PyCAM Alternatives
PyCAM is described as 'toolpath generator for 3-axis CNC machining. It loads 3D models in STL format or 2D contour models from DXF or SVG files. The resulting GCode can be used with EMC2 or any other machine controller'. There are more than 10 alternatives to PyCAM for a variety of platforms, including Windows, Linux, Mac, Online / Web-based and Self-Hosted solutions. The best alternative is LinuxCNC (the Enhanced Machine Control), which is both free and Open Source. Other great apps like PyCAM are Ink/Stitch (Free, Open Source), Embroidermodder (Free, Open Source), Blender CAM (Free, Open Source) and jscut (Free, Open Source).
- LinuxCNC controls CNC machines. It can drive milling machines, lathes, 3D printers, laser cutters, plasma cutters, robot arms, hexapods, and more. Runs under Linux (optionally with realtime extensions).
LinuxCNC (the Enhanced Machine Control) vs PyCAM opinions
RunnerPack Like Mach3, this is for controlling machines, not generating the paths said machines follow. - An Inkscape extension for designing machine embroidery patterns.
- Embroidermodder is a free machine embroidery software program which allows editing, scaling, and translating sewing machine embroidery files to a variety of formats. It allows the user to add custom modifications to their embroidery designs.
- Blender CAM is an open source solution for artistic CAM - Computer aided machining - a g-code generation tool. Blender CAM is an add-on for the free open-source Blender 3d package.
- A CAM in your browser! Convert your SVG files to CNC cutting paths with this tool.
- CamBam is an application to create CAM files (gcode) from CAD source files or its own internal geometry editor. CamBam has many users worldwide, from CNC hobbyists to professional machinists and engineers.
- gCAD3D is a 3D CAD CAM application that features an integrated 3D OpenGL viewer, a program interpreter for geometry and NC-commands in 3D, an integrated NC-processor, and a programming interface for user programs.
- Mach3 is very popular among the Hobby CNC community. Artsoft produces Mach3 software and has been around for some time. This software can be used as a fully functional CNC control or used as a CNC simulator for training, learning or testing CNC programs.
Mach3 vs PyCAM opinions
RunnerPack PyCAM generates Gcode from 3D geometry, while Mach3 interprets said Gcode to produce signals that control CNC machinery. They are two parts of the same workflow. - The fast and easy way to create CNC or robot milling programs that let you get the very best from your machines. The simple to use front end of our software is easy for a novice CAM programmer but SprutCAM is much more capable than it first appears to be.
- KrabzCAM is a javascript-based web application for converting SVG files to gcode. It supports the basic 2D machining operations: pocket, profile, engrave and drilling. It features easy to learn user interface and is great for simple CNC tasks.