ShopBot CNC Router

ShopBot CNC Router - Toolpath Software

You can use any CAM software that can post process for a ShopBot PRS Alpha 9648 with tool changer and speed control. We support the two applications listed here.

For 3D drawing and toolpathing, use Fusion 360

Fusion 360 from Autodesk is available for download here. There are many tutorials available to get you up to speed on drawing (CAD) and tool pathing (CAM. I do not offer training for drawing and tool pathing. I can advise users on the software and train in operation of the CNC router, but I cannot work on the entire project.

For 2D work, the software is simpler.

Setup Guide Video: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vqHy2buN3Oo

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gZV9qxFTE5Q

You can download the VCarvePro trial software here. Once installed, if you enter the mHUB makerspace key that follows, you will be able to bring your VCarve file to the shop and create a toolpath file that can run on the Shopbot. To enter the code below click on Help-> About VcarvePro Trial Edition -> Enter Makerspace ID

 B72FF-60EA8-7C064-BB075-E4421-7116E-0D4BF

Think of VCarve Pro as a tools for sign makers and wood workers. It is mainly 2D, or 2.5D. It has basic drawing ability and good toolpath ability. Turn to Fusion 360 for very good 3D modeling tools and excellent tool pathing tools. F360 does have a steeper learning curve.

Find the vCarvePro tool file (.tools) with our standard set up in our six tool changer on the equipment page. Your project can utilize any bits you see fit, but you will save time and trouble if you use the standard bits that are set up in the machine. In the software, you will import this set of six tools into the tool library.

1. Download the tool library package for Fusion 360 from the mHub website (located under Cold Metals General, Software->Fusion 360 lab areas)
   
   
2. In Fusion 360 preferences make sure Cloud Libraries are enabled
3. Navigate to the tool library
4. In the tool library right click on cloud and import tool library, selecting the tool library you downloaded from the mHub site