Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] CAM to CNC interface?

you get one guess wrote:

> I am trying to convert a mini mill to a CNC machine with accumulated
> surplus parts. Basically 3 different servo motors from different
> manufacturs all of which have adequate torque and encoder resolution.
> Each servo drive can be configured to operate in torque mode. In other
> words a +-10VDC signal can control the motors.
>
> I have access to MasterCamX
>
> How do I go from 3D CAD files to corresponding servo input signals? Is
> it possible to go directly from MasterCamX to servo motors?
> What if any interface is needed?

Assuming you already have working servo amplifiers for these
motors, you could use my Parallel Port Motion Control system
( http://jelinux.pico-systems.com/PPMC.html )
with the EMC2 software ( http://www.linuxcnc.org/ )
for the G-code to motion control part of the task.

I use an older version of Bobcad/CAM, which works, and is fairly
inexpensive, but may not be the best. It might be good if you
tell us the kind of machining you plan to do. I cut out a lot
of 2-D instrument panels, and so I don't even use the Bobcad to
make a drawing, I use some of my own conversational programs
that have dedicated functions (like bore hole, cut slot, drill a
pattern of holes, etc.) as they are much faster for me to use.
Downside is I don't get nice drawings of all the parts.

If you do complex surfaces or artwork, another package might be
a better fit for your purpose. I don't know MasterCamX, but if
it can generate pretty general G-code, it should work fine. I
suspect MasterCam cannot control a machine directly.

Jon