Again I spent some time searching for free tools to improve my cnc toolchain. I stumbled upon two simple but helpful flash programs for handling g-code files:
- Makercam (http://www.makercam.com/)
This tool loads svg files and generates g-code toolpaths from it. I can create programs for drilling, pockets, outlines and follow path operations. There are only two things to keep in mind when using it:- The svg file may only contain a single path. However this is not a big problem, because you can create such svg files easily using inkscape. Just combine all paths and then save it.
- Makercam assumes a resolution of 72 dpi when importing a svg file. Inkscape produces files, that have 90 dpi. To fix this open the preferences of Makercam and replace 72 by 90 dpi before loading any svg.
- G-code viewer (http://www.buildlog.net/gview/index.html)
This tool offers a quick way to inspect your g-code files before sending them to a cnc mill. Just drag the g-code file onto the browser window. All rendering is done locally without transferring your file to a server.