What cad/cam program are you using?

[Legion99999]

Im new to the Syril x3. I haven't used any cad since 1997. Most everything i write currently i write in G-code.

Im looking to jump into cad/cam again and wondering what programs you guys have had the best luck with? Im looking at the bob cad.

Any tips would be greatly appreciated.

Derek

[SyilAmerica]

For most all fairly straight forward G-Coding I use BobCAD. I've found it the fastest and easiest on most things.

When I need more complex 3d contouring, I use SprutCAM.

You'll get every combination under the sun for this type of question. The bottom line is to choose one and learn it. They all generate G-Code. It also is a question of value and return on investment.

[jinu117]

bobcad for simple stuff (real simple stuffs... usually 2d stuff).
Visual mill for more convoluted shape. Funny thing is, in visual mill I don't get circles that are smooth??? Maybe someone can tell me how to. It always post NUMBER of lines.

[metalworkz]

Hi Derek,
It's been a while since your original post but I thought I'd reply now that I have been using Dolphin CAD/CAM PartMaster for a while. I am very pleased with the results I have seen so far with my PartMaster CAD/CAM program. I currently have the Level 3 Milling module and I have used it for milling, drilling and engraving on my SX3 with very good results. As far as price goes you can still get this program at a lower price on eBay, but the prices are scheduled to increase so anyone interested should try to get it before the increases.
In all fairness I should let you know that I am the authorized reseller of this program running the listing on eBay. I have not tried BobCADCAM or some of the other programs available to give any comparisome to those either.
Wes

[ImanCarrot]

I use AutoCAD 2002 on my Desktop and AutoCAD 2006 on my Laptop for the CAD part.

I import this into Dolphin.

I don't use the Dophin CAD package purely because I am familiar with Acad so can't comment on it. I am, however happy with the Dolphin CAM- found it easy to use (after a couple of readings of the manual), but then again- I haven't tried any other CAM prog.