Arduino Nano CNC Shield V4 (3-Axis)
The Arduino Nano CNC Shield V4 is a highly versatile, compact expansion board designed to seamlessly interface with the Arduino Nano. Operating standalone or PC-controlled via Arduino GRBL software, it acts as the central hub for desktop 3D printers, laser engravers, and micro-CNC machines. It routes precise G-code commands to up to three plug-in stepper motor drivers (such as the A4988 or DRV8825). Packed with onboard control buttons, polarized limit switch connectors, and adjustable logic settings, it provides a comprehensive control solution in a tiny footprint.
Key Features
- 3-Axis Control: Dedicated X, Y, and Z axis slots capable of driving two-phase, four-wire stepper motors up to 2A per channel.
- Onboard Hardware Controls: Features essential tactile buttons for machine operation, including Abort, Hold, Resume, CoolEn (cooling activation), Reboot, and an Emergency Stop (E-STOP).
- Adjustable Microstepping: Integrated MS1, MS2, and MS3 jumper headers allow for precise step resolution adjustments (up to 1/16 step for A4988 and 1/32 step for DRV8825).
- Versatile Power Routing: Equipped with a standard 2.5mm x 5.5mm DC Jack for 7.5V–12V motor power. It also features a
Mot-VOT-Seljumper for effortless motor power adjustment and supports 3.3V to 5V adjustable logic supply voltage. - Expanded Connectivity: Breaks out polarized limit switch connectors for each axis, alongside flexible UART and I2C interfaces for LCDs or additional modules.
- Open-Source Compatibility: Fully compatible with GRBL firmware to translate G-code into smooth stepper signals.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
| Compatible Microcontroller | Arduino Nano |
| Supported Axes | 3 (X, Y, Z) |
| Compatible Drivers | A4988 and DRV8825 |
| Power Supply Voltage (Motor) | 7.5V to 12V DC (via 2.5×5.5mm DC Jack) |
| Logic Supply Voltage | 3.3V to 5V (Adjustable) |
| Max Current per Motor | Up to 2A (Requires active cooling/heatsinks) |
| Hardware Interfaces | UART, I2C, Polarized Endstops |
| Firmware / Software | Arduino GRBL |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 72 mm x 59 mm x 20 mm |
A4988 Microstep Configuration
Set via the onboard jumpers. A connected jumper cap represents a “High” state, while an open/removed cap represents a “Low” state.
| MS1 | MS2 | MS3 | Microstep Resolution |
| Low | Low | Low | Full step |
| High | Low | Low | 1/2 step |
| Low | High | Low | 1/4 step |
| High | High | Low | 1/8 step |
| High | High | High | 1/16 step |
Applications
- Micro-CNC Routers: Building small desktop machines for precise milling and routing.
- Laser Engravers: Controlling the X and Y gantries of custom diode laser cutters.
- Desktop 3D Printers: Serving as the central motion-control motherboard for DIY extrusion projects.
