A4 scale = 70%

RISC OS computing page 3

ProCAM engineering software for RISC OS by Chris Bell

This is our own software, in daily use to convert ProCAD+ drawings into working CNC part-programs. These are ready for downloading straight into a CNC milling machine, eliminating all the complexities, time and errors associated with manual programming.

ProCAM automatically sorts CAD profiles into continuous toolpaths, which means you can draw items by any convenient means and in any convenient order. Individual items can be selected for machining from larger drawings and the resultant toolpaths displayed and checked before machining.

( 'Small Block'           )     ( 6 holes:  4.5mm drill   )   (   T01 L..     S1000 rpm )   ( 8 profiles: 4.0mm mill  )   (   T03 L.. D.. S3750 rpm )     G71 G90   M03 D3.0   G00 X-9.53 Y5.50    T01   G82 F100 R0 Z10.00 D0.5          X-9.53 Y5.50          X9.53 Y5.50          X9.53 Y-5.50          X-9.53 Y-5.50          X0.00 Y11.00          X0.00 Y-11.00   G80

Part-programs are compiled in G-code format, compatible with a variety of different CNC machines and suitable for editing in a text-editor if required. Existing part-programs can also be converted back into drawings, providing a quick means of checking and modifying the contents of old files.

A tool library contains parameters for the automatic insertion of 20 different cutting tools, and the performance limits of 5 CNC machines can be applied automatically.

Engraving

ProCAM can take full advantage of ProCAD+'s powerful features to lay out both text and pictures for engraving. Any of the freely available outline fonts may be laid out in a multitude of complex textual patterns, and pictures can be traced. The results can then be converted into toolpaths for engraving.

  Download your own copy

ProCAM is currently being offered as Freeware to all users of ProCAD+.

Click here to download ProCAM, complete with documentation and a special CNCround font. Sample ProCAD+ output is also provided so you can try it out even if you haven't bought your own copy of ProCAD+ yet.

© Chris Bell, 2004

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