Beginner- what software to use

[Ringo42]

I'm just starting to build My 3 axes CNC machine. I have a controller board built that can control my steppers with the step and direction inputs. Can someone recommend some free software that will let me get started as simply as possible? Maybe some sample files as well. Like a circle and a square just for testing out the setup when I get it completed?
Thanks,
Ringo

[Bubba]

Ringo,
You can download V4 of Turbocnc (www.dakeng.com ) along with documentation and use it. It is not crippled in any way and when you register ($60), you also get the source code. "Hotfixes" aka "bug fixes" can be downloaded form the TurboCNC group over at ya hoo:}).
I beleive the initial download still has a sampling of g-codes in it to give you an idea of how it works.
This program works in DOS (Not a dos box in windows) so you need to boot up your machine in basic bare dos to run it.

Bubba

[ger21]

You can also get Mach2 from http://www.artofcnc.ca
Free for up to 1000 lines of gcode. Needs Win2K or XP to run, and a bit more complicated than TurboCNC, but more powerful as well.