Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Which CAD/CAM Package?

Hi Terry:
I was not aware of any plugins that would turn Autocad into a CAM
program.
I've always had to take DXF files out and bring them into another program,
with all the resultant difficulties inherent in file transfer.
Tell us your opinion of these CAM modules.
Do they allow toolpath parameter editing, and toolpath verification.
Do they have any of the usual CAM program features like entry/exit control
and cutter compensation?
Can the mill module do routines like pocketing and multiple pass contouring?
(I know you haven't got the mill module yet, but do you have any idea
whether these features are included?)
Can the mill module do 3D?
It would certainly be very useful, to those who are already Autocad trained,
to have a robust means of generating good toolpaths from native files.
I'm still not convinced that I'd want to recommend Autocad to a beginner
though.
It just seems so much harder than necessary to me, especially since there
are CAM programs out there that are very good, very easy to learn, and about
the same price complete, as just the two modules you describe. (Never mind
the expense of getting Autocad as well).
Besides...I just can't stand that heavy-handed company!!! (Yes...I'm biased)
Cheers

Marcus

----- Original Message -----
From: "James Owens" <wotisname@...>
To: <CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Thursday, January 23, 2003 11:39 AM
Subject: Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Which CAD/CAM Package?


> Hi,
>
>
> > Hi:
> > Yes definitely rethink your decision.
> > Autocad is a poor choice in many respects.
> > It is lousy to learn...counterintuitive and annoying.
> > It requires file translation to work with any CAM package,
>
> This is simply not true, I have a G-Code pluggin for ACAD that outputs for
a
> lathe and there is another, that I haven't bought yet, that outputs for a
> miller. There is no file handling needed except to transfer the G-Code
file
> to the Control program. Like I said in an earlier post I don't what
flavour
> of G-Code yet as I haven't used it yet.
>
> As to costs: the CAM pluggins are under $200 for the pair.
>
> ACAD is only a poor choice because the cost of the program is high and it
is
> hard to get your head around the way it works. Once you start to use it I
> find it much easier than other drawing packages of similar power.
>
> Regards,
>
> Terry
>