Denford Software & Machines

I recently picked up a 2004 Microrouter Compact to play around with as a hobby. I used to work with CAD/CAM a lot and troubleshoot post processors, but it's been over 15 years since then. The g-code isn't a concern so much for me (I'm rusty but I'll figure it out), but with no software at all being included with my purchase, just being able to send a program to the machine is proving to be more challenging than I had hoped.

I've tried a number of shortcuts (Mach3, Universal G-code Sender, DNC4U, etc.), hoping to be able to send a program to the machine, but nothing is working out as easily as I had hoped. I started exploring MINT Workbench (I have the Baldor NextMoveST motion controller) and was able to get the 3 axes to move, which was a huge breakthrough, but I'm not at all confident I'm going down the right path. So, I have millions of questions, but for now I guess I'd like some advice on what path might be best for me.

I would really like to find a generic way of sending a g-code file to the CNC. Does the MINT Workbench provide a realistic way for a hobbyist to achieve that? Ideally non-proprietary, popular (so I can find lots of help and advice online), and flexible (so I can use the same system if I acquire another type/make of CNC in the future). I may go to Denford for a license in the end, but my brain is still telling me "this can't be that difficult".

Would appreciate any and all advice.

Thanks,
Paul

Hi,

I have used the denford Vr milling software for near on 20yrs now, It does the job and is relatively straight forward. I have seen people go down the route of gutting machines of the control for ebay mach 3 conversions and many hours of setting up and often question why.
I am sure that mach 3 or other stuff can offer a user much more than the denford control but in the years i have used it i have found it does the job. It is not tied to a specific machine so if you had various machines you could use it on them all (unlike the boxford stuff) The machines have been configured with numerous safety features so they can be used in education establishments , some like to by pass others are happy to keep them and fingers.

Pete

Thanks Pete. I'm in the US, so Denford (and Boxford) are new to me. I'll check out the Denford software.

I did purchase the VR Milling V5 software and am very happy I did. It is fairly intuitive for someone who likes to jump right in without reading a lot. Saved me weeks, or months (or an eternity) of trying to make do without. I'm also using the hobby/trial version of Fusion 360 to make designs, program and post process. Totally new to that software too, but managing, again without reading much. I've only done some basic pocketing and text engraving, but very impressed so far.

Great stuff! I thought you had gone quiet. Glad you are finding your way around it all OK.

Pete

I'm sorry or offtopic, But I have a quick question and can't make new topics yet. Is Denford software works with other manufacturer's machines? I have Zen Toolworks CNC. Thank you.