Simply put, CAD-CAM Post Processors are used to generate NC programs that are specific to each individual CNC machine controller. The Post Processor drives the format of the G or M-code that will be produced and ultimately instruct your machine how to create your part. Users can generally create their own Post Processors or have one custom built by the expert technicians at BobCAD-CAM to integrate into their CAM software.
It’s important to use the correct Post Processor in conjunction with the version of CAM software you have or it will not work. Post Processors typically contain the following elements:
- G & M-code Post Processor
- File Header Send Characters
- Default Program Header / Safety Lines
- Use of Cutter Compensation (Profile Cutting)
- Work Offsets
- Feed Rate Output
- Tool Height Offsets
- Point to Point Motion 3+1 Axis
- Tool Change Calls
- Canned Cycles
- Program End Codes
- File Trailer Codes
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Users who want something more tailor-made to their liking or have a unique machine that differs from standard output requirements will find Custom Post Processors extremely beneficial. They commonly contain the following elements:
- Multiple Head/Spindle Support
- Drill Bank Configurations & Selectable Drills
- Aggregate Heads
- Non-Standard Canned Cycles
- Tool & Feature Based Conditional Output
- Conversational or Non G-code Output
- Add Custom Codes
- Multiple Offsets
- Custom Feeds
- Prompt Boxes for User Input During Posting
- Additional Axis Indexing (5+)
There are as many CAD-CAM Post Processors as there are CNC machine controllers. The most common types of CNC machines are Haas, Hurco, Mitsubishi, Hitachi, GE Fanuc, Fadal & Mazak. The odds of your CAD-CAM provider having a working Post Processor for those brands are very high, and in most cases, if they don’t then they will usually build one free of charge. BobCAD-CAM customers are always welcome to use the standard Post Processor wizard located on our website by clicking HERE, and that includes an unlimited number of posts you may download. For those who need a custom script, click HERE and submit a Custom Script Request Form.
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