut 2mm MDF boards with dimensions of 150*150mm into scrap boards.
2. Secure the ABS plastic sheet and the scrap board to the table as shown in the picture. Align the L-shaped bracket at anchor point 1.
3. Check that the milling cutter is in the correct position.
Tool 1: 1/8-inch 25mm single-edged cutting head
Tool 2: 1/8-inch 30-degree 0.2mm V-shaped cutting tip
• ABS plastic sheet (150*150*2mm)
• Mini hand saw
1. Cut 2mm MDF boards with dimensions of 150*150mm into scrap boards.
2. Secure the ABS plastic sheet and the scrap board to the table as shown in the picture. Align the L-shaped bracket at anchor point 1.
3. Check that the milling cutter is in the correct position.
Tool 1: 1/8-inch 25mm single-edged cutting head
Tool 2: 1/8-inch 30-degree 0.2mm V-shaped cutting tip
Control software settings
1. Open Root -> Examples -> LED Folder . Select the “ ABS-Base.nc ” file to process.
2. Open the task configuration and operation dialog box.
3. Set the working coordinates, relative to anchor point 1, X offset 15 , Y offset 20 .
4. Check the " Scan Margin " option.
5. Check the " Auto Z Probe" option and set the probe point to be offset by 5 in the X and Y directions relative to the origin of the path.
6. Check the " Auto Leveling" option, set the X detection point to 5 , the Y detection point to 3 , and the detection height to 2 .
7. Check the configuration and click Run, then wait for it to complete.
8. Clean the tabletop with a vacuum cleaner, remove the ABS board, and use the handsaw from the accessory kit to remove it.
2. Open the task configuration and operation dialog box.
3. Set the working coordinates, relative to anchor point 1, X offset 15 , Y offset 20 .
4. Check the " Scan Margin " option.
5. Check the " Auto Z Probe" option and set the probe point to be offset by 5 in the X and Y directions relative to the origin of the path.
6. Check the " Auto Leveling" option, set the X detection point to 5 , the Y detection point to 3 , and the detection height to 2 .
7. Check the configuration and click Run, then wait for it to complete.
8. Clean the tabletop with a vacuum cleaner, remove the ABS board, and use the handsaw from the accessory kit to remove it.
Preparatory work
• MDF scrap board (150*180*2mm)
• Scrap acrylic sheet (150*180*4mm)
1. Cut 2mm MDF boards with dimensions of 150*180mm into scrap boards.
2. Remove the protective film from the top. Secure the acrylic sheet and scrap sheet to the workbench as shown in the figure. Align the L-shaped bracket with anchor point 1.
3. Check that the milling cutter position is correct. Tool 1: 1/8 inch 25mm single-edged cutter head; Tool 2: 1/8 inch 30-degree 0.2mm V-shaped cutter head.
2. Remove the protective film from the top. Secure the acrylic sheet and scrap sheet to the workbench as shown in the figure. Align the L-shaped bracket with anchor point 1.
3. Check that the milling cutter position is correct. Tool 1: 1/8 inch 25mm single-edged cutter head; Tool 2: 1/8 inch 30-degree 0.2mm V-shaped cutter head.
Control software settings
1. Open Root -> Examples -> LED in the remote directory. Select the file "ACRYLIC-XXXX.nc" (containing 5 images; you can choose one you like).
2. Set the working coordinates, offset the X-axis by 15 and the Y-axis by 25 relative to anchor point 1.
3. Check the "Scan Margin " option.
4. Check the " Auto Z Probe " option and set the probe point to be offset by 5 in both the X and Y directions relative to the origin of the path.
5. Check the " Auto Leveling" option, set the number of X-axis detection points to 5, the number of Y-axis detection points to 5, and the detection height to 2.
6. After confirming the configuration, click " Run " and wait for it to complete.
7. Align the V-groove with the edge of the table and trim the acrylic sheet.
2. Set the working coordinates, offset the X-axis by 15 and the Y-axis by 25 relative to anchor point 1.
3. Check the "Scan Margin " option.
4. Check the " Auto Z Probe " option and set the probe point to be offset by 5 in both the X and Y directions relative to the origin of the path.
5. Check the " Auto Leveling" option, set the number of X-axis detection points to 5, the number of Y-axis detection points to 5, and the detection height to 2.
6. After confirming the configuration, click " Run " and wait for it to complete.
7. Align the V-groove with the edge of the table and trim the acrylic sheet.
Preparatory work
• MDF scrap board (100*100*2mm)
• Scrap acrylic sheet (100*100*5mm)
1. Cut 2mm MDF boards with dimensions of 100*100mm into scrap boards.
2. Secure the aluminum alloy plate and scrap plate to the workbench as shown in the figure. Align them with the L-shaped bracket at anchor point 1.
