Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] three CAD/CAM contenders...

Vector is the winner in this area between Dolphin and Vector. Here is the
text from the CCED group discount page for Vector:
"This is a standard Vector commercial license that allows the primary user
to install on 2 computers. There are no restrictions as to number of CNC
machines for which code can be generated, and the license can be used for
hobby educational, or commercial use. There is NO dongle, hardware, or hard
drive serial number lock. Includes 300+ page printed manual and CD with
Vector software, symbol library, e-manual, Quick Tips, and 3 years of user
Q&A archive. Configurations for most hobby class machines are also
included."
Fred does not like us to discuss the copy protection scheme, but I will say
that it is user friendly. Additionally with Vector you get mill, lathe, and
4 wire EDM along with all the posts. As Fred says, it is the full commercial
version with no restrictions. 3

The copy of Dolphin I had used a software token and the license is for a
single computer. The install also seems to indicate that a dongle is also
supported. The reduced cost hobby version I had limited you to one post
processor. Not very handy if you want to play with different controller
software. From what I have been told by others the new hobby version that is
at the same cost as Vector limits you to mill or lathe in addition to the
single post. Don't quote me on this part and check with the distributor.

Can not comment on BobCAD, but when I was looking for a CAD/CAM program
BobCAD's reputation spoke loud and it was not good.

Tim
[Denver CO]

----- Original Message -----
> Hi,
>
> Ok, it seems that the big three contenders for NC CAD/CAM are: Vector,
> Dolphin, & Bobcad. I have read numerous arguments for all three and am
still
> unsure which one I am leaning towards. So here is the clincher:
>
> What kind of goofy copy protection do they employ?
>
> I understand BobCad 1.8 uses a stupid scheme like Microsoft where you have
> to install the product and then call in for an authorization number. This
> stinks because I do work at work, and at home. Most licenses are
reasonable
> (like Borland used to be) where you could install a product on as many
> machines that you liked. You only were supposed to have any copy running
> though at one time. I realize that is too loose for most vendors. As much
as
> I hate dongles due to Microsoft & hardware issues, I guess a USB dongle
> would be OK because I could carry a dongle back and forth from work.
>
> All the other schemes like key disks only allowing one install to run at a
> time are also lame. What, are you supposed to load and unload the key
avery
> time you switch machines? Also a big pain.
>
> It's a shame that in the US, most software protection has disappeared
> (Autocad, Solidworks, etc.) but in Europe & Asia, it's so rappant that
> evrything has a cumbersome protection scheme attached that makes
portability
> next to impossible. I think companies here realise that people want
manuals,
> support and upgrade deals, making purchasing a no-brainer. Elsewhere,
> paranoia looms and protection schemes abound. Too Bad.
>
> Sooo, getting back to the big three... which package has the most painless
> and fair protection scheme (assuming they all use some form).
>
> Thanks,
>
> Bob
> Addresses:
> FAQ: http://www.ktmarketing.com/faq.html
> FILES: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO/files/
>
> OFF Topic POSTS: General Machining
> If you wish to post on unlimited OT subjects goto:
aol://5863:126/rec.crafts.metalworking or go thru Google.com to reach it if
you have trouble.
> http://www.metalworking.com/news_servers.html
>
> http://groups.yahoo.com/group/jobshophomeshop I consider this as a
sister site to the CCED group, as many of the same members are there, for OT
subjects, that are not allowed on the CCED list.
>