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How hard is it to use a cad program?
muell67:
The most popular Cad program would definately be autocad. Ive been using it for about seven years full time and I still learn stuff almost every day. Its not to hard to start using but very dificult to master. If your wanting to program for a cnc I would recomend you draw in autocad then program with MasterCam. Its the most popular cam program, I wouldnt recomend drawing in it though its got a slow interface and not very user friendly for drawing.
Mark70:
As and Architectural Technologist, I can tell you it takes long enough to master drawing in 2d. Drafting in 3d is more difficult. Drafting accurately in 3d is even more difficult, and for CNC routing you must be 100% accurate. Not to mention, I bet there's a whole bunch of specialized knowledge for programming CNC like, what not to do to avoid making impossible to machine forms, or manouvres which will break bits.... etc.. I'm just speculating since I've never tried to do any CNC stuff.
Don't let that discourage you. Knowing how to use AutoCAD is a huge asset. It helps out for all kinds if DIY build projects. My brother and father are jealous of my CAD skill and they dabble in it saying they want to learn it. Of course they have skills which I can't even touch. I guess it just seems to them like everyone should know CAD.
Keep in mind "CAD Operator" is a career title.
nostrebor:
Been using AutoCAD since version 9 DOS. 18 years and still I learn new things about it. I do use it much less now than I used to so suddenly the guys in Engineering are making fun of me because I'm the "old" guy who's not up on the latest :'( Those LOSERS!
You can get the basics of 2D drawing down in a few weeks of use, if you are fairly computer savvy. I use it in a construction environment so I have no experience with CAD to CAM.
I will say that once you start using it, it's like meth. You will be thinking of all kinds of uses. I even lay out my furniture and arrange it in ACAD ::) It's just easier than moving the couch until my wife is happy.
elvis:
AutoCAD is not user friendly. It is difficult to do things quickly in, and utterly NOT recommended for beginners and casual users. And it's stupidly expensive.
The problem with AutoCAD users is that they've been using it for so long they take their expert knowledge of the package as an every-day thing, and tend to recommend it to others. I should know, I ran the technology department for Asia-Pacific region of the world's largest Architecture firm for well over 5 years, and implemented most of the stuff they are using today, including the AutoCAD and ADT setups, Microstation setups, and 3DSMax 3D department and render farm. All whiz-bang stuff, but not even close to being a sensible recommendation for new users.
Instead, try SketchUp:
http://www.sketchup.com/
It's cheaper, easier, friendlier and more intuitive than any other product I've ever come across. In 15 years I've not seen a CAD package that has people with zero CAD/drafting/architecture/engineering experience drawing real-world things quicker. You don't need 10 years of industry experience to understand it. Watch the 30 minute training DVD supplied with it, and start modelling in real exportable 3D. Easy as pie, and highly recommended.
rwhip41:
I'm going out on a limb here, but I am compelled to help...
I use a 3d CAD package at work (Pro/Engineer), and I could get you a 3d file that is accurate to work with in Master Cam.
My experience with AutoCAD is that it doesn't translate very nicely into other packages such as Master Cam. Edges won't match up, leaving the decision as to which lines to move very difficult.
I'd just free-hand it. IIf you are carefull and if you take your time, you will be happy with your results. It would be faster considering the fact that you wouldn't have to learn a CAD package as well as a programming package (which is more difficult, IMO).