Re: CNC software

> I am not a machinist, just thought it would be fun for a hobby,
> however, the software that came w/ the CNC setup is not the

greatest

> (DeskNc) My question is which software package would be best for me
> to look at. Cost is not an issue, I just want something that is

easy

> to learn, and easy to run, and user friendly. I would like

something

> that is "all inclusive", meaning the ability to make a part w/o
> having to bounce back and forth from program to program.

1) Cost is always an issue!

2) Most of the programs that will control a small CNC have very
limited capabilities to program parts. These are usually limited to
cutting arcs and lines, maybe pocketing of fairly simple shapes.
None will allow you to draw your part & puch a button to make it.
There are 2 kinds of programs the first is function that is performed
by DeskNC, a CNC controller. It intreprets G-code or DXF files and
causes the motors in the CNC machine to move. The second kind is
what is called a Cad-Cam program. The function is to create a design
and generate a CNC program ( G-code is the standard but there are
asmany variations as there are controllers). The output from the Cad-
Cam program is fed to the CNC controller program.

By structuring your software functions in this way, the controller
follows blind instructions without the difficulty of manually
programming each coordinate in the CNC program, and the Cad-Cam
process can be done simultaneously while the machine is making parts.

The benefit is that the programs are less prone to typographical
errors and the degree of complexity can be 1 or 2 orders of
magnitude higher.

IMService has recently received permission to (finally) provide On-
line access to a Vector-cam 30 day demo. This is a lowcost (in North
America) Cad-Cam program that includes a very nice mechanical cad
drawing side and a precise Cam side. The demo includes machine
specific drivers for the following machines: EMC, Flashcut,
MicroKinetics, Shopbot, and DeskNC, as well as a generic 3D mill & a
Lathe driver.

http://www.imsrv.com

Best Regards,

Fred Smith
IMService - We are THE source for low cost Cad-Cam.