Howdy!
I currently use CutControl to operate an MR-1, but I was wondering if there are any alternative ways to control the machine, specifically through the command prompt, Python, or MATLAB.
Any insights, experiences, or workarounds would be greatly appreciated!
Thank you!
Yes the machine runs on GRBL. All of it is open source so a lot of options are out there already.
Can you give me some more detail on that?
Cutcontrol outputs Gcode through the usb to the main board that runs GRBL. You should be able to send serial commands in a terminal through the usb to control the board. This is very similar to how older 3d printers worked.
This gets a lot easier if you take the step of swapping out CutControl for something better supported and more open. I did it with LinuxCNC, but you can find threads on this forum for using Masso or Acorn as well. It’s not a small project because it requires replacing the CutControl/GRBL board with another control board, but it opens up so many possibilities for improving the machine.
Of those three I would say LinuxCNC is the most hackable, Masso is the most polished and turnkey, and Acorn is somewhere in between.