illustrator 10 path help

[ferrari]

Hey all
For my work, we use illustrator paths to cut out various images on a cnc machine, it will take the path and cut out the letters so that on a board, the letters would be cut down halfway into the board. For my question, i need it to cut everything but the letters. I need the letters to be raised up from the board and for the router to cut everything else.
is their a plugin for this? or can i invert the paths somehow?

thanks

Rob

[PrintDriver]

What CNC program are you using? cuz this could be wrong if you set up your own tap files.

Usually you create some sort of 'box' around the letters and make this the live area instead of the letters.
You can do this in Illustrator by:
-Converting text to outlines
-Select all text and make it a compound path (Object>Path>Compound Path> make)
-make the 'box' then bringing it to front. Position it over the letters where you want them.
-Make sure the box and the letters have fill but no stroke.
-Select all
-Use Pathfinder>Minus back to punch the letters thru the box.
-Be sure to group all to keep the dropouts of the letters in the right places.
-Whack away.

PrintDriver is a large format digital print dude. His advice/opinions may not apply to the 4color/offset/web world of printing

[ferrari]

I'm using a Multicam Router ( the a-series)

and I-cut, (developed by MGE)

i'll try that,

thanks

rob

[PrintDriver]

Work?
You may have to use your program's version of create compound path so the outline of the fill sees the letter drops and reads to the outside of them.

I don't know I-cut. We use SignLab and Enrout. Mostly Signlab.

PrintDriver is a large format digital print dude. His advice/opinions may not apply to the 4color/offset/web world of printing