I have version 17 at my shop but never use it because I can't seem to get it to do some of the things I want it to.

Ex.
How can I make the program coordinate with my tool dia.? It seems I have to offset my geo. to make my code post out the tool center coordinates. It doesn't seem to have any acknowlegement of my tool size for endmills to work properly when profiling and edge. Also, how do I set my lead in or lead out for milling? Or ramp in or out?

I had the shop owner purchase EZ-CAM because I am familiar with it. I have few problems with it doing what I want. The ramp and lead features are some of the things I like with EZ-CAM. Also the post processor will post out code more proper. BobCad seems to have alot of confusing (to see) code that is repetitive. Not a big deal there, I guess my main thing is figuring out how to draw the geometry to the correct size and not having to offset some of the geo. to make the coordinates proper for the tool dia. (typically end mill profiling).


If I can get answers to some of these questions, I may decide to try the program again.


Thx, Matrixman

Matrixman,
I understand what you are running into with V17. V18 and even V19, when machining profiles, you need to do an offset that is half the size of your tool on the inside or outside of the profile depending on the cut. In the future, we will add automatic cutter compensation. It's on the list, but for now this is how you would do it. V19 has basically the same 4th axis operations as V18 which was updated over V17. It isn't setup for solids however. I would recommend at least an upgrade to V18 for the 4th axis though (I'm not a salesguy). There should be an easy 4th axis training lesson in the Video Professor series or in the manual.
CNC Dude

I have no requirements for the 4th axis programming. Just bought a new turning center with live tooling for all my complex parts. Mori Seiki NL2500Y.
This machine has its own conversational control, although I can hack up a G code program in 10 min. anyway. It'll help for the other guys! :)

When you have a newer version available with more of the features I discussed in my last post, I may check into it.

Thx, Matrixman