Cuts are too big (bigger than I designed them to be in CAD)

CAD/CAM Software Tips
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So I have been using my school’s CAD workstations with Solidworks. In SW, I use the sketch image tool. I set my parameters of how many inches I want the image to scaled by, then trace it out (yes, I know this is a very long process that is probably unnecessary). I have found that if I set the width of say, a sign, to 12in then trace it. When I cut it on my machine it’s not at all 12 inches wide…

the CAM software I’m using is Makercam.com, and I am trying to get an actual program (if you all have suggestions I’m open to them) that will be less cumber sum and hard to use.

I don’t know if I’m missing something or am doing something wrong but it’s a bit irritating and I don’t

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Within MakerCAM try clicking Edit -> Edit Preferences -> SVG Resolution and change it to 96. That is the value which I have found works correctly.

You can always check if the scaling in MakerCAM is correct by creating a 12 inch square and comparing it to the 12 inch sign you are making. If the settings are correct they will be the same size.

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In regards to CAM I really, really like Estlcam (about $60). But I switched when Makercam/Partcam was having down time issues and I was frustrated. Estlcam will also “carve” which allows you to use a v-bit for better lettering detail.

Jim

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I have seen a lot of people mention Estlcam, and I did download the trial version. I had some trouble with it, but I am going to do some more and really try and use it. Do you know if there is a way I could get a refund if it doesn’t work out for me?

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I don’t honestly know. The developer’s email (Christian) is at the bottom of any page on the website. You could email him and ask for an extension on the trial but I can not guarantee anything. Most people really like it and it seemed like the best reasonably priced CAM I could find. I did find the tutorials quite helpful and the popup tips on each item also quite helpful.
Jim

Also, during setup make sure you choose GRBL for the processor.

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Ok, I think I’m going to buy it because with MakerCAM it doesn’t save settings so I mess stuff up all the time by forgetting to change a simple setting.

What does choosing GRBL do (I’m just curious)?

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The Maslow board runs GRBL to process the gcode to control all of the motors. Other CNC boards use different processes. My other cnc uses Marlin so I need to change that each time I switch between machines.

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I see. I see that Estlcam has a machine controller, is that at all compatible with the Maslow?

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I have never tried it. I think that GC is the best way to go as it was designed for the Maslow.

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BTW, Autodesk has a free version of HSM CAM plugin for Solidworks. It’s limited to 2.5 Axis, but that is all you would need with the Maslow.