This guide covers the essential features of your Maslow 4 CNC machine’s web interface, including connecting to WiFi, uploading files, and running your first cuts.

Connecting to Your Maslow

Step 1: Power On

When powered on, your Maslow 4 creates a WiFi network named maslow. The default password is 12345678.

Step 2: Connect to WiFi

Connect your computer, smartphone, or tablet to the maslow WiFi network.

Step 3: Access the Web Interface

The interface may auto-open when you connect. If not, enter 192.168.0.1 in your browser’s address bar.

Web Interface Overview

The Maslow 4 web interface provides all the controls you need to operate your CNC machine without installing any additional software.

Main Dashboard

The main dashboard displays:

• Machine status
• Current position (X, Y, Z coordinates)
• Connection status
• Quick access to common actions

Actions Menu

The Actions menu provides access to:

• Home Position: Define and return to the home position
• Move Machine: Manual jog controls for X, Y, and Z axes
• Calibration: Run the calibration wizard
• Run G-code: Execute uploaded G-code files

Configuring WiFi (Optional)

You can configure Maslow to join your home WiFi for networked access from any device on your network.

Steps to Connect to Home WiFi

1. Access the web interface via the default maslow network
2. Navigate to the “FluidNC” tab or “Network” settings
3. Enter your home WiFi credentials
4. Save and restart the machine

Uploading and Running G-code Files

Uploading Files

1. Navigate to the “Files” or “Actions” menu
2. Click “Upload files”
3. Select your .nc G-code file
4. Wait for the upload to complete

Running a G-code File

1. Select the uploaded file from the list
2. Set the start position (or pick a specific line if resuming)
3. Click “Run” to start the job
4. Monitor progress from the dashboard

Visualizing Tool Paths

The web interface can display a visual preview of the tool path, helping you verify the job before running.

Manual Machine Controls

Jog Controls

Use the arrow buttons to manually move the machine:

• X-axis: Left and right movement
• Y-axis: Up and down movement (on vertical setup)
• Z-axis: Router depth control

Zeroing Position

Set the current position as zero for any axis:

1. Move the machine to your desired zero point
2. Click the “Zero” button for the appropriate axis
3. Confirm the new zero position

Spindle Control

Control the router/spindle using built-in macros:

• M3: Spindle ON
• M5: Spindle OFF

Extending and Retracting Belts

The belts can be extended or retracted using the controls in the interface.

Updating Firmware

Keeping your firmware up to date ensures you have the latest features and bug fixes.

Firmware Update Process

1. Download the latest firmware from GitHub Releases:
   • firmware.bin
   • index.html.gz
   • maslow.yaml

2. Access the web interface and go to the “FluidNC” tab

3. Click “Update the Firmware” and select firmware.bin

4. Upload the other files using the file upload function

5. Restart the machine

Note: If updating from a version before 1.0 to after 1.0, a USB cable is required. See the official documentation for USB update instructions.

Calibration

Access the calibration wizard from the Actions menu. The wizard will guide you through:

1. Belt extension and retraction
2. Home position definition
3. Anchor point measurement
4. Calibration grid setup
5. Automated calibration process

For detailed calibration instructions, see Putting It All Together.

Tips for Best Results

• Work Surface: Use a flat, rigid spoil board to protect your work surface
• Material Hold-down: Secure your material firmly to prevent movement during cutting
• Start Slow: Begin with conservative feed rates and speeds until you’re familiar with the machine
• Test Cuts: Always do a test cut on scrap material before cutting your final piece
• Dust Collection: Connect a shop vacuum to the dust port for cleaner operation

Troubleshooting

Cannot Connect to WiFi

• Verify you’re connecting to the correct network (maslow)
• Check the default password (12345678)
• Try power cycling the machine

Web Interface Not Loading

• Manually enter 192.168.0.1 in your browser
• Try a different browser
• Clear browser cache

Machine Not Responding

• Check all cable connections
• Verify power is connected
• Check the serial connection in the web interface

Resources

• Maslow CNC Forums - Community support and troubleshooting
• Official Assembly Guide
• Firmware Repository
• FluidNC Documentation