Generators are programs that take some sort of input file (STL, DXF, BMP, etc.) and transform it into machine specific code. Here are some good GCode generators:
Free / Open Source
3D Printing Generators
SkeinForge
SkeinForge is an awesome little script that will generate very nice GCode. It's free, it's Python, and it's awesome.
RepRap Host Software
The RepRap host software is now capable of outputting GCode. Its a bit tricky to use, but it does work.
SuperSkein
SuperSkein is a free and open-source Processing program for creating gcode from STLs based around simplicity and hackability. It's also very fast and not prone to slicing errors like Skeinforge.
Slic3r
A fast, multiplatform, multithreaded, easy to configure, free and open source G-code generator supporting STL, AMF, dual extrusion, graphic and command line interfaces, support material, scaling, rotating and much more. Actively maintained and supported in the IRC #slic3r channel on FreeNode.
Milling Generators
FlatCAM
Powerful, free, open-source 2D CAM specialized in making PCBs on CNC routers. It's fully featured, including powerful visualization of Gerber, Excellon and G-Code, tools to create isolation routing, double-sided PCBs, toolpaths for clearing large copper areas, board cutout, etc. Runs on Windows, Linux and OS-X.
cad.py
cad.py is a bitmap driven successor to cam.py from MIT. It imports 2D or 3D images of objects and then generates code for a variety of different machines. cad.py is slow but robust.
See this page for a nice tutorial to get you started.
Quick hints: Load your .png file, click CAM, and then click the output format button and choose G-Code.
cam.py
cam.py is a free Python script that creates G-Code from *.svg, *.dxf, *.cmp,*.sol,*.plc,*.sts,*.stc,*.gtl (Gerber) and *.jpg files. Its from the MIT FabLab folks and is pretty nice.
cl-mill
CL-MILL is a CNC milling application generating G-Code, built in Common Lisp. Supports panelizing, and can import from PNG or bmp via potrace. Excellent if you have a Lispish background.
- Objects: Everything except images
- Line widths map onto tools
- Mapping layers to depth
- Path optimization
- Reverse conversion (ngc2fig) for post-processing in xfig
PyCam
PyCAM generates toolpaths suitable for 3-Axis CNC machining from an STL, DXF, or SVG files.
GCAM
GCAM is a block based toolpath generator for 3 axis mills. GCAM has an interface for making bolt holes, drill holes, sketches, templates, and more. GCAM also imports RS274X (Gerber) and Excellon drill files for gerber to G-code pcb milling conversion used in circuit board prototyping.
HeeksCNC
HeeksCNC is an add-on for HeeksCAD. It allows you to generate toolpaths suitable for 3 axis CNC machining. It supports pocketing, roughing, and profiling.
PCB-GCode
Excellent program to generate GCode for milling PCBs from EAGLE. Highly recommended.
Visolate
Highly efficient PCB milling using Voronoi-Regions.
Gcodetools
CAM extension for Inkscape.
Gcodeplot
Generate 3-axis plotter gcode (or HPGL) from HPGL or an SVG subset.
Non-Free / Closed Source
I don't have much experience with these, suggestions wanted.
KISSlicer (Keep It Simple Slicer)
"KISSlicer is a fast, easy-to-use, cross-platform program that takes 3D files (STL) and generates path information (G-code) for a 3D Printer. The FREE version has all the features needed for the hobbyist who uses a single-head machine. The PRO version essentially adds multi-head and multi-model printing." - Taken from the front page of their webpage.
Suggestions?
Please email moc.liamg|nekeoh#moc.liamg|nekeoh if you know of a free/cheap/easy gcode generator. Or, log in and edit this page yourself!