Evaluating Software

[Minesgeek]

Hello all,

First, let me introduce myself:

I am a mechanical eng. grad student that has been machining as a hobby for ~4 years. I own a cnc converted Taig mill and use Mach 3 as a controller. I've been generating g-code the hard way over the last few years, and have decided to invest in a capable CAM program. So, I've been playing with DolphinCadCam over the last couple days. So, I hope you will let me pick your brains over the next few days so I can make a decision about the software.

First Few Questions:

DXF Importing:
In PartMaster CAD, how can I delete a layer and all the elements within it? The delete functions wants to move the data to a different layer.

PartMasterCad:
How do I edit a NC contour I have already created?
How do I change the Z-height info to appropriately represent the part? (So the part looks correct in the PartMasterCAM Isometric view?

PartMasterCam:
My mill does not like plunging straight into material, is there a way to have it spiral in small circles while plunging?

Thus far, even though I am not sure of all the settings, I really like the generated tool paths, but the CAD side drives me nuts.

[John S.]

I really like the generated tool paths, but the CAD side drives me nuts.

Me too, although I have been a user of Dolphin since version 3.5 in DOs I think the CAD side sucks.

I import everything as a DXF and just define the contours.

I'll try to answer you questions in order.
[1]
I hardly ever use this feature delete is the same as ignore or hide.
If you need to delete a layer delete / move it to an unused layer like 0 and hide it.

[2]
Instead of editing it's quicker to delete it and start again.
When you define a contour the depth in the contour box is the depth of the part to give the correct view.

[3]
In the operation chosen say go round or area clear select approach and then ramp to inch your way into the cut.

John S.

[harley4ever]

Yes the CAM I think is what they specialize in. Keep in mind, most companies dont offer both cad & cam, just one or the other.

[Minesgeek]

I have to admit, the more I play with the program to more I'm beginning to like it, at least the CAM side anyway. I'm also falling in love with Solid Edge 2D which I recently downloaded (it's free!). The 2D drawing is similar to the 2D drawing in SolidWorks (or Vise Versa) so it is extremely versatile and flexible...

Now to the questions:

1) When defining a tool, an end mill for example, what is the "lead" distance?

2) When tracing contours in the CAD side, is there anyway to create a trace by clicking lines sequentially? Or do you have to attempt to select all the lines you want and the use Edit>> Create NC>> Contours?

Thanks in advance for your help!

EDIT:
Another Question: Dolphin seems to offer very reasonable prices to hobby users, but what about version upgrades or software updates? If a software update or upgrade comes out, will I have to pay the full $450 for the support package to get the updates?

[ImanCarrot]

CAD side drives me nuts

Me as well, I use AutoCAD and export as a DXF to Dolphin CAM. I'm well impressed with the CAM side though. Their support is extremely good too, here on the forums and in real life on the 'phone.

I'm not connected with Dolphin, just a satisfied customer.

[Dolphin USA]

Minesgeek,

The "lead" distance is basically in other terms the length of the point of the tool. If for example say you have a tool that is 10 MM, you would normally have a lead of something like 3 MM.


In regards to selecting your contours, I am not sure why you would want to do it another route. After selecting the contour, it will go right to the next one.

In regards to software upgrades, releases, support, etc..... they are always 100% optional and is never a must-do for any customer.

Typicall upgrades are very affordable. Any updates of the current software are ALWAYS free to any user regardless whether they own a support pkg or not. We just recommend you keep your computer connected to the net so the updates automatically download for you.

Lastly, the $450.00 support package is mainly directed torwards large manufacturers that need multiple post(s) created.

Again, you do not need a support package to get updates. They are always free.

If you have any other questions, we will be glad to help.