[tipaj]

So, I have an idea I would like to manufacture a prototype...

I was gonna design in on the computer and then CNC machine it.

My questions are:
What is the best software to design it in? Is there a specific software machinists prefer? What is also the easiest software to use?

After the design is done then what? How does it get converted for CNC machine to understand? Is there special software(CAM)?

Please help me understand the process of designing and manufacturing of prototype.

[harley4ever]

Their are some nice CAD programs out there, Solidworks, AutoCAD etc. Not sure what type of money you are looking to spend but you could check into Dolphin CAD CAM. It offers both cad & cam. I've used it for quite a while and it's done some wonderful things for myself.

[ger21]

Design in CAD
Create G-code in CAM.

But it depends on a lot of things. 10 different people will tell you that 10 different CAD programs are the best. Some programs are more suited to certain types of parts than others.

The CAM program you use can also influence what needs to be provided to it. Also depends on the parts.

If you're going to have someone else make this part for you, then the person making it is the one to ask the questions to.