Grbl, as it describes itself, “is a no-compromise, high performance, low cost alternative to parallel-port-based motion control for CNC milling.” Depending on your experience with the world of amateur CNC, using a parallel port may seem strange, however, it’s an adequate solution for computer control since it offers a very low latency path between your equipment and the computer’s processor. Of course, this means you need to find a PC with a parallel port, or install one yourself.
With Grbl, you pass your cutting informationto an Arduino board in the form of g-code machining instructions. The Arduino generates the needed control pulses to command servos in the direction they should move. This type of setup can all be solder together or hooked up via an Arduino’s headers. Considering the vibration and dust that controllers in this situation are exposed to, you will want something that is both secure and that can be hooked up and removed easily: screw terminals.
There are plenty of screw terminal options for the Arduino boards, but the Grbl CNC shield is meant for just this purpose. It has the various axes labelled, as well as other CNC I/O, giving you a quick reference as to where everything needs to be hooked up. It’s an excellent option, whether you’re just getting started or you’re an experienced “Grbl-er.”
