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John Hill:
Thanks for the comments...

I am thinking that I should ensure my machine is capable of 3D,  I actually have drivers for five axis two of which are 3 phase.  I will be using one of the 3 phase drivers to drive my washing machine 'stepper' for the long X axis.  As far as I can see being '3D ready' just requires that I have a controllable Z axis and a usable clearance under the gantry.

Mark, I think you have filled in my missing link with DXG2gcode! Thanks. :thumbup:

Of course I dont have to stay with Linux but I thought I would give it a try (yet another part of this project that I, so far, know nothing about!)  Steve, I see a number of references to people using CamBam. :coffee:

Most of the work will be basic cutting of sheet materials, ply and MDF etc,  and probably making a few wooden signs for farm gates etc.

Meanwhile, back to the workshop...

vtsteam:
John, 5 axes, wow! Cool. Anyway, sounds like most of what you plan now will be satisfied with 2 to 2.5. And 3 is available in free, or low cost, software. If you eventually do go to 5 axes, though, I think you'll need very sophisticated CAM software to generate the moves.

John Hill:
Steve, I dont expect to be going to 5 axis on this router table but maybe I will fit steppers etc to my mill or lathe some time in the future.

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