Hello all, I am currently considering an MR-1, but first I am trying to get a CAM software figured out. I am not going to be eligible for the free version of Fusion as I would be getting it for projects at the place I work at, so I was trying to see what the capabilities are of both the $680 package vs the $2040 package are.
I am mainly looking for a software that is both powerful and affordable(I know something has to give, you can’t have everything.) I currently am not well versed in CAM beyond 2.5D, but I used MeshCAM for a 2.5D job and felt like there was a lack of manipulation of what you could get your toolpaths to do.
Does the $640 package have good capabilities to make decent toolpaths? I mainly would be doing 2.5D jobs that I can foresee, with grove cutting, thread milling, drilling all being part of the jobs I would like to do.
If you all need more info or have any other recommendations please let me know, thanks!
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Hi John. I assume you mean the difference between the base version of Fusion and the Machining Extension. Keep in mind you can always add the extension if you find it contains capabilities you require.
That being said, the base version should cover the toolpaths you have mentioned (plus a bunch more!)
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You will be good for up to 3 axis machinery. A 4th -axis will require the extension. This is what I have been told.
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Thanks for the replies guys, that helps me alot!
@Simsworx, yes I was refering to the base Fusion package vs the Machining Extension, I am sorry for any confusion. I was aware that I could always upgrade, I guess what I should of added is that at the current time(and even if I do get an MR-1), I don’t do a lot CNC machining on a daily basis, and don’t think I could quite justify the $2000 yearly expense, and wanted to see if the base Fusion package had what I needed(which it sounds like it does.)
@Bigdaddy2166 Thanks for the info! Fusion does say that on their website, that in order to get 4 or 5 axis machining toolpaths you need the extension. I would like to do 4th axis someday, but for right now should be good with just 3.
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