Mach 3 and Mach 4 is terrible software, full of glitches and problems. I mean they don't cost that much either.ī) I would recommend just using one whatever it comes with. I have been a machinist for years now, and I would say :Ī) whether the tool is any good or not really depends on what you want to do, they are certainly useful to a limited degree in their own way for modest things, and I might buy one one day. You may be better served by asking elsewhere, is all I mean. The question has essentially nothing to do with fusion 360, though, I feel like I should mention. Even better, it is free to download and use for educational and hobby purposes.Others have tried to help me on the forum, so I am trying to give a bit back by answering here :).

The software we are highlighting today is Autodesk Fusion 360 for use with your CNC, a free Integrated CAD and CAM package, which conveniently lets you design your project and generate the gcode all in one place. Running G-Code: Taking the exported code from the last step, you run it either by your offline controller, or by CNC controller software on your computer, such as Candle.Generating Toolpaths: This is done by CAM (Computer Aided Machining) software, which takes the design you created and, via toolpaths, allows you to carve your project from a larger piece of 'Stock' material, and export these toolpaths in a form that your CNC can understand, called 'G-Code'.Designing a Project: This is done primarily through CAD (Computer Aided Design) or 2D vector based software such as Adobe Illustrator, Aspire or InkScape.In response to the needs of the community, this guide was made as part of a response to one of the most frequently asked questions by new CNC users: What software do I use, and where do I get it?Īs an open source platform running GRBL, our CNC's can be used by a vast variety of different programs in combination in the following workflow:

Fusion 360 for cnc router