CAM Purchasing Checklist – 5 Things You Must Check Before Purchasing
- Kim Dugas
Selecting the right CAM software can seem like a complex task with a lot of variables. Before you purchase your next CAM solution, make sure you have answers for these 5 critical items:
1. Post Processor: Does the CAM software and vendor have a history of success creating a working post for your specific machine, as well as any customizations that are applied to it? Here is the basic information we need to get the right code to your machine tool:
• Machine Make & Model
• Control Make & Model
• Provide us with sample programs from your machine tool or previous CAM software to check
2. Tooling: Are your preferred tooling types and vendors supported, and is the integrated library pre-populated with tools from your crib?
• Make sure you have the right tooling to maximize your production on your Machine Tool, including High-Speed Tooling Support
• Mastercam Dynamic Toolpaths and Pre-Built Libraries to match your preferred supplier can get you the best performance out of your Machine
• We can make recommendations if you are interested in finding more efficient tooling
3. File Formats: Can the files and file formats you receive be imported and used to create successful programs?
• Internal design files, legacy files, and external customer-supplied file types should be considered
• Mastercam can open virtually any CAD file for additional design work and machining
•There may be some file formats that will need a translator
4. Computer: Will you need to purchase a new computer or will you be able to simply install and run?
• Here is the link to access system requirements https://www.mastercam.com/en-us/Support/System-Requirements
• Video cards are the most important component to look for when purchasing a computer
• We do not recommend or support the use of onboard graphics
5. Machine Communication: Can you get the Code from the CAM software to the machine efficiently?
• RS-232 is used on all types of Machine Tools. It is mostly used on the older machines but can be used on the new ones as well. Mastercam has a built-in DNC Software that can be used to send and receive Code.
• Thumb Drive is the most common way to get Code to the Machine Tool
• A Network is getting to be a more common way of sending Code
About the author
Kim Dugas has been a Solution Specialist at MLC CAD Systems for the last 13 years, in Louisiana, Mississippi and Arkansas. He provides Mastercam Software and Services to help with Manufacturing and Production for all types of parts.
