CAD CAM CNC Software Overview

Through many years of CAD CAM CNC Software experience, we have come up with a handful of CAD CAM CNC software applications that meet the FlashCut standards of quality at an affordable price with great support.
We also offer a 10% discount on any of these CAD/CAM software products to new or existing FlashCut CNC controls or machines customers. Please call us to discuss the details of this offer.

There are three main types of software programs that are used to go from design to making a physical part using your Windows™-based PC.

CAD
Computer Aided Design allows the user to program or design objects virtually. The CAD program receives the user's input in terms of shapes and measurements allowing for the most accurate depiction of the part. Most CAD CAM Software can store geometry in a DXF file format, which may ease the prototyping process for simple geometries as Flashcut's control software can read DXF files directly. We currently offer two powerful and easy to use CAD programs, Rhinoceros 3D and SolidWorks(for more information see our page on these programs).

CAM
Computer Aided Manufacturing converts the CAD file's geometry or command into tool-paths that can be understood by your machine. The command language for tool-paths is called G-Code. Flashcut uses G-Code instructions to control your machine tool to make 2-D and 3-D parts. For creating simple 2-D parts, (parts with consistent XY cross sections) Flashcut can automatically translate a DXF file into industry standard G-Code without the use of CAM. If the part has complex 3-D surfaces, you will need a CAM program to generate the G-Code. CAM programs integrate directly with CAD packages so that you do not have to reenter your geometry. We offer two popular and successful CAM software packages, DeskProto & VisualMill. Both software packages are extremely user friendly and produce excellent gouge-free tool-paths (for more information see our pages on these great software packages).

CNC
Computer Numerical Control software and electronics control your machine to physically cut your 2D or 3D parts out of materials such as plastic, aluminum and steel. Flashcut is a Windows'-based CNC package of software and electronics that gives a visual, real-time control of 2, 3, 4, and now 5 axis machine tools. Flashcut uses the industry standard G and M Code commands. Flashcut's cutting edge electronics deliver perfectly timed motor pulses to control our powerful stepper and servo drives. These drives control their respective motors for precision machining and positioning.

CAD CAM CNC Software Selection Guide

CAD CAM CNC Software