New to CAD/CAM

[hellafilming]

Hey guys
So Im brand to cad software and I was looking for good links to learning this side of the rc business. I want to learn how to cut frames and prototype frames around the trex parts.
I know this is a very in depth question but where did you guys start. I have access to all of the Autodesk programs. The only thing holding me back is my knowledge.
Can you point me the right way with links to tutorial and good information.
Thanks Freaks
Hellafilming

[hellafilming]

Any love, just like a homeless man.... anything helps

[DeadTom]

Which of the Autodesk products will you be using?
I started with my CAD experience back in 1986 with the first version of ModelCad and then after I started working for the DOT in my State (1990) we had a version of AutoCAD version 2.1, we then moved onto the Unix boxes running Intergraph's MicroStation, then the Bentley brothers bought back the rights to MicroStation and a few years ago they rolled out version V8i. I also have owned many other Cad programs like TurboCad, there are even free Cad programs like HyCad.
You need to decide which program you are going to use so people can point you in the right way to learn.
Start with basic 2d stuff and then worry about 3d later.

[corona007]

If you can get Autocad, Get it! And start drawing some lines and circles with accuracy. That should be a good start.

If you wanna cut part's you're gonna need a cnc mill or router and learn to machine.

You will also need to learn how to use code (G-code).

Then you need to get software to run your cnc like Mach3 and learn to use it.

There is a ton of info on the web on all this stuff, You won't find many answers in this forum about CNC. Maybe people just sharing ideas and or drawings.

CNCzone has a ton of info for beginners.

Now your making parts.

[DeadTom]

Yes I agree with Corona, if you are serious about learning to machine stuff and draw in cad, use cam software to create tool paths and the use of machine controller software then go to CNCZone.com the best site around for all things CNC.
Tom

[hellafilming]

awesome thanks guys, finding out about cnczone.com was very helpful. The internet has so much information its hard to tell which is really relevant. I'm a student a the state university and get free downloads of the whole Autodesk programs. I have downloaded AutoCad, Autodesk inventor professional, and autocad for mac's. I have both platforms. I just got a awesome cnc machine that is supposable turn key with the master software. Then I also got their cam software for the g-codes. I understand the procedure of taking you drawings from cad to cam to get the g codes. I just don't know how to draw well in the autodesk programs. Here is the link to the machine a bough. I wanted a cnc machine for a while and feel very lucky to get such a pricey machine.
http://www.cncmasters.com/index.php?page=cnc-baron-xl
If any of you guys want to have me cut stuff I would like to help the people out on this site because of the mutual interest.
till then i will be on cnczone....haha
thanks guys