What is CNC?
A CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine is a motorized tool controlled by a computer that executes pre-programmed sequences of commands to manufacture parts with high precision. Unlike manual machining, where an operator moves the tools by hand using wheels and levers, a CNC machine uses software to translate a digital design into physical movement.
[ THE CONTROLLER: RASPBERRY PI PICO 2 ]
For this mission, I chose the Pico 2. I love the workflow using VS Code with the Pico extension—it makes the process much more professional and streamlined.
> FIG 01: PINOUT_DIAGRAM
| PIN TYPE | FUNCTION |
|---|---|
| Power | VBUS (5V), 3V3, GND |
| GPIO | General purpose Input/Output (3.3V) |
| ADC | Analog to Digital Converter (12-bit) |
| PWM | Pulse Width Modulation (Motor/LED control) |
| SPECIFICATION | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Microcontroller | RP2350 (Dual Core ARM Cortex-M33) |
| Clock Speed | 150 MHz |
| Memory (SRAM) | 520 KB Internal |
| Flash Memory | 4 MB Off-chip (via QSPI) |
| Languages | C/C++, MicroPython, Rust |
| Communication | 2x UART, 2x SPI, 2x I2C |
| Features | 8x PIO State Machines |
SELECT EXECUTION ENVIRONMENT.
[ MISSION: WOKWI SIMULATION ]
Platform Access
Search for Wokwi in your browser and select the first option. You can choose different microcontrollers; I chose the Raspberry Pi Pico 2 based on my previous experience in class.
Language Selection
After selecting the board, various templates appear. While C++ is an option, I decided to use MicroPython to experiment further with the language.
Workspace Interface
The code editor is on the left. The top bar features a green button to run the code, a blue button to add components, and a gray button for the control panel.
Adding Components
Using the blue "+" button, you can browse and insert various components available in the library to build your virtual circuit.
Virtual Wiring
When selecting sensor pins or inputs, Wokwi automatically generates a jumper wire. You just need to click on the target pin to complete the connection.
Full Circuit Build
The final simulation setup includes an OLED SSD1306, a Joystick, an LED with a 230-ohm resistor, and a push button.
> CLOUD_LINK: WOKWI_PROJECT_ACTIVE
Live Interaction
Once the simulation is running, you can interact directly with the components (like moving the joystick) as shown in the video.
Custom Libraries
For the OLED to work, I needed a specific library. I clicked the arrow next to the file manager and selected "New File" to add it.
AI Assistance
You can use AI to help generate the necessary driver code for your custom libraries and paste it directly into the new file.
Sharing the Mission
Save your project using the disk icon. Then, use the "Share" (forward) button to copy a link and distribute your simulation.
