<div dir="auto"><div><div dir="auto">Just a couple of observations.</div><div dir="auto"><br></div>LibreCAD is a dead duck. All the cool kids use FreeCAD. I don't actually like it though, and I use QCAD for 2D stuff, and OpenSCAD for 3D stuff. OpenSCAD is great for modelling complete assemblies then projecting outlines onto a plane to make 2D DXF files for use elsewhere. I've also had success with Python programmatically constructing DXF files from parametric inputs.<div dir="auto"><br></div><div dir="auto">For G-code sending and local CAM take a look at bCNC. It's lightweight, and runs easily on a Pi.</div><div dir="auto"><br></div><div dir="auto">In terms of hardware, the Pi 400 (the one with integrated keyboard) is a very capable machine. The keyboard houses a large heatsink, so fans are not required. Just hook up a mouse and monitor.</div><div dir="auto"><br></div>You'll probably want a file server, which could also be a Pi. In fact, it's Pis all the way down.</div><div dir="auto"><br></div><div dir="auto">Andrew<br><br><div class="gmail_quote" dir="auto"><div dir="ltr" class="gmail_attr">On Tue, 28 Dec 2021, 16:39 Marshland Engineering, <<a href="mailto:marshland@marshland.co.nz">marshland@marshland.co.nz</a>> wrote:<br></div><blockquote class="gmail_quote" style="margin:0 0 0 .8ex;border-left:1px #ccc solid;padding-left:1ex">I'm getting more into CNC stuff and need to have a PC at each machine to<br>
download the G-Code files. Its nice to be able to view the files and maybe do<br>
some editing at the machine so I need a PC type machine. <br>
<br>
I use 4 main programs Turbocad, Sheetcam, Candle and my own propitiatory stuff<br>
written in Delphi.<br>
<br>
In the workshop, fan less is a real boon as there is cutting fluids, dust etc<br>
which buildup over time. Small laptops are not ideal but its what I'm using<br>
now. <br>
<br>
Now I have a few PIs around the place doing some jobs which work well. SQL<br>
server, Backup drive and TV control.<br>
<br>
Anyway I thought to change all my CNC pcs for PIs. Sheetcam has a Linux<br>
option, as well as candle and I can use Lazarus to run my software and swap to<br>
LibreCAD. <br>
<br>
All looks good so far. I got a new pi with 8GB, installed the raspberry pi<br>
64bit os, booted from a 480GB SSD and I am super impressed with the system.<br>
The SSD make a huge difference. My thinking was to load all the goodies on and<br>
then copy the SD cards for each machine. <br>
<br>
Now the problems start. <br>
<br>
Sheecam is only for a specific Linux version and Candle for a 32bit os only at<br>
this point so neither work. (Silly me I thought all Linux software could run<br>
run on any board.)<br>
<br>
So I start again. I'm looking for a fan less board that can run an upgraded<br>
Linux OS or Win7 that can run 2 screens and if it has a serial port even<br>
better. Has to run OpenGL2 or above. <br>
<br>
Part of the email is just writing it all down to clear my head. <br>
<br>
Any suggestions ? <br>
<br>
Thanks Wallace. <br>
<br>
<br>
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