[ClockMaster]

I am trying to make the conversion into CNC I have some basic drawings that I am starting with. How do you go from .DXF to gcode? Did each part have its own file? I was looking at some of the cam software and its up in the price range. For a hobby that is far much to pay. I do have a student version of solidworks 06 that is fully functional but there is no option to output a DXF unless the part is in a drawing and when you create a drawing the dimensions change.

[tauscnc]

Hey ClockMaster,

Ahhh, just starting out...how fun!

I have a lot of info for the beginner and my trials and errors at my site.

www.cuttingedgecnc.com

I have CAM programs I have played with here http://www.cuttingedgecnc.com/programs.htm

You don't have to only be able to save in dxf. It depends on what your CAM program likes (but dxf is probably the most common.)

hope that helps

[ClockMaster]

Thank you for the fast reply. I have been reading and reading and there is still way too much more I need to learn. I will check out that link.

[ger21]

I am trying to make the conversion into CNC I have some basic drawings that I am starting with. How do you go from .DXF to gcode? Did each part have its own file? I was looking at some of the cam software and its up in the price range. For a hobby that is far much to pay. I do have a student version of solidworks 06 that is fully functional but there is no option to output a DXF unless the part is in a drawing and when you create a drawing the dimensions change.

Set up the drawing at 1:1 scale, then save as .dxf

[ClockMaster]

Still no luck with converting the dxf to NC

[Khalid]

great Job please continue posting plans for the clocks

[lvanduyn]

Hi all...
Just ran across this thread so I thought I had better post a couple of pics of my project done three or so years back.
Larry

[Khalid]

gr8 clock

[Oldbill]

Did you have to offset the DXF drawings before you generated the G-Code. I'm having problems getting the cogs to look like cogs when I cut.

Thanks,

Oldbill

[balsaman]

Depends. If using ace converted, then yes, you need to offset. I did this on a new layer.