A CAD module would send the instructions to the machine to control it. CNC equipments are meant to increase operations especially in the manufacturing industry. Since it is intended for the manufacturing industry, it is costly. However, there are smaller sized CNC machines and systems which cost lower like the do-it-yourself CNC router kits. CNC Woodworking And Shopbots When computers first arrived in the last quarter or so of the 20th century, it had started early on to take over some important functions in some of man s complex machineries and devices. It was only a matter of time when software programs like CNC and ShopBots would dominate the manual-driven industry of woodworking. Created by John Parsons and introduced in the 50s, the first CNC machines were IBM computers mounted on milling machines to manipulate command movements in a sequence. When the 60s rolled in, CNC machines were able to make different parts and with increased productivity and reduced wastage. There was no turning back. If the plan is insufficient, then it is possible that the machine would not be able to provide for the woodworker s needs. Building your own CNC woodworking equipment like a router would surely require you to work hard and can be very difficult. It could be hard but rewarding since you get to use something you actually build. Would there be another way of increasing productivity without spending too much? There is a good alternative for buying new CNC woodwork, buying used ones. It may sound ridiculous, but very practical. There are several second-hand equipments that are still in a good condition but up for a lower price. Check with professionals, the Internet, journals and magazines, and your colleagues regarding some basic woodworking CNC machines. Discuss with experts the options of having detached or built-in software programs of your CNC machines and all their pros and cons. All of these must answer your own questions and your specific needs.