Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Re: CAM Expert software

Hey Ron,
I have messed around with as many Low Budget techniques as I could. The
bottom line is there are none that work quite up to what I think is
necessary, especially when they are just DXF to G-code converters. The real
challenge is that a simple DXF conversion does not allow room for
"sequencing" or "ordering" cuts, "start- stop" locations and such. One finds
himself creating numerous different "Paths-Files" in order to cut even one
simple part. That my friend is a Pain.

I have Ashlars 2d release (drawingboard) and will agree it to be absolutely
the most intuative software out there. (to bad it was discontinued at that
$150 level)

There is absolutely no comparison between the two programs for drawing
though, I will say there are unique things about VectorCad. I cannot draw
anywhere nearly as quick with VectorCad, ( Actually, I don't think I could
draw "anything"....) So, I don't.

I flip between AutoSketch and Ashlar. Then, "import" things into VectorCam
via DXF. Vectorcam can then automatically resequence your cuts or you can do
it manually. Works very, in fact VERY well. Offset what ever you want, DO
whatever you want !

I think VectorCam is probably "the best low cost option" to create toolpaths
for plasma, 2-1/2d routing etc.......... Once you make the Post Processor
work the way you want it to.

I have played very little with the 3d aspect so far. Short of opening a 3d
"demo" file and executing the paths on one of my routers, I have done nothing
yet, but, that did run very well.
Even though I have other CAM options, taking advantage of Fred's "Group
Special" is one of MY "better" moves lately !

Seeya,

Chris Luebke
http://data-cut.com/

ron_routledge@... wrote:

> I have a demo of Vector Cad but it doesn't seem very intuitive to
> draw with. I am used to drawing with Ashlar Vellum, it is the only
> CAD program that I have ever sat down at and been able to draw
> immediately.
> I plan to use CNC Pro to run the table, but want to be able to draw
> the finished part, not the tool path. Will the ace convertor do tool
> width compensation or do I need to draw the tool path, not the part.
> I have also looked at Deskam but also have found the help to be not
> terribly helpful.
>
> Ron
>
> --- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@y..., Alan Marconett KM6VV <KM6VV@a...> wrote:
> > Hi Ron,
> >
> > It's been posted many times, but I'd recommend you check out Fred's
> > Vector CAD offer (I think it's still on), and then use the free ACE
> > converter (and CNCpro controller) from Yeager. Or a simple free CAD
> > program. Check the previous posts. At $240 for CAM Expert, you
> are not
> > much cheaper then Vector CAD/CAM. I KNOW that is supported!
> >
> > http://www.ribbonsoft.com/index.php3
> >
> > I notice they have a free Linux vers. And some GERBER support.
> >
> > Alan KM6VV
> >
> >
> > ron_routledge@y... wrote:
> > >
> > > Hi Group
> > >
> > > I was wondering if anyone has used CAM Expert by Ribbonsoft. We
> are
> > > building a 4x8 gantry for plasma cutting and need a simple drawing
> > > and CAM program. I have E-mailed the site a couple of times with
> no
> > > response so I a bit nrevous. It seems to work well (the demo)
> but I
> > > haven't figured out how to do kerf compensation.
> > >
> > > If not this software what would you all reccomend to use as a
> drawing
> > > and Cam software. This needs to be as simple as possible so the
> > > machine can be used with minimal training.
> > >
> > > Thanks
> > >
> > > Ron Routledge
>
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