There are several CNC machines available at makersmiths and each one has their own settings and usage scenarios.
CNC Plasma Table (Archived)
There are a lot of different options when it comes to CAD and CAM software available. We currently use the following tool chains:
Some suggestions for places to purchase endmills for Makersmiths CNC machines are:
Kodiak Cutting: http://www.kodiakcuttingtools.com/
Think & Tinker: http://www.precisebits.com/
Woodcraft: www.woodcraft.com - online or at the store in Leesburg
Toolstoday: www.toolstoday.com
Amazon: www.amazon.com
If you're just getting started in wood CNC projects, a 1/4 downcut or 1/4 downcut straight, 2 flute endmill is one you'll regularly use. These are about ~$20. If you find that 1/4 is too large to get the detail you want, a 1/8 downcut or upcut straight, 2 flute endmill would also work. If you plan to cut large objects out or clearing a lot of material in your projects, a 1/2 downcut or upcut straight 2 flute endmill is also a good buy, but they are a little more expensive at around ~$50. If you want to carve signs or do inlays, a 60 degree or 90 degree Vbit is also good to start with.
Solid carbide is what CNC endmills are usually made of. High speed steel is a little less expensive but doesn't stay sharp or last quite as long.