1 Optimize the source data. On the heightmaps, each altitude is represented by a different color. Using a free open source tool called SpringMapEdit, I export the heightmap as an 8-bit grayscale image, either a JPG or a bitmap. There are 256 shades of gray and therefore 256 possible elevations-the darker the shade, the deeper the CNC drills. In Photoshop, I adjust the levels to boost the contrast, so the darkest grays are pitch-black and the lightest ones are pure white. That makes the machine more likely to pick up all the fine gradations in height. 2 Convert it into code. With the levels tweaked, I then convert the image to a tool path-a set of instructions for the CNC router. There are several apps for doing this. I use Vectric's PhotoVCarve, which costs $149. (With some of the pricier programs, like Aspire, you can airbrush and massage the terrain onscreen, but PhotoVCarve does the job just fine.)
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