Originally Posted by Danno  I will be machining 2d parts only. Engine to transmission adaptor plates, alternator brackets etc.
I assume I will have to get 2 programs, one to generate a DXF file, and another to convert the DXF file to G-code
(I'm not sure if one program will do both) Thanks, Dan. |
For the type of machiing you describe I would recommend that you get Progecad and invest some time learning to use it.
It is almost a direct Autocad clone. So the many Autocad tutorials available will help a lot there. And did I mention it is free?
And for the CAM part of what you need I recommend Vectric Cut2D. A very easy to learn and use Cam program that will do exactly what you want.
Sheetcam is another option in the same price bracket and quite good but Cut2D has the cleaner more intuitive, user interface.
As has been mentioned there are combined cad/cam programs like Bobcad, Dolphin, etc. but they are going to cost quite a bit more.
There are plenty of good free 2D cad options so this is not needed IMO.
Greg