Create Your Own PCBs with a CNC Milling Machine

Using KiCad, CopperCAM, and Candle Software

- Matthew Oppenheim

A Computer Numerical Control or CNC machine is a computer-controlled device that uses pre-programmed software to cut, shape, and create parts and prototypes. In this article, Matthew demonstrates how to use a small CNC milling machine at home to make a simple two-sided PCB, using KiCad, CopperCAM, and Candle software.

A Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine is controlled by a computer and uses preprogrammed software to cut and shape parts and prototypes. They are used with Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Computer Aided Manufacture (CAM) software.

In this article I describe my workflow for manufacturing a simple, two-sided printed circuit board from a blank piece of copperclad FR4, using a Genmitsu 3018 PROVer V2 CNC milling machine [1].

Why, in the age of cheap PCB production, would anyone take the time to mill out their own PCB at home? I asked myself this question a few times during this project.

I don't suggest that it is practical to mill a fully functional PCB that has a complex design at home, one with many vias, or component footprints with finely spaced surface mount pads. Some artisans do manage to do this and I credit them for it. However, modifying a complex PCB design so that it retains the board outline, mounting holes, and footprints required for the board connectors does not take long, and allows us to manufacture a "looks like" prototype that enables us to check two things:

That the PCB fits inside the intended case correctly.

That any connectors on the board align correctly with the openings in the case.

For this article, I milled a complete, twosided PCB that connects to a LILYGO T-Embed module [2] using 0.1" spaced header pins.