Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Shop Computer

On Sun, 23 Sep 2001 13:46:35 -0000, wbbengtsson@...
wrote:

> 1. What programs would you put on a shop computer?

I have a shop computer. It has WIN95 (which includes NotePAD) Excel, a
"G" code editor/communications package to communicate with my CNC
machine, MathCAD (which you probably wouldn't use enough to be worth the
cost) and VectorCAD.

>I plan on putting at least one inexpensive Cad program on. Which CAD program I haven't
>settled on yet.

There is a free AutoCAD clone called IntelliCAD that would probably do
what you talk about just fine.

>1a: What reference material would you make available (materials
>databases,
>quality standards, etc) and how would you "control" it to make sure
>it is as
>correct as it needs to be?
>
>2. Laptop VS. Desktop? Also, How old can this be and still be
>considered
>useful?

At this point, considering the prices, if I was going to buy one, I'd
probably get a P233 with WIN98. The one that is in my shop now is a
P133 with WIN95 - it would be nice if it had WIN98 for the improved USB
port (faster digital camera down load).

>3. Operating system? Not wanting to start any more religious wars,
>but if
>Linux has enough shop type software available, I would consider it.
>Currently, I don't do Linux.

If the computer is to be a tool, not a "project", since you don't do
linux now, I'd go with WINxx.

>3. Is paper output "necessary?". I am thinking that if it needs to be
>printed, it needs to be done on a "regular" set-up, not the shop
>P.O.S.

Is there a network in the shop? If so, can you use a network printer?

>4. Is a "shop computer" more of a distraction than an aid to
>productivity?

That depends ....

>OTOH, I have had to do full size "Layouts" for items that would have
>taken
>1/4 the time with any decent low end CAD system.
>
>Can you see the day when there is a drawer in your toolbox the right
>size
>for a laptop, just as there is now for Machinery's Handbook?

I'm working on a computer cabinet to go next to the CNC machine now.

>How
>about a
>wireless LAN to harass the boss with emails (WHERE'S THE STEEL YOU
>PROMISED, etc.)

I think a network connection is the biggest feature for a shop computer.
Its on the list for my home hobby shop computer - I want all my drawing
files to reside on one (1) disk so the versions get under control. The
ZIP disk sneaker net is driving me nuts!

Fitch
In So. Cal.

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