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New to CNC

4/7/15       
Jeremy Member

We recently bought a used older model CMS NC PF1 8 spindle router 4x8 table, and we have it all hooked to power, vacuum, and dust collection. Now its time for the hard part, actually running the machine. I know absolutely nothing about programming or running the machine and only recently started using CAD. I have used KCDW for a while now but only the designer edition. My question is who should I call for training on my machine and what is everyone using for software. I am not sold on KCDW CNC version, and another shop in the area uses mastercam and hate it. My machine uses and AB 8600 controller if that means anything to anyone. And I know absolutely nothing about G code M code or T code, and can't lose more time monkeying around with it

4/7/15       #2: New to CNC ...
Tom Gardiner

It would be helpful to mention what it is that your shop does. What volume? How many employees? What other machinery do you have and finally what are your intentions for the machine. I run a two person shop with a 4 x8 FMT Patriot. I still know very little about M or G code. I run V Carve Pro for various custom jobs and the occasional kitchen. Once you specify your needs no doubt others will have recommendations of software for you.

4/7/15       #3: New to CNC ...
Mike

Wow, do you have a lot to learn. First stop, would be CMS North America to get a tech in so that you don't destroy your machine. While he is there, you can learn the G and M codes you need to run the machine. While it is great to know how to program manually, it is not necessary these days with the software available. Never heard of anyone hating Mastercam. Probably a lack of training issue. Doesn't matter how you output code, you have to understand basic machine operation before anything else. Once you understand what the machine needs in code and maintenance, the rest will come more easily. Good luck. I was in your shoes almost 30 years ago. You have your work cut out for you.

4/7/15       #4: New to CNC ...
Jeremy Member

Thanks for the info so far, and I know I am climbing a big learning hill. We build mostly commerical cabinets and high end custom residential cabinets (time and material jobs only) and millwork. We do a good mix of both face frame and frameless construction. We are a three person shop with a newer Altendorf slider, Ritter pocket bore, timesaver wide belt, and the usual shapers, planers, unisaws, and a bunch of hand tools. We work out of a 4000 square foot shop in northern Illinois. Currently we don't outsource any parts and make all our own doors and drawers. We also spray finish, paint and stain all our own parts. I would like to be able to cut out cabinet parts and drill shelf pin holes and drawer glide holes. I would also like to decrease our start to finish assembly time and be able to crank out jobs a lot faster. Hope this helps with the responses.

4/7/15       #5: New to CNC ...
rich c.

"and can't lose more time monkeying around with it"
Oh oh, that's not going to happen soon. It's going to take several more weeks of "monkeying around" before the parts really flow out. I ran a MotionMaster in a model shop, sorry I can't give you any recommendations for your application. Except I remember starting from scratch 14 years ago. Man that first 6 months were ROUGH. Learning SurfCam and the machine at the same time, was not easy. Do your research on software, then when you buy that, they can provide a post processor and give you the training. Include their ability to provide training into your search. Good luck!

4/8/15       #6: New to CNC ...
JM

Its actually a lot easier to use as soon as you start grasping the basic concepts.

First, you need CAD files of what you want to cut. These can come from KCD (call them and ask to turn the feature on for a month so you can try before you buy). These can be drawn in Autocad, Vcarve, or pretty much and CAD program.

Once you have the CAD files of what you want to cut, you need to apply toolpaths to the parts. This is where CAM software comes in. MasterCAM, Vcarve, etc, etc.

The toolpath info is then sent to your machine via a post processor.

My advice for where you should start.....
- Go to Vectric website and watch the Vcarve tutorials. These will help you with some concepts.

- Google and you tube should be able to get you lots of info.

- Get a tech in to get you going.

4/8/15       #7: New to CNC ...
Dropout Member

Everyone has their own opinion.

I build carcases for a living. I have a Thermwood and a Biesse.

I used CabinetSense for design and Sheetcam for g code generation. Both good products and inexpensive.

Focus on getting all the easy stuff first. Leave the "I wonder if we can.....?" for later. Maybe much later.


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