4040-XE FoxAlien complete build, review and first cut

[@ialcelik67]

I have just followed your instructions and set up my machine. It was only possible because you produced these tutorials. Thank you so much. You are brilliant!!!

[@foxalien_official]

That is a great video!!! And thanks for your advice, we will see what we can do to make the 4040-XE a better machine!!

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Its already a great machine 👍

[@foxalien_official]

@@JamesDeanDesigns Thanks, I am very glad you like it.

[@FrugalFixerSpike]

Great attitude, always make your stuff better, I lost my machine to a shop fire, so out of commision for now, maybe one day, I will be able to replace it. Other things needed replacing a lt worse, at the time!

[@mophie6941]

@@foxalien_official I am using the 4040 version with acrylic parts and do not put Loctite, it will destroy the acrylic just like gallium with aluminum. I have 3d printers so it took a few hours and the machine was up and running with my custom parts. It was not mention anywhere to not put Loctite and honestly on a vibrating machine it just make sense to use Loctite. I guess now I know haha

[@mickidonfritti1007]

I forgot to say that your videos are absolutely professional, informative and entertaining - thanks for that!

[@rickbruno3975]

YOU, sir, are a life saver. Will you PLEASE run for president of the US in 2024? Seriously, this was just a little over my head, but I will watch it a few times and all will be well. Thank you!

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

😆 You're too kind. Hopefully you'll get it but just ask if you have any questions 👍

[@terencegillespie6675]

Thanks for your help. Mesmerizing.

[@CoolOldGeek]

Good call on the thread locker, tighten everything! I added a 500-watt upgraded spindle to mine, but it didn't get to full RPM speed with the Foxalien power supply. Now it gets full power and RPMs with the external supply.

[@kendallyork7418]

The kits for the 500-watt have their own power supply but I haven't looked to see if its sold separately.

[@michaelamos4913]

I wished I had that much play on the wires to hook everything up like ur video. I had to take apart the harness and pull slack from the bottom hose to up everything

[@KenDilas01]

Nice, I was just looking at these.

[@amrsamer3428]

very nice machine i just bought one one right now

[@warrenking1815]

Great job, have been looking at foxAlien machines.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Cool, let me know how you get on

[@EIBLG]

Appreciate the video! My only problem is the colors aren't matching up when making connections, red is going to black,black is going to red I think I may have got a rejection that got pass inspection.What do you think please

[@Smallbarnworkshop]

Great. I have added to my watch later.

[@brulextrulex]

Excellent!

[@francescodelorenzi375]

Excelente, gracias!

[@toddozaki3318]

Great review. Thank you!

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Glad it was helpful!

[@TobyArnett]

Great Video! I am stuck on mine. I just got it and been trying to find some info. This was very helpful - now I need to test it out. Much appreciated for your time in making the video.

[@techydiy]

Good video.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

🙏 thank you. First time trying to do an all in one video.... a lot of recording and editing!

[@scottydntno]

How good is their customer service? Warranty?

[@aalexisa14]

Hi James. Big fan of your videos thanks. They are great for a beginner CNCer like me. Thanks. Quick question for you. My 4040 XE seems to stop mid-print quite often . It seems like its getting bogged won. I've been trying to use a 1/4" spiral up bit. The only way i can get it to run through the entire project is to run it really slow (like 0.02" per pass, 5"/min plunge, 30"/min speed) and even then it stops pretty often. with an 1/8" inch bit i can run it a bit faster, but it seems to happen there too. Am I doing something wrong, is there possible an issue with my machine/spindle?

[@enoluvrcut101]

James, love your video. Wish I had happened upon it sooner. I had already purchased a Vevor 300W S4040 CNC and to be honest, it looks almost identical to the FoxAlien 4040-XE. The assembly process if nearly identical, and the software the same. The biggest difference is the lack of documentation and support. I ran into a problem recently that I cannot seem to figure out. I don't want to bother you with details, but I wander if you know of the Vevor S4040, or do you know of any resources for it? Thank you.

