New to mastercam. Need help.

[Chamm128]

I am new to Mastercam (Version 9.1) and need some help to get me started.

I would like to be able to draw some 2D objects and cut them out with a router, (Flat wood pieces), and what I need to do in a step by step process. Some simple stuff like squares and circles just to get me going.

I am working with Mastercam and Mach2.

I have looked for some simple tutorials or excercises, but haven't really had any luck.

I am going to get a book but haven't decided on which one yet since they aren't cheap and I don't want to get one that is hard to get the info from, as some are.

Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks, Chuck.

[Matt Berube]

Hi Chuck,

Which version of Mastercam ?

[Chamm128]

Version 9.1

[Matt Berube]

Ugh...

I was all excited to tell you what Mastercam X has available included with the install but none of that will help you.

There are tutorial CD's available at www.tipsformanufacturing.com, you could get online streaming assistance from www.streamingteacher.com, and there are lots of books at http://www.emastercam.com/resources/. I have never used any of these type of materials but all of these have been highly recommended by others.

[tobyaxis]

Chuck,

Buy Manual Tutorials from In-House-Solutions. I just bought a few of these to learn MC. They explain a lot.

Books
http://www.techedu.com/Mastercam.asp


Try these videos from Mike Mattera. They give step by step instructions, Tips and Tricks.

http://www.tipsformanufacturing.com/html/products.html

Most of all post questions in this Forum. The people here that use MC are Great and very helpful.

Cheers!!!!!!

[Chamm128]

Thanks Toby, I see there are quite a few books available. I think I might start with the workbook.

Matt, I may have access to Mastercam X, what does it include, would it make it easier to learn with?

Chuck.

[vacpress]

Originally Posted by Chamm128 Thanks Toby, I see there are quite a few books available. I think I might start with the workbook. Matt, I may have access to Mastercam X, what does it include, would it make it easier to learn with? Chuck.

mastercam X has tutorial parts and help files.. It pops up a step-by-step guide... Time consuming.. In fact, I plan to go through them this weekend!

R

[Chamm128]

Just got done with a sample lesson I downloaded. It's amazing what the slightest bit of help will do for a person. I want to learn more now instead of being frustrated. Now I just need more lessons and books.

Thanks guys!

Chuck.

[stang5197]

Where is the "step by step" guide in M.C X. I see the the sample files but there isn't any explanation to the parts.

[Matt Berube]

First let me say that anybody who is new to Mastercam should choose 9 or X and stick with it for a while. I love X, X2, etc. and find it far superior to earlier releases but is VERY VERY different from the old stuff. 7, 8, 9 are very similar to each other and X, X2, and most likely future releases are very similar. There is just one huge gap between 9 and X. I think switching back and forth would only confuse you.

What I was referring to is the "Mastercam X Getting Started Guide" which can be easily accessed at..... START >> ALL PROGRAMS >> MASTERCAM X >> DOCUMENTATION >> MASTERCAM X GETTING STARTED GUIDE. It is in .pdf format. Or if you prefer... Look here... C:\mcamx\documentation\MastercamX_GettingStartedGuide.pdf

There are a few step-by-step tutorials to help you learn a few basics...

Here is a screen shot of the beginning of "Example 1"

[Mike Mattera]

The problem with all books: They tell you what to do, but not WHY your doing it. That's what my training is all about. Telling you "why" so you understand the "process" of creating the toolpaths. Not the "mechanics" of pushing buttons.

Yes they cost more than books, but you'll usually get up to speed MUCH faster that you would with a manual. And if you need to review the process later on, it's much quicker to do by watching a 3-5 minute video, than by re-reading a chapter from a book.

Any Tips For Manufacturing users want to comment on this....?

Mike Mattera

[tobyaxis]

Originally Posted by Mike Mattera The problem with all books: They tell you what to do, but not WHY your doing it. That's what my training is all about. Telling you "why" so you understand the "process" of creating the toolpaths. Not the "mechanics" of pushing buttons. Yes they cost more than books, but you'll usually get up to speed MUCH faster that you would with a manual. And if you need to review the process later on, it's much quicker to do by watching a 3-5 minute video, than by re-reading a chapter from a book. Any Tips For Manufacturing users want to comment on this....? Mike Mattera

Sure Mike,

That is why I personally recommend your Videos to everyone both New and Experienced (Used )

Seriously though, Mike's Videos are great and explain a lot about how the Software works.

One misconception that many people make including myself is that to learn the software it takes time and dedication. Experience and knowing what to do and why your doing it also takes time.
MC has so many options it is unreal. Take Your Time, Learn about the functions you need to First. Later when your more proficient then start dabling in the "Bells and Whistles". Most of all, "Don't Be Intimidated by Anyone". Learn what you can at your own pace.

Cheers!!!!!!!