Prepare the Machine

The two things not included with your Shapeoko CNC router are a shop vac and a computer to run the machine. Below are some guidelines to get you started.

Power Requirements

The Nomad and Shapeoko use switching power supplies that work on either 110V or 220V with no changes. Shapeoko and Nomad both ship with an American C-13 grounded cord (standard C13 cord with a NEMA 5-15 plug).

On a Shapeoko, the spindle or router requires its own power supply. Each spindle or router has a specific power requirement; see the documents for that product for details on the voltage and current required.

Vacuum

CNC Routers require dust collection to keep dust out of the mechanical parts of the machine and operate reliably. We include our Sweepy Dust Boot to make this easy, but you need to provide a shop vac with a 2.5" hose connector.

In addition, we have found that, in many cases, a grounded vacuum hose with the ground connected to the machine frame is necessary. This is especially true in low-humidity environments.

We have additional information about turning your vacuum on and off automatically if you have a dedicated shop vac.

PC Requirements

All Carbide 3D machines must be connected to a computer to operate. (Learn why here) But don't worry, it's not necessary to keep your primary computer in the shop. You can dedicate an old computer to the job or buy an inexpensive Windows tablet.

Minimum Requirements:

Windows:

• Windows 10, or 11, 64-Bit (Intel or AMD)
• 8GB RAM
• Minimum Screen Display: 1280 x 1024

Mac:

• OS/X 10.14 or higher
• 8GB RAM
• Minimum Screen Display: 1280 x 1024

Download Software

Download Carbide Motion here

Download Carbide Create here.

Note: Carbide Create and Carbide Create Pro are the same download. It's the license code that enables the additional features in Create Pro.