Machsupport Forum

Mach Discussion => General Mach Discussion => Topic started by: heycorey on February 25, 2009, 12:35:48 AM

Title: Engraving Text with Mach 3
Post by: heycorey on February 25, 2009, 12:35:48 AM
Hello,

I'm new to this forum and, honestly, new to cnc in general.  I've recently acquired a Sieg X1 (I know ... it's tiny!) and intend to convert it to cnc with Mach 3 as the interface.  One thing I'd like to be able to use the X1 for is engraving text for small plaques (coated brass).  In searching this forum, I wasn't able to come up with anything that looks like a simple solution.  I've seen something related to a text wizards, but I'm not clear on how it works.  Is there a software solution that will interface with Mach 3?  I'd basically like to be able to print multiple text on small metal plates.

Thanks - Corey
Title: Re: Engraving Text with Mach 3
Post by: BClemens on February 25, 2009, 07:04:20 AM
Try DesKAM. Most CAD/CAM software packages will do what you're after. Mach3 will scale your generated G-code program to any size you need. Beginning your conversion to CNC with a conventional mill is your first adventure. Have fun.

Bill C.
Title: Re: Engraving Text with Mach 3
Post by: olf20 on February 25, 2009, 07:04:56 AM
Hi Corey and welcome to the world of CNC.
I'm currently using Mach3 and VCarvePro from
http://www.vectric.com/
I think that you will find the products from Vectric will
be unmatched for the price. They have a free download with
limited functions, but once you try it, you will be hooked.

However to get started and just do some simple engraving
you can go to www.deskam.com and download deskengrave.
It will generate the necessary gcode to do some simple text engraving.

Hope this helps!!
olf20

Title: Re: Engraving Text with Mach 3
Post by: heycorey on February 25, 2009, 09:31:42 AM
Thanks for the information!  I'll check both of those out. 

I installed a belt-drive on the X1 and then I picked up a Gecko G540.  Now comes the fun part ...  ;D


Thanks again - Corey
Title: Re: Engraving Text with Mach 3
Post by: BClemens on February 25, 2009, 09:57:07 AM
You're going to have steppers on X and Y, and Z or just X and Y? You know that for engraving, you could get away with only the table CNC'ed but you would be missing out on some potential of the machine and Mach.

Bill C.
Title: Re: Engraving Text with Mach 3
Post by: heycorey on February 25, 2009, 10:39:53 AM
I'm planning to convert all three axises.  While the X1 is pretty small, I think it will be a good experience (and challenge) to put everything together and get it to work.  I'm also planning to install a Proxxon IB/E on the mill.  I have an opportunity to make a little bit of money doing some engraving (for plaques) which is why was looking for info on a software solution for engraving text.  That would help pay for improvements to this mill and/or go towards the purchase of a bigger mill down the road.

-Corey
Title: Re: Engraving Text with Mach 3
Post by: thaswell on March 04, 2009, 05:56:07 AM
Corey,
   I am just starting out with MACH3 but if you click Load Wizards and scroll down to Write wizard I think you might find something you can use. They have a limited number of fonts but it is a beginning point.

                  TH