ViSionMILL - Does anyone use this program or know of it?

[HayTay]

Discalimer: I am in no way affiliated with or receive any compensation from the ViSionMILL company (bummer). I just thought the software was cool!

I was doing a Google search for CAM software and came across ViSionMILL . Here's a partial description from their website:

ViSionMILL v4.0 is a low cost, high performance CAM product aimed squarely at production machine shops. Designed and developed by CNC programmers for the needs of production machine shops, this package is now in it's forth release and incorporates one of the "easiest user interfaces" in the business, coupled with the tools to build and cut the most complex of production shop parts. Another important feature is PC hardware, ViSionMILL does not require a high end system to perform, any low to mid range system running Windows is all that is required.

Does anyone use this CAM program? If so, why? If not, why not? If this program actually works and does what it says it does, here's the best part, particularly for the DIY/hobbyist:

ViSionMILL v4.0 - Standard (includes 3 months service contract) - $79.95
ViSionMILL v4.0 - Advanced (includes 2 years service contract) - $119.95

A free 30-day trial version is available for download on their website (no personal info required, not even an email). Also, take a look at the PCD (pitch circle diameter), Plate construction, and Plate machining demo/tutorials provided. I did, and it seems to be a nifty piece of software.

It appears that the program will do 2D & 2.5D part design, has 3D part preview, opens DXF files along with its own .drw (drawing) file format, has a tool database, generates toolpaths & g-code, pocket milling, contour milling, drilling, reaming, tapping, among other operations.

===> It would be great if some of the no-budget, low-budget, DIY'er, hobby, and experienced CAD/CAM types could check it out and give their opinions. <===

HayTay

[HayTay]

ViSionMILL v4.0 first impressions:

O.K., after loading the software and taking a quick peek it has possibilities. A better file-open/save function would be nice (it has that old MS-DOS look and feel). I couldn't find any documentation or printable tutorials so you have to "wing it" beyond the 3 demo/tutorials on their web site. Even a basic screen layout with button description document would be a great help. The buttons don't have the "text/description flyout" feature that most other programs have. It would be nice to have other file formats supported besides .drw & .dxf. Some "unanticipated features" are noted in the only readme file.

When I have some more time I'll take a stab at doing something productive. I'd like to see how easily, quickly & accurately a simple part can be taken from drawing, to toolpath, to g-code ready for Mach 2/3.

According to their web site, ViSionMILL v4.0 was just released on May 8, 2006 and is an updated/re-release of a 1980's era product called "CEIKOS AutoMILL". I've never heard of it, maybe someone else has. From ViSionMILL's limited FAQ section they note that "version 5 is in development and is 95% complete."

Anyone else?,

HayTay

[HayTay]

I've discovered that while the program doesn't have the "text/flyout feature" for their buttons, it does display the buttons function on the screens status bar located under the drawing area.

Manual?

Manual?

We don't need no stinkin' manual!

If I had a manual I'd just wind up burning it for fuel, anyway. I'm thinking about converting my vehicle to STEAM!

HayTay

[HayTay]

Hi Harry, Thanks for the email. First up let me apologize for the lack of documentation on the site, we only went live a few days ago and hadn't got around to posting all the info we currently have available... there is more there now, under downloads (and yes there is a tutorial). I will head over to the forum and check out your thread, and (as you have suggested) I will register ASAP. Regarding competition, there isn't much at the price point (well nothing worth mentioning), so I think this is a pretty open market and we should do well. Cheers, Anthony Smith.

Thanks to Anthony,

HayTay