Starting the Controller with ESTLCAM

=====================================

ESTL CAM is an open-source computer-aided manufacturing (CNC) software that allows users to control their CNC milling machines directly from a computer's screen using g-code instructions.

This article will walk you through setting up and starting the controller with ESTL CAM on your system. It assumes basic knowledge of Arduino programming, as well as familiarity with USB serial communication protocols such as SerialUSB for Arduino UNO boards.

Hardware Requirements

----------------

* Arduino Uno or compatible board (e.g., Arduino Nano)

* CNC milling machine with a built-in motor driver and necessary motors (X-axis, Y-axis, Z-axis, and spindle if applicable)

Software Requirements

-----------------

* Arduino IDE v1.6.x or later for code development

* ESTL CAM software version 2.x.x or higher

Step-by-Step Setup Instructions:

------------------------------

### Step 1: Install Required Libraries and Tools

Before you begin, make sure to install the necessary libraries on your system:

#### Library Installation (Arduino IDE)

1. Open Arduino IDE.

2. Navigate to Sketch > Include Library...

3. Select 'Manage Libraries...'

4. Search for 'ESTL CAM' in the search bar and click Install.

### Step 2: Download ESTL CAM Software

Download and install the latest version of ESTCAM software from their official website .

#### Manual Installation (Alternative)

If you prefer not to use the Arduino IDE's library manager, download the necessary libraries manually:

1. Go to 'https://github.com/estanislaozambonino/ESTL-CAM/tree/master/Arduino'(https://github.com/estanislanoizambonio/nesto-ESTL-CAM/tree/master/Ardui

2. Download and extract the ESTL CAM Arduino library zip file.

3. Place the extracted folder inside your libraries directory within the Arduino IDE's main directory.

### Step 3: Connect Your CNC Milling Machine

Connect all necessary cables between your CNC milling machine, motor driver(s), and Arduino board:

* X-axis (X0): Yellow or blue

* Y-axis (Y0): Orange or brown

* Z-axis (Z0): Black or red

* Spindle: Brown (optional)

### Step 4: Upload ESTL CAM Sketch

1. Open the Arduino IDE.

2. Navigate to Sketch > Examples

3. Find 'Estlcam/ESTL-CAM Basic' and open it.

#### Optional Configuration Settings:

You may need to adjust some settings depending on your specific setup:

* Serial Port: Select COM port corresponding to your USB serial communication interface (e.g., /dev/ttyUSB0 for Linux or COM3 for Windows).

* Baud Rate: Set this value according to the recommended baud rate specified in ESTL CAM's user manual.

### Step 5: Upload and Test

1. Click on the 'Upload' button at the top left corner of the Arduino IDE window.

2. Wait until upload is complete; a green circle with an arrow pointing right should appear next to your sketch name in the Serial Monitor tab.

3. Power up your CNC milling machine and perform basic movements (G00 G90 X50 Y50 Z10 F1000) using ESTL CAM's user interface.

Troubleshooting Tips:

-------------------

If you encounter any issues during setup or operation:

* Ensure all necessary cables are securely connected between the Arduino board, motor driver(s), and CNC milling machine.

* Double-check your serial port settings in both the ESTL CAM software and Arduino IDE match exactly (e.g., COM3 vs. /dev/ttyUSB0).

* Consult official documentation for specific details on configuring your particular hardware setup.

-------

With these steps, you should now have a functional USB CNC controller up-and-running with ESTL CAM on your system. Remember to always follow proper safety procedures when working near moving parts and sharp tools during initial testing phases.

Starting the controller with estlcam