Are you new to CNC's? If so, we recommend you check out our Getting Started with CNC Machines tutorials before diving into your first project.
This page provides a collection of How-To videos and guides to support users as they learn to use the Carvera CNC. For each step by step guide, a short video has also been created to provide further support and clarity to our users. Greater detail and topics can be found in the Carvera Manual, and additional Videos are also available on the official Makera YouTube Channel.
And for start to finish projects and tutorials for the Carvera, we recommend you check our our Knowledge Sharing page for additional tutorials, guides, design files, and lesson plans.
¶ How to Unbox and Setup the CarveraIn this video, we are guided through unboxing the Carvera Desktop CNC as we unpack the materials and accessories included with your purchase. We look at key components and steps for setting up the Carvera as we get it fully operational and ready to go right out of the box! |
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¶ How to Connect to the CarveraIn this video, we are guided through the different methods for connecting to the Carvera Desktop CNC. This can be done through USB, or by using the machine's internal WIFI, or by placing the Carvera on your own network. For all of these options, we can use the Carvera Controller App to connect to and interact with the Carvera. |
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¶ How to Upload a file to the CarveraIn this video, we are guided through the steps needed to upload a GCode file to the Carvera's internal memory drive. We can do this using the Carvera Controller app, and we choose to upload files to the Carvera rather than use an external USB for more consistent machining. |
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¶ How to Use the Automatic Tool ChangerIn this video, we are guided through loading, unloading, and using the automatic tool changer on the Carvera Desktop CNC by Makera! The automatic tool changer allows for users to pre-load up to 6 different bits in addition to the wireless Z-probe to enable complex machining with minimal effort! |
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¶ How to Setup and Use the Wireless Z ProbeIn this video, we are guided through setting up and using the Wireless Z Probe on the Carvera Desktop CNC by Makera! The Wireless Z Probe allows for users to easily setup stock for machining as the z height is automatically measured by the Carvera. Loaded as a tool with built in charging, the Wireless Z Probe is easy to use and easy to maintain. |
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¶ How to use the XYZ ProbeIn this video, we are guided through using the XYZ tool setter on the Carvera Desktop CNC by Makera! The manual XYZ probe allows for users to set origin positions for their stock in the X, Y, and Z axis automatically using the Carvera and the Carvera controller app. While the Auto Z Probe may work in most circumstances, this feature allows for more precise tool setup for just about any project you may want to complete. Please note, the interface for the XYZ Probe was changed in the Carvera Controller app version 0.9.6 and later. Obtain the latest version of the Carvera Controller here. Please note, the connection for the Manual XYZ probe has been updated for machines with the 4th Axis Harmonic Drive version wiring adapter, as shown here. |
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¶ How to Configure and Install the 4th Axis ModuleIn this video, we are guided through installing and configuring the 4th axis module on the Carvera Desktop CNC by Makera! The optional 4th axis allows for users to expand what is possible as the Carvera can rotate stock during machining for more complex geometry and production techniques. |
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¶ How to Configure and Install the 4th Axis Module (Harmonic Drive Version)In this video, we are guided through installing and configuring the updated 4th axis module with harmonic drive on the Carvera Desktop CNC by Makera! This updated and optional 4th axis allows uses a harmonic drive reducer for increased torque and reduced backlash under maximum load, offering greater performance when machining harder materials like metal. As shown in this tutorial and supporting guides, users with a Carvera that's serial number starts with C1 will also need to install the wiring adapter in order to use the 4th Axis with Harmonic Drive, as well as update the machines firmware. |
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¶ How to use the Vacuum SystemIn this video, we are guided through adjusting and maintaining the internal vacuum and dust collection system on the Carvera Desktop CNC by Makera! The Vacuum System allows for users to not only have a cleaner machining experience, but also a safer one with less maintenance too! |
