Guys,

I just got an email saying I could upgrade to 19 for only $295. I paid $495 for ver.. 18 upgrade and was deeply sorry for doing so. Who do they think they're going to get to buy it??????

Ken:mad:

Version 19 was suppose to be launched Feb 2003 as they told me in Dec 2002. I would sit tight and wait to see what happens....

They are going to lose a lot of guys to other software companies if they do not solve the bugs....

My Bobwire 16.1 runs as smooth as cream! My Bobcad 18 has not gave me any problems thus far, i'm not using it very often. Mainly for opening DXF's and drawings. I pefer the v16.

Klox

The long awaited BobCAD Version 19 is currently in the final stages of development. Once this is complete, there will be a select group of beta sites that will be evaluating and reviewing the upgrades new features. The Version 19 upgrade will incorporate solids and surfaces for the first time. The primary objective is to allow the operator to import surface and solid type files for toolpath and NC G-Code generation.

With BobCAD software now getting into solids, there was a significant amount of work to do. Our development team has done nothing less than an absolute professional job and we are all excited about the features that we will be able to provide. Believe me, it will be worth the wait!
Sincerely,
Chris Corbell
BobCAD-CAM
877-262-2231 x12

Will users be able to create solids and surfaces, or only import files made in other programs?

After importing, can the solids or surfaces be edited?

Will toolpath generation be manual as in earlier versions of BobCad, or automated with choice of tools, stepovers, depths etc.?

Version 19 will offer the user the ability to work with solids and will provide certain essential boolean operations for editing and the manupulation of these solids. These functions will be available but will be added to as we develop. The file import functions are really good if you want to directly import a file with multiple surfaces or solids. You will also be able to break apart a solid into its surfaces upon import. Either way, the operator will have a series of toopath generating wizards for working with a ball end mill. This is where "automatic" enters in. We have also taken into consideration the speed in which your toolpath will be created. These special wizards will cover z-depths, path angles for lace cuts, step over and more. We are also including boundary machining to allow the operator to select surfaces or designated boundaries for toolpath creation.

This is just part of the upgrades new feature list.
Sincerely,
Chris Corbell
BobCAD-CAM
877-262-2231 x12

Does this mean that suport for version 18 will cease?

Originally posted by CNCdude
Version 19 will offer the user the ability to work with solids and will provide certain essential boolean operations for editing and the manupulation of these solids. These functions will be available but will be added to as we develop. The file import functions are really good if you want to directly import a file with multiple surfaces or solids. You will also be able to break apart a solid into its surfaces upon import. Either way, the operator will have a series of toopath generating wizards for working with a ball end mill. This is where "automatic" enters in. We have also taken into consideration the speed in which your toolpath will be created. These special wizards will cover z-depths, path angles for lace cuts, step over and more. We are also including boundary machining to allow the operator to select surfaces or designated boundaries for toolpath creation.

This is just part of the upgrades new feature list.
Sincerely,
Chris Corbell
BobCAD-CAM
877-262-2231 x12

So, cutting through the salesman speak: No solids or surfacing creation.

Limited editing.

Cam wizards.

Promises.

Hey Keithhorr,
I'll answer your questions but first I have to tell you, I'm not your sales person. As far as surfacing, there will be surfacing functions added. Whether they are added in 19 or the next Version 20, we are making decisions on what to include. Your positive input would be accepted. You can always reach me at the number below. A CAM wizard will be added indeed. Once again, this may be added into the version 19 or the version. Right now there are new functions being added on a weekly basis.
Chris Corbell
BobCAD-CAM
877-262-2231 x12

Hey Keithhorr,

Did you take CNC Dude up on his offer and call him, if so how did it go, if not Why?

Originally posted by Kookaburra
Hey Keithhorr,

Did you take CNC Dude up on his offer and call him, if so how did it go, if not Why?

+1

'Rekd

I'm only responding because the "guy" from down under asked.

BobCAD should have made the effort to contact me regarding my needs two years ago, not after a competitor moved in and decimated their customer base.

