I need a low cost CAM package

[DeadTom]

I currently use Vectric CUT2D and it is wonderful but I need to be able to use .stl files. Vectric says I can upgrade for $480, yikes too much.
Anyways, I have a DIY JGRO router running with Mach3 and I have looked at the following CAM software as viable solutions for me:

DeskProto Lite currently the exhange makes it $178
CamBam Plus listed at $149
MeshCAM listed at $175

I have not seen or used any of these products and would like for people who have used at least one or two of these packages to sway me one way or the other.
Also, I have tried alot of the "free" CAM software and some it is pretty nice considering it is free. I did just download FreeMill to check out this weekend.

Thanks for your help,
DT

[harley4ever]

Dolphin partmaster is a very nice package, and is hobby priced when needed, but does not import .stl files. Perhaps cambam if the stl is important?

[DeadTom]

Thanks for the post Harley, yeah I looked at Partmaster and essentially it does what I can do with my Cut2D now.
thx,
DT

[harley4ever]

I've done a bit of 3d with dolphin altho it claims to only do 2d 2.5d and basic 3d. It's much more capable than what it first appears. I'm not enough well versed with cam bam to know its limitations.

[DeadTom]

Might need to take a look at Dolpin again
DT

[ger21]

Upgrading to V-Carve Pro would still not let you use .stl files. You'd need to purchase Cut3D, which is $299.

I've been a MeshCAM user since the first beta many years ago, and it works great.

However, I always recommend downloading the trials and learn to use them before purchasing. You're the only one that can decide what's the best option for you. MeshCAM has a fully functional 30 day trial, and if you need more time, just let Robert, the author, know, and he'll give you additional time.

[DeadTom]

Ger21,
That is sound advice and I was under the impression that V-Carve Pro did .stl files, oh well I wasn't going to put out the green for it anyways.
I will download the MeshCAM trial and run it this weekend.
Thanks,
DT

[DeadTom]

Another member PM'ed me and I accidently erased it before I could respond, I do apologize.
I do however remember the message asking if I had made a decision as to what cam package I decided on.
As to that question, no, I have not made a decision yet.
I have not tried CamBam yet although I have it loaded on a laptop.
I have tried MeshCam and I really like it (although a basic tool library would have been nice to start with).
I have also tried FreeMill, it is a little limited here and there due to it being free. For free it is very good. (also a basic tool library would help, but it is free).
I have aslo tried Vcarve Pro and I really like it but then again I am already familiar with Vectric products as I currently run Cut2D.
I only have scratched the surface of all of these programs as it takes time to learn new software although they do similar jobs.
What are your experiences?

Tom

[blowlamp]

Tom.
Assuming you don't already have it, then the new version of CamBam (0.9.8) is available for beta testing here http://www.cambam.co.uk/downloads/dw...beta0.9.8d.msi and is proving to be quite stable. As it has changed somewhat from the current release, it might be a good idea to get aquainted with what will shortly be the standard offering.
The one comment I would like to make, is that you shouldn't let the more modest graphics in CamBam lead you to believe it is less capable in other ways. For instance, CamBam is the only CAM system that I am aware of (in this price range) that produces lines and arcs in its 3D G-Code output. This can reduce file size hugely and also allows the machine to reach higher speeds with smoother moves. You'll find plenty more features when you start to use it and an excellent forum to boot.

Martin.

[DeadTom]

Martin,
Thanks for the link, I had an older version for sure. I will install it here in the next week and give it a whirl, I would start on it tonight but I am under the gun to finish some wedding signs for my youngest daughter's wedding this Saturday.
Tom

[lancut]

CamBam does .stl, and more...