Not specifically welding related, but maybe someone has some wisdom they could share! We are setting up a new CNC mill in my shop, it is a Haas MiniMill (http://www.haascnc.com/details.asp?ID=MINIMILL&webid=VMC_MINIVMC#VMCTreeModel) and we need a CAD / CAM package. I have a lot of experience with Solid Edge and Surfcam, however; I dislike the newest version of Solid Edge, (the old versions are great and easy to use, but the synchronous technology software suite leaves a lot to be desired in my opinion), and Surfcam isn't the most user friendly software package for CAM applications. I am looking for either an integrated package like SolidWorks / CamWorks or a separate CAD and CAM setup. This is the first time that CNC or even CAD / CAM is being introduced to most of the members in the shop, so a package with the smallest learning curve is preferred. Price isn't really an object at this point for the software suite. At a later date a CNC lathe, (most likely Haas branded as well), and CNC water jet are going to be integrated into the shop, so the CAM software needs to have good compatibility with turning operations and water jet cutting operations. (If anyone has a good NSN # for a small water jet the info would be much appreciated, haha :D )

Thanks