CNC Control Definition
Here is my definition of CNC Control and how I like to think about it.CNC Controlling is using a computer to direct functions and motion. The control phase of CNC is closely associated with the Machining phase. Why? You are using a computer to “control” the machining process. However, there are a few different pieces to controlling. Here we go again.Let’s break it down into a number of parts and simplify a bit.
CNC Control Software
Control Software is one of the critical things you will need for CNC.The CNC control software is what reads the G-Code line by line and sends commands to your CNC machine.
Probably the standard in the hobby market is Mach. There are different versions: Mach1, Mach2 and Mach3. Mach is created by a company called Artsoft and has an excellent reputation in the marketplace. The software is easy to use and very powerful. The company also provides great service and is always working on the next generation of product.
I have used a couple other control software packages as well like CNC Pro, TurboCNC and Master. They seem a bit outdated compared to Mach, but serve their purpose and work well.
List of CNC Control Software
Mach 3
TurboCNC
KCAM4
CNC Pro
Control Software Prices:
CNC Control Software prices vary all over the map. There are some that are free and some that are Thousands of dollars. If you are a hobbiest, expect to pay somewhere between free and $200. If you are running production equipment, expect to pay thousands of dollars.CNC software is essential, you need to make the commitment.
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