Software Introduction

Shared software and connection guide for PiBot FluidNC and grblHAL controllers

The controller firmware and the desktop control program are different things. FluidNC or grblHAL runs on the PiBot controller. FluidNC WebUI, LightBurn, LaserGRBL, Candle, UGS and OpenBuilds CONTROL run on your computer or browser and send G-code to it.

Firmware and Software Compatibility

Firmware	FluidNC WebUI	OpenBuilds CONTROL	LaserGRBL	Candle	UGS	LightBurn
FluidNC	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓
grblHAL	—	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓
GRBL 1.1f/1.1h	—	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓

Compatibility does not mean every plugin or machine feature is automatic. Sender versions change, and grblHAL can be built with different plugins. Test your exact firmware build and software version before operating a machine.

Recommended Starting Point

FluidNC WebUI

Best for first setup and diagnostics. It provides console, jog controls, file upload, SD access and status in a browser without installing a G-code sender.

LightBurn / LaserGRBL

For laser machines after laser mode, PWM output, S-value range, motion, dimensions, homing and safety behavior are tested.

Candle / UGS / OpenBuilds

General CNC senders for USB serial operation. Match baud rate, port, firmware expectations and machine units.

grblHAL WebUI / Senders

Use software that matches the exact build and enabled networking, WebUI, SD, MPG and spindle plugins.

Connection Methods

Main USB: firmware installation, boot-log diagnosis and desktop G-code senders.
Wi-Fi: FluidNC WebUI or a network-enabled grblHAL build. The factory FluidNC AP is normally opened at http://192.168.0.1.
SD card: local G-code storage when enabled by the firmware and YAML/build.
RJ12 / auxiliary USB: model-specific pendant or expansion interfaces; they are not automatically general-purpose PC connections.

Official References

For troubleshooting, continue to the shared PiBot Controller FAQ.