Thank you Larry and Shane.
Now on to learning how to switch grbl firmware back and forth.
There is a lot of threads on the topic of firmware and sending g-code.
It seems that the programs I want to use are:
Easel (for spindle) grbl that came with X-Controller
PicSender (for Laser) grbl from J Tech
UGS (for Spindle) BEST grbl firmware?
UGS (for Laser) BEST grbl firmware?
Eventually Vectric (for Spindle) BEST grbl firmware?
Does this make sense?