Creating a CNC machine to mill parts for DIY projects is a dream many of us have entertained — and I’m no exception. In this video, we’re thrilled to welcome Patrick Hood-Daniel, the creator of the very successful BuildYourCNC YouTube channel, for an engaging livestream about electronics, programming, and, of course, Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines. He shares his journey from programming as a child on a Tandy TRS-80 with just 4KB of RAM to becoming a pioneer in the DIY CNC community and an expert in STM32 microcontrollers.

Patrick details how he transitioned from a career in architecture and urban design to focus on his passion for robotics and CNC machines. Discover how his early experiments with round rails evolved into innovative designs using angled bearings and wood to create efficient CNC systems. These designs became the foundation for his educational outreach at various Maker Faires starting in 2007.

Let’s get technical and watch as Patrick explains his preference for bottom-up development — starting with bare microcontroller chips instead of pre-built platforms like Arduino. He discusses the challenges and rewards of working with STM32 microcontrollers, from learning ARM architecture to register-level programming, emphasizing the importance of datasheets and a hands-on approach.

Patrick also showcases the practical use of AI, such as generating OLED display programs with I²C communication, highlighting how technology accelerates development. Through his daily live streams, Patrick not only shares his successes but also his challenges, creating a collaborative learning environment. Whether you're interested in microcontrollers, CNC systems, or the evolving intersection of AI and robotics, you’ll find something interesting in this video. Watch it below:

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