Hi.
for what we do (mostly 3d mill), the Procam software does get the job done in the end.
2.5d doesnt get that much attention here, but I sucesfully programmed a combination of hole, pocket and profile operations in 2d&3d packages with no hassle at all, although we had to pay our vendor to custom write a post processor.
I would say its very, very easy to use, and 2d is a doddle, but obviously I am used to using the system now.
We are still on Procam2000 (when our reseller ditched it), for upgrades on the *CAD* side, NOTHING has changed since 1993!!!!. The machining side has had a few updates, but mainly in dribs and drabs, infact we ended up ditching the update subscription plan (rightly or wrongly) as we were being screwed on the design tools - but obviously this doesnt affect you.
We are not on the new "ProcamII", however (suprisingly) there seemed quite a few enhancements in the way you program and a new feature tree (a la camworks looking) to keep track of the programs' machining operations etc.
I cant really advise on whether you should pay a great deal for an upgrade to ProcamII for 2d machining as we dont use that particular version nor do much 2d machining work.
Im sorry if I sound a bit unhelpfull, but the 90% negative feelings I have for this software stems primarily as having to use it for design as well as machining and I wouldnt like this to sway you either way with the sole purpose of 2d machining.
ProcamII could be well enough equiped for your needs, but I know it has severe downfalls as an overall 2d/3d cadcam system.
Btw, ProcamII has its own file extension different to the earlier Procam systems.
The support from our (ex) suppliers was just mediocre, but I dont know if that was something the bosses had caused higher up the chain from myself......or just lazyness on the vendors half.
We never had any reason to contact the Teksoft company direct, so I cant really comment upon their actual support Im afraid, the suppliers tended to our gripes (eventually). So it depends on your reseller outfit I suppose.
Out of interest, would you be using it all day all week or just for the occasional job, also how much are you talking for the upgrade switch?
Let me know if you want me to find the 'whats new' from the Cd's we were sent (regarding the 2d details in your case of course). We got sent a demo cd of procamII and a proper installation disk.....but no updated 'cod' file to update our dongles - hence demo mode, there should be some information on there on what the differences are between Procam you are using and the new(ish) releases.
See ya
Sirius.  |