CNC Software required

[IMK1230]

Hello,

I am putting together a CNC milling system to make some prototype enclosure from plastic (Perspex for the time being) the system is based on an X2 with a bolt on CNC kit and I shall uses the Mach3 software to drive the mill.

So my question is what other software do I need please.

Do I need some CAD/CAM package to do the design work with and can you recommend one please? As always cost is an issue.

Many thanks

[yohudi]

Hello,

I am putting together a CNC milling system to make some prototype enclosure from plastic.......I shall uses the Mach3 software to drive the mill.

So my question is what other software do I need please.

Do I need some CAD/CAM package to do the design work with and can you recommend one please? As always cost is an issue.

Many thanks

Hi there,

From the info you posted, you will need a 3D design applicatiion of some kind, and a means to derive gcode from the designs you create.

There are a plethora of applications that can do this kind of work. You mention cost is an issue. It is more than possible to produce excellent quality work using entirely FREE software.

I would recommend Gmax as design software and the CNC_Toolkit plugin for generating up to 3, 4, or 5 axis gcode. This is based on AutoCAD and 3DS max and has excellent abilities and pedigree. It's entirely FREE, legal and can accomodate any 2D or 3D design work and the majority of gcoding tasks..

CamBam is another utility you might like to checkout. CamBam has recently been released in commercial form, but 10bulls is still distributing the beta version for FREE. This has many useful functions including 2D and 3D design, gcoding from 3D models and also generating gcode from bitmap sources. It could easily be applied to the kind of work you mention.

To be honest there are too many free options to list in a post like this, which is why I set up a website at http://cnc4free.org to better inform the CNC community of the available FOC options

It might be worth taking a look.

hope this helps

Danny (aka Yohudi)

[boboxx]

where couls I find more info on Gmax?? I google a bit but it looks like the software was owned by Autocad and they stoped develping it a few years ago.... And I could not find any info on your link page

[yohudi]

where couls I find more info on Gmax?? I google a bit but it looks like the software was owned by Autocad and they stoped develping it a few years ago.... And I could not find any info on your link page

Hi there,

gmax was first developed by Autodesk, the creators of Autocad. Autodesk then developed 3DSMax and gmax under the banner of Discreet.. In recent developments Autodesk branding has once again been attached to 3D Studio Max.

Autodesk/Discreet stopped support and distribution of gmax some time ago. but passed on distribution and oversight of gmax to the turbosquid gamers community..

you CAN find links to gmax on my website.. on the Essentials page...

hope this helps

Danny

[boboxx]

heheh ya i just found it thanks :c)