Welcome Document for Workbee CNC Router with Night Hawk Controller

Dear User,

Thank you for purchasing the WorkBee CNC Router from 3DPrintronics. We are delighted to welcome you to the exciting world of open-source, DIY CNC machining.

Controller Information

Your WorkBee CNC Router is equipped with the NightHawk CNC Controller from CNC3D.
This is a modern, high-performance controller designed specifically for CNC applications, offering improved reliability, smoother motion control, and excellent compatibility with popular CNC software.

⚠️ Important:
Your controller has been pre-configured and tested before dispatch. No firmware changes are required to start using the machine.

Before You Start (Please Read Carefully)

Before operating the machine, we strongly recommend that you watch the WorkBee CNC Router video playlist on our YouTube channel.

📺 YouTube Channel: 3DPrintronics – 2

📂 Playlist: WorkBee CNC Router Tutorials by 3DPrintronics

🔔 Important Note About Videos:
Some videos were created when the WorkBee CNC was using the OpenBuilds BlackBox controller. Since we now use the NightHawk CNC Controller, some controller-related steps may differ.

👉 If you notice any difference, please contact us before making changes.

1) Workbee CNC Router - Unboxing

https://youtu.be/jyj02teN7Co?si=Oo7gYx-KonbTquxY

2) How to install the z axis end stop - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4m3ESD-5eRg

3) How to check the limit switches (inductive sensor) –

https://youtu.be/nwpYriZCu5k?si=Fk6CsibEikQzpws0

4) Initial Setup of Workbee CNC Router - 3DPrintronics India

https://youtu.be/LwcMP-NMBwI?si=AmgzPW0y62MCEgVn

5) Basics of Makita Router used as Spindle in Workbee CNC Router -

https://youtu.be/CUwV3J_rz48?si=r2Tc8anDb8_5uhWv

CNC Control Software – CNC3D Commander

The WorkBee CNC Router with NightHawk controller is operated using CNC3D Commander software.

🔗 CNC3D Commander Tutorials & Learning Page
https://www.cnc3d.com.au/commander

🎥 CNC3D Commander – YouTube Tutorial Playlist
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0h4g9WI29rZ7n10NC9KWQJCR5BKybTib

NightHawk CNC Controller – Video Tutorials (Highly Recommended)

• NightHawk CNC Controller – Overview & Usage
  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N2ti52Lsx0E
• Complete Feature Walk-through
  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HVka2Ekddds
• Setting up Wi-Fi / Bluetooth on NightHawk
  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k07Qwe4IduU
• How to Probe Jobs Using CNC3D Commander
  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2q8tDUQNImg
• Other NightHawk Videos (General Reference)
  https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0h4g9WI29rYeO6qc8MUvIt5hVVartASb

⚠️ Some videos may not be specific to WorkBee CNC. Always confirm with us before applying changes.

Importing WorkBee CNC Profile into NightHawk Controller

(Step-by-Step with Screenshots Reference)

To ensure your machine behaves exactly like our factory-tested setup, we will supply you with a WorkBee CNC profile file for the NightHawk CNC Controller.

This profile contains:

• Verified GRBL motion parameters
• Axis directions & travel limits
• Acceleration, feed, and homing values
• Safe, tested defaults for WorkBee CNC

Step-by-Step Procedure

Step 1 – Power & Connection

• Connect the NightHawk CNC Controller to your computer using a USB cable
• Power ON the WorkBee CNC Router
  
  

Step 2 – Open CNC3D Commander

• Launch CNC3D Commander
• Confirm the controller is detected and connected

COM Port might be different in your computer

Step 3 – Open Controller Settings / Profiles

• Navigate to the Controller / Settings / Profiles section in CNC3D Commander
  
  

Step 4 – Import WorkBee CNC Profile

• Click Import
• Select the WorkBee CNC profile file provided by 3DPrintronics
  
  

Step 5 – Apply Profile

• Confirm and apply the profile
• Allow the controller to update all settings
  
  

Step 6 – Restart Controller

• Restart the NightHawk controller (Power on Off)
  
  

✅ After this process, your machine will have the same GRBL configuration that we use for testing and commissioning.

⚠️ Important Notes:

• Do NOT manually change GRBL values unless instructed
• Always import the supplied profile before first use
• If you see any error or warning during import, stop immediately and contact us

We can guide you live or step-by-step if required.

Controller Not Detected by Your Computer? (USB Driver Installation)

If your controller is not detected:

🔗 USB Driver Download:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YL2geble1zPi-jzm7lsbUanl3glbU_DO/view

🎥 USB Driver Installation Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4E329k1lhRQ

Restart your computer & controller after installing the driver.

Post Processor Download

🔗 CNC3D Post Processors:
https://www.cnc3d.com.au/postp

Always use the correct post processor for NightHawk.
If unsure, contact us before running any job.

Beginner CAD/CAM Software – CNC2D (Free)

CNC2D is a free, beginner-friendly 2D CAD/CAM design suite, ideal for users who are new to CNC machining.

CNC2D allows you to:

• Create simple 2D designs
• Generate toolpaths easily
• Export CNC-ready G-code

🎥 CNC2D Introduction & Tutorial Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Pq8y7JK_kY

We highly recommend CNC2D for customers who want a simple and easy starting point before moving to advanced CAD/CAM software like Fusion 360.

Do’s & Don’ts (Very Important)

• Do NOT flash or modify firmware unless instructed
• Consult us before any controller changes
• Never leave the machine unattended
• Ensure E-Stop is disengaged before power ON
• Inspect machine for shipping damage immediately
• Contact us for any issue:

📧 3dpoffice01@gmail.com, 3dprintech@gmail.com,
📞 9311902464

We look forward to supporting you on your CNC journey and wish you many successful projects with your WorkBee CNC Router.

Warm regards,
Team 3DPrintronics