I am new to Axiom and learning

[nsochat]

I just purchased my first CNC machine - An Axiom Iconic 24x24 since that is all I need for what I plan to use it for as well as all the space I can fill with a machine as well. I am a visual artist and will be using the machine in whatever ways I find as I learn to use it.  I am more interested in creating my own drawings/images rather than doing commercial graphics like signs, etc.

Currently I am at the stage of deciding which software to get and have a few questions. The Axiom machine uses a controller and I don't need to have a laptop connected to it for use (just the flash card with the saved file).  However, can one connect a laptop to the Axiom and run it that way? I am asking because of the software that exists out there, is it only the Vectric that is compatible with the machine or can I use an online program such as Easel? Easel does not give Axiom as a choice when you are telling the software what machine you have, so I am assuming that you can't use it directly as one would with another machine (Inventables for example where i took a class to make myself comfortable with using a CNC machine). Also, what is the disadvantage other than only size limitations (24x24) if I purchase Vectric V-Carve desktop instead of Vectric V-Carve Pro? 

On another topic I am looking at dust collecting systems to connect to my machine stand alone simple system. What do you recommend? I have heard that a dust cannister filter is better than a dust bag etc. What brands do you recommend etc and what set-up is ideal? Here is a YouTube video with a recommendation:

Look forward to responses!

[johnb]

With the U.S. (and, I think, Canadian) machines, you cannot run it from a laptop. Whatever software you choose needs to have a post-processor file available to output the code so that it will run on a specific machine. Anecdotally, some people have succeeded in modifying existing PP files to produce what's needed. This would be the antithesis of "visual artistry", however. All Vectric products are "upgradeable". You can start with one and move up to the next level (Pro, for instance) and the only "penalty" will be that you will suck up whatever price increase may have happened in the interim.

The canister filters provide far superior performance over the "dust bags". While you will (hopefully) be producing mainly "chips" (with less fine dust), this is still important. A cyclone-type device ahead of the DC makes life much easier (and vastly cuts down on filter removal/cleaning/replacing). If you can put it all in a "closet" or separate room, you'll be a lot happier and experience a lot less stress when it's running. Most of the noise comes from the level at which the motor is mounted. In the video you've linked... that's right at head (ear) level. I have a 3hp Laguna that serves my whole shop. I put it in a soundproofed 4x8 closet that happens to abut my Axiom. With the water-cooled spindle, the loudest noise in my shop with the Axiom & DC running is the sound of the air rushing into the dust pickup on the AR-16. I realize that all this is "more than you want", but I did want to give you some ideas.

[chisel]

I agree with what johnb wrote. I'm running an AR8 with a Hust controller driving servo motors. There is another version that runs stepper motors, requiring a different post processor. I'm not sure what the Iconic you have is set up with, but that may be a consideration there too.

I've been a little frustrated by the lack of post processor development for various CAM software products out there. Autodesk products aren't supported, and I don't think Rhino is either. Vectric seems to be the only game in town.

[Chad]

Mar 20, 2021 18:29:16 GMT -5 chisel said:

I agree with what johnb wrote. I'm running an AR8 with a Hust controller driving servo motors. There is another version that runs stepper motors, requiring a different post processor. I'm not sure what the Iconic you have is set up with, but that may be a consideration there too.

I've been a little frustrated by the lack of post processor development for various CAM software products out there. Autodesk products aren't supported, and I don't think Rhino is either. Vectric seems to be the only game in town.

Sadly, you're correct....with the HUST controller, there has not been much support by any CAM programming. 

This controller simply is not used anywhere else, so most software manufacturers have not created anything. However, you can always reach out to the software company and request a post.

This typically consists of sending the some sample files that you created within the Vectric software which will illustrate the header/footer construction to them. Additionally, they may request a complete G & M code list which HUST has really never provided great detail on besides whats in their technical documentation. It appears that the controller will support nearly all standard gcode, but the format of the header and footer is very specific. 

For the current vectric post, we had modified an original metric fanuc post...and its worked very well. 


For the RichAuto controls, that are were originally used on our smaller machines and have now also replaced the HUST on the current Elite series...the software support has been much easier. And many CAD/CAM programs already offer a post that will work. 

The g and m code list is well documented and sample files are readily available in the event that the chosen software does not have an immediate post available.