Here’s a recent video series where I talk about the X-Carve CNC machine from Inventables. I also have some pictures of the assembled unit as well as a few shots of their newly released X-Controller.
I think the X-Carve is good for beginners and people looking to make crafts. With the spindle upgraded to the DeWalt 611 you can cut much faster and use larger bits. This comes at the price of increased noise from the router. I’ve seen others build an enclosure to keep the dust and sound at bay.
For the price, it’s a decent introduction to CNC. Especially when considering the larger of the two with around a 40″ x 40″ work envelope. With the drive mechanisms being belt oriented, be prepared to tighten them occasionally.
I found the control software very easy to use. Its a very pleasurable experience in fact. The first job on the Shapeoko 2 (version prior to the X-Carve) used the same Easel software and it was so straightforward that my 9 year old son ran it.
I beta tested the X-Controller and was also very pleased with the ease of setup and use. As I said in the video, the last thing I want to do after I finish building the X-Carve is building the electronics. The X-Controller solves that. It’s very plug and play and well thought out though I’d like to see some dust control and an external e-stop option on it.
Click HERE for the picture gallery.
