Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Re: Surfcam 2002 Free

Doug Harrison wrote:
(snip) Tech support is about $950 a year after that. And don't forget $1,100 a
day

> for training, $150/hour for writing posts, etc. Admittedly, the tech
> support is quite good though.

Good thing those are OPTIONAL items, Eh?

> Surfcam, like Mastercam, now "prefers" to do the post development for you.
> This is another way of saying that they will not give or even sell you the
> documentation needed to develop or customize them yourself.

Luckily, I recalled just enough from past use to go in and setup a post to use
with my FlashCut Control on this 2d "free to use" version. So, you can still
make your own ! I don't know about this new "preference", but I do know that the
"post" adjustments in Surf (others I'm sure as well) are not always straight
forward and super easy to understand. I and another coworker spent some time
back then on the phone as they walked us thru the various posting options. I
have so much on my mind right now, I'd have to go back and look at what I did
with this version !

> These programs are definitely not for shops on a budget.

I still can not believe the 10K figure for the 2.5 D version...... If that is
what it is, Vector and Dolphin should have a heyday.


What I don't understand is all the whining in the CNC NG (you know, the off
topic one) that the 2d version is not free. I personally think it is just
incredible that this kind of capability is given out for people to USE, For
FREE. With PTC's little free offer, and SolidEdge...... Whats it all coming to??
5 years from now we will have "Free" 5 axis versions to use ??

Even with the two pocket limitations and the 1000 ? line limit in the editor, a
thinking person finds ways to merge and edit until he's blue in the face.

I am very happy with what they have done. It allows me to enjoy if even a tidbit
of something I could not afford at the level I use it, keeps me in "practice"
with it even if it is only 2d. If they take it away, so be it. Life goes on.
It sure gives a lot of hobbiests a way to learn how it all comes together.

Chris L