[@digitaldave7406]

Zed Quite! He said there were to many ups and downs to the job. Z took over and he is a simple sole and is very happy. Naught turned out to be nothing. So we hired Zero for the job.

[@Boko88]

Great videos thank you very much. I 've watched the video on the 4040 FoxAlien and the 3020 Pro Max and now do not know which one to buy. Any help would be appreciated. I'm not starting a business just wood working and metal working hobby.

[@abdullahmohamad1106]

Hello, thank you for this video. I have a problem with Code for user button I get error:21? Can I know what the problem with my machine. Thank you very much

[@zimmystar]

Put a semicolon ; after Y0

[@williamgray884]

was there a reason for using candle instead of ugs software I watched your review of gemitsu 4040 the drive mechanism was different (drive screw vs belt ) would you recommend one over the other. thank you for the reviews i haven't purchased a machine yet.

[@j.c.r.publicidadsrl]

good afternoon, why nobody cuts materials with these cnc, could it be that they only engrave and cannot cut? Thanks for an answer friend...

[@cdmtravels5723]

hi great vid thanks just started to experiment with my machine, unsure how to create my own g codes /designs yet, still learning.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Check out the beginners guide to easel in my video list. Great place to start and easy to begin

[@navarholmes6358]

Got another question. Is the Code for Z probe just for the 4040-XE or can it be used on any FoxAlien?

[@vividcolourfilms1276]

Great video, would this machine be strong enough and large enough to machine guitar bodies? The average length is around 41cm, could you let a bit stick out and finish it off by router or hand?

[@ericwall8862]

James, thanks for these great videos. For a new bee, these are fantastic! Question about the spindle collar installation. There are the 3 bolts on each side and you installed the collar using the 2 lower bolts, is there a reason for that? Or, can I install on the upper two bolts just to get a little more height for carving?

[@JohnColgan.]

Did you have to pay tax, customs & import duty on yours or was it shipped from UK warehouse? It looks & sounds like a beautiful machine, can't make mind up with this one or SainSmart 4030. Your opinion, which has best cutting capabilities, depth of cut, feed rate etc? Also which one is quietest in operation? If the Alien can take 500w spindle, will the SainSmart take the same upgrade?

[@mickidonfritti1007]

Dear James, I have already received my new machine (4040 xe), but was not yet at home, because i am on a trip till end of march. I am very excited about the device! It would be great if you could answer my question: What are the allowable cutting forces (Fc in Newtons) on the spindle so that no damage occurs and the elastic deformations remain acceptable in terms of dimensional stability? I am an engineer and will use the machine for wood as a hobby, but sometimes I would also like to mill aluminum carefully. Therefore, I would first calculate the cutting forces and power consumption before making an attempt. I would choose the milling infeed very small to keep the forces low. Thank you very much and many greetings from germany! Best regards Mick

[@brianwaites4572]

The HOME button on the Controller! When I press this button the gantry just rams into the front left limit switch. How is this button set up? I can’t find any details referring to this button anywhere. Thanks.

[@alandimery3379]

Great video James. Can you tell me please, what is the spindle noise level like compared to a basic 60W 3018 spindle. Thanks

[@TerrapinCreations666]

Why not use double sided tape instead?

[@Fattmann100]

Newbie to CNC. I have a 3018 pro and am looking to step up. which would be the better choice, FoxAlien 4040-XEor PROVer 4030? Watched all your videos and need help to decide. You have hands on. Thanks for any insight.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

You need to looks at the pros for each one and see what meets your needs best. For example the FoxAlien has a bigger bed area but the ProverXL has a deeper Z axis. The ProverXL probably machines metal better but the FoxAlien is better for laser work

[@myonks2]

after using the z probe command the user command to return to 0,0,0 gives me and error code 21. does anyone know how to fix this?

