I know that I am probably going to be drawn and quartered by the users of the "other" cnc router for asking this. But, for those of you using Shopbot, what software are you using for your designing and to drive the Shopbot? Posted by Dan Sawatzky (Member # 88) on March 24, 2006 10:31 PM:
I'll still be your friend Roy.
-grampa dan
Posted by Tim Whitcher (Member # 685) on March 24, 2006 10:37 PM:
I use the shopbot software to drive mine, although I haven't even upgraded to the Windows version yet (because I would need to upgrade that computer to Win XP, and I hate learning new software). I use Part Wizard (available thru Shopbot) to create the .sbp (shopbot parts files). I do my design work in Casmate Pro, then save as a dxf file and import into Part Wizard. I'm going to buy Vcarve Wizard soon.
Posted by Raymond Chapman (Member # 361) on March 25, 2006 09:12 AM:
Do I hear another ka-ching? Frisby...you been taking notes from Sawhatshisname?
Posted by Guy H. J. Hilliard (Member # 2529) on March 25, 2006 09:48 AM:
Roy;
I use Corel Draw, Rhinoceros, and Rams to make the 'Bot Sing.
Guy
Posted by Bill Jarvis (Member # 1754) on March 25, 2006 11:45 PM:
Roy, Design in VMP and now CorelX3, Then use Artcam/Partwizard or Vee Carve Wizard to apply cutting strategies.
If your looking for a Cam software Vee Carve Wizard gives you the most bang for your buck IMHO.
Posted by Deb Fowler (Member # 1039) on March 25, 2006 11:53 PM:
Heard it was signlab rigged up to the shopbot software, but, it's been a while since I saw my friend using it.
Posted by Jean Shimp (Member # 198) on March 26, 2006 08:25 PM:
We use SignLab's "ProfileLab" - works good for routing. I use SignLab 7.1 for vinyl cutting and designing.
Posted by Joe Crumley (Member # 2307) on March 26, 2006 09:15 PM:
Roy,
You can use your favorite design software, then forward it to a G-Code program. Such as Shopbot's $250.{Shopwizard}. There are others such as Rams, Artcam, Enroute, etc. Artcam Pro reatails for 12K. Enroute is just as good for about 1/3 the price.
What are you thinking?
I only hope you've kept that motorcycle battery charges. I may scoot your way some weekend.
J
Posted by DianeBalch (Member # 1301) on March 26, 2006 11:36 PM:
I don't have a shopbot but I do have an opinion on CAM software.
I have Casmate, Rams3D, Insignia/E and Vcarve Wizard. All of them will generate gcode for 2D and V-cut signs. But there is no question that I much prefer using Vcarve Wizard.
Why do I like Vcarve best? 1)With the same input file I get the cleanest G-code with out unwanted corners sprinkled all over the sign, this is a serious problem with one of the above programs. 2) It will work with any file or font, unlike one of the more limited programs in my list. 3) It has the best simulator, and I can print a picture of a 3D design to show my customer. This really helps make the sale. 4) It cost less than the rest. ernie
Posted by Bill Jarvis (Member # 1754) on March 27, 2006 01:59 PM:
Ditto to Diane's and Joe's post.
Post rpocessing w/ VCarve Wizard seems to outshine any of the competitors. The service is great too. They are working on the front end design face to be more designer friendly and expect to see the new release late April. However, I still design in Corel...etc. There are just too many tools at my disposal in design software to compare. VCW payed for itself on its first sign because of their simulator. The quickest pretty picture/sketch for approval of a dimensional sign you could put together.
If you want 3D nothing currently beats Artcam. Their Sculpting tools are the one feature that seems to seperate the cream... Unfortunately you need pretty deep pockets.
Bill
Posted by Joe Crumley (Member # 2307) on March 27, 2006 07:10 PM:
I'm encouraged at the responce by Dianne and Bill on the VCW. I don't have the program but will see it there is a trial version.
![[Thanks]](graemlins/thanks.gif)