The Synthetos gShield (formerly grblShield) V5 is a 3-axis CNC stepper motor driver shield for Arduino. Designed as a complete hardware companion for the grbl CNC motion control firmware, it turns an Arduino Uno into a capable CNC controller for mills, routers, laser cutters, and other motion-control projects.

Version 5 adds compatibility with the Arduino Due via a power jumper that allows native 3.3V operation, in addition to standard 5V operation with the Uno and other ATmega328P-based boards. Three TI DRV8818 stepper drivers provide reliable, high-current motor control with 8× microstepping.

Key Features

• 3-Axis Stepper Control – X, Y, and Z axes on a single shield
• TI DRV8818 Drivers – Three robust stepper drivers at 2.5A per winding
• 8× Microstepping – Smooth, precise motor movement
• grbl Compatible – Purpose-built for the grbl CNC firmware
• Arduino Uno & Due Support – V5 power jumper for 3.3V or 5V operation
• Open Pin Pass-Through – Access unused Arduino pins for limit switches, spindle control, etc.

Specifications

• Stepper Drivers: 3× TI DRV8818
• Current per Winding: 2.5A
• Microstepping: 8×
• Input Voltage: 12–30V (screw terminal)
• Logic Voltage: 5V (Uno) or 3.3V (Due, via jumper)
• Axes: 3 (X, Y, Z)

Compatibility

• Arduino Uno and ATmega328P-based boards (5V)
• Arduino Due (3.3V via power jumper)

Ideal For

• DIY CNC mills and routers
• Laser cutter and engraver builds
• 3-axis motion control systems
• grbl-based CNC projects

Package Contents

• 1× Synthetos gShield V5

Resources

• grbl Wiki (GitHub)