3. Check that the milling cutter is positioned correctly. Tool 4: 1/8-inch 12mm single-edged cutter head
3. Check that the milling cutter is positioned correctly. Tool 4: 1/8-inch 12mm single-edged cutter head
Control software settings
1. Open Root -> Examples -> LED in the remote directory . Select the " ALUM-Button.nc " file.
2. Open the task configuration and operation dialog box.
2. Open the task configuration and operation dialog box.
3. Set the “ Work Origin ” coordinates, with an X offset of 10 and a Y offset of 10 relative to anchor point 1.
4. Check the " Scan Margin " option.
5. Check the " Auto Z Probe " option and set the probe point to be offset by 5 in the X direction and 5 in the Y direction relative to the origin of the path.
6. Check the " Auto Leveling" option, set the number of X detection points to 3 , the number of Y detection points to 3 , and the detection height to 2 .
7. After confirming the configuration, click " Run " and wait for it to complete.
8. Clean the workbench with a vacuum cleaner, remove the board, and use the handsaw from the accessory kit to remove any remaining blades.
5. Check the " Auto Z Probe " option and set the probe point to be offset by 5 in the X direction and 5 in the Y direction relative to the origin of the path.
6. Check the " Auto Leveling" option, set the number of X detection points to 3 , the number of Y detection points to 3 , and the detection height to 2 .
7. After confirming the configuration, click " Run " and wait for it to complete.
8. Clean the workbench with a vacuum cleaner, remove the board, and use the handsaw from the accessory kit to remove any remaining blades.
LED light assembly
1. Attach the aluminum alloy touch button to the side of the base.
2. Secure the PCB board to the bottom of the base using 4 screws.
3. Insert the acrylic display panel into the base.
4. Insert the Type-C USB cable to complete the assembly.
5. The brightness and the light can be turned on and off by touching the aluminum button.
2. Secure the PCB board to the bottom of the base using 4 screws.
3. Insert the acrylic display panel into the base.
4. Insert the Type-C USB cable to complete the assembly.
5. The brightness and the light can be turned on and off by touching the aluminum button.
Finished product display
Laser engraving is an auxiliary function in Carvera. We chose a 2.5W laser mainly for material engraving.
This case study demonstrates how to use laser technology to engrave an image into a black and white photograph. We use Light Burn as the laser CAM software here.
This case study demonstrates how to use laser technology to engrave an image into a black and white photograph. We use Light Burn as the laser CAM software here.
Preparatory work
• MDF scrap board (100*120*2mm)
• Laser goggles
• Laser goggles
1. Cut a 2mm MDF board with dimensions of 100 (X direction) * 120mm (Y direction) into carving material.
2. Secure the MDF to the worktable as shown in the diagram above. Align it with the L-shaped bracket at anchor point 1.
2. Secure the MDF to the worktable as shown in the diagram above. Align it with the L-shaped bracket at anchor point 1.
Control software settings
1. Open Root -> Examples -> Laser in the remote directory . Select the file " AudreyHepburn.nc ".
2. Open the task configuration and operation dialog box.
3. Set the working coordinates, with the X-axis offset by 7.5 and the Y-axis offset by 10 relative to anchor point 1 .
2. Open the task configuration and operation dialog box.
3. Set the working coordinates, with the X-axis offset by 7.5 and the Y-axis offset by 10 relative to anchor point 1 .
4. Check “ Scan Margin ” .
5. Check the " Auto Z Probe " option and set the probe point to be offset by 5 in the X direction and 5 in the Y direction relative to the origin of the path.
6. Uncheck the " Auto Leveling" option (because laser engraving has a high tolerance for flatness and does not require leveling).
7. Confirm the configuration and click " Run ", then wait for it to complete.
5. Check the " Auto Z Probe " option and set the probe point to be offset by 5 in the X direction and 5 in the Y direction relative to the origin of the path.
6. Uncheck the " Auto Leveling" option (because laser engraving has a high tolerance for flatness and does not require leveling).
7. Confirm the configuration and click " Run ", then wait for it to complete.
The laser module in CNC is characterized by its ability to automatically detect the Z-axis height, so you don't have to adjust the focus like with other laser engraving machines.
When using a 2.5W diode laser module, remember to wear safety goggles during the process!
Finished product display
When using a 2.5W diode laser module, remember to wear safety goggles during the process!
Finished product display
This case study demonstrates how to use Carvera's tool changer to automate roughing and finishing processes for relief carving, providing a convenient way to create exquisite handicrafts. The software used is ArtCAM.
