MakeOrbit CNC Studio is an application in which you use your computer to define how a CNC mill (or a laser module) should machine a workpiece. You load a 3D model or a drawing, choose the material and tool, and the application calculates the milling paths from these inputs. The result is a machine file (“NC file” or “G-code”) for your machine to execute.
This guide is written for people who have never worked with CNC before. Technical terms are explained when they first appear; there is also a glossary at the end. Experienced users can go straight to the chapters that interest them — every chapter is accessible from the chapter overview.
How to read this guide
Every function has a status label:
Status: AVAILABLE — The function is usable and tested in the beta.
Status: EXPERIMENTAL — The function is usable, but so far has only been checked computationally or on virtual (simulated) machines. Check the results yourself before using them on real equipment.
Status: IN DEVELOPMENT — The function is planned or partially prepared, but is not yet ready for you to use. It is mentioned here so you know what is coming.
Keyboard shortcuts use Mac notation: ⌘ = Command (cmd), ⇧ = Shift, ⌥ = Option (alt/option).