SB Easy Mode Status?

[gerryv]

Some time ago there was talk of a new version of the Shopbot software offering an Easy Mode - SB4 maybe? What operations would it facilitate? Any news on this or has the idea maybe died?

[adrianm]

It's in the latest Beta which you can download from http://shopbottools.com/mSupport/beta_notes.htm



NEW! ShopBotEASY Interface … interchangeably available

As CNC and digital fab get easier, it will be more natural to primarily use the ShopBot interface just to cut a part or access other software; the ShopBotEASY interface is set up with this ease of use in mind and the idea of making operation more pushbutton and less dependent on learning CNC code or commands (as much as we like OpenSBP). It's all about getting closer to 'Click-to-Print' and to simply cutting your design. Old-time purists may lament moving away from the old work flow. We look forward to your input on what is missing from ShopBotEASY and absolutely must be added ...
Help Dots in EASY provide simplified and customizable Help
Buttons in the EASY interface have shortcuts that get away from using C2, C3
Cut Part gives optional access to parameters, and Ctrl-Cut Part to FG
Accessing values and settings is done from the Help page in EASY
Note that in EASY, whether you are connected or not to a tool is left kind of ambiguous to reduce confusion about SM/SP … we're not sure how well this works.
Switching back and forth between EASY and the standard interface is just a button click

[gerryv]

Looks impressive! High on my wish list would be making it very quick and easy for the non-expert to initiate simple "sawing", planing and jointing operations. Heck, why not go all the way and do sanding too if someone can come up with the right snap-on sander.

Honey, I just sold the Felders, the 50" sander and a few other things and got this cool, nearly new Corvette for no new money! :D