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I'm new to this forum and need some help. I built my DIY CNC 3' x 5' table. Came out great and it's all up and running. I can run the road runner file which comes with mach 3 no problem. I'm struggling with how to take my drawing from Turbocad to gsimple cam and create my g-code file. could someone be kind enough to explain in step by step detail how to do this? When I read the user manual for Gsimple I become more confused. I simply want to take my saved DXF file frm TurboCad and generate my G-code file ready to import to Mach 3.
PLEASE HELP SOMEONE1
Steve in Maine

Unrelated to your post, but I am also interested in building my own CNC router. Did you obtain a plan from somewhere (if so, can you share where you got it?) or did you design it yourself? Thanks.

It's my own design but I did do a ton of research on cnczone.com and also got quite a few design ideas from looking at the K2CNC.com site. Now if I can just get the g code to run I'll be all set

I am new to this site too but I've been into CNC for several years now.

In order to run G-code on your machine, you need to take your DXF files and import them into a CAM program. This program will then take your design and create the G-code that your router needs to cut the part. You said you are running Mach3 as your machine control software. Did you also download Lazycam from the Artsoft website? This is a CAM program that will do what you need. There are other CAM programs out there too. I also create files using TurboCAD and then I import the files into a program called CUT2D from Vectric. It is a very affordable and easy program to learn and would be great for someone starting out. Either way you go, make sure to go through the tutorials carefully. You'll be making parts in no time! Hope this helps.

Woodguy58

I did down lazycam but have found it hard. I just need to spend more time reading the manual and get it done. Thanks for the advise!

Try CamBam
Download either the free version or get 40 launches of the $150 paid version.
Perfect for 2.5d and they are working on 3D for a future release.
Has a built in drawing editor and will convert to g-code for your Mach3.
For straight forward 2.5d work, you do not need a CAD program.
Documentation and Videos are available on their site.
Jim