So let me get this straight. Software!!

[cpcapace]

So after I build my CNC, and want to start playing with the machine, on the cheap(software wise), this is what I would do.

1. Use one program like simple-g to build my files and then export to g-code.

2. the I use that g-code file and load it into something like mach3 which actually runs the CNC(motors).

Am I getting this straight.

Thanks!

[Cartierusm]

Kind of. I'm not sure what simple-g is but here's the break down. Most people use a cad, drawing or cam program to design the part they are making. You could write your own g code to do what you want but if you're asking the questions you're asking I doubt you know g code...hell I don't know g code, I recognize basically what's going on...but I digress. Anyway alot of CAD programs have counterpart programs called CAM which actually write the g code. That makes a file and you load that into a program that actually controls the CNC machine, such as Mach.

The way I go about it as I'm a noob as well is I either design the part in Artcam or draw it in Adobe Illustrator, make sure in illustrator you save it as version 8 or it will import very weird, then import it into artcam. Artcam has cad and cam built into one so it makes it very easy. Then I save the g code and open it up in mach 3.

[jdell42]

Similar thread here. Several ways to do this pending your preference for CAD and willingness to spend $ for CAM. In all cases you will need control software such as Mach.

http://www.cnczone.com/forums/showthread.php?t=50573

[ron39]

Well if your looking to do it on the cheap - look at EMC2, or turboCNC. I know Mach3 is popular, but it isn't the only option.

Also for the previous step (creating the Gcode) you might also look at CamBam.

[owner66]

As a newb, I had no idea what the flow was to get from a drawing to a finished file that would make the router cut something.

I messed with emc under ubuntu, but I am more of a windows guy.

Anyway, you can download Mach3 for free and run up to 500 lines of gcode. More than enought to get familiar with it.

To turn a drawing into gcode, CamBam, free to use, works great and is a great learning tool.

As far as converting a drawing, you can just create something simple like a circle in CamBam, do a pocket, do a toolpath, and export it to gcode, comes out WAY under 500 lines. This allows you to calibrate the cnc machine, which gets you familiar with Mach3, etc, etc.