===== What is CAD/CAM and why should a Ham care? =====

===== Overview of process =====
  * CAD
    * Software to draw/design your model (2D or 3D)
    * Will leave you with some sort of picture/model file:
      * 2D: Vector file -- NOT bitmap
        * Yes:  SVG, DWG, **possibly** PDF
        * No:  JPG, PNG, screenshot, scanned paper drawing...
          * At least not like that:  can be traced, inspiration, etc.
      * 3D:  SCAD, STEP, IGES, SLD*, F3D, etc.
      * PCB:  Gerber (though you'll probably have a .BRD, .kicad_pcb, etc.)
    * Purpose of model:  describe "outline" of what you've designed
      * Think home rendering
      * Tells us lots about what we want to build
        * "A panel of this by this, with a hole with this dimension here, and missing a square there with that dimension..."
        * Definition of shape and how everything is positioned relative to each other
      * No idea of how to actually **build** the model, just the (exact) shape.
        * Nothing about how to actually **get** a panel of that shape, or how to create those holes or missing squares...
  * CAM - Software to translate model into paths (cutting lines) - GCode
    * Often overlooked part of the process!
      * Not File/Print!
    * From home rendering to architectural building plans
      * Even detailed rendering doesn't care about (most) details!
        * Materials (studs, joists, wiring, plumbing, etc.)
        * Structure (How does the house stand up?)
        * Process (Need foundation, then framing, then surfaces, then finish)
        * Interference (Multiple items may try to occupy the same space!)
    * CAM not a generic process
      * Specific for each type of machine and process!
        * Additive:
          * 3D printer (plastic extrusion)
          * DMLS (metal sintering)
          * SLA/DLP (light/resin)
          * SLS (light/powder)
        * Subtractive
          * Flat (2D / 2.5D)
            * Router (tool-based)
            * Laser/Waterjet/Plasma/EDM (non-tool-based)
            * Rotational
              * Lathe
            * 3D (Extra DOF)
              * Mill
      * Each machine has specific details it needs **beyond** simple shape and dimensions
        * Specific path details
        * Machine capabilities/limitations
        * Material details
          * Speeds and limitations
          * Tooling details (size, shape, etc.)
            * Change the tool, literally change **everything**
    * At this point, presentation becomes much more use-case specific
      * Additive (3D Printer) much different than Subtractive (CNC Router)
        * Machine, material, techniques, limitations, etc.
    * My perspective:  desktop CNC router in wood or PCB
      * 3D printing similar **concepts** but very different details
  * Purpose:  to create detailed instructions **how** to build your model
    * Reflecting details of your tools and material as well as your model
  * Additive:  Slicer
    * Effectively fill-in layer-by-layer
    * What is the footprint in this fraction of a millimeter layer?  Draw it!
      * Not quite so simple:  Overhangs, underhangs, support material, bonding
      * Other subtleties:  direction of strength/shear, 



  * GCode Sender - Software to take 



===== CAD Options =====
  * 3D
    * Free as in freedom
      * OpenSCAD (For us wierdos)
      * FreeCAD (For power-user types)
      * Blender (For artistic/graphical types)
    * Free as in beer
      * TinkerCAD (For a simple start)
      * OnShape (Great for collaboration)
    * I've got a budget and I'm gonna use it
      * The pay-for versions of the free-as-in-beer...
      * Fusion360 (Low-end professional CAD)
      * SolidWorks/CATIA/UG (Why are you even listening right now?!?)
  * 2D
    * Resources:
      * https://www.craftsmanspace.com/free-software/free-2d-cad-software.html
    * Free as in freedom
      * Inkscape (For those used to graphics design over CAD)
      * QCAD (Includes some CAM functions as well)
      * LibreCAD (For power-user CAD types)
    * Free as in beer
      * NanoCAD (Legacy version is free but still needs yearly renewal)
      * SketchUp (For those who want easy)
    * I've got a budget and I'm gonna use it
      * The pay-for versions of the free-as-in-beer...
      * Adobe Illustrator (If you've got it, use it)