I have a question about what CAM software you guys prefer?

General CNC CNC Routers
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1

I have a question about what CAM software you guys prefer?
I have used MakerCam and like it but I want something that I can import DXFs into and do more of a 3 dimensional design.
My work is offering me $200 credit towards any software and figured now would be a great time to buy one but figured that I would ask the Group which one they prefer and use the most.

Literally, I have done multiple trials of all sorts (Cut3D, MeshCam, Deskproto, Rhino3D, CamBam, OpenSCAM, PyCAM) and just need to know which one other people have had the most success with.
Thanks in advance.

2

I’m using my own for 4 axis milling
http://code.google.com/p/simplemultiaxiscam/

and Deskproto for the simple jobs.

3

For the 3D stuff, I like to use meshCAM. The price is great (~$250) and it’s a very capable package, plus their support is second to none.

If you wanted to step up to something better than that, the vectric stuff is really nice

For 2D stuff, I like to use CamBam. It imports DXFs nicely, has some built in editing features, and does a nice job generating efficient gcode. It also has some more advanced features that you don’t see in basic 2.5D packages, like ramping into and out of cuts.

4

Anything with real 4 axis milling?

5

MeshCAM art provides 4 axis milling

6

Moving all 4 axis at the same time or just A, Y, Z 3 axis milling like DeskProto does?

7

Edward, Thanks for your input. It is highly valued. I have trialed them all again and decided on MeshCam. My reasons:

  1. Price. $250 - $200 credit from work = $50.
  2. Finishing options seem to be more capable than 3DCut.
  3. Multiple reports from multiple people that use the ShapeOko and also use it.
    Thanks again!