[@kleinpauldotcom]

Very interesting video. I am wondering if you can give me your opinion: for someone looking to start into CNC. Would you recommend 4040-xe or a sainsmart 3020?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

They are two different machines, the 4040-xe has a larger work area and more powerful stepper motors however being belt driven and having wheel clamps can be more difficult to fine tune for a beginner so you're likely to have less issues out of the box with the 3020, but equally this has a smaller work area so its really about deciding what is important for you. May also be worth considering the FoxAlien Masuter Pro kzbin.info/www/bejne/mX26moyYitOGl7c

[@frankvitetta]

Thanks for the useful tips and advice. I am a mac user, what do you think I should use? I have downloaded candle on Mac and able to connect to the 4040 xe. Do you have any tips for a newbie? Everything seems quite overwhelming at the moment.

[@marcmorton6342]

James, fox alien 4040xe vs genmitsu prover 4030? Really having g trouble making up my mind.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Can totally understand that and partially why I have both. So within reason they both do pretty much the same thing, cut the same material, can both do laser and router. The way I view them though is if you're likely to do router and laser work then I'd lean towards the FoxAlien, but if you're leaning more towards heavy router work, harder materials etc. then the ProverXL. They are both great machines and equally they both have great customer service and support communities

[@marcmorton6342]

@@JamesDeanDesigns I was all set to get the 4040 but the prover has a size upgrade option and screw drive instead of belts. That is where I got stuck.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

@@marcmorton6342 🤣 yes it does. As I say the 4040 is better for laser because of the belts but the ProverXL is better for heavier router work because of the screw drive nd slightly more powerful stepper motors. Flip a coin

[@marcmorton6342]

@@JamesDeanDesigns it is a hard decision as the 4030 has a greater z axis as well.

[@stephengale375]

As always a great video James. Would be interested in how you'd compare it with the Genmitsu PROVerXL 4030, a few obvious differences but looked quite solid.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

I was waiting to see how long it would be before someone asked this 🤣. There are similarities but also differences. I'll probably end up doing a video on it but I'd say they have 2 slightly different audiences in mind. Sainsmart being normal CNC and heavier machining such as metal, and the FoxAlien for CNC and more laser.

[@stephengale375]

@@JamesDeanDesigns 😆 well I couldn't let the opportunity pass.

[@keithnorris9477]

Hi James. I have just bought the 40-40 xe but after following the video I have run the test but for some reason the router does not go down far enough to mark the wood. I know I must have done something wrong but don’t know what. Help please.

[@beardedgaming1337]

Is this thing able to cut and not just engrave? Like if I want to Mill out plastic or MDF that is between a quarter and 3/4 in thick?

[@HNWILL]

hey Mate, my machine keeps Jogging when moving and not going into the mdf sheet for the test run, I have done exactly what you did about 5 times now (I tried to G1-Z at 2mm deep but nothing happens. My User Commands setup with the tick to use them, wont set back to 0... does nothing for me

[@ianknight2053]

Thanks James, great video. Do you prefer Candle over UGS?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

No, personally I do prefer UGS without a doubt however Candle is much easier from a begginers point of view as it doesn't require installing and doesn't require Java either.

[@jasonharris2790]

Did I see somewhere that they are making an expansion kit for this?

[@gregdee530]

James Dean Designs, excellent video and very clear presentation, how is the machine operating now around a year later, still have the same opinions?

[@morrismurray3621]

Question, when I look on Amazon it says it is set up for 110V. You are in UK and I am in Australia so 240V. Did you have to change the electronics or use a 240v=>110V converter?

