Re: CAM Software: Opinions Wanted

Hi Jeff,
When I first started running my machine I used a text editor
and CNCPro. I used a spring loaded piece of pencil lead in my machine
to draw on paper. Then I would replace the paper with my
material and the pencil with a milling bit. I found an old basic
program that would take a Gcode file and display it. I then started
using Kcam (KellyCam Freeware) to write my code and backplot it. I
then downloaded the FREE version of TURBOCAD and did some DXF drawing
that I import into KellyCam. In KellyCam you can scale and move the
drawing on the table. I tried alot of software demos. Most CNC
software is very expensive. They have so many features it is tough
doing something simple with them!

John

--- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@y..., "Jeff Swayze" <jswayze@o...> wrote:
> I'm going to need some NC software for use with my new Camtronics
> controller and mill/drill conversion. I've seen various posts over
the
> months regarding software, but I haven't seen a good rundown or a
> bunch of opinions.
>
> What do people think is the best software for the money right now?
I'd
> like to be able to do as much as possible: 2D (from DXF or HPGL), 3D
> surfaces (DXF or IGES?), drilling, engraving (from TrueType)etc.
>
> Here are the packages I'm aware of right now (Excluding the monsters
> like Pro/E, I-DEAS, etc.)
>
> MaxNC
> SuperCAM
> DanCAM
> DeskNC
> CNC Pro
>
> What thinkest thou?
>
> Thanks,
> Jeff