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Connecting to Your Machine

Configure the serial connection so AxioCNC can talk to your CNC controller, then connect from the main UI.

What you’ll do​

  • Set serial port, baud rate, and controller type
  • Test the connection
  • Connect and confirm status

Prerequisites​

  • CNC controller powered on and connected via USB (or serial)
  • Correct driver installed (e.g. USB‑serial) so the port appears in the OS
  • On Linux/Pi: user in dialout group, then logged out and back in

Steps​

  1. Open Settings → Connection

    Click the Settings (gear) icon, then select Connection in the sidebar.

  2. Choose the serial port

    • Linux / Pi: Often /dev/ttyUSB0 or /dev/ttyACM0. Check with ls /dev/ttyUSB* /dev/ttyACM*.
    • Windows: e.g. COM3, COM4. Check Device Manager → Ports (COM & LPT).
    • macOS: Often /dev/cu.usbserial-* or /dev/cu.usbmodem*.

    Use Refresh if your port doesn’t appear. Select it from the dropdown.

  3. Set baud rate

    115200 is typical for Grbl. Use the value your firmware expects.

  4. Select controller type

    Choose Grbl, Marlin, Smoothie, or TinyG to match your controller.

  5. Test the connection (optional)

    Click Test Connection. AxioCNC opens the port, checks communication, then closes it. If it fails, double‑check port, baud, power, and cable.

  6. Connect from the main UI

    Leave Settings and use the Connect control in the main workspace (Setup or Monitor). When connected, the status reflects the controller state (e.g. Idle, Run, Hold).

Connection options​

  • Set DTR / Set RTS — Leave on unless your board needs otherwise.
  • Use RTS/CTS flow control — Enable only if your firmware and wiring support it.
  • Connect automatically — Connects on startup when enabled.

What good looks like​

  • Test Connection reports success.
  • After Connect, status shows Connected and controller state (e.g. Idle).
  • DRO and machine position update when you move axes (if homed).

Troubleshooting​

  • Port missing: Reconnect USB, install driver, refresh the list. On Linux, check dialout and log out/in.
  • Test fails: Wrong port, baud, or controller type; controller off or unplugged; port in use by another app.
  • Drops or errors: Try a different USB port or cable; ensure baud rate matches firmware.

See Connection issues and Serial port issues for more.

Next steps​