I built an MPCNC about 4 years ago. I used a Rambo board, but I don’t remember the version. At the time, I used Elstcam and Repetier-host. They worked OK, but I wasn’t really happy with them. I am getting ready to get it back out and start using it again.
Is there any newer/better software that is free/cheap that do what the other 2 do? I am slowly teaching myself Fusion for CAD, but I have heard the CAM isn’t great.
EstlCAM is still the go-to software for creating the g-code file. The current “yellow-brick-road” controller is the Jackpot3, designed by Ryan and the community It sell for much less than a Rambo 1.4 and files are usually sent as a file via WiFi. The operations of the CNC machine are initiated via a web browser on your phone, tablet or computer.
Mike
Mike respinse is the correct one. Eatlcqm is the way to go for beginners, there are many cad/cam software as bananas in the jungle but not free(freeware) estlcam has a paid license (no waiting time for generating the gcode file). Prices go up pretty fast with other softwares.
Would it be worth replacing the Rambo with the Jackpot3? I barely remember anything about the Rambo, if you can’t tell, LOL.
What was it about your software experience you did not like? Does the rambo run marlin? Do you have 5 motor drivers or 3? Do you have dual endstops?
Jackpot runs fluidnc firmware, its basically a grbl controller. So yes!
I have the same questions as orob. What did you not like about the setup you had? Not just controller, workflow, machine, etc.
Rambo/Marlin is still a legit way to run the machine, but everything about the setups have improved quite a bit in the last 4 years.
If you tell us more about your machine, what your workflow is, what you make with it- we can probably suggest a bunch of things that will be quality of life improvements for you.
Pictures and details will help us help you.
There was nothing bad or wrong with it, I was just looking at options. To be honest, I built it to cut the frame for my R2-D2 and it was awesome for that and I haven’t really touched it since. I have a couple small projects I want to use it for, then I’m not sure what I’ll do with it. I don’t use it much and could really use the space.
I think I’ll stick with the Rambo and Elstcam since they are still good options with no real need to update. Maybe I’ll get the bug again and really want to use it more.
Thanks for all the responses.
Please post here when you’re ready to use it again, the forum is great at helping folks get into (or back into) using their machines.