[bgriggs]

If you had $500 to spend on software for your CNC router, how would you spend it and why? What is your favorite inexpensive cam software? I already own TurboCNC.

Bill

[High Seas]

BGRIGGS -
Bill - what do you envision as your main use? Signage. molds, etching, PCB production - I'm sure there are a bunch of choices based on your needs. Are you into 3D CAD too - or just the CAM side?
A little of insight into your "requirements" might better scope the answers for you.
Cheers - Jim

[bgriggs]

I am mostly into RC aircraft however, I am also into 3D cad. I already have good solid modeling software, (Alibre, Rhino) so 3D cad/cam is not as important to me as Cam.

I would like to do some 2 1/2 D stuff and some 4 axis stuff eventually.

Bill

[ger21]

For 2 1/2D, check out SheetCAM, at http://www.sheetcam.com . It's free right now during beta, and looks pretty promising.

Since you already have CAD software, it looks like you really only need CAM software. Problem is, there is very little CAM software available under $500.

For doing 3D work, try MeshCAM, at http://www.grzsoftware.com You might also want to look at STLWorks, on sale I believe right now for $75 (regularly $400) at http://www.cadcamcadcam.com You might also want to look at DeskCNC while you're there. For $250, it seems pretty full featured.

[kong]

You can pick up the Mach2 version of Dophin partmaster for $585, which is a little over your budget, but well worth the extra. You should check it out at http://www.dolphin.zenwebhosting.com/ and don't forget to check out our review in the magazine section of this site

[metlmunchr]

Re Dolphin: Michael has just released another version called hobbymaster. Admin posted a link to the site yesterday. About $600 complete. From what I've seen in various lists and forums, when it comes to cadcam in these price ranges, Michael Milligan of Dolphin and Fred Smith of Imsrv (DeskCNC and related products) both do an excellent job of monitoring the lists and providing answers that show an indepth knowledge of their products. I don't think you could go wrong with either one. Added: As Gerry mentioned, sheetcam does look very promising. I've downloaded and played with the various releases, and the progress Les has made on this program in such a short time is really amazing. For 2.5 D routing, milling, or burning of sheet products without all the complications of features which go unused in this type work, I think it could emerge as a real leader. From never having seen the program, it took me less than ten minutes to import a DXF, define a tool, and generate the code. This says a lot about the ease of use, because my normal acceleration rate on a new piece of software will normally put me running neck and neck with Ted the Turtle.

[cncadmin]

Read the review- http://www.cnczone.com/modules.php?s...ticle&artid=21