Compass CNC – Open-source handheld CNC router
Hey HN, I am Cam, and for the past two years I have been working on Compass, an open-source handheld CNC router that brings computer precision to woodworking while keeping the user directly involved in the process. The idea started as my senior design project at UC Berkeley, with the goal of making a more approachable CNC machine—standard CNC machines are expensive, bulky, and remove you from the tactile “maker” experience. Compass solves that by combining a handheld router with real-time robotic assistance. You move the router roughly along a design path, and Compass uses four optical flow…
In plain words
Compass CNC is an open-source handheld CNC router designed for woodworkers who want computer-precision cutting without the expense and bulk of traditional machines. The user guides the router along a design path while optical flow sensors and a motion system automatically correct for accuracy. Built as an affordable DIY project, it costs around $600 in parts or less than $800 as a kit, with all plans and firmware freely available. It targets makers seeking hands-on control over precision machining.
written from the facts on this page · September 2026
From the sources
In the maker’s words, at launch
Hey HN, I am Cam, and for the past two years I have been working on Compass, an open-source handheld CNC router that brings computer precision to woodworking while keeping the user directly involved in the process. The idea started as my senior design project at UC Berkeley, with the goal of making a more approachable CNC machine—standard CNC machines are expensive, bulky, and remove you from the tactile “maker” experience. Compass solves that by combining a handheld router with real-time robotic assistance. You move the router roughly along a design path, and Compass uses four optical flow sensors (like in computer mice) and a 3-axis motion system to auto-correct for precision cuts. What is different about Compass: - Open source: All plans, firmware, and CAD files are available on GitHub. - Affordable: The DIY build costs ~$600 in parts, and I am selling kits for <$800. - No external markers: The sensing technology allows for positioning without external markers, so no setup or consumables required. - Portable: Fits in a backpack and is not limited by a fixed work envelope. We recently completed our first beta program and have just launched V1 kits for pre-order. You can find more info and the launch video at the listed URL. GitHub: https://github.com/camchaney/handheld-cnc
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