CNCDreh

CNCDreh is an open-source platform designed to serve as a control system for computer numerical control machines, with a focus on turning and milling. It provides a modular software stack that handles G-code interpretation, real-time motion planning, and hardware interfacing for hobbyists, schools, and small shops.

The name CNCDreh combines CNC with Dreh, the German word for turning, reflecting its emphasis on axial motion control. The project emerged in online maker communities in the early 2020s, with its first public release in 2021. Development is community-driven, with a public repository and permissive licensing.

Technically, CNCDreh consists of a real-time core, a G-code parser, a motion-planning module, and a hardware abstraction layer. It targets Linux-based platforms with real-time capabilities and supports a range of drivers for stepper and servo motors. The software is designed to be hardware-agnostic, connecting to GRBL-style controllers, Smoothieware boards, or LinuxCNC-like setups, and it includes safety interlocks and tool management features.

In practice, users design parts in CAD/CAM software, generate G-code, and load it into CNCDreh via network or local interface. The platform offers a simple user interface for job monitoring, plus APIs for automation and scripting to repeat common workflows.

CNCDreh has built a community of contributors and educators, with documentation and tutorials that broaden access to CNC control. While praised for its openness and extensibility, practical use often requires thoughtful hardware choices and OS tuning to ensure reliable real-time behavior, as well as adherence to machine safety practices.