I'm CNC Illiterate, what types of software do I need?

[trilect]

I'm starting a CNC router build and was wondering what software I'll actually need to use it, preferably cheap or freeware.

My CNC controller pc can be Linux, dos or windows.

I do own autocad 2005 and can downgrade to acad 12,14,2002 etc.

I'll be using xylotek controller and it shall be 3 axis.


Thanks
Sam Gordon
Louisville, KY

[CNCadmin]

You will need something like deskam or deskcnc to produce and control your machine. You can also use mach 1 or 2 to control your machine. Their is some free g-code software that can create g code from your autocad files, so a search on the site and you may find some links.

[ger21]

TurboCNC at http://www.dakeng.com
EMC at http://www.linuxcnc.org

[trilect]

Hey thinks, after I knew what to search for I'm have pretty good luck.

I'm looking at something called gcode for acad dxf files and the linux controller software.

[ger21]

http://www.cnczone.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2443

http://www.cnczone.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2833

[bdesh123]

HI I am also a new CNC user Useing Autocad 2004. I cannot save 3d files. I mean stl
If some one could explain the whole 3d file matter that will be helpful. also need to know What program turn 3d files in to G code.
thanks for your time and help
sami

[ger21]

Under File>Export

Look at MeshCAM http://www.grzsoftware.com

[trilect]

Originally Posted by ger21 Under File>Export Look at MeshCAM http://www.grzsoftware.com

Meshcam looks very nice for the money. Have you used it?

[ger21]

I haven't made any parts yet (can't find the time to finish my router) , but I've been using it since the very first beta, and I have a copy. It works great, and the support is excellent.

[trilect]

Fantastic. I'm not worried about the building of the machine but I was getting really scared of the software prices.