Need help using 360 CAM to make files to use on CnC router

[Anonymous]

I just built my first CnC router Kit but am lost on how to use the CAM part of  Fusion 360 Have several Questions I called your # and the person I talked with there knew nothing of what I need they suggested I contact you here. Could I get a call back set up I really like F 360 So please let me know how I can get a better understanding of the way the CAM part of it works thank you.

Jim Greene

ocmagic@outlook.com

(714) 318-2309

Best contact time between 2 & 6 Cal. time  

[martin.dunschen]

I would recommend that you look at the tutorials that are available in Fusion and on the web, for example here: https://www.autodesk.co.uk/products/fusion-360/get-started.

There are also a wealth of tutorial type videos on Youtube, look for example this channel: https://www.nyccnc.com/

Hope this helps

Martin

[seth.madore]

In addition to what @martin.dunschen  has suggested, I do want to mention a few things:

1) Lars' YouTube channel is also great for all things CAD/CAM. He has a solid machining career behind him. Watch what he has to teach

2) When you get stuck (you will, it's okay), come to the forums and we will sort you out.

3) Read, watch, and read some more 🙂

[Anonymous]

Hello & thank you for your input have been looking at tons of info on youtube BUT have been unable to find info on HOW to send the milling info that I created in 360 to my off brand CnC route. does 360 have a cut command? or do I need to go thru a separate different program Like a "G" code sender to get the files to the tool & start the cutting process?

I have seen people post their info after they have finished with it in 360 does this send it out to the post processor? Like the "G" code sender please help me to under stand thank you.

[seth.madore]

Fusion 360 can only produce the code needed. You program up your tool paths and simulate everything to make sure it's proper. Once it's satisfactory, you will then "Post" out the code by running through a Post Processor configured for your machine. There are dozens of generic posts already available through Fusion and even more HERE. If you do not see your machine/controller listed, do a search on this forum before posting a new thread. Chances are someone has asked that same question at some point in the last 5 years or so. If still no luck, you will absolutely need to provide AT A MINIMUM a g-code program that you have run on your machine. This will give us the info needed to direct you better.

And yes, you will need some way to get the code from your computer to the CNC Router. Typically speaking, this could be through a direct hardware connection, or perhaps a USB drive. Fusion 360 offers no support in this area, and they likely never will, as this is a role for NC Code editors, not CAD/CAM software

[martin.dunschen]

Hi @Anonymous 

It sounds like you need to find out more about the basics of how a CNC setup works: Have a look at this: https://forums.autodesk.com/t5/hsm-post-processor-forum/what-are-post-processors-and-how-do-i-get-them/td-p/5032332

For example typical router setup would use a computer with a program to control the CNC. The controller itself is a piece of hardware that basically receives instructions through a computer's port, like the usb port that it turns into spinning the motors for your x, y and z axis on the router.

You should have one of these controllers that connects to a computer somehow. The controller software then can be used to open a NC file, a file with the G-Code. This file is obtained by 'post-processing' a toolpath you've created in Fusion. There are many different flavors of G-Code and not all controller software follows the same conventions, but chances are that somebody already has a working post processor for Fusion and your hardware; ask again on the CAM forum and describe the make and model of your controller.

Hope this helps and good luck to get started.

Martin