Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Software

BillyJack,
What I have found to work for ME, is SheetCam as my cam processor (2 1/2D)
and presently sells for $150 or you can download Ace converter at
www.dak.com for free. In either case, these programs use a dxf file as the
input. For the cnc controller I use TurboCnc which when registered cost $60
(AND you get the source code!) or you can go the windows route and get the
Mach series of controller. Either of these programs can run g code files
without being registered. In the case of TurboCnc, it is unlimited file
size and I believe Mach is limited to 1000 lines of code (from memory and
please don't hold me to this one)

As far as the size of the servos go, a little more information would be
helpful to "see" if they are possibly to small. I have set up a spread
sheet based on the many formulas that Mariss has posted several times and
based on the voltage and rpm, can give a "decent analysis" of what you
might be able to expect.

Now, at the risk of starting a flame war, I know many people brag or insist
that you need to have super high rapid speeds, but lets put this in
perspective. IF you are operating a "manual" mill, how fast are the rapids
- 200 IPM? I doubt it as you would have to crank that handle real fast. The
point being is, if you can tolerate "slow" speeds, even a rather small
servo can be geared to handle the forces necessary. This way, you can get
started with the small servos and later (with out "buying another wife")
and later replace the existing units with larger ones depending on your
power supply.



At 04:18 PM 6/15/2005, you wrote:

>I just recently ordered a few of the parts requred to convert a
>mill/drill to cnc for use in my custom 1911 handgun hobby/business.
>I recently ordered a lathemaster mill (after reading a lot of posts),
>gecko servo drives, a breakout board, and have on hand some servos
>(reliance (most likely too small)) and USdigital encoders to instll
>on them. I still need to source a power supply and the software to
>use. I am a cnc beginner but have a working knowledge of both
>mechanics, electronics as well as computer skills. I think the
>project will be fun and I will learn a great deal about cnc. I plan
>to take advantage and learn from all the knowledge available on this
>site.
>My first (and I'm sure not last) question is, what would you
>recommend for software to get me started?? Of course, cost is a big
>factor at this stage, at least until I get the mill paid off. I
>can't afford to pay off another wife!!!
>I think I need cad software (I have turbocad version 6.5 - old), cam
>software and machine controlling software. I've glanced at mach 2
>for control but the other required programs, I'm not quite sure of.
>Any help will be appreciated. I hope to receive the mill in the next
>3 weeks (they are on vacation this week) and start construction
>shortly there after.
>Have a good day and be safe.
>billyjack
>
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Bubba

OLDER THAN DIRT
Country Bubba
(Actually the inventor of Country and Bubba)
In God We Trust

LaGrange, GA

http://bellsouthpwp.net/A/r/Arts_home_page/cnc/

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