Manual SURFCAM-6-System-Summary PDF

SURFCAM System Summary
SURFCAM Options by System
2x TRUEMill
3x TRUEMill
3x Multi-Cut
Native Translators
Machine SIM
SolidWorks PDA
Floating Network Lic
Standard CAD
Standard CAM
2x Wire EDM
4x Wire EDM
2x Lathe
MillTurn
This cross reference defines all SURFCAM Systems and SURFCAM Options.
5x Advanced Edition
4x Advanced Edition
3x Advanced Edition
3x Basic Edition
2x Advanced Edition
N/A
2x Basic Edition
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
System
Level
Designer
Legend:
S = Standard feature
O = Optional feature
N/A = Not available
SURFCAM 6 System Summary
Page 2 of 28
June 2012
Standard CAD Features Included in All Systems

Wireframe
Geometry
Extensive point, line, arc, fillet, 3D curve, and polyline construction. Linear or
circular patterns of points. All construction techniques work in identical manner
in any standard or user-defined construction view. 3D curves can be created
from a series of points or from 2D shapes wrapped around a cylinder. Standard
dialog boxes for creating ellipse, spiral, helix, involute and cam-driven curves.
Geometry Editing
Move/copy geometry by a fixed or incremental distance between two locations.

Rotate, translate, mirror, scale. Un-delete all deleted entities since the file was
last saved. Eliminate duplicate entities that lay on top of one another according
to a specified tolerance. Uniformly subdivide lines, arcs, or 3D curves. Join two
adjacent curves at a common point, selectively forcing tangency between them.
Editing functions for curves to extend, break, trim, un-trim, or control point
movement for localized curvature control.
Display
Dynamically rotate, pan, zoom, or fit at any time without interrupting current
function. Up to 256 user-definable views can be created with numerous view
construction methods. Ability to animate up to five user drawing files to display
the tool, adapter, spindle, and machine. Surface modeling functionality can
generate camera quality shaded images. Direct-X graphics support allows
dynamic rotation, pan, zoom and selection of shaded images with wireframe
background for geometry editing or during toolpath generation.
Text/Dimensioning
3D dimensioning in any construction view. Linear, angular, radial, diametric

dimension types with sophisticated dimension styles and annotation controls.
Create machineable text and/or leader line notes using any Windows font at a
fixed angle, or apply text along any collection of curves.
Layers/Masks
Control visibility and selection by layer, color, or entity type. Easily toggle layers
visible or invisible. Organize geometry with up to 256 layers using meaningful 29
character layer names presented in an easy to browse and edit layer summary
chart. Easily move geometry to a different layer or renumber layers to organize
your work. Establish up to 5 separate mask selections based on color and feature
combinations and easily switch between them during workflow.
File Import Formats
SURFCAM (.scprt), SURFCAM Tool File (.scctl), SolidWorks (.prt, .sldprt, .sldasm),
AutoCad DWG/DXF File (.dwg, .dxf), IGES (.igs, .iges), ACIS (.sat, .asat, .asab, .sab),
Parasolid (.x_t, .x_b), Solid Edge (.par), VDA-FS (.vda), CADL (.cdl), STL (.stl), GCode (.ncc), ASCII Data (.asc), Rhino (.3dm), Mastercam (.mc*, .mcx).
File Export Formats
SURFCAM V5 (.scprt), SURFCAM Velocity 4 (.scprt), SURFCAM Tool File (.scctl),