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¶ How to Clean and Replace Dust FiltersThe Dust Filter is a key component for the Carvera's internal vacuum system, and proper maintenance is key for optimal machine performance. Replacement filters can be ordered from the Makera Store. |
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¶ How and When to use Air AssistIn this video, we are guided through how and when we should use the air assist module on the Carvera Desktop CNC by Makera! The air assist module allows for users to work with a wide range of materials and methods, like laser engraving or machining metal. Typically we use the air assist module to reduce scorch marks or burns, or to keep our bits cool for chip evacuation. |
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¶ What is Scan Margin?In this video, we are introduced to the Scan Margin feature on the Carvera Desktop CNC by Makera! Scan Margin allows for users to have greater success and ease of use when setting up a design to machined. When enabled, Scan Margin will automatically trace the perimeter of our designs using a laser pointer built into the wireless Z probe. |
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¶ What is Auto Leveling?In this video, we are introduced to the Auto Leveling feature on the Carvera Desktop CNC by Makera! Auto Leveling allows for users to automatically calibrate the z height of our stock across multiple points. The Carvera then uses these points to map the changes in thickness and compensate automatically during machining. |
¶ How to use the Laser ModuleIn this video, we are guided through using the built in laser module on the Carvera Desktop CNC by Makera! Every Carvera includes a built in diode laser that can be used to cut and engrave a wide range of materials. This makes the Carvera one of the most versatile machines available, allow you to create projects using both a laser and mill. You can find recommended speed and power settings for a range of materials compatible with the laser module on the Speeds & Feeds page of our wiki site. And to prepare designs for the laser, we recommend you use Makera CAM. |
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¶ How to Attach and Connect a TabletIn this video, we are guided through attaching a tablet, phone, or other mobile device to the Carvera Desktop CNC by Makera! The Carvera CNC comes with a tablet mount which allows for users to control their Carvera CNC via the Controller App. We can use phones and tablets to run the Carvera Controller App for a more ergonomic user experience. You can attach a device to either the left or right side of the machine, but we need to move the USB ports around on the main board if we want charging capabilities on the left side.: |
¶ How to Change the Spindle ColletIn this video, we are guided through changing the Spindle Collet on the Carvera Desktop CNC. The Carvera can be equipped with a 3mm, 3.175mm (1/8"), 4mm, 6mm, or 6.35mm (1/4") collet, allowing you to use a wide range of cutting tools with varying shank diameters for your CNC projects. In this video, we also look at how to use bit collet adapters which allow you to use two different bit shank sizes in a single project too! |
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¶ How to Install and Remove Bit CollarsIn this video, we are guided through installing and removing bit collars for the Carvera Desktop CNC by Makera! Many CNCs require end mills and bits to have collars in order for them to function properly. On the Carvera, this allows for users to utilize the automatic tool changer. |
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¶ What is the PCB Fabrication Pack?Printed Circuit Boards, or PCBs, are crucial components in nearly very device and appliance we own. The PCB Fabrication pack provides all of the materials and tools needed to manufacture complex PCBs using the Carvera. As shown in the LED Light example project, we can make PCBs that are simple or complex by applying a UV solder mask. A solder mask insulates our PCBs which enables us to create more complex and professional quality electronic prototypes. The Carvera CNC is also compatible with a wide range of CAM solutions to create PCBs, including CopperCAM and FlatCAM. But we recommend you use MakeraCAM as it is optimized to prepare Gerber files using the tools included in the PCB Fabrication pack, as well as the built-in laser engraving module. |
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¶ How to Apply a UV Solder MaskIn this video, we look at how to apply a UV solder mask to a custom PCB made with the Carvera Desktop CNC by Makera! Using the PCB fabrication pack, we can make complex Printed Circuit Boards, or PCBs, by apply and machining UV solder masks right on the Carvera CNC. |
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¶ How to Update the Machine FirmwareIn this video, we are guided through updating the machine firmware on the Carvera Desktop CNC by Makera! The Carvera Controller App allows for users to update the Carvera's firmware with ease either via USB or a wifi connection. You can update update files directly from the software page on the Makera website. |