[@davidpillar875]

I recently bought the FoxAlien 4040 machine it was within my budget. I was using Easel software (free for 30 days) to make simple designs and Ugs or Candle software to run the Machine. The problem I have is that during the cutting the machine will "hold" or make a move not in the program. Any suggestions or any groups can help me

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Holding can be one of multiple things, do you get an error code when it holds? Make sure all of your power saving settings are turned off including Selective USB Suspend. As for making a move not in the program, that is very odd one, I suspect it may be missing steps

[@davidpillar875]

@@JamesDeanDesigns Thanks for the reply. The "hold" is annoying and occurs randomly. The unexpected moves in X or Y axis sometimes all three X Y and Z together. I was using Easel with UGS but Easel will not connect directly so I have to download program as text file and them import it to UGS. The random moves do not happen at the same place if I re-run the program. Perhaps a different Design CAD software might help?

[@chrisL-v5g]

Do you know if the new cl 6560 is supposed to be better than the vasto ?

[@johndiego3105]

Another quick question about the probe command, yours ends with GOZM30. Mine does not have the M30. Does that matter and I’m talking about the settings in the Candle software.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

M30 essentially just mean end, so it ends that command string. If its running without it then it should be OK

[@nawixi]

I am trying to set the starting coordinates to G90 G0 X0 Y0 G90 G0 Z0, but when I press number 1 I get G90 G0 X0 Y0 G90 G0 Z0 < error:21

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Not at a PC to be 100% sure but it will either be because you have 2 G90's or 2 G0's on the same line or both. That piece of code should technically be broken over 2 lines I believe as you want it to find the XY first, then the Z

[@amholtin]

Hey thanks for the detailed videos -- makes researching and choosing machines much easier for the rest of us! Could you tell me which post processor you're using for this machine?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Thank you. In my software, I use "GRBL mm", hope that helps 👍

[@amholtin]

@@JamesDeanDesigns It does! thanks

[@navarholmes6358]

You Zeroed XY when it was over the corner. But after the Z Probe step you didn't zero Z. is this a correct step or did you forget to zero Z?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Yes, so when you run the Z probe command that automatically sets the Z zero for you

[@RSGoodson]

My PC wont recogize my le 4040. Even if I pre-install driver s or install while connected. Starting to feel like I got scammed... and super frustrated. Any idea how to make a brand new windows pc recognize the device?

[@RobertKohut]

Nice!!

[@createanet]

great video can you operate these machines from a Mac ?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Yes you can run this from a mac. Design software is more limited on macs but there are a few choices

[@Jeankavanaghdop]

Great video as i'm in the shopping process, one more question : I have no G-code knowledge, how big of a problem is it?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

It's not a problem at all. You don't need to know any. Picking things up as you go a long will obviously help but not necessary

[@Jeankavanaghdop]

@@JamesDeanDesigns Awsome i'm definatly buying on, shopping for what is best for me. Thanks

[@jlssculpturedesign8140]

Hi ,could this mill steel with a correct tooling if cutting speed was turned down also how reliable is this machine .many thanks .

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

It probably could be not very well. Ideally you would want a screw driven machine, preferably with linear rails

[@jlssculpturedesign8140]

@@JamesDeanDesigns okay thanks for your advice, I'm also guessing turning this into a cnc plasma wouldn't work well either, I would make a steel bed for it .

[@robertmcdowell9649]

Anyone having trouble connecting the candle or lasergrbl to the 40-40XE? I've been over all the steps repeatedly, port, baud speed, installed drivers etc. Wondering if my software is outdated or not compatible.

[@mireyacela]

Hello James, thanks for this video. Excelent! Thanks. And I have a question: which recomended software is the best to convert my design at .dxf to gcode ?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Easel has a lot of free functions so it depends on your design. Carveco is powerful but costs about $15 a month. This video covers different software kzbin.info/www/bejne/e36samqImMdjmLM

[@mireyacela]

@@JamesDeanDesigns Thanks again! I usually design at InkScape and I preferd software free. I watch the other video and talk about. Thanks 🙂👍

[@josephkos7279]

When I home my 4040 the bit is 1/8 off waste board, is this the normal home position?

