G-code optimization and Cuttin order

[NeoMiller]

Is there a G-code optimizer avialable that can put some intelligence in my otherwise stupid milling software. OK I have a very premitive mill control software. SuperCAM. But it can import/export DXF and G-CODE. I want to mill a PCB prototype. It contains hundreds of lines and curves. The problem is that when I import DXF and start the milling process, it wastes so much time in unwanted moves. It cuts a path here and then moves there, cuts there and then back to here. more than 75% of the time is wasted in G00 rapid movements and tool-up, tool-down. I thought that if I export the G-CODE from this software, optimize it using some other utility and reimport it in my software. It could save all the time.

[HuFlungDung]

That's a tall order, Neo. That's what we pay good money for cadcam software to do in the first place

I do know of one brand of cnc software that is very good in this department. If you would like me to spell it out for you, just pm me.

[HomeCNC]

NeoMiller,

My guess is your CAM software is creating the Gcode in the order that the CAD program created them. When a drawing is made lines are created and trimmed and extended and even broken. This creates the lines in the CAD program all over the place in the database. It is efficent for drawing but not machining. I have attached a small DXF file to see if this is true.

The file is three 1" long lines that are 1" appart. I drew the left one first. Then I drew the far right one. Last I drew the center one. Post this DXF to Gcode and see if the machining order is Left, Right, Center.

[al3azim]

Neo,
Well maybe it is time to upgrade to a new CAD/CAM system, since you might be getting into these types of parts more often.
There are so many out there that will do the job
Here are some to look into:
Geopath
MazCAM
Bobcad
G-Zero
Mastercam
Surfcam
Gibbs