CNC Axis Setup and Calibration

Achieving high precision on your CNC machine can be a daunting task, but with this handy tool, at least you won't have to do any tedious math.

Although the calculations are simple, it's always easy to make a mistake and there's no reason to use human brainpower when we have the power of computers.

You don't need the whole form. Only use the parts You need. If you're unsure of what measurements to take and where to input the values, check out the video for help.

Theoretical Setup

If your machine isn't already configured, you can fill out these values to get started with the initial configuration. You need to configure something in order to be able to calibrate it.

Stepper Motor
Steps per revolution
- or -
Degrees per step
Micro stepping
Step divisions
Drive System
Lead screw
- or -
Gear diameter

Initial Setup

800.000 steps / mm
- or -
0.00125 mm / step

Practical Calibration

With the initial configuration, you can now calibrate your machine with actual measurements. Use a long known widget and make sure its length is parallel to the axis.

Current Setup
Steps / mm
Known Distance
Length
- plus -
Tool
CNC Machine
Controller Distance

Calibrated Value

0.000 steps / mm
- or -
Infinity mm / step

Verify and Improve Precision

Doing the calibration three times and taking the average will help reduce some of the errors in your measurements and other factors.

Sample 1
Steps / mm

Sample 2
Steps / mm
Sample 3
Steps / mm

Sample 4
Steps / mm
Sample 5
Steps / mm

Sample 6
Steps / mm

Final Values

0.000 steps / mm
- or -
Infinity mm / step
- with -
0 samples

Done

There are many other things to consider in order to achieve high precision and accuracy with your CNC machine, but at least this part is done!