AutoCad DWG/DXF (.dwg, .dxf), IGES (.igs, .iges), ACIS (.sat, .asat, .asab, .sab),
Parasolid (.x_t, .x_b), VDA-FS (.vda), CADL (.cdl), STL (.stl).
Digitizers
MicroScribe Serial or USB interface and FaroARM USB interface only. Digitizer
input accepted in the SURFCAM menu structure simultaneously with standard
mouse pointing devices.
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June 2012
Surface Modeling
Surface primitive definitions available to easily create Plane, Cone, Sphere, Cube,
Wedge, Torus or Cuboid. Create lofted/extruded or grid surfaces with up to 22
degrees of freedom thru up to 1000 cross sections. Create accurate 3D surfaces
directly from an AutoCAD poly-mesh or surfaces of revolution. Create constant,
variable radii or rolling ball surface fillets with any number of radii callouts. Blend
surfaces tangent to 2, 3, or 4 neighbors, create 3D offset surfaces, and trim
surfaces with unlimited trim boundaries. Create extruded surfaces or surfaces
driven along a 3D curve with varying cross section shapes at various intermediate
locations.
3D Curves from
Surfaces
Create 3D Curves as parting lines, blended curves between two elements, surface
intersections, surface cross-sections, surface flow curves, surface edges, or as 2D
curves projected onto surfaces. Automatic parting line generation on complex
surfaces. Automatic cross-section creation at any orientation with user-defined
interval control.
Surface Boundary
Creation
Enhanced boundary tool allows for easy creation of Surface Bounding Boxes,
Silhouette boundaries, Shallow area boundaries, Theoretical rest area boundaries
and Cutter contact area boundaries from any number of surfaces. Surface
boundaries can be created with a high level of precision and can be used for
material definition, cutter containment or actual cut geometry used for toolpath
generation.
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June 2012
Standard CAM Features Included in All Systems

Associativity
All toolpaths are fully associative to the geometry used to generate them.
Toolpaths can be regenerated after changing cutting parameters without reselecting the geometry.
SolidWorks
Associativity
SURFCAM maintains full associativity with SolidWorks models or any Parasolidbased CAD model. If a change is made in the model, SURFCAM will recognize the
change and allow you to automatically update both the model and any affected
toolpaths. Toolpaths affected by model changes are automatically flagged in the
NC Operations Manager. SolidWorks models supported up to SolidWorks 2012.
Toolpath Editor
Graphically edit any toolpath (pan, zoom, rotate during editing). Instantly move
forward or backward through megabytes of toolpath without restarting at the
top. Insert, edit, delete, or add machine commands or comments, change feeds
or speeds anywhere in a toolpath by simply picking the point of insertion.
Toolpath Templates
Toolpath templates allow you to collect, share and reuse parameters.
NC Operations
Manager
Icon-based toolpath management system with simple cut and paste functions to
easily manipulate your active part program, re-order toolpaths using drag and
drop technique. Ability to copy/paste toolpaths between SCPRT files. Extensive
toolpath transformation facility supporting any combination of XYZ translate,
rotate, mirror, scale, radial wrap, reverse, and merge steps with retention of all
steps for regeneration. Associativity between geometry and toolpath tracked by
icon color. Automated toolpath commentary creates a high level outline of
machining operations in the order they will be output. Check box support for
selected verification and post processing.
Postprocessors
Template-based direct post processing for edit-free G code for most 2 4-Axis
CNC milling, turning and 2-Axis Wire EDM applications. Over 145 sample posts
with every system. User-configurable CL file-based 2- thru 5-Axis & MillTurn post
processor provides full MillTurn, 4-Axis Wire EDM and 5-Axis contouring support
for any machine/controller combination with full macro programming language.
DNC
Standalone SDNC and editNC DNC utilities for single button file transfer via
serial line. Multiple CNC machine attribute files containing start & stop codes,
communications protocol settings, special character handling, upload and
download directory/filenames.
NC Text Editor
Windows-based high performance editNC text editor specifically designed to

handle G code editing with global edit, NC block re-sequencing, and 3D
backplotting with zoom-pan-viewing and integral link to DNC utility.
Setup Sheets
User-configurable setup sheet generator with cycle time, travels, tool list,
toolpath comments. Available in ASCII text, RTF or HTML formats.
Tool/Material
Libraries
Firebird (.FBD) database holds geometric data for each tool and each defined
material type. Shipped version contains over 500 tools and 50 material types in
both inch and metric format. Feeds and speeds are automatically calculated from
parameters that work with tool/material library to control step-over, side
clearances, and rough/finish stock conditions to minimize user data input.
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June 2012
Custom Tool
Creation
Custom tool creation allows users to define any custom tool profile with simple
2D geometry. Once saved the custom tool is represented as a 3D cutter and can
be used in graphical toolpath editor, back-plotter or verification, allowing for
accurate material removal simulation with custom tools.
NC Code Import
Utility
Fanuc-compatible 2 or 3-Axis mill or lathe G code files can be converted into

