Noob seeks explanation

[samualt]

Noob seeks explanation:

I have read many tutorials on the net, and visited many software sites, but I can't find a decent explanation of Cad/Cam/DNC/G-code.

This is what I gather, please tell me if I'm wrong:

1. Cad - Computer Aided Design. This is the program where you design your 2d/3d part. You save it in various formats, perhaps dxf.
2. Cam - Computer Automated Manufacturering. This software takes your dxf file or other file that you created in your CAD program and:
A. Creates G-code.
B. Checks tool paths to make sure you
don't go out of bounds.
C. Sends the G-code to your Router/Mill.
3. G-code. This is the code that is sent to the stepper controller. From this code the controller tells the stepper motors what to do.

Then of course, there are many programs which simply have CNC in the name which seem to do all sorts of different things (some look like Cad and others look like Cam).

In any case, if someone could give me a simple explanation, or point me to a tutorial for newbies I'd really appreciate it! TIA.

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[NeoMoses]

Very good post, samualt, and welcome to the forums! You are right on track. I know software can be a little confusing, because when I was first starting I had the exact same questions. Here's my brief confirmation, using my experience as the example.

CAD software is used to draw/model the part you want to machine. In my case, I use AutoCAD.

CAM software is used to convert the CAD drawing into G-code. I happen to use DeskCNC or write the G-code by hand, whichever is quicker.

CNC software is what tells your computer how to control your servos/steppers. I use turboCNC.

So, basically, you model in a CAD program, convert to G-code in a CAM program, and run the G-code in your CNC software to control your machine.

[NeoMoses]

Where this gets confusing is with pograms that mixtures of CAD, CAM and CNC. You have to be very careful to make sure you are getting exactly what you expect. That's why trial versions of software are so valuable, for both you and the seller. If you need help with anything, just ask a more specific question and we'll be glad to help you out.

[samualt]

NeoMoses:

I was thinking about the following combination:

1. SolidWorks 2003 for CAD.
2. MasterCam 9.1 for Cam.
3. ArtCam just for fun (I like the idea of engraving 3D from pictures).

But I guess I would still need a program to send the G-code to the router. Or does MasterCam include that functionality? I suppose TurboCNC would work there.

Do you think I have chosen wisely? Is there anything else I need?

[tahlinc]

NeoMoses:
Since you draw your part in Autocad, would you like a free copy of tahlcam to play with?
Jim

[NeoMoses]

samualt: Solidworks is an excellent choice for your CAD program. I don't have any experience with MasterCAM, so I don't honestly know if it has CNC control or not. I have heard that MasterCAM is somewhat expensive, though, so you might look at other programs if you don't have a huge budget.

tahlinc: Sure, a free copy of TahlCAM sounds good. Can't beat the price

[cadcam]

Or does MasterCam include that functionality?

In mastercam you can Do DNC two ways.

Both start with "File" Next Menu"Comunicate" you have Mastercams comunications or you can use the Cimco Editor comunications inside ther Editor.

Mastercam can do most of what you want including the CAD side on both from Solids Base or surface Base..

But for a Little more power over shapes I like the combo of Solidworks and MC.

As for the Artcam thought. you like that you are able to basclly Coin the 2D drawing giveing a 3D effect.

Mastercam is about release it's add on that will do the same thing from drawings or say your family picture.

We are around the corner from release.

So it comes down to what you want to make and how much control by how much software do you really have to have.

As for being able to bring in a file like a BMP or JPG and being able to engrave this image . I all ready do this with Raster to Vector with engraving package that works nice inside MC.

Well enough said On my side.