Best 2.5D CAM software for hobby use

[rich_cree]

Hi CNCers

I'm looking to purchase a decent 2.5D cam software for use with my benchtop milling machine. I really need to be able to input an STL or Iges file, rather than using a DXF or similar.

Any ideas? Obviusly the cheaper the better!

Many thanks

Rich

[blowlamp]

CamBam! Nothing to touch it in my humble opinion.

Available here:- http://www.cambam.co.uk/

Cheers.
Martin.

[dertsap]

http://www.shopcam.com/

[ger21]

Most 2.5D CAM software won't read .stl files, as they are usually only used for 3D machining. I would think the same goes for IGES.

[MikeTheG]

Try BobCAD-CAM , They can import .STl and .IGES files and toolpath off them. they also have a very good 2D and 3D toolpath options including the new HS pocketing by Volumill.

[blowlamp]

Originally Posted by ger21 Most 2.5D CAM software won't read .stl files, as they are usually only used for 3D machining. I would think the same goes for IGES.

CamBam reads in - and can cut in 3D - STL files and 3DS files, as well as the usual 2.5D (and 3D for engraving etc) DXF files. GOT to be worth a look. Andy has made a great progam in CamBam - not like the buggy stuff you get elsewhere. It may not be as fast as some, but I find it very solid and dependable. Check out the CamBam forum and see if you can find any genuinely unsatisfied users.

Cheers.
Martin.

[imserv]

Originally Posted by rich_cree I'm looking to purchase a decent 2.5D cam software for use with my benchtop milling machine. I really need to be able to input an STL or Iges file, rather than using a DXF or similar.

Stl is not useful for 2 1/2 axis Cad-cam because the round details are approximations and not arcs. The centers of holes are not accurately defined and the diameters are faceted, which is also not accurate to define the size for precision machined parts. Because of this .STL is more useful for 3D surface machining and stereolithography ( rapid prototyping), which would be considered 3 axis, not 2 1/2 axis.

Iges files can contain both 2 1/2 axis features and 3D surfaces, and even approximated surfaces like those found in .stl. It is the most versatile and widely used information exchange format when accurate information is required.

Vector Cad-Cam will process iges and .stl files, as well as dxf and Rhino 3dm ( open nurbs). The NC-Features functions in Vector 12 permit you to use the solid model ( Iges file) to process multi level pockets with open sides, to optimize, multiple tool, drilling operations, to 2D contour silhouettes of 3D shapes, and many other functions, beyond what can be done with simple 2d Cad drawings and related cam programs.

http://www.vectorcam.com

Fred Smith - IMService

[Master_CNC]

Hi,

EZ-CAM imports stl files. It also has great reviews on CNC Zone. Give it a try.

[harley4ever]

Dolphin cad cam. Price + functionality, and also providing it is both cad & cam, I think it's really a great program. 3D, I love surfcam. But for 2d and 2.5d, dolphin does wonders.

[tobyaxis]

Originally Posted by rich_cree Obviusly the cheaper the better!

Granted this is a hobby and you don't want to spend too much, be careful in selecting a CAD/CAM.

Do yourself a favor and try a few demos and make sure it will do what is advertised. Always use the "Buyer Beware" approach in any purchase.

[dertsap]

http://www.shopcam.com/ the shopcam demo that i had posted previously is worth looking at , its got a full working 30 day demo that will post code so a guy can see fully whether the software suits their needs or not , in my opinion its the best thing within its price range