Machsupport Forum
G-Code, CAD, and CAM => G-Code, CAD, and CAM discussions => Topic started by: williamjames on September 02, 2015, 05:18:07 PM
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Hi everyone - I realize there are already threads on CAD/CAM but still felt that I should start this one as I have a specific question. Basically, I need to find a combination of CAD/CAM and CNC machine interface controller that works best for me. I have already purchased Mach 3 and so would like to use it. I also have a TB6560 control board. As for the CAD/CAM end of things, my objective is to use a program that is both free, and very commonly used. Therefore, I'm thinking of learning AutoCAD 2015 (as there are many great tutorials online), and then using a CAM software for generating a tool path. With all of that having been said, here are the questions that I have:
(1) Does AutoCad (the free version) generate G-Code?
(2) Assuming AutoCad does generate g-code, which CAM program would I have to use this with to create a tool path?
(3) Will all of this work with Mach 3?
(4) This next question may sound silly, but I am still new to all of this so please forgive me in advance.... But basically, I wanted to confirm my understanding of order of operation. My understanding is that a design is made on AutoCad, then a G-code is provided, and then a tool path is created. Is this correct? Or is the g-code provided after the tool path is created?
(5) Is Mach3 able to generate g-code from imported geometry?
Thank you in advance.
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Are you using a Student version of AutoCAD? Because that's the only free version that I'm aware of. AutoCAD is normally around $1500/month, or a little more maybe.
No, AutoCAD does not generate g-code.
Here is the typical workflow, when using AutoCAD.
1) In AutoCAD, you either create a 2D drawing, or a 3D model, and save or export them.
2) You import the 2D drawing or 3D model into a CAM program.
3) In your CAM program, you create toolpaths from your imported drawing or model.
4) While still in your CAM program, you then export g-code from your toolpaths.
5) You open the g-code with Mach3, and run your parts.
Mach3 does come with a very basic CAM program called LazyCAM. I don't recommend using it, though, as it's quirky, buggy, unfinished and unsupported.
There is a method to get g-code from within AutoCAD, which is what I do. I wrote a VBA macro to export g-code for a 2D drawing. You basically draw your toolpaths, and the macro exports the g-code. Here's a link.
http://home.comcast.net/~cncwoodworker/AC2GC.html
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Thank you so much Gerry! And yes, the student version is what I'm using as I'm currently a student. Will have to upgrade soon though :)
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I use Alibre PE, CamBam, and Mach3. Here is my work flow: http://rick.sparber.org/AGP.pdf
Rick