CNCRT 08:How to Use an XBox 360 Controller with Mach3

CNC Router Tips Podcast Episode 08

Bill Griggs answers a listener's question.

Q: I saw you using an Xbox controller in one of your video to operate their CNC. How did you do that? I know some people use it to jog the machine and execute g-codes. I need some help. 

This is still one of the most frequently asked questions I get when people view my videos on Youtube. Controlling a CNC Router Table with an XBox 360 wireless controller is a pleasure. You have very fine control when jogging and you also have the ability to assign functions to each individual key or joystick. 

With the Xbox 360 wireless controller I am able to stop the machine, pause the machine, jog, start programs, slow jog, fast jog, rewind, reset, go to Z zero, turn on coolant and more.

How we do it:

We use an Xbox 360 Wireless controller for Windows to operate our CNC Router Table in Mach3. Download the plugin from the Machsupport website and load it into Mach3. Install the included wifi receiver and pair the controller with your computer. 
Then we can assign functions to each button and stick on the Xbox360 wireless controller. These functions will allow us to control the CNC Router remotely. 

Videos:
Aluminum CNC Router Gantry https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9cJFjz0R0KE 
Software:
If you would like to download a demo copy of Mach3, Check out this webpage. Go to http://www.themakersguide.com/home/products/mach3

Bill Griggs contact info:
Twitter: @BillGriggs
Website: http://cncroutertips.com
SHOW NOTES: http://cncroutertips.com/08

The Makers Guide http://themakersguide.com
#CNC Router Tips https://www.facebook.com/groups/cncroutertips/

Resources:
http://cncroutertips.com/
http://www.cncroutertips.com/xbox360
http://amzn.to/1JJOCjy 
http://www.machsupport.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/ControllerPluginHowToUse.pdf
http://cncroutertips.com/resources 
http://themakersguide.com


Videos:
Aluminum CNC Router Gantry https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9cJFjz0R0KE 

Software:
If you would like to download a demo copy of Mach3, Check out this webpage. Go to http://www.themakersguide.com/home/products/mach3

The Makers Guide http://themakersguide.com
Mach3 Software http://www.themakersguide.com/home/products/mach3
CNC Starter Bit set http://cncroutertips.com/bits
VCarve Demo Video http://cncroutertips.com/demo
VCarve Software http://themakersguide.com/vcarve8
Triple Edge Finder http://themakersguide.com
Maker Masters http://makermasters.com
Resources http://cncroutertips.com/resources
Youtube http://youtube.com

How we do it:

We use an Xbox 360 Wireless controller for Windows to operate our CNC Router Table in Mach3. Download the plugin from the Machsupport website and load it into Mach3. Install the included wifi receiver and pair the controller with your computer. 

Then we can assign functions to each button and stick on the Xbox360 wireless controller. These functions will allow us to control the CNC Router remotely.