Messages

1

G-Code, CAD, and CAM discussions / Re: cad/cam choices when Gcode is all that's desired

« on: June 16, 2015, 08:31:42 PM »

Thank you for the feedback.   It is pretty hard to tell from the demo programs because neither one will let you save proper g-code to test with.  The ArtCam interface appears to handle photos but I was hoping to find out before purchasing.

2

G-Code, CAD, and CAM discussions / cad/cam choices when Gcode is all that's desired

« on: June 16, 2015, 04:34:27 PM »

Getting cross-eyed from testing demos and reading reviews but bottom line for what I want seems to be vectric or artcam.  The free bmp2gcode programs seem to be more involved time-wise than a $150 investment is worth.  The PhotoVCarve and ArtCam Express are both in the $150 range.  I'm concerned mostly with desktop CNC g-code of images for the time being.  PhotoVCarve seems simple and adequate while the ArtCam Express seems more than adequate and offers more CAM features (for future use).  Has anyone else evaluated or compared these 2 programs lately (2015)?

Thanks,
Paul Tonini
 

3

G-Code, CAD, and CAM discussions / Re: total newbie - sorry

« on: June 08, 2015, 01:53:26 PM »

Thank you again.

4

G-Code, CAD, and CAM discussions / Re: total newbie - sorry

« on: June 08, 2015, 12:02:29 PM »

Thank you so much.  I found the samples and I will try the G20 change.

Can you recommend a book or some reference material for G-code?   I am having some difficulty figuring out how deep a file will cut (and what bit I should be using).

Paul.

5

G-Code, CAD, and CAM discussions / total newbie - sorry

« on: June 05, 2015, 07:22:35 PM »

Just received my desktop 3040 cnc router.  Connected to parallel port and operating on an XP PC with Mach 3.   X, Y, Z axis are responding properly and roadrunner sample seems to engrave albeit very small (1/2 inch).  Can anyone suggest some simple g-code samples to try on wood?  Hopefully something about 3" x 3".

Thanks,
Paul Tonini