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  1. #1
    Join Date
    Mar 2007
    Posts
    113

    Which CAM software to buy

    We just bought a new HAAS VF-2SS with a 4 axis and need some CAM software to program the HAAS.
    I have tried two different software which is EdgeCAM and MasterCAM
    I like EdgeCAM for the automatic tool path and look very easy to use but comes with a 9K price tag.
    Next is MasterCAM which is 6K but doesn't have anything really auto about it
    The schools in this area teach MasterCAM but EdgeCAM said they would teach us how to use the software.

    Because we are very new to machining I don't want to make a wrong decision and waste 6000 to 9000 dollars
    Has anyone used or own these software and which would be best for a NewBee to start with.

    The biggest problem we have is that we don't know what to ask

    Thanks

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Mar 2003
    Posts
    35538

    Re: Which CAM software to buy

    but EdgeCAM said they would teach us how to use the software
    You better get in writing exactly what you think you'll be getting.
    I've been involved with large software purchases in the past, and have never gotten free training.
    And to learn something that complex requires a fair amount of training.
    Gerry

    UCCNC 2017 Screenset
    http://www.thecncwoodworker.com/2017.html

    Mach3 2010 Screenset
    http://www.thecncwoodworker.com/2010.html

    JointCAM - CNC Dovetails & Box Joints
    http://www.g-forcecnc.com/jointcam.html

    (Note: The opinions expressed in this post are my own and are not necessarily those of CNCzone and its management)

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Jan 2007
    Posts
    1795

    Re: Which CAM software to buy

    if you are complete new for this, why you don't try first fusion 360

    since program is free for shops under 100 K income annually then you use it as long as you learn really
    at least basics of cnc and cam..

    then, after you have insight you can decide..

    theres a shop using very excessively fusion 360 with Haas machines
    also watch more videos from this youtuber
    9000 very much money and investment...

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8CSwOebmb0A

  4. #4
    Join Date
    Jan 2012
    Posts
    47

    Re: Which CAM software to buy

    Give SprutCAM a look. Powerful and relatively inexpensive.

  5. #5
    Join Date
    Apr 2004
    Posts
    5749

    Re: Which CAM software to buy

    VisualMill is fairly easy to learn, has lots of powerful features, comes with free support and a post-processor configured to work with your machine, and it costs a lot less than MasterCAM or Edgecam - plus we offer an additional discount. See my site for more information about the various versions available, including ones that plug into Rhino or Solidworks.
    Andrew Werby
    Website

  6. #6
    Join Date
    Oct 2011
    Posts
    106

    Re: Which CAM software to buy

    We have a VF1 and VF2SS both with 4th axis and we use oneCNC. A lot cheaper than most on the market, but comes with the full 4th axis capabilities.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

  7. #7
    Join Date
    Aug 2014
    Posts
    2

    Re: Which CAM software to buy

    Autodesk Inventor is one to consider also, very good software. Includes cam software also. Autodesk Fusion 360 would also be great bet, can't beat the price (which is free for students,hobbies, and startup shops) also offers 5 axis cam. Just my 2 cents

  8. #8
    Join Date
    Oct 2010
    Posts
    1189

    Re: Which CAM software to buy

    Hi I recommend doing an excel list where you first do write down the needed and wanted an nice to have capabilities then weight them (more than 3 people ) then go through each software and do school notes on each subject then there will be a sequence


    Gesendet von iPad mit Tapatalk

  9. #9
    Join Date
    Jan 2013
    Posts
    263

    Re: Which CAM software to buy

    Thumbs up for Fusion 360. I don't think there's a better bang for your buck, especially considering it is free until you start making over 100k/year.

  10. #10
    Join Date
    Jan 2013
    Posts
    32

    Re: Which CAM software to buy

    for someone who is new, tech support and instruction is a big deal. there is software out there that may be ok to use but lack in these two things, making life difficult when you run into a problem. make sure what ever you choose has a good support system.

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