graphical toolpaths and subsequently edited or displayed on a 3D surface model.
Arc Filter
Consolidates a series of linear surface toolpath records into arc records in XY, YZ,
or ZX plane according to user-specified tolerance.
Nurb Filter
Consolidates toolpaths into NURB format according to user-specified tolerance

for postprocessors and CNCs that support this feature.
HSM Filter
Analyzes toolpath segments and removes and replaces these segments with a
line segment based on a user defined set of values.
Toolpath
Verification
NC Verify provides accurate and rapid material removal simulation allowing you
to dynamically rotate and zoom during simulation. Four modes are supported:
(a) Regular for best dynamic rotate/zoom, (b) True Solids for fastest 3D
machining, (c) Pixel-based for large 4/5 axis files, and (d) Turbo for end results
only. Sample Cut for fastest Verification. Custom stock and fixture shapes
represented via STL Files. Full clamp/fixture collision detection with warning
sound and/or pause. Custom tool shape collision detection for non-cutting areas.
Status window for live feedback with cycle time, tool parameters and cutter
coordinates. Inspect locations, distances and arc radii/diameters of the verified
solid model. Visualize cross sections at any angle and distance in XY, YZ, ZX
planes. Compare remaining stock with part model to detect remaining material.
STL File output for in-process stock representation of geometry, 64-bit support
for high performance verification of complex programs.
Toolpath Backplot
Toolpath Backplot is a powerful visualization tool that allows the user to see the
toolpath being drawn as the tool moves across the part. Options to show the tool
in wireframe, solid or control point only. Options to show tool holder. Controls
similar to Verify, only showing toolpath generation rather than material removal.
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June 2012
SURFCAM System Editions

SURFCAM Designer
Includes all Standard CAD features
SURFCAM 2-Axis Base Edition

Includes all Standard CAD & CAM features, plus:
Machine Datum
Allows changing the coordinate system orientation and

origin to adapt to origin shifts. The corresponding NC
code output will be with respect to that local coordinate
system instead of the WORLD axes. This also allows
redefinition of machining coordinate system for post
processing without disturbing interoperability with
SolidWorks models or toolpath associativity.
Face Mill
Face Milling of irregular boundaries with spiral, zig-zag,

or zig-only cut patterns and automatic clearance moves.
Options to keep the tool down with rapid motion
between passes.
Contour
Mill unlimited path/island profiles with tool centerline or

part edge output and parametric entry/exit motion with
total gouge protection. Option to disable gouge
protection to efficient machining of text for engraving.
New in SURFCAM 6! Continuous ramping in Z along a
multi-element contour with total XY gouge protection
with option for final pass at constant Z.
Contour 3D
Mill a connected set of line-arc-spline elements that do

not lie in a flat plane. The tool orientation remains
parallel to the z-axis of the top view (cview1).
Pocket
Efficient spiral, zig-zag, or zig-only cutting patterns, and

parametric entry/exit motion with total gouge
protection.
Drill
Drill, Countersink, SpotDrill, PeckDrill, ChipBreak, RH

Tap, LH Tap, RigidTap, RigidLTap, Bore, BackBore and
three user defined cycles with manual, shortest path, or
orthogonal path ordering, true positioning, and Fanucstyle cycle retract control.
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June 2012
Pilot Hole
Automatic hole-making at Pocket or TRUEMill 2-Axis

entry points.
Plunge Moves
Automatic Plunge, Ramp, Peck Drill, or Helical motion

types eliminate the need for construction geometry to
position the tool. Window selected geometry with
automatic boundary ordering. Selection of the closest
user-supplied plunge point per region from multiple
candidate plunge points. Automatic selection of
alternate entry mode (Helical-Peck-Plunge) when tool
cannot fit without gouging the part.
2-Axis Wire EDM
Wire Thread-Cut Off, Tank Flushing, Multi-pass Skim

cuts, Glue Stops, Straight Line, Teardrop, or Offset Curve
Lead-In/Out moves, Blend, Sharp, or Loop corner
rounding treatments, multiple cutting strategies, offset
callouts, and stock to leave on each skim pass.