AUTO-CODE
CAD/CAM Software

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Generate the NC/CNC

The last step in the CAD/CAM process is to create the NC/CNC file and send it to the machine tool.

Output from AUTO-CODE is an ASCII text file containing the NC/CNC code for your machine.

The translator uses a look up file that is custom defined for each machine tool interface so that the formats match what your operators are used to seeing at the controller.  When you purchase AUTO-CODE, the translator files are provided for your machine tool based on input provided by you.  You supply an example series of programs along with various specifics to us and we then create a custom post.  EACH AUTO-CODE IS SOLD WITH A CUSTOM POST.  Additional data may be requested and as your machining operations evolve, you can request changes by contacting us directly.  We've been doing this service for companies since 1986 and have many satisfied customers!.

How to get the NC file to the machine tool?
This is an important question to consider.  You must first learn exactly what it is that the machine tool can accept.  In most cases the machine tool uses an earlier form of data communications. Because a machine tool may last a long time is well maintained it is not uncommon to encounter very old forms of programming involving paper tape or non-standard protocols. Additional hardware such as a paper tape punch or custom programming for non-standard interfaces may be required in these cases.

The image above illustrates the best ways to connect your computer with the machine tool.
 

• RS-232 is a standard communication protocol understood by many machine tools.  Otherwise known as "Serial communications", RS-232 interfaces involve a cable with multiple wires connected with either a 9-pin or 25-pin head to a port on both devices.  RS-232 has been around a long time and is used by modems, digitizers, paper tape punch/readers, and many other computer extensions.

• Local area network interfaces can sometimes be found on machine tools built since the late 1990s.  The machine tool becomes a user of the network and can retrieve files from a server.  When available, this is by far the best solution.

• A floppy diskette reader can sometimes be found on machine tools built during the 1980s and 1990s.  You will want to check closely as some may not actually read a floppy diskette with data from a Windows operating system machine.  Although easy to use, the "floppy net" can be confusing unless great care is taken to label all diskettes properly and keep them clean.

The output file from AUTO-CODE can be sent via floppy diskette, communications wire, or local area network to the machine tool controller for processing.  The file can also be adjusted using a normal text editor in case fine-tuning is required.

There are times when you will want to retranslate data to NC/CNC from the CAD drawing.  If the part requirements change slightly you can adjust the drawing containing the NC/CNC data and just generate the output file again.  Changes to the part such as stretching or removing geometry are supported.