Preparatory work
• MDF scrap board (100*150*2mm)
• Epoxy resin die template (100*150*10mm)
1. Cut a 2mm MDF board (100*150mm) into scrap boards. (The PCB board can also be reused.)
2. Secure the epoxy resin blade template and scrap plate to the workbench as shown in the figure. Align them with the L-shaped bracket at anchor point 1.
3. Check that the milling cutter is in the correct position.
3. Check that the milling cutter is in the correct position.
Tool 1: 1/8-inch 25mm single-edged cutting head
Tool 2: 1/8-inch 30-degree 0.2mm V-shaped cutting tip
Control software settings
1. Open Root -> Examples -> Relief in the remote directory . Select the " PirateShip.nc " file.
2. Open the task configuration and operation dialog box.
2. Open the task configuration and operation dialog box.
3. Set the working coordinates to an X offset of 3 and a Y offset of 3 relative to anchor point 1.
4. Check “ Scan Margin ” .
5. Check the " Auto Z Probe " option and set the probe point to be offset by 5 in the X direction and 5 in the Y direction relative to the origin of the path.
6. Uncheck the " Auto Leveling " option * because the material surface will be milled to a certain height, and automatic leveling detection is not required.
7. Confirm the configuration and click " Run " , then wait for it to complete.
8. Remove the epoxy resin stencil and use the handsaw from the accessory kit to remove the artwork.
4. Check “ Scan Margin ” .
5. Check the " Auto Z Probe " option and set the probe point to be offset by 5 in the X direction and 5 in the Y direction relative to the origin of the path.
6. Uncheck the " Auto Leveling " option * because the material surface will be milled to a certain height, and automatic leveling detection is not required.
7. Confirm the configuration and click " Run " , then wait for it to complete.
8. Remove the epoxy resin stencil and use the handsaw from the accessory kit to remove the artwork.
Finished product display
The dust collection function reduces many obstacles in the processing, and the carving effect is more refined than ever before!
(The Nifty sample model in this guide comes from Thomas Roussel - Thingiverse: @lecaramel)
This case study demonstrates how to use Carvera's rotary axes to machine 3D objects. We did not use dust removal equipment during rotary axis machining.
Therefore, roughing and finishing are separated into two operations, requiring dust removal between the two steps. The CAM software used in this case is DeskProto.
Preparatory work
• MDF scrap board (100*150*2mm)
• Epoxy resin die template (100*150*10mm)
1. Insert the cable and install the rotating shaft. (Please read the Carvera instruction manual to use the rotating shaft.) If the Carvera is already turned on, turn it off before installation.
2. Fix the epoxy resin stencil onto the rotating shaft with the corners facing up and down.
3. Check that the milling cutter is in the correct position.
Tool 1: 1/8-inch 25mm single-edged cutting head
Tool 2: 1/8-inch 30-degree 0.2mm V-shaped cutting tip
Tool 1: 1/8-inch 25mm single-edged cutting head
Tool 2: 1/8-inch 30-degree 0.2mm V-shaped cutting tip
Control software settings
Rough processing flow
Precision processing
1. Open Root -> Examples -> Rotation in the remote directory
2. Select the " NefertitiRough.nc " roughing file.
2. Select the " NefertitiRough.nc " roughing file.
3. Open the task configuration and operation dialog box.
4. Set the working coordinates to X offset 50 (relative to the right edge of the 4th axis spindle box) and Y offset 0.
5. Check "Scan Margin "
6. Check " Auto Z Probe " to fix the position of the 4-axis Z probe; no configuration is required.
7. Confirm the configuration and click " Run ", then wait for completion.
4. Set the working coordinates to X offset 50 (relative to the right edge of the 4th axis spindle box) and Y offset 0.
5. Check "Scan Margin "
6. Check " Auto Z Probe " to fix the position of the 4-axis Z probe; no configuration is required.
7. Confirm the configuration and click " Run ", then wait for completion.
Precision processing
1. Select the " NefertitiFinish.nc " finishing file.
2. Open the task configuration and operation dialog box (automatic detection was completed in step 1, so there is no need to repeat it here).
3. Uncheck "Scan Margin ".
4. Uncheck the " Auto Z Probe" option.
5. Confirm the configuration and click " Run ", then wait for it to complete.
6. Use the handsaw included in the accessory kit to cut off any remaining epoxy resin at both ends.
3. Uncheck "Scan Margin ".
4. Uncheck the " Auto Z Probe" option.
5. Confirm the configuration and click " Run ", then wait for it to complete.
6. Use the handsaw included in the accessory kit to cut off any remaining epoxy resin at both ends.
Finished product display
Want to learn more about Carvera's other features and functionalities after seeing the finished product?