Estlcam

Estlcam

Estlcam is a user-friendly CAM and CNC control program for Windows developed by Christian Knüll. It turns 2D drawings, 3D models and pictures into CNC programs (G-code) and can also control a CNC milling machine directly through inexpensive USB control hardware. Estlcam has been designed to make it easy for hobbyists and small workshops to get started with CNC milling, routing and engraving. The software runs on Windows 10 and 11; there are no Mac, Linux or online versions.

Estlcam enables users to quickly and easily create CNC machine-readable G-code from a variety of 2D and 3D designs.

Features

- 2D / 2.5D CAM: Estlcam creates CNC programs from drawings in DXF or SVG format. Users assign operations such as cutouts, drill holes, pockets and engravings to the lines of a drawing, and the program calculates the toolpaths. It is not a modeling program, so parts are drawn in a separate CAD application.

- Machining operations: V-carves, text engravings, chamfering, thread milling and trochoidal milling are available in addition to basic contour and pocket cuts. Tool data such as diameter, feed rates and spindle speed are kept in an editable tool list.

- 3D carving: Estlcam creates 3D CNC programs from STL files, which makes it possible to carve reliefs and other three-dimensional shapes.

- Pictures: Estlcam can machine pictures and QR codes from PNG, JPG and GIF files.

- Preview: A preview shows the calculated toolpaths before the program is saved or sent to the machine, so errors can be spotted early.

- G-code output: The generated programs can be saved as G-code for other CNC controllers. Units and feed rate units (millimeters or inches, per second or per minute) are chosen in the presets when the program is first started.

- Machine Control: Estlcam can control a CNC machine directly with inexpensive USB control hardware. The machine can be operated with gamepads, handwheel pendants, keyboard and mouse, and workpiece setup functions include angle compensation.

- Hardware: Designs for open source Estlcam control hardware are published on the Estlcam website.

- Licensing: The free version is fully functional and can be used indefinitely, with increasingly longer delays when opening and saving files. A paid license removes the delays, can be used on three computers and includes one year of updates; later updates require an optional Update Code.

Conclusion

Estlcam is a practical and user-friendly CAM and CNC control program for 2D, 2.5D and 3D machining. It offers tools for turning drawings, STL models and pictures into CNC programs and for controlling CNC machines directly. Estlcam runs on Windows only. With its low price and unlimited free trial, Estlcam is a good choice for anyone looking to get started with CNC milling, routing and engraving.