[@copeland360]

I'm new to cnc and just got the FoxAlien 4040 and was asking what if anything can be done with the x Gantry wobbling a little when going through tough material or cutting deap .?could the left and right side stepper motors need adjusting or is that the way that model works ?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

There are things that can be done like tightening up the wheels clamps, also make sure $1=255 in your GRBL settings. Then you can start to look at upgrades like using bigger extrusion. Usually though if you get flex like that its an indication to slow down a little or go shallower.

[@Marketmill]

Great Video, thanks so much for the detail, just wondering if you had any electrical issues as UK is like Australia 220-240 @ 50hz but US power runs at 60hz. Only asking as about to purchase one for use in AU

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

None at all. I have 2 machines that can switch between 110 and 220. So far I havent had any issues with either 👍

[@stevensmith2022]

Is the 4040 good for cutting out a shape and how to attach media

[@b-man7991]

Is PROVer 4030 better than Foxalien 4040 XE? Which one is better?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

They both have their strengths. The easiest way to explain it from my point of view is them will both machine stuff like wood very well but if you like laser work go FoxAlien, if you plan to machine metal go for the 4030

[@b-man7991]

@@JamesDeanDesigns Thanks a Lot Loving Your videos

[@amillard264]

Great Video. Really well done. I set up my 4040-xe using this video and had no trouble with any of it until I went to test the Y and X axis. They are both making noise like they want to move, but not moving. The Z axis is fine. Spindle fine. As shown, I tightened the Y and X axis carriages so they would stick but still move by turning the knobs when in the upright position. Is it possible that they are now too tight? If so, how to loosen? Thanks.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Yes, I suspect the clamps are a little too tight. You simply release the bolts applying the pressure to the wheels by about half a turn, then release the bolts holding the plates and tighten then straight back up so it should release some pressure. In retrospect i probably tightened them up a fraction too much in my video

[@amillard264]

@@JamesDeanDesigns Thanks. Again, great video!! I'm loosening Gantry just a bit as you suggested.. There is a kind of sticking point in the belt maybe due to sitting in the same spot during shipping. I'm finding that as long as I don't start my x-axis in that spot, it will work, but if it settles in that spot, it won't move. Possibly need to tighten belt. IDK. Right now I'm stuck on the code for User Button 1. Not working. Haven't yet tried every poss angle. Thanks again.

[@TheKingTimmy]

what if i cant hook my machine up to my computer because its across the house for the driver install. keeps telling me "The drive is successfully Pre-installed in advance!" then it doesnt show up on the ports

[@wallacemay4738]

how you went to the user command? what did you click?

[@craigjulespallister1286]

Hi James, great video , this seems to be an old video, how are you getting on with the FA I’m thinking of upgrading to the fa xe what laser would you recommend and should I purchase separate to the machine, I can’t seem to find a uk supplier any idea’s. Many thanks

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Hi Craig, I love my 4040XE. I would recommend getting the FoxAlien 20w laser with it. There is also the 40w laser now but that does bump the price up quite a bit but it is very powerful. Supply in the UK fluctuates. they only send over stock every couple of months so if things sell out quickly you can be waiting a while, but keep an eye on Amazon. Also message FoxAlien directly and they can advise when new stock is expected

[@craigjulespallister1286]

Thanks James, I’ve ordered the xe with the 40w laser decided to do it now rather than waiting, do you have any speed tests for a 4040xe? Setup files? Thanks again keep up the good work 👍

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

@@craigjulespallister1286 not really specifically for the 4040-XE. I have a video on doing powerscale tests with the laser, this applies to any laser. As for the router work, it's not quite as easy and often just better to get stuck in.

[@johnbartlett7640]

When you secure your workpiece with blue tape, do you have to worry about the piece being square to the bed?

[@fab3319]

Yes

[@orlandomosquera4784]

Yes you do.

