Hi,
I just acquired an Arrow 500 with Acramatic controller. It's still in the warehouse where it's been stored waiting on the mods to my shop for installation. I don't know exactly, but I think it's probably a 1999 or 1998 model.

I really don't have any idea what software comes with it, but I was hoping someone might help me understand what to expect in terms of getting it setup, in particular a software tool chain from 3D cad to CNC milling. My skills are in software engineering (real-time) and electronics.

In addition to your thoughts on how to setup a tool chain for the Arrow (i.e. what pieces software products needed, nature of interface between each, recommended products, etc), I'd appreciate answers to the following questions:

1) what is the date range for Arrow 500 with acramatic controller? I don't have any documentation yet.
2) How can I determine the date of this machine? Will it be marked on the machine? Will it be encrypted in the serial number?
3) I've never used a CNC machine before and plan to get some training. What would you recommend as I seek some training. I'm not planning to getting into commercial work and will only be working in 3-axis.

Thanks in advance.