Where do I get project files ready to run on an Altmill?
@Acraigie Welcome to the forum Alan
It’s usually not recommended to run CNC-ready files created by someone else. The CNC files contain information generated from the end mills you are using, the material you are carving, etc. etc. Files made by someone else would not have that information and will undoubtably lead to problems.
Having said that, there’s nothing wrong with using models or vector drawings created by someone else. That’s the CAD portion of the process. You would then need to create the CNC files from those. That’s the CAM portion. And finally you send that to the CNC with a sender.
CAD and CAM software applications are sometimes combined. Fusion, Vectric vCarve come to mind. There a millions of others. Some free, some paid. Some easy, some hard.
As for the last bit, Sienci’ gSender is free.
If you provide more information on what you are actually looking for, we can provide more help.
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Thank you for your help
Great response @Chucky_ott!
Here is a bit more detail on the software side of things - Software Explained - Fundamentals.
Cheers,
Stephen
Somewhat in same boat and not understanding why you mention combining Fusion and Vectric vCarve? Can’t Fusion do the CAD and CAM for you?
Edit: or are you simply saying those two apps can do both of those?
@DavidB Correct, those are two apps that can do CAD and CAM.
@Acraigie - can you be more precise with what you are asking? “Project files” ? As I learn, and learn…Do NOT run any gcode provided by anyone - seems consistent with above comments, for the reasons indicated. Many .stl files for “projects” available online on several sites including Etsy. Once downloaded, you can set up the toolpaths, etc.. for your specific machine. Whether Altmill, Longmill, other, I think this applies to all.