CNC in Middle School - Aspire??

[Dave Bonde]

Hello all,I teach Industrial Technology at a Middle School and am excited about being able to add a CNC router to my curriculum. I am looking at the Shark Pro and am wondering if Aspire is worth adding to the software that comes with the Shark Pro? Ideally I would like to purchase the machine and use the software that comes with the machine (VCarve Pro and Cut 3D Software) and see if it meets our needs and add later if needed. Unfortunately in my situation I have to make a lump sum proposal it is broken down in equipment and software without going into details my equipment budget is about $4000 and about another $2000 for curriculum/software and will not be able to add anything later. I also do not want to spend money just for spending sake. I envision us using the machine to make small projects (flat work) in the class and we build CO2 dragsters so if I could have students have the option of producing cars that would be great. Also I have an IT club and I see us using the router to produce plaques/awards and signs for our school district. So with that information is Aspire a software package you would recommend adding? Any other suggestions or advice would be welcome. Dave

[Steve knight]

if you want to draw in 3d then you need aspire. Aspire also lets you have more control of how the 3d is cut too. if you want to do no flat signs then aspire is the way to go. aspire lets you do more with a 3d part. it is good at taking flat images and turning them into 3d. it would cost you 1500 for the upgrade.

[Keith Outten]

Dave,

Most of the CNC Router manufacturers offer discounts to schools on hardware and software. I suggest you contact Joey Jarrard at CAMaster to see what kind of package they can put together for your school. If your short of funds get back to me, maybe some generous people here at SawMill Creek will help. Your at $6,000.00 now it won't take much more for you to move up to a Stinger with Aspire and you will be happy you purchased a better machine. The Stinger starts at $6,395.00.

http://www.stingercnc.com/

Call me, Northwind Associates would be glad to make a donation.
The good people at Vectric have always been generous towards educational facilities. They are an advertiser here, I would be glad to contact them on your behalf if you would like some help.
.

[james mcgrew]

i have done plenty of introduction to school and industrial programs, whil 3d is fun and exciting, primary and basic cnc use will focus on 2d work, we have students starting small business making graduation plaques for others in the school. one high school has a income stream for what they produce for other schools in the district, i would go with Vcarve pro initially and get a stronger machine. once you get the machine and basics working we can get someone in your community to give you the aspire,, i will show you how !! and they will chomp at the bit to do this. also when you tell me where you are the Architectural Woodwork Institute has a state chapter with funds for your program. call joey at 770 334 2448 also post your interest and check out the owners forum

www.camaster.com (http://www.camaster.com)

www.camheads.org (http://www.camheads.org)

here is a list of AWI members in Iowa,, Call one and ask how to reach the local chapter of the AWI and ask about the woodlinks program

http://www.awinet.org/find/index.cfm

woodlinks

http://www.woodlinksusa.org/

and for anyone who attempts to slow you down or let students settle for less

http://gobuildgeorgia.com/video/

[Jerome Stanek]

also contact Ted Hall at Shopbot they do have a lot of them in schools