Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Re: BobCAD/CAM v.s. Dolphin CAD/CAM

In a message dated 5/3/2003 1:27:20 AM Eastern Standard Time,
john@... writes:

> Dolphin CAD/CAM also called Partmaster is a 2 1/2D program with
> limited 3D capabilities. Very easy, fast and simple to use for 90% of
> CNC work.
>
> Dolphin 3D CAD/CAM which is actually a badged up version of Sprutcam
> is a full 3D version of a modern 3D package where you see the model
> as opposed to wire frame versions of some dated products.
> In this way it is very much like Visual Mill in that to have the
> power to do complex 3D shapes with advanced features such as rest
> machining it unfortuatly makes simple 2 1/2 D work more complex, a
> trait shared by most 3D programs.
>
> Fortunatly Dolphin have made this easier with their upgrade path and
> it's better to start off with their simple to learn program
> Partmaster and then later, when more experianced move up to full 3D
> if needed.
>
> I have found though that often people set their sights too high in
> specifing what they need. I have had many people tell me that "Yes I
> NEED full 3D capability" only to find out a few years down the line
> that the 2 1/2 D function is all they have ever used. For this they
> have paid a premium both in software, time learning a program that is
> more complex than they need and also because they have the advanced
> program they usually miss out on lot of quick simple features.
>
> Partmaster has got to be the easiert and quickest program to learn.
>
> John S.
>
>

John hits the nail on the head. I have used many CAD/CAM programs over the
years and still have to work with a number of different ones. The most
misunderstood term is 3D, most people think because they have a machine with
3 axis that they require a true 3D CAD/CAM program. I am a consulting
engineer/technicial for the woodworking industry where I install, repair, and
upgrade large CNC systems. It has been my experience that some 70% to 80% of
the companies which I service never use more than a 2 1/2 D feature and
therefore spend a LOT more money than they need on the 3D ones.

In regard to Dolphin CAD/CAM I highly recommend the Partmaster software for
most machining needs. The program is easy to learn and is one of the most,
if not the most, powerful for the money I have ever used. I am comparing it
to programs such as AlphaCAM, MasterCAM, etc. It is a true post processing
software and they give you the equivalent of their source code for the post
processors in that you get the compiling program to convert your edited text
files into a true post processor. With this ability one can create a CAD/CAM
program that will work with virtually any machine controller, proprietary or
home made.

Again, unless you are an experienced CAD/CAM user start with the Partmaster
software and then, if you ever decide you need more, upgrade to the 3D. You
may find you save both money and frustration.


Randy Abernathy
4626 Old Stilesboro Road
Acworth, GA 30101
Ph / Fax: 770-974-5295
E-mail: cnc002@...


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