I have decided to see if Linux has come of age. It has been about 2 years since I last looked. I must say, I am EXTREMELY impressed.
I am using the Ubuntu version of Linux http://www.ubuntu.com/ (Free)
I am also using a free program called WINE that allows me to use many windows programs in Linux as well. http://www.winehq.org/ (Free)
This means I can use many of the same CAD and Cam softwares I have already used on windows. I am still finding out the ones that do and don't work.
I am also using ( Well plan to use) EMC the linux equivalent of a CNC machine controlling software. http://www.linuxcnc.org/ (Free)
My aim is to see if it is possible to create a design, convert it to gcode, and drive the cnc machine all for free.
Only a few weeks ago I would have scoffed at the idea that Linux was viable, easy to use, equivalent to windows in terms of features, etc.
I am amazed at how far it has come along. Whats even better is the amount of free software that you can also download for Linux.
If you consider the cost of Windows, the cost of Office, the coast of a drawing package, and a few other software components on a typical setup, you'd be coming close to $1500 ( If you did it all by the book)
With Linux you get it all free and some of it is even better than the bought stuff, without the bloat too.
In the coming weeks I will post some progressive comments, pictures, screenshots, etc.
So far so EXCELLENT.
Benny
EDIT these are all the CAD softwares known to work in Linux with Wine.
http://appdb.winehq.org/appbrowse.php?iCatId=59
BTW If you believe like I did that "FREE" means substandard, then you are missing out in this case.