DesktopMAX Pen question

[gilblais]

I am working with High School students who create/modify G-code files, I would like them to be able to run their G-code file using a felt tip pin instead of a destructive bit on a cautionary preliminary verification run. Anyone know how I might be able to do this ?

Thanks in advance for any help, Gil Blais

[bleeth]

Try a google for cnc plotter pen. There have been those who make their own also.
For a premade here is a link to one that is well thought of:
http://www.widgetworksunlimited.com/CNC_Machine_Bits_and_Accessories_s/1.htm

[phil_o]

I have the plotter pen from WidgetWorks. It works very well.

Phil

[pro70z28]

I have an old engraving spindle I no longer use. I modified it to hold common Sharpie markers. I sometimes outline 4'x8' panels so kids can paint musical backdrops. The large area can be hard on the marker tip, so having inexpensive replacements is nice. A bracket could be made from anything handy. You could design something out of wood and cut it on the CNC. It should be designed so the marker "floats" on the substrate surface to allow for high and low areas of the substrate. My engraving spindle has a Z axis rail to allow up and down movement, but a simple hinge would do the same thing.

[gilblais]

Wow - you guys made that easy. Many thanks.