ESP32-based CNC controller board targets pen plotters and lasers, runs FluidNC open-source firmware

FluidNC “TMC2209 Pen/Laser CNC Controller” is an ESP32-based 2-axis CNC controller that runs FluidNC open-source firmware and takes up to two TMC2209 stepper drivers to drive pen plotters and laser engravers

ESP32 wireless modules have been used in a range of 3D printer and CNC controllers for years with boards such as Grbl_ESP32 CNC breakout board, Phi MainBoard 5LC 3D printer controller, and the Makerbase MKS DLC32 board we found in TwoTrees TS2 laser engraver and TTC 450 CNC router running MKS-DLC32-FIRMWARE open-source firmware.  The FluidNC TMC2209 Pen/Laser CNC Controller offers yet another option and a different open-source FluidNC firmware that is an evolution of the firmware for the aforementioned Grbl_ESP32 that also happens to work on the MKS DLC32 board…

FluidNC “TMC2209 Pen/Laser CNC Controller” specifications:

• Wireless module – Espressif Systems ESP32-WROOM-32E
  • ESP32 dual-core microcontroller
  • 4MB flash
  • 2.4 GHz WiFi and Bluetooth LE connectivity, built-in PCB antenna
• Storage – MicroSD card socket
• USB – USB Type-C port
• 2x TMC2209 stepper drivers.
• Optional StallGuard for sensorless end stops
• RC servo connection
• 6x inputs (limit and control switches)
• 3x 5V outputs to control lasers and accessories.
• I/O Expansion port for displays and pendants.
• Power Supply – 12 to 30VDC (3A minimum) via 2-pin terminal
• Dimensions – 70 x 70mm

You’ll find further technical details, a YAML configuration file, and instructions to get started on the wiki. FluidNC source code can be found on GitHub, and a convenient web installer can be used in Chrome, Edge, or Opera (WebSerial is needed so Firefox won’t work) to install the firmware to compatible boards. The PCB is open-source hardware with all resources available on EasyEDA, meaning you can (relatively) easily build it yourself if you would rather do that than purchase it.

I first found the TMC2209 Pen/Laser CNC Controller board on Tindie sold for $45, but it can also be purchased on Elecrow for $40 or even lower if you buy it in bundles of 2 or 5. If you’re interested in FluiNC but a 2-axis CNC controller does not cut it for your application, you’ll find a long list of supported hardware on the project’s wiki.

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