GCode

This command enables you to generate and display the GCode file for the CAM-Part or for machining operations. The GCode file can then be transferred to your CNC-machine using a floppy disk, via a DNC (RS 232) or Ethernet connection.

The format of the GCode depends on the controller you selected in the Turning Part Data dialog box. The GCode output format can be customized either by using the GPP interface or by changing the controller's *.vmid and *.gpp files. Contact technical support for more information on post-processor customization.

Generate

This option generates all the GCode files for the CAM-Part after which the file will be displayed using the text editor defined in the GCode page of the SolidCAM Settings dialog box.

If any changes were made in the operation or in the *.vmid or the *.gpp post-processor files, you have to generate the GCode again.

  • GCode All

This command is available in the right-click menu on the Operations header in the CAM Manager tree.

You will receive one GCode file including the necessary tool changes, unless you have separated operations or operation groups using split marks. The GCode file will be saved to the CAM-Part's directory and will carry the name: <part_name>.tap.

  • GCode for a single operation or for a group of operations

    1. Right-click the operations for which you want to generate the GCode and choose Generate from the GCode menu.

or

Select the operations for which you want to generate the GCode in the tree and click the Generate button on the SolidCAM GCode toolbar.

    1. The GCode File Name dialog box prompts you to enter a name for the *.tap file.

 

  • Generate per operation

This command enables you to generate GCode for each selected operation in a separate file.

  • Generate with time

This command generates a temporary GCode file, which specifies the operation time in the job_time parameter. Calculating the GCode with the operation time is usually longer than calculating an ordinary GCode. This command can also be chosen in the Operation dialog box by clicking (Generate GCode with time calculation).

List

This option enables you to display a list of already generated GCode files for the current CAM-Part or operation. The GCode (*.tap) file will be opened with the text editor defined in GCode Settings. Use the editor to change, save or print the GCode file.

Copy

This option enables you to copy GCode files. When you choose this option, the list of the generated GCode files for the current CAM-Part is displayed in the Copy GCode dialog box.

  1. Choose the *.tap file you want to copy to another directory (for multiple selections use the Ctrl or the Shift key).

  2. Transfer the list of files you want to copy to the middle field by clicking the Left-to-Right arrow.

  3. Choose the drive and the directory you want to copy to.

  4. Click Copy.

Print

This option enables you to print the GCode file.