What to cut first?

[pbeamtn]

I have chronicled some of my build in "Big Orange JGRO", but I have now reached the point where I can actually cut something. The question is, what should I cut first to try out the machine? Ideally, I would start with someone's g-code file just so I can make sure the machine works and is aligned properly. Anybody have something that I can just stick into EMC2 and let it run?

[thunterman]

One of the first cuts I made on my JGRO was "SPlams" Spirograph. You can download his program at http://www.cnczone.com/forums/cnczone_club_house/13277-computer-numeric-control_spirograph-post105892.html

[pbeamtn]

My first cut ended up being the "EMC2 AXIS" logo that is the default startup with EMC2. I didn't know anything about the file so I tried with a 1/4" cutter, which was way to big. I then moved to a 1/8", which is still a little big, but I could see what it was doing. At first, things were really wrong since I could barely make out the letters and there was this big, deep, jagged cut across the whole thing. After a little fiddling, I figured out my Z axis was reversed, and that jagged line was supposed to be above the material! Going back through the setup wizard and bringing the end mill right down tight against the material, I finally got a cut that looks decent!

[emtffkev]

Got any pictures?

[dertsap]

the best tests that i have found are doing 2.5d images , it gives the system a good run through and after 1/2hr to 5 hrs of running (depending on picture size) then many flaws will show up , be it lost steps , over heating, etc
heres a bit of a cheesy but free image to gcode converter http://imagegcode.com/index.php or you could try this one which is much better Quick & Easy toolpaths for Image carving

[pbeamtn]

My main build thread is titled Big Orange JGRO, and I have some more pictures there, but here are pictures (taken with my cell phone) of my first cut. I took them to work so that everyone could see what I was doing.

I do hope to carve some images soon, but now my focus is on getting some dust collection in place. If you look at my other thread you can see that I designed a 2.5D replacement router mount using Sketchup and CamBam. After I get the dust under control, I hope to start making some Christmas presents for my kids and nieces and nephews. Someday, I want to do bas relief, but I'm not sure my art skills are up tot the task!