CAD CAM workflow confusion - help

[aggiedan97 (Dan Cowan)]

First off, I’m a newbie. I have no doubt this has been answered many times over so don’t hesitate to redirect me if there is a better place to answer.

I have read multiple threads about CAD/CAM software options and alternatives.

I agree with the sentiments about Carbide controller not being open but that seems to contradict the website and the Make Magazine article referenced [here] (https://makezine.com/2017/04/24/shapeoko-xxl-review/). Perhaps the thread I referenced is older and no longer applies but I’m confused.

Is it open source or not?
From the Make Magazine:
> Firmware: Grbl board, Grbl is open, customized version for them
> Open Software? No, desktop software developed in-house. Grbl itself is open and proceeds fund Grbl development.
> Open Hardware? Yes

Does this mean the controller is only able to be operated by the in-house Motion or MeshCAM software?

Based on the threads I’ve read, I’m leaning to VCarve for design and tool paths and then what? These threads don’t really discuss executing the g-code. Am I correct in assuming everyone must use Motion or MeshCAM?

If proprietary then Mach3/4 is out (unless changing controller), correct?

Background -Two years ago I considered buying a Titan kit from Joe’s CNC. At the time I looked extensively at Mach 3 and just couldn’t pull the trigger on a $5k setup. I’m extremely proficient with Sketchup and 3D modeling. I’m moderately proficient with Fusion but find it less intuitive. I have considered using Sketchup for design but am less interested in adding a 3rd/4th step.

Any help, advice, additional threads, or articles would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks, Dan

[WillAdams (William Adams (Carbide 3D))]

No, Carbide Motion is limited to only working with the Carbide Motion or Stepoko (with code) controller

One may use any software which supports Grbl to support the machine — list of free / opensource options at: https://wiki.shapeoko.com/index.php/Communication_/_Control

If you use Vcarve for design and CAM you should use a suitable post-processor (they’ve included one since v8.5 — further discussion at: https://wiki.shapeoko.com/index.php/Commercial_Software#2.5D_CAM ) and you may use any communication / control program which you wish — their nascent Vtransfer is one option.

If Mach3/4 has a mode which allows one to control a machine using G-Code over a serial USB connection then it should work. Otherwise, you’d need to replace the control board.

If you wish to use SketchUp there’s a list of CAM options for it at: https://wiki.shapeoko.com/index.php/Commercial_Software#3D_CAD

We have notes on using Autodesk Fusion 360 at: https://docs.carbide3d.com/software-faq/fusion360/ and you’ll want to use the new beta and post-processor