CNC And The Small Guys Compared to the big guns, it s a totally different perspective when a smaller guy intends to acquire some CNC woodworking equipments. Their sets of consideration are poles apart. From a small guy s perspective, there are a lot of questions that need to be answered correctly. Should one choose a dedicated machine or some multi-function model? CNC is short for Computer Numerical Control which is a method widely employed in modern woodworking business (and related production work) where a computer program controls the action of the machines used in all the work aspects. On the other hand, a ShopBot is the new do-it-all tool for woodworking and metal works. Even novices, craftsmen, and hobbyists are using CNC machinery. According to managers of machining centers, it is no longer just large manufacturers who are buying CNC equipments. Shops who have two to four people would also purchase CNC machines to help in their production. Craftsmen have realized that by using simple CNC equipments, they are able to produce more of their crafts, with high quality, therefore, increasing their sales. There are some additional features that would enable you to create designs for drawers, bowls, and mouldings. Design is not the only CNC woodwork program, there are also panel cutting programs which could be for sale or for free. A panel cutting optimizer program would include different tools for displaying cutlines, label printing, and job-estimating. If the machine is not properly maintained, then it may cause you serious problems in terms of production and may end up spending more in repairs and replacement. Check the brand name. The benefit of choosing a branded used machine is that machine services that the manufacturer offers. Aside from that, branded machines also tend to be durable. Templates and versions Knock-down furniture pieces are notorious for being very time-consuming in designing and getting the parts together perfectly. With CNC, digital versions of the design and the engineering are tried out first before even touching and cutting any actual material. On the computer, modifying the design to adjust the fit can be done in a jiffy.