Frequently asked questions

Do I need a computer next to my machine?

Usually, yes: CNCRemote Server runs on the computer or Raspberry Pi connected to your machine by USB. A Raspberry Pi is enough, and an old PC or Mac works too. Two exceptions: a Mac connected to the machine can drive it from the CNC Remote app itself, and a FluidNC machine on Wi-Fi or a grblHAL machine on Ethernet can be driven straight from an iPhone or iPad. See Install the server and Compatible controllers.

Which machines does it work with?

Machines whose controller runs Grbl, grblHAL or FluidNC, routers and lasers alike. Marlin, Smoothieware, TinyG and g2core are not supported. Details on Compatible controllers.

Does my phone need to stay on the same network?

To control the machine, yes: your iPhone, iPad or Mac connects to the server over your local network. When a job ends or stops, a notification still reaches you.

What happens if my phone loses the connection during a job?

The job runs on the computer connected to the machine, not on your phone, so it keeps running. The app tells you and reconnects by itself. Until then, only the machine's own emergency stop can stop it.

Is CNC Remote an emergency stop?

No. A network drop, a flat battery or a frozen device can take it away. Your machine needs a physical emergency stop that cuts the motion and the spindle or laser, within reach at all times. Run the machine only while you, or someone able to stop it, is beside it and watching.

Can I use several devices at once?

Yes. Every iPhone, iPad and Mac paired with the server sees the same machine, job and settings. A new device is approved from one already paired, or pairs while the pairing window is open.

Which files can I run?

G-code from your CAM software. Open it from your device, or save it in the CNCRemote folder of the computer running CNCRemote Server and pick it from the app. The toolpath is shown before you start.

What does Pro add, and what does it cost?

Driving the machine is free. Pro adds the surface map, choosing which pieces of a grid to cut and in what order, the job history, and the relays, buttons and sensors wired to a Raspberry Pi server. It is a one-time in-app purchase, with no subscription; its price is shown in the app. A purchase turns on Pro for one server, on every device paired with it, and can move to another server once every 30 days. Every Pro feature can be tried free for 14 days, once per Apple Account.

Can I try the app without a machine?

Yes. When no server is found, choose Try a Demo Machine: a simulated machine runs inside the app. Nothing real moves.

How is the server updated?

The app tells you when a new version of CNCRemote Server is available and, in most cases, installs it for you. When the computer needs an administrator password, install the new version by hand, as the first time. Paired devices are kept.

The app does not find my server. What can I check?

• The computer next to your machine is on and CNCRemote Server is running on it (its icon in the menu bar on a Mac, next to the clock on Windows).
• That computer and your device are on the same network. Some networks, often guest networks, keep devices apart.
• On a Mac, CNCRemote Server is allowed to find devices on your local network.
• On Windows, the firewall lets CNCRemote Server through: running the setup again restores it.

The app finds the server but not the machine

Check that the machine is switched on and that its USB cable is plugged into the server's computer, then refresh the list. If the machine is found but does not answer, check its connection speed: see Compatible controllers.

Another question? Contact support.