The works The ShopBot is a cutter (which looks like a drill bit) that can move in all three axes, making 3D movements and cutting all kinds of shapes ad patterns on such materials as wood, plastic, foam, aluminum and others. The ShopBot CNC cuts materials like a saw on the X or Y direction and on any diagonal. When applied to woodworking, it simply means using today s computer technology and applying it into the craft. In layman s terms, computer programs automate and control everything how the various woodworking machines work, from the very simple to the very complex. In effect, they all become CNC machines operated and run by computer files programmed by the users themselves. These files are also created by CAD/CAM programs. The old traditional routers are usually supervised by humans while CNC routers are totally automated. CNC Mills These are the CNC machines that are used to shape metals and other types of materials. They could be vertical or horizontal types. (This simply applies to the direction in which the cutting tool is oriented. The underlying aspect of all these questions is the fact that the smaller guy most likely has a smaller budget and naturally fidgety. Commitment However, the first consideration when thinking of buying a CNC machine is a simple commitment. This mindset will go a long way in dealing with the machine and the people who will deal with it. These machines are also equipped with automated cooling systems and specially formulated coolants for these intensive heat-producing tools and materials both absent from the old manual ones. On with the times Understanding the basics of the new CNC woodworking machines, especially the advantages and benefits it offers to a manufacturer, gives a good basis for decisions and choices. Today, many pros and enthusiasts have now known that less expensive but dedicated 1-D stock cutting programs abound almost everywhere in the market. Twins Mirror images are perfect when creating right and left hand parts. Experts, however, warned to watch it out when machining the mirrored part. If the first part was programmed using G41 and climb milling, machining the mirrored part needs at least an extra 0.01 to the rough cutter.