Recommended best inexpensive design software to work well with R2E4???

[europe50]

Hello,
I am new to CNCZone and like the posts I have read so I thought I would ask a question. I was a machinist and did CNC programming (Also running the machines) about 10 years ago and now want to get back into it. I am looking to buy a BRIDGEPORT Series 1 CNC Vertical Mill #R2E4 with a Boss 9 controller. I know G-code and am a little rusty, but can refresh quickly.

Is there a simple inexpensive recommended design software I can purchase to begin designing parts with that can be transferred over to the R2E4 with little modifications that anyone of you would recommend?

Thanks again for any help you can provide.

[isu19151@verizo]

I have a BPT. R2E4 and am using BOB-CAD from my PC with windows XP.I am new to all of this type work and without formal training and this combination works great for my application. I mainly make brkts,covers,calipemounts,some engraving etc.I'm happy with what I have at this point but,a machine with a tool changer would be nice hmmm.

[oldtigger]

Try ezcam solutions , www.ezcam.com, Awsome and inexpensive. Created for stupid people like me.

[dirtdiggler]

I'm using Rhino 3D with MadCam plugin (trial). It works very well and is very powerful for the price.

There are a lot of programs out there that work well and you don't have to spend a lot of money. The best CAD/CAM deal in my opinion is Alibre 3D. It's free. You download the trial which is the full version, once it expires after 30 days you have the basic version which is almost limitless. It's similar to Solid works. You can use that to make practically any 3D design you need. I'm pretty sure it has a very basic CAM program built in similar to visual mill basic. You can also use something like Meshcam or Cut3D to create the toolpaths from the CAD file which are dead easy to use.

If you just need something for making 2.5D and outputting G-Code, CAMBAM is one of my favorites. I think it's under $200. The guys who developes it just added some 3D toolpath functionality to it.