Film-Tech Forum ARCHIVE: CAD/CAM software for CNC code

This is topic CAD/CAM software for CNC code in forum Film-Yak at Film-Tech Forum ARCHIVE.

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Posted by John Walsh (Member # 168) on 10-29-2005, 07:48 PM:

Anyone using CAD/CAM software to generate G code for CNC machines? I'm looking for something simple, since my needs are basic. It could either be a Autocad 'bolt-on' or a stand-alone thing (yes, this means cheap!) [Big Grin]

Posted by Bobby Henderson (Member # 840) on 10-29-2005, 08:09 PM:

Cheap? There's the rub.

At my day job, we use a program called EnRoute3D. The full "pro" version costs over $4000. We transfer the G-Code files created by this program to the control software for our 4' X 8' computer driven routing table. Pretty expensive hardware. But cheap if you want to compare it to some high end 3D machining setups.

Just doing a web search on G-Code creation I found a lot different small, odd-ball companies offering programs for a lot less money than the price of EnRoute. However, I don't know about their level of quality or product support.

Posted by Will Kutler (Member # 770) on 10-29-2005, 08:53 PM:

Hi John

What do you need programmed? E-mail or p.m. me with applicable info.

K

Posted by John Walsh (Member # 168) on 10-31-2005, 03:39 PM:

Thanks, Bobby, that's what I'm finding out. There are many companies making CAM application software; so many it would take a long time to check them all. So, I was wondering if anyone had gone through this before, and what they thought. If I had big bucks, I go for the well-known software like Mastercam or Solidworks. But, I was hoping to get something less expensive since the stuff I do is fairly simple. A 4 x 8 routing table? Sounds *very* expensive!

Will; email sent. [Smile]

Posted by Greg Mueller (Member # 17) on 10-31-2005, 04:22 PM:

I use Mastercam and yep it's expensive. Now they use a dongle so you can't loan it to anybody.

Posted by Will Kutler (Member # 770) on 10-31-2005, 10:38 PM:

Hi Greg and John

I use HAAS equipment w/Solid Edge and Surfcam, but I also have Mastercam experience.

I would suggest you visit the HAAS website. They have excellent on-line tutorials that should answer your questions.

If you are doing small parts and small production runs, you might look into Sherline equipment.

There is a lot you can do with a Hardinge Turret Lathe, if you know how to set it up. Greg would like this: There is a simple fixture you can make to power tap (bottom tap to toloranced depth) on an ole Hardinge. Used to do production work with this....

Cheers

K.

Posted by Will Kutler (Member # 770) on 11-05-2005, 03:54 PM:

Hi John and Greg:

We just had a SME meeting this morning, and was able to ask Ed Conner, Sales District Manager for the HAAS Factory Outlet in Tempe, AZ e-mail: sales@hmtcnc.com ph(480)968-0522 what might be a good package for your application. He recommended a package called "Bobcat", but you should give him a call or send him an e-mail.

Hope this helps,

K.