[@mickeyb8485]

Thank you for the video. I was wondering if you could provide the $$ settings that you use? I am having a heck of a time getting my laser to home and or engrave. Thank you in advance.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

These are the default ones hisnhershandcrafted.myshopify.com/blogs/the-blog/foxalien-cnc-default-grbl-settings

[@mickeyb8485]

@@JamesDeanDesigns thank you very much. Appreciate you

[@littledogagency]

Can use use Candle to control a laser instead of spindle or is lasgergrbl the best idea?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Hi Brent, Lightburn is the best solution for laser. It does cost $60 but I have not yet met a person who didn't think it was wroth every dollar

[@JohnColgan.]

You're the 2nd person that specifically mentioned Locktite ThreadLock for the Alien. Should we assume there is a bolt tension problem? Need locknuts? Looks a great machine, Nice & quiet too. your opinion ... Alien or SainSmart 4030 superior?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

I also mention loctite for the Sainsmart 4030 as well in the build video (if I remember correctly). Its not a defect as such but a lot of the threads on these machines are quite fine so you can't tighten them up too much which is why the loctite helps. I need to test the machine a bit more but it feels like this is targeted a bit more a laser users with the fact its belt driven but the Sainsmart is probably towards heavier CNC work such as metal

[@JohnColgan.]

The frame rails do look a bit small & thin for their size//length, you commented about the X axis rail could be stiffer. May be something to consider. The 4030 has big stuff C channel extrusions. I've still not seen much video from anyone using the 4030 in anger!

[@j.c.r.publicidadsrl]

What is the maximum thickness that this cnc can cut and how many passes???

[@LesMcKenzie-u1o]

i Need a new Z stepper motor for the foxAlien 4040-XE can you please help me i have tried to find the motor with no luck i have emailed foxalien and no response can you tell me the part # and where to get it . thank you for your help Les McKenzie

[@j.c.r.publicidadsrl]

Cuál es el espesor máximo que puede cortar esta cnc y cuantas pasadas???

[@stevethompson3353]

will Carveco Maker work on the Foxalien 4040xe

[@flypic1098]

Hi James, Have you given up on the 4030 PROver XL then ?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

I just replied to your other comment. ProverXL video coming this week 😁

[@derrickbullington9135]

Just got this and followed all the directions. When I power it on I can hear it running but the screen is blank. Any sugesstions?

[@derrickbullington9135]

I needed to switch to controller mode and not PC.

[@anonymousUuser]

How would you suggest making a spoil board for this machine?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Hi, I made a video for it. Hope it helps kzbin.info/www/bejne/qGfLgYJ6nNV2jaM

[@johndiego3105]

James, for my foxalien 4040xe the probe command starts like this G21G91 does it matter if they are in a different order than what you have in the video?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Not really, those two can be in any order

[@matthew6674]

can you provide some insight on the 4030 offline controller? How to build a project in easel and transfer it to the offline controler so that the computer does not have to be attached. In case i am in the middle of a project and have my internet go out. I just bought a sain smart 4030 and trying to learn as much as I can before it arrives.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Hi Matthew, You export the Gcode from Easel and save the file to an SD card. You then load that SD into the offline control and run it from there. Also I would strongly advise you don't run your machine from Easel. Use UGS or Candle, much better and no need to worry about the internet connection dropping out.

[@thelawnrookie1162]

I have the masuter 4040 what is the rpm for the standard spindle?

[@danspratt2]

Hey James :) I've bought this router (largely because of this review!), and its been going relatively well, but it does this odd thing when I start a job. It tries to go to machine Z zero, which trips the end stop switch and sets off the alarm. I'm using fusion 360 to generate tool paths, and it doesn't seem to do this when simulating the path? I hoping that you or someone else knows of a obvious solution that I cant see. thanks :D

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

If your on Facebook, ask in the FoxAlien group. im sure you have to modify the code or something in Fusion but as I dont use it im not 100% sure

[@danspratt2]

@@JamesDeanDesigns Thanks for getting back to me :) I found the issue in the Post settings, needed to change the safe retract height from G28 to clearance height

