Re: BobCADv18 was Cam software was: CNC Retrofit of Smithy 1324 CNC

Hi Group,

I have received the Ver18 of BobCAD, and have been playing with
various configs for several controls. Initally I bought it because
it can output 5 axis code, not really thinking about other uses.
Since then, I have been working on a config for a OpenCNC Monarch VMC
used for drilling and a Fanuc-6T lathe, plus my EMC 5 axis. I had
tried the demo of v17 in the past, and was not happy with the
interface as I remember it. The v18 is much more windows familiar,
especially the viewing options (rotation, pan, zoom). Having no
previous experience using BobCAD, I figured how to generate 2 1/2D
code very quickly with the supplied generic post, and soon figured
the 3 axis output. The 5 axis output works, but currently only as a
finish toolpath - no 5 axis roughing yet, but Tech support says they
are working on it. The scripting capabilities look very powerful,
and just today they posted a manual for writing scripts - it looks
pretty extensive so far. As a 2-5 axis milling and 2 axis lathe CAM
package, I am impressed so far. Granted, the system is
not "automatic" - you have to tell it when to start the spindle,
cooling, tool changes, all the steps except actual motion. The
motion output is very configurable with both scripts and the line
format screens.
Since I bought the program, I have seen several comments about poor
service from BobCAD, but I have not experienced this at all. When I
have called Tech support, and talked to him, we have a good
conversation and get the question answered, even though I still need
to register my copy. This has been 3 calls so far - no problems.
The copy that was on the CD which arrived had some missing script
files - since fixed with the latest downloadable ver18 file. If
anybody has specific questions, I'll try to answer, but a better
place to ask would be the brand new Support Forum on the BobCAD web
site. Overall, I would give it a positive recommendation.

Allan

--- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@y..., "Bert Pirson" <hpirson@b...> wrote:
> Ray,
>
> Have you received BobCAD Ver 18? If you have, can you (or anyone
else)
> provide us with a review?
>
> Bert