Importing files to Mastercam

[Texacue]

How do I import a file from Cadkey 99 to Mastercam x3

[tstom]

What does Cadkey save files as (file extension)?..... is it a wireframe or surface/solid?

[groov]

Save the Cadkey file as dxf or step and import them into Mastercam.
Should work.
groov

[Superman]

1st -check what files mastercam can import without the need of additional/optional "converters".
check using wireframe ( lines, arcs etc.) (DXF/DWG is good for wireframes,not surfaces or solids)
then using surfaces and solids )(IGES, SAT, STEP)
also try combined (STEP,CADL,CDL maybe)
2nd -CadKEY native is CDW( I think- CADL, CDL and STEP are good export, Mcam may import these??)

It is a trail and error situation, just check all converting options available before settling on / dismissing a certain common file format.

Any formats that create data different from the original should be avoided

You may have to have a method for wireframe and another method if the original has wires and 3D data

Our accepted 3D data import is STEP ( from Catia, ProE, Autocad - and is imported into Mastercam, Powermill, Vericut, PCdemis without any problems)

There are some converters that have problems handling dimensions and text, just be aware of these.

[router_router]

Doesnt it go with the option in the file open Dialog from Mastercam import cadkey *.CDL ?

Router

[Superman]

I seem to remember CadKey has a file save extension of PRT

Yes, mastercam can import CDL, but you will have to SaveAs CDL.

You will have to look a the big picture, do you have additional stages to go through for a drawing file, most CAD software imports or export DWG/DXF, STEP, IGES. Wherea lot would not look at a CDL file.

So do you create a file that can be imported into only the next stage of manufacture, or do you create a file that can be portable to many CAD systems, including your client's CAD system ( for queries , approvals etc.)

The choice is with you.

[Texacue]

Hi Everybody, First I want to thank you all for the help, problem solved. Now I have another question about MCam X3. How do you "select stock"? When I tried to choose FBM Mill from the toolpaths tab, I get a message saying[B] "[B]This function requires a machine stock setup". I am a rank beginner so please go easy on me. But I can't seem to find the appropiate path to the required field. Please advise.

Tex

[Superman]

In the operations manager
under the machine sequence- <properties>

4 tabs exist
-files
-tool settings
-stock setup
-safety zone

open any of them, as all of these will have their access tabs across the top of the "Machine Group Properties" page

[Texacue]

Hi Steve, Thanks, but you'll have to bend down a little lower to reach me. You'll have to direct me from the first mouse click, that is something I would recognize on observable toolbar. So if you please, show me. And thanks for your patience.

[Superman]

No probs, we all had to start at some time.

Do you have any reference books, videos etc, even the book and fold-out
quick guide that came with the install package

The quick guide is what you want, it lists shortcut keys, customising shortcuts, operation manager components ( toolpath/solids/art ) and a few other pieces.

You also have the help files, any "?" that is on a particular dialog box will give imformation relating to that item.

Videos are also under the root directory of mastercam for reference.

Sample files in the appropriate directory ( mill/ lathe/wire/router ) show examples relating to the filename

shortcuts
Operations manager - display on/off = alt-o ( letter, not zero )
shading - on/off = alt-s
fit all to screen = alt-F1
zoon to window = F1 ( then drag a box window for zoom extents )

these are only a few that exist

alt-o for op. manager , to create toolpaths a machine must be selected before any paths can be programmed, this area about the machine is where "stock setup" will be found.

have a go, look at the videos and help files

[cadcam]

PS the "CDL" is the old formate before it became Key Creater, I have forgotton off the top of my head what the new prefix is I know it is not .PRT as this is "Pro-E and UG formate.

[Superman]

Originally Posted by Texacue How do I import a file from Cadkey 99 to Mastercam x3

Cadkey99 file save extension is .PRT