For introductory and general guidance for CNC: Learning CNC Resources
General Specs
The 4x8 CNC is based off the CNCRouterParts.com 4x8 Standard model.
Capacity: 48x96
Travel: 49x97
Spindle 8000-24000 RPM
Control Software
The control software is Mach 4 See the Mach 4 page for more information.
VCarve
To get started with VCarve on your own computer, download VCarve Pro from Vectric's website. Once installed, you can add the Makerspace ID below. With the Makerspace Client ID you can do everything except export the GCode from your project from your home computer. The VCarve files you save on your own computer can then be opened on the computer attached to Big Red which has the version of VCarve installed, and you can then export your GCode.
VCarve 15.5 client code: A779D-17688-765A8-1B5D8-A30F0-8C8B9-12ECB
When saving your GCode from VCarve for Big Red, use the "CNC Router Parts.txt" profile.
Full Big Red Checklist