CAM Functionality in WF PE?

[Smoltz]

Hello,

I'm new to the 3D Modeling world. Just picked up a small CNC Mill to make parts for various projects. Now I'm trying to figure out which CAD\CAM package to go with. I have extensive experience with Autocad.

I'm wondering what degree of CAM functionality (if any) is built into ProE/Wildfire Personal edition w/o any of the additional packages. I'm looking to 2.5D Milling. Do I need to get the 'Complete Machining ' Add On?

Also, for a beginner in 3D, would I be better off with a program like Alibre.

Any input would be appreciated.

-Adam

 

[peterbrown77]

Adam,


As far as I am aware, there is no CAM functionality in Personal Edition. I don't even know if it's possible to add either the Prismatic Milling module or Complete Machining module to PE. You may need a commercial version of ProE. BTW, Prismatic Milling is the more 'basic' package of CAM from PTC.


Regarding ProE v. Alibre, it depends what you want to do with it. There is a free version of Alibre you can download which will certainly help you understand the world of 3D. It has a lot of limitations though - 10 parts per assembly (max), some feature operations are omitted (shelling, etc). If you already have Wildfire PE then you have a package with 20X the functionality of free Alibre. The learning curve is a little steeper, but with all that it does that should be no surprise. So, if you want to try 3D you can certainly start with Alibre but you'll hit a wall fairly soon. Both Wildfire and Alibre have built in tutorials to get you started, so it's really up to you.


Regards

 

[chf65]

Hi Smoltz,


Not sure what PE version gives you, and not sure whether you can have add-ons for it.


But for 3-axis milling work, you do not need "complete machining'. Just the most basic machining package will suffice.


Charles