A 30-year journey — from computers loaded with audio cassettes to CNC machines in the browser. The story of someone who learned from scratch to teach from scratch.
It all started with a simple CIP-03, a computer with only 32KB of memory. Back then, loading programs happened through audio cassette tapes — a slow and laborious process. But I was fascinated by this machine and eager to understand how it worked.
No formal training. No courses. Just curiosity and a desire to experiment.
The first computer — a CIP-03 with 32KB of memory. Programs loaded from audio cassette tapes. Slow, laborious, but fascinating. First contact with machine language and Assembly programming.
Arduino made microcontroller programming accessible to everyone. I built robots, 3D printers, home automation systems. Always looking for innovative solutions, always self-taught.
Atmel introduced the ATTiny13 in 2004 — and from there came experimentation with ATTiny2313 and ATmega328. Small programmable devices to control motors, sensors, and electronic components. All self-taught, out of curiosity — not for a certificate or a job.
Assembly and hardware tutorials on YouTube when the platform had just turned 2. 59K views on "Stepper motor — parallel port". Sharing knowledge as a core value.
Handmade CNC machines with MKS-DLC32, a proprietary modified Potrace algorithm, AVR Assembly in the browser — zero installation. The AVR1 platform lets you write Assembly code and upload it to Arduino directly from the browser. All built by one person, in Bovalino, Calabria, Italy.
Beyond the machine, I built a series of online tools to make learning and using CostyCNC easier. All free. All in the browser.
Experienced CNC users might criticize the simplicity of CostyCNC machines. They're right that they're simple. But simplicity is a choice — not a limitation.
CostyCNC machines are accessible to a wider audience — including those with a limited budget or no prior CNC experience. The low price isn't the result of cheap components: it's a design choice.
Easier to use means easier to learn. CostyCNC is ideal for beginners and hobbyists who want to start without a steep learning curve. You learn by doing, not by studying.
Less complexity means a lower chance of failure. Fewer components means fewer things that can break. Simplicity is a form of engineering — not a compromise.
CostyCNC is designed for one specific purpose: cutting foam. It does it efficiently and precisely. Not trying to do everything — doing one thing well is a value, not a weakness.
The value of a CNC machine isn't measured only by complexity or price. There are other factors to consider.
Without the first step, you can't climb. CostyCNC is the place you enter when you think you can't. Discover the machines, try the software, watch the tutorials.