Re: CAD Questions

--- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@yahoogroups.com, "turbulatordude"
<davemucha@j...> wrote:

> I'm sure there are other packages, and Fred should probably offer

a

> very simple overview of his stuff that goes from drawing to part

as

> well. But as you did say origionally, SheetCAM is there or to
> quote...
>
> " There are also low cost pure CAM programs that will let you
> graphically define your toolpaths and give you precise control

over

> the cutting process and spit out G-code faster than you can blink
> your eyes! "

It's very simple. DeskCNC has Sheetcam($150), MeshCAM($150) and
Mach2($150), all in one for $250. It also has DeskPCB, RasterFratz,
and DeskEngrave, a 3D rotary ring programming function and 4 axis
foam programming thrown in for good measure.

Add $100 more for the DeskCNC 2nd generation controller and you have
the fastest under $1000 Windows controller with the best CAM
software value. This includes direct to 3D cad file surface probing
and a direct quadrature encoder input for synchronized axis motion (
lathe threading, rigid tapping)and for spindle speed measurement
(tachometer readout). The controller supports output relays and a 5v
PWM for spindle speed control. Inputs include Cycle Start, Feed
Hold, E-stop, Probe, and 4 axis home switches.

The latest version has added Hpgl processing, and Lathe is now a
machine setup option. New stuff (that I can talk about) includes
hard and soft homing improvements, and broken tool recovery routines.

There are some benefits to having an integrated Cad-Cam program.

1) The CAD developer is REQUIRED to listen to the CAM user's needs.
2) A single application with seamless design, toolpath and CNC code
development.
3) No file interchange issues, ever, period, finis.

Vector Cam is both a CAD and a CAM program. It includes milling,
turning, and 4 axis wire edm in even the basic license. It is not
available in a crippled/stripped down or 5 year old version. Only
the current version is sold.

Because the CAD developer had to listen to the CAM users, we offer
the CAD only version to CNC hobbyists for under $60, year around. If
you use Vector CAD with DeskCNC, you won't need much else for
software for most hobby milling use.

VectorCADCAM has a very agressive development schedule. In the
latest release, shipping in January, there are new 3D surface
machining strategies, new turning strategies, and new pocketing
strategies. It also includes a new optional JTS-Jobs-Tools-
Simulation capability. Any new VectorCAM purchases will receive a
free upgrade to Vector 10, including upgrading of any options that
are purchased, such as 3D surface design and machining, or Rotary
4th axis.

Unfortunately we cannot publicly display the Vector Cad-Cam hobby
pricing and are prohibited from selling to Benelux and Germany. The
only way you can see it is to follow the links that usually appear
in my postings. Like this: http://www.cadcamcadcam.com/hobby

Fred Smith - IMService
THE source for lowcost Cad-Cam and desktop CNC
http://www.imsrv.com