Machsupport Forum

Mach Discussion => General Mach Discussion => Topic started by: vladimir059 on May 12, 2006, 04:30:09 AM

Title: PCB making
Post by: vladimir059 on May 12, 2006, 04:30:09 AM

Hello everybody. Does anyone know software, which can generate G-code for PCB making? I know, some companies produce CNC milling machines with PCB making capabilities, and they offer software for this job. Unfortunately price for such program product is too high for “backyard hobbyist”.
I will be appreciating for any good advices.
Vladimir
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Title: Re: PCB making
Post by: ynneb on May 14, 2006, 06:56:38 PM

This is a link to a freewareversion of Eagle http://www.cadsoft.de/freeware.htm
It does have some size limitations, but you can upgrade to a fullware version for $199

is this what you were thinking of ?

Title: Re: PCB making
Post by: vladimir059 on May 15, 2006, 03:03:49 AM

Thank you for reply. Unfortunately Eagle PCB software produces CAM file for PCB manufacturers, but not engraving. I tried downloading CAM file, which the software produce and only drilling points and pads were available for engraving. The best thing I found online is   TechSoft PCB Making (http://www.techsoftuk.co.uk/techsoft_software.htm).  But, it is still quite expensive for me and I don’t know how download an export file to Mach 3.
Thank you anyway for support and maybe eventually you will include PCB making options in Mach.
Vladimir

Title: Re: PCB making
Post by: ynneb on May 15, 2006, 03:22:45 AM

I am almost positive it can be done with eagle. Ive seen the files generated b4
Go to this new forum http://www.pminmo.com/phpBB/ and I know Phil will definately be able to sort you out. He is a really nice guy, and will look after you.

Title: Re: PCB making
Post by: ynneb on May 15, 2006, 04:14:21 AM

Vlad You have given me a good idea for another video. I will show you the process of engraving a circuit board in Mach3 from a Eagle file.
I know it can be done but I guess I should learn myself first. Hold off for a day and Ill let you know the results.

Title: Re: PCB making
Post by: ynneb on May 15, 2006, 09:34:29 AM

I knew I wasnt dreaming see here http://www.brusselsprout.org/PCB-Routing/
And also check out this great deal for non profit users after you read the other link http://www.cadsoft.de/nonprofit.htm

Title: Re: PCB making
Post by: vladimir059 on May 16, 2006, 02:16:16 AM

Thank you for links, without doubt I will buy Eagle non –profit license in near future, but for now for me the most important buy a CAM software (Bob CAM for example) and license for Mach 3 as 1000 lines obviously will limit me for 3D machining. By the way I found a bug in Lazy CAM. When I go to File menu then Open Image File (JPG/BMP) Windows reject Lazy CAM and gives message about wrong operation.  I included message generated by Windows about this problem. When I used previous version of Mach3 without embedded Lazy Cam but with unnamed CAM software I never had such problems. What is it might be?
Vladimir