Lathe CAM Programs, help choosing

[djshop]

I have two lathes that I run in my shop and am currently writing G-Code by hand. One Lathe is a gang-tool lathe with sub spindle and bar feeder using a Fagor 8050 controller. The controller has a good set of Built-in G-code with canned cycles, tool radius comp, etc. The other lathe is a home built using MikroKinetics DOS-based stepper control software. I have the ability to make solid models from AutoDesk Inventor but most of the parts I am making are fairly simple. I am looking for an easy to use, inexpensive software where I can either create the part profile or import it and generate the proper code in minimum time. This is primarily for the DOS-Based lathe. Also, I do not know much about post-processors. How do I get the code to be compatible with the machine? I have created code using the Fagor controller and tried to use it with the MicroKinetics with no luck. I hate to have to hand type in the code but will if I have to. Thank you for any help or suggestions. Inexpensive in my mind is under $500.
Thanks,
Dave

[mrainey]

Talk to Jim Short. I haven't used his software, but I know he's a straight shooter.


http://www.tahlcam.com/index.html

[djshop]

Thanks,
I'll check into it.
Dave

[imserv]

The MicroKinetics controller probably does not support lathe roughing and finishing cycles, and only a limited set of drill cycles ( if any). You will need a CAM program that can produce "stringy" roughing passes. (placing each movement in the program, rather than using a G70 type cycle). There are a several cam programs in your price range, the only two that I know of in your budget, that will correctly create this type of lathe code are Vector Cad-Cam and possibly Dolphin. ( some others may claim to work, but...)

Fred Smith - IMService
http://www.cadcamcadcam.com/hobby

[djshop]

Thanks for the note on roughing cycles. They are a big time consumer for me to calculate and input all the lines of code. I'll check out vector cad.
dave