I purchased a router/driver and V17 software bundled from Bob Twallhoven (The Bob) because the price quote was right. Turned out he was trying to sell me a machine made from surplus parts. When I told him I wanted a gantry style machine, because I didn't think a moving table style would accelerate a 300 pound block of graphite very well, he had to build a machine from scratch, and the delivery was many weeks late. Bolts that held the maching together stripped out of the aluminum members during use. The company that built the driver box went under so service is not available. The program had too many bugs in it for surface toolpaths. I was able to produce parts using the revolve function on symetrical parts, but asym parts were not possible. The company, the program, the machine were all sketchy. I was offered a free upgrade to V18 since I purchased the router, but when I called for it, nothing came and no response to my follow up.

Big confidence builder. Not.

I have a product that works today, based on BobCad, so it was easy to learn. It is fast and does what I need. Why should I take any time to call a former vendor about a product I have no plans of going back to?

keithorr,

I had no idea you were never thinking of going back to BobCAD.

Based on all the questions you were asking about BobCAD19, I thought you had some interest in BobCAD's future. I guess not!!

Well I hope that bad feelings can be mended. I hope CNCdude and yourself can catch up one day to have a chat. BobCAD have a brand new management team now different to what was back then, you may consider sending a PM to CNCdude with your phone number in it, he may just call you.

Keithhorr,
I thought that we had things going in the right direction for you. You know, It makes no difference to me what CAD-CAM system you use as long as you are able to achieve your manufacturing goals. This is how I tend to look at things. However, I have yet to receive any substantial information from you or receive a call from you with any data that I could help you with. Rather than continue to broadcast your problems, give me a call and I would be happy to assist you in any situation that you may have with BobCAD-CAM.
I see that you have some important things to talk about. You can reach me at 877-262-2231 x12.
Sincerely,
Chris Corbell
BobCAD-CAM

Chris,

Will Ver. 19 have any enhancements to Ver. 18? I don't mean bug fixes, or the new solid importing features. Basically additions to the 2D CAM?

See, although I use another CADCAM package for my use, I own 2 seats of Ver. 18 which I use to train my new guys who have no measurable experience in CADCAM programming. I find BobCAD to work great for us in this way. It is very functional for some of our work.

Knowing that there are obvious limitations to any software package at a particular price point, it is always nice to "dream" about what it COULD do! I guess I have become spoiled in some of the available features of the "higher end" packages I own.

Two things I would like to see. A more automated lead in/out function where you simply input the line or arc size you want (the software would automatically add a small line before the arc so the controller will know what to do in the case of a G41/G42). Most packages do this already. In fact, some offer a "check box" to have the lead in/out start at the center of the entity chosen for the lead/in to start. I use a lot of these lead in/outs and find the "Approach/Depart" function, as BobCAD calls it, a bit cumbersome, where you have to first place points outside the geometry so that you then can select the start point and end point of the lead in/out (Approach/Depart) move. Many parts I make have several cutouts - as many as 12-15 of them. You can imagine how tedious this makes programming the toolpath with this many lead in/outs to set up.

My other suggestion would be to provide a fully comprehensive BobCAD BASIC programming manual. I personally have not created my own scripts, I actually paid for one previously (Thanks, HU!). I might be more willing to learn it if I had a really good manual to learn from. I figure SOMEONE included this BASIC ability in the software, so SOMEONE must know it inside and out!

That's all I have to say for now. I think BobCAD fills a good need out there in the CNC world.

Have a good day

Mark Linder

Hi Mark,

Great to hear some encouraging input. You hit the nail on the head about how easy BobCAD is for training new starters and on a lot of other points as well ie: price, etc.

I am getting a beta copy of BCC V19 any day now for user testing. I believe it does have solids importation facilities which work extremely well and I know that you will be able to import full iges as well, as far as the CAM side of things are concerned BobCAD is fully aware that this is the next huge upgrade they need to make, weather it will make V19 or not is uncertain but who knows, I will keep you posted.

Scripting seems to be coming up quite regularly as a topic. Would you find it handy to have some sort of an online weekly lesson on how to create scripts with full explanations on how and why? I may be able to provide such a thing if the call is there.

Let me know what you think everyone.

Your comments please CNCdude!!

