Just getting started

I'm new to the group and more or less new to CNC.

I draw with AutoCad Lt 2D cad and do manual machining. I machine
mostly brass and plastic for patterns to make molds for spincasting.
My only experience with cnc is using prototrac converted Bridgeport
with canned programs.

I want to convert my mini-mill to cnc with stepper motors. I am
thinking of useing Ron Steele's conversion plans. Any comments???

I assume I need:

-some sort of cam to convert cad to g code What about Lazy cam?

-software (Mach 3 ?) to convert the g code to signals to run the -
-converted machine.

-hardware to interface the pc with the mini-mill

Any Comments???????

I am also looking for good info on g codes and basic progaming so any
info or links would be appreciated.

I am trying to keep costs to a minimum. Any assistance would be
appreciated as I want to develop a plan for this project.

Thanks,

Jack Mc kie
www.freshwatermodels.net