CNC software for idiots

[2006Nobull]

Hi,

I'm completely new to this cnc game and need something really simple to get me started.
The cnc machine I've got came with some old dos cam software which the chap I bought the machine of said could do with updating to a windows based program.
At the moment I have no means of generating dxf(I think thats right) either. Can any one recommend a very simple progam for generating dxf or a simple cad cam program. At the moment all I am looking to do is carve very simple designs in my furniture i.e names, heart shapes or tractors made from combining squares circles etc, it will all be 2d. I do emphasis the need for it to be simple as I've no experience in cad or cnc.
Also if I upgrade my computer can I use a usb with a parallel adapter or do the transmit data in a different format.

Many thanks,
Paul

[Jonathan]

Cambam would do what your describing - just download the free edition. You shouldn't need the paying one:

http://www.cambam.info/

Also if I upgrade my computer can I use a usb with a parallel adapter or do the transmit data in a different format?

Definately not. USB wont do the accurate timings that's required for the router - it's designed to just transfer lots of data without worrying about the time.

[Kammo1]

Vectric software cannot be beat "PERIOD!" I will fly the flag for these guys as there products are nothing short of "BRILLIANT". Like yourself I was a total newbee and downloading free "this and that" software and found alot of it very confusing. So a £100 lighter I bought Cut 2D and can honestly say it is amazing and almost idiot proof. Vectric software is literally the only product you will ever need,V-Carve Pro is next on my list without a doubt.

[John S]

For a CAD program look no further than Draftsight [ do a Google ]
Completely free, downloadable free manual and laod sof video's on Youtube to help.

[russell]

For a CAD program look no further than Draftsight [ do a Google ]

Seconded. It is the only free CAD program I've found that works well with industry standard Autocad (.dwg) files and also has a very Autocad like interface.

Try it.

Russell.

[richie.demmy]

vECTRIC IS THE ONLY WAY TO GO

[C_Bubba]

I have to go along with John on Draftsight, and for my cam, I use SheetCam (www.sheetcam.com). Reasonably priced, excellent support, and does the job for 2 1/2D work that I do.

[Swarfing]

CAMBAM gives you most bang for the bucks.

[JAZZCNC]

Your all plonkers the guy asked this question over 6 months ago.!!!!!!!

[Swarfing]

Bahhhh! bahhhhhhhhhhh! bahh1 bahh!