Scripting lessons?
That sounds good! CNCdude if you have time to give us some pointers it would be much appreciated.

Klox

CNCdude,

I know you are busy!!!

I am happy to help out there, let me know!!

We may be able to call them, "SCRIPTURE LESSONS" :idea: :D

Don't worry about the sick joke, it's been a long day, it's Friday and I'm going a bit nuts - :wee:

:cheers:

I added a section here also for Scripting- http://www.cnczone.com/articles.php?action=viewcat&catid=11

CNCdude here.....

The Version 19 system is near release as of 7-11-03. We will be:

1. Greatly improving the scripting manual for the software and all you script maniacs!
2. STEP file translators are added.
3. 2D functionality is being seriously taken into consideration. This includes the tool approach etc...
4. Special surface toolpath wizards are already working nicely. Speed is the primary item now. Shouldn't be a delay.
5. DWG file import is being evaluated.

The question is when to stop adding! This is definately worth the wait. We are starting to get hundreds of calls a week on the release date. Everything must be tested and then tested again. I promise to keep you up to date the best that I can. The cost...UNDER $500-!!!!!!!!!!! :D
Best, CNCdude...

Hi Dave,

Interesting threads.

Sounds like you have to come here for V19 info!

The one thing that really annoys me in regards to BobCAD software/ management is that they should have eliminated all bug's prior to the current V18 release. So it has me absolutely buggered why they would even release a new version (V19) until they have the current one fixed...

It is really not a difficult thing to comprehend and i am not surprised customers are complaining because they have every right to.



Brett T.
E INT'L PTY LTD
info@eintnl.com

Howdy all,

Quick reply to let you all know Dave via BobCAD/ CncTeknix just rang me approx 15 mins after my previous post was put up.

How's that for service!

Regards,

Brett T.
E INT'L PTY LTD
Melbourne, Australia.

info@eintnl.com

So it has me absolutely buggered why they would even release a new version (V19) until they have the current one fixed...

Bret,

Think about what you said... is it possible that v19 IS the fix for v18..??

'Rekd teh half full

Originally posted by Rekd
Bret,

Think about what you said... is it possible that v19 IS the fix for v18..??

'Rekd teh half full

Rekd, think about what you wrote,

Patches usually don't include global changes, and they are usually provided free of cost.

Originally posted by keithorr
Rekd, think about what you wrote,

Patches usually don't include global changes, and they are usually provided free of cost.

I understand that, but if you're planning a major release soon, which they are, woudln't you think that the 'bugs' from the previous release that weren't fixed would be delt with in the new release, instead of dragging out the v19 release even longer??? :confused:

'Rekd it makes no sense to me to put a new release on the back burner just to fix a few bugs in the old version that are prolly already fixed in the new version..

A little patience goes a long way, it also describes the kind of tradeperson people be.

Regards,

Brett

One lie after another about V19.... I was told the v19 would be shipped one week after they sold me v18 (which I'm trying to send BACK). V18 is horrible IMHO.

Question for all you CNC users. Why would a company like BobCAD (in FL) offer a RMA (return merchandise authorization) and a restocking Fee for $75? Then tell you that there a no REFUNDS when you try and get one?
I also have NOT gotten the software license code (or serial numbers for the two seat I was sold) because:
1 I do not like the software and
2 I do not agree with there licensing agreement.

I have nerve I my life been treated like this before. Has anyone else had this kind of problem with BobCAD before?

One would be better off buying a CAD package and a separate CAM (like RAMS, which I have and it works with 3D solids and 2d stuff).


Andy

Andy -

Wow...sorry to hear about your bad experience with BobCAD. I've been using the software for years and haven't had any problems with it or the people in Florida.

I don't understand the restocking fee. From what I understand about software purchases is that once the package has been opened it's yours...I found that out the hard way.

I hope you find something that suits your needs.

Jen

quote:
From what I understand about software purchases is that once the package has been opened it's yours...I found that out the hard way.
\quote

generally true for software that ships with a key in the package. generally not so for keys shipped from the factory under separate cover.

robotic regards,

Tom

I didn't know that. Most of my software purchasing experience is buying "stuff that will rot your brain" from places like CompUSA and the like.

