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
SkeinForge
SkeinForge is an awesome little script that will generate very nice GCode. Its free, its Python, and its 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.
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
Non-Free / Closed Source
I don't have much experience with these, suggestions wanted.
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!
