Hobby-CNC Workflow - SKETCHUP + CAMBAM + MACH3

[WandrinAndy]

Thanks gents for ALL the VERY helpful posts...

- Afraid that personally I just don't have enough capacity left in my head :-( to even consider using another O/S like Linux.

- Hadn't heard of SKETCHUCAM so will have a serious mosey at it as an alternative to the Plugin+CAMBAM if I've understood correctly.

- I have just started looking at CNC-USB and think it looks appealing! So will download and research it further....

I may even go with the CNC-USB software+hardware instead of Mach3+ESS+Bob if I've understood things correctly. They seem to be much of a much-ness both functionality and cost wise?

Using any type of Parallel Port just doesn't appeal to me... I don't have a PC with a PP, and really wouldn't want to acquire any obsolete technology even if it's lots cheaper or free. Am also applying a vaguely similar "logic" when it comes to digital drives.

I will use ESS if I do stick with Mach3, but it strikes me that the prime function of ESS is really a workaround for various potential PP problems...