Any interest in vcarve cnc software?

[reible]

I have also signed up for their forum. You can access it here:

http://forum.vectric.com/

After you sign up it will take a short while to get "approved" so someone actually looks at your information and processes you. I don't know if you need to do this but just wanted to let you know that it is there.

Ed

[artman60]

I have been a member of their forum for about a week. The tutorial/primer on CNC machines was one of the most informative reads I have found so far. I'm trying to decide if I want a CNC machine (pretty sure I do), and which one. So far it looks like the Probotix Meteor, Shopsabre 23, and CAMaster Stinger 1. Probably start with Vcarve Pro. If you upgrade to Aspire later, you only have to pay for the difference between the software programs.

[mauka]

I've been reading about the X-Carve and Carvey CNC tools on Inventables. They offer VCarve as an option to their own Easel software.

The X-Carve product is sold as a kit, and the Carvey is a ready to use CNC machine in an enclosure.

Anyone else read about these machines and have an opinion? I am seriously considering ordering the X-Carve.

Roughly the same price range as the "CNC Piranha FX" that Woodcraft is advertising on their web site. For myself I like the X-Carve "open source" concept, and that the parts are "standard" and user replaceable. They also support user upgrades, with the exception of using a laser in place of the router spindle, which is something I'd be interested in doing.

And if you're a forum junkie like me - they have an active one.

Thanks - Alan

https://www.inventables.com/

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[sehast]

I have a CNC router that I have been using for over 10 years and have been using Vetric software for the last 4 years. I think Vcarve is definitely the most cost effective way to get started with an integrated CAD/CAM suite. I use Aspire which is kind of expensive but is great for 3D rendering. I use Mach 3 for motion control on a laptop that interfaces with the router so all my software runs on Windows. I think it is important to have a common platform and Windows is the most versatile choice. I would be careful trying to save a few bucks by going with an Arduino and small motor based system like X-Carve. My system cost $4000 ten years ago but it still does everything I need to do and more. More importantly I have been able to take advantage of new and updated software throughout those years that continues to make the system and me more productive. No reason it won't last for at least another ten years.

[mauka]

I have a CNC router that I have been using for over 10 years and have been using Vetric software for the last 4 years.

Thanks for the reply, I understand buying quality.

What CNC router do you have?

Alan

[sehast]

A company called K2 CNC in Anaheim, CA made mine. They went out of business a few years ago but emerged as Velox CNC that is in business today at

http://www.veloxcncrouters.com/#!shop/cfvg

The one that I have most closely resembles the 36W except mine is 39"x25"x6" in travel and I have upgraded the motors and motor drives to servos. Woodcraft is one of their distributors and they sell on Ebay as well.

[mauka]

Thanks for that information, the Velox entry level 24W-ACE CNC Router starts at $4,600. And at 175 pounds shipping to Hawaii would be expensive, for example - Shopsmith quoted me $1,700 to ship a Mark 7.

The local Woodcraft doesn't carry the CNC Piranha FX. Rockler has the CNC Piranha FX, and would charge me $325 to ship it, and it only weighs 70 pounds.

The CNC Piranha FX price includes VCarve Desktop V8, which is limited to a 24" x 24" project size. I need to check if the included version is restricted to work only with the Piranha, which would limit it's value.

The "light duty" X-Carve still looks good to me, the kit using their Easel software would be $1400 shipped, and it can cut larger projects than the Piranha FX. (12x18 Piranha vs 31x31 X-Carve). Many things to consider!