Most of the EULAs I've read state that if you don't agree to abide by the License Agreement, return it for a refund.

Maybe worth a look into.

'Rekd

Ver 19 is doubtless a little tougher to crank out than CNCDude believed. I can sympathize with the programmers. You just never know how long you'll be killing bugs. If anyone knew, then they wouldn't be bugs now, would they? :D

Don't expect a high end product for the prices you are paying. If you want more you have to pay more. Hence the $15,000 packages that are available. Bobcad works if you have been conversational programming or even programming G-code by hand, then Bobcad is an improvement and a step in the right direction. I use another program to do my work and it's a step above Bobcad. I feel that one day I will have greater needs than even this software provides and I will have to take the next step.

We went to another package. Why? Solids was the big thing, but also because of the BobCad marketing tactics. We would get telephone calls, e-mails and mail with their "latest" offers, each with a different price. My boss's reaction was, and I quote. "This company is a joke!"

Come on guys, just make a solid product, offer good support, and maybe keep your prices at a reasonable level. We will be happy to pay more than your "Special Offer" price, provided the above criteria are met. After all, we think nothing of spending thousands on machines and tooling.

Just my two cents worth.

OK. The version 19 upgrade is close to completion. Some of the posts up here are great. I can see that there are some questions from an upset customer. That post from andybuch is typical of a customer that either didn't get what they were promised or that didn't receive an answer to a tech support question in a timely manner. Whatever the case may be, wherever there is a problem, just behind it is a solution. I guess the thing to do is to communicate. The method in which he used is a bit harsh but I understand. With that said, andybush should contact me directly at 877-262-2231. This way we can solve his problem.

To answer dungs post: Basically, when you are programming and developing CAD-CAM software things can come up that take additional time. That is the simple reality. BobCAD has every intention of releasing a new upgrade that is really good quality. How about asking an artist how many strokes it will take to paint a picture before he starts painting. So for dung, I'm sure that even you will be impressed with the toolpathing capabilities of the Version 19 upgrade once you purchase one for yourself. As for andybush, I'm currently sitting at my desk waiting to help you.
Sincerely,
CNC Dude

I'm happy to be patient.....

Klox

Originally posted by CNCdude

So for dung, I'm sure that even you will be impressed with the toolpathing capabilities of the Version 19 upgrade once you purchase one for yourself.
Sincerely,
CNC Dude

Sure, I'll give you a free review after you send me a free copy, as promised.

Originally posted by CNCdude

So for dung, I'm sure that even you will be impressed with the toolpathing capabilities of the Version 19 upgrade once you purchase one for yourself.
Sincerely,
CNC Dude


Originally posted by HuFlungDung
Sure, I'll give you a free review after you send me a free copy, as promised.

LOL @ CNCdude :D

You're getting hit from all sides. Hows your multi-tasking? :drowning:

Seriously, thanks for keeping a cool head thru this whole thing. Your posts speak volumes about your character.

'Rekd

Originally posted by Rekd
Seriously, thanks for keeping a cool head thru this whole thing. Your posts speak volumes about your character.
'Rekd

I hope NOT to offend you Rekd, but if CNCdude had any character I would have had a RMA number by now.

Andy

Originally posted by andybuch
I hope NOT to offend you Rekd, but if CNCdude had any character I would have had a RMA number by now.

Andy

I'm pretty thick-skinned, no worries.

I can fully understand your frustration, I've been down these roads before and it really sucks. But it does sound like he is truly concerned with you getting this resolved...

As for andybush, I'm currently sitting at my desk waiting to help you.


Did you call him, (for the 4th time?) Please let us know how it turns out.

'Rekd

Howdy Andybush,
Here's the number again: 877-262-2231 x12.
Sincerely,
CNC Dude

Originally posted by CNCdude
Howdy Andybush,
Here's the number again: 877-262-2231 x12.
Sincerely,
CNC Dude

X12 is the sale department!!!

So again I'm not wasting my time talking to a salesperson.

Andy

I hope you get things worked out in a fasion that is acceptable to everyone involved.

I think this thread has lost it's usefulness. I'm not going to let it go any further.

Thread closed.

'Rekd