[@johndiego3105]

Can you set a macro in lightburn to be able to zprobe the foxalien 4040xe?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Yes, there are macro buttons. You'll just need the Z probe code to make it happen

[@johnkurtinecz5774]

Wanted to ask you if you could provide me with some input. I have a 3018 Pro and thinking about going up in bed size. Wanted your opinion of the FoxAllen 4040-XE vs ProverXL 4030? Have a preference?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Whilst they are similar they are different. ProverXL is probably more geared for heavier work, the 4040-XE is for lighter work but can move faster for something like laser work. Its one of the reasons I have both as it cover both ends of the scale. Do you see your self more likely to mill metal or use a laser?

[@johnkurtinecz5774]

@@JamesDeanDesigns thank you very much for taking the time to reply and for your input! Helped me allot. Prefer to do more milling then laser so know I know which way to head. Love your videos keep up the great work and thanks again!

[@Dasuperfootballfan]

hi, I can't connect my cnc to my pc what should I do. and thank you.

[@orlandomosquera4784]

One more excellent video, I am planning to get this machine, where will you get the laser please?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

I've got a laser from FoxAlien and planning to get a video done on it, but just got some other videos queued up first.

[@AndrewAHayes]

What made you pick this model over all the other available machines out there?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Having had my 3018 for nearly 18 months, I needed to go bigger with more power but only have a very small workshop. Rather than going for one big machine like a workbee, I worked out 2 medium machines would be better. So I have the ProverXL 4030 and this one, the 4040-XE. Both have their separate advantages. For example the ProverXL is probably a stronger machine, where as the 4040-XE is better for laser work which i also wanted to continue doing

[@paulwatson-rs7lu]

Hey there does this machine have 4 axis capability by any chance?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

It does. I'm not sure to what extent as I've never played with 4th axis but there is an "A axis" port and also a range of separate settings for that port as well

[@johndiego3105]

After you design a project and import to easel, how do you get the offline controller to carve the job??

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

You have to export the Gcode from Easel, and save it onto the SD card, then put that SD card in the controller

[@johndiego3105]

@@JamesDeanDesigns thank you so much!!

[@iwannaapple7190]

How long did it take your machine to carve that eagle? I would have like to see that myself. By knowing that that would let me know the machines capabilities.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

It's been a while since I did this. I think about 2 hours in total, maybe less but I am always very Conservative with my speeds

[@Tips5]

Can i use 500w on this machine ?

[@consuelobrown3706]

Can't get my machine to zero set to start the project...what am I doing wrong . Follow every step in this video

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

When you click zero what happens? do all of the coordinates go back to 0, 0, 0

[@mrwickairsoft6345]

Thinking of getting this to make airsoft parts

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

It's a good machine but I don't really know much about airsoft unfortunately 😕

[@psclark2416]

can you use easel to run the machine

[@jakebryant5061]

Thanks for the video! I am having a problem with Button 1 though. Whenever it is clicked I receive a "error: 21" in the console. Is there a reason for this?

[@coryglasser3153]

Try putting a semicolon after the Y0 command. This splits the command into two lines eliminating the error 21.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

Try what Cory has suggested but also make sure you have not ran homing. The custom button will not run if you have homed the machine first

[@robbyk2374]

@@JamesDeanDesigns so what do you do if you have run the homing button?

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

@@robbyk2374 I'm doing this off memory but if you running homing then candle has a return to origin button I believe

[@DrRakis]

@@coryglasser3153 Cheers that fixed the issue for me as well :)

[@byrontyler6991]

what post processor for foxalien 4040-xe? using vcarve desktop

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

GRBL mm or GRBL in

[@byrontyler6991]

@@JamesDeanDesigns thank you 👍

[@johnnyponder4827]

Does it come with design software?

[@josephunderwood8054]

We are having a issue with down loading the program can you help us please.