You will need a good understanding of a Bostomatic program, preferably with a proven program that calls all the functions that the control has to offer. Is a Bostomatic like a Boss? I don't see a Bostomatic post processor in the list, but unless it is conversational, it is likely not too difficult to modify a post for it. So far as gcodes go, you can remove things like workoffsets easily from the post processor. It also has valuable tool radius compensation logic that makes it easy to see when your tool is safely entering the work. It used to be a bear to get it set right, but now it works great, makes it easy to get your chamfers correct on the first try. There are lots more things you can do to holes than just drill them, too Countersink, counterbore, helix in, clean circle etc. OneCNC also provides you with a variety of entry styles besides a plain old 'plunge and chip' movement. When it comes time to do 3D in OneCNC, you'll already have had ample practise using its 2.5d functionality, then mold toolpaths (SMT) will just be a handy addition for when you find a model that has a complex 3d surface that you cannot do with any 2d type tricks. Learning Sheetcam (or Bobcad ) will likely just delay your education. There seems to be many users and a wealth of support and I like that alot. I have heard several people say that OneCNC was the best for the money. Please, any input is wonderful, as this is a really big decision in my little world. I thought I could upgrade later, when I have made some money and have more experience with the product. It sure ought to beat the snot out of longhanding every program though. Also, I was just going to buy the Mill Express Package as it is all I can afford right now. How terribly is this going to affect the SF calculations. High range this would be 70% of 7000RPMs or 4900 RPMs. S70 M03 turns on the spindle to 70% of the range you are in. Since my old bostomatic doesn't adhere to the standard format, will I be able to get a post configured so that I can do zero editing and run? One other problem is that the spindle speed in the bosto is programmed as a percentage of range and not an actual RPM.

I have noticed things such as G54 G55 and other common G-codes embedded in the software. What I am concerned about, is the ease of configuring a post processor for my Bostomatic. I am currently stumbling through the demo. I have just about settled on purchasing OneCNC.

I have been reading for several weeks on the different less expensive CAM programs that are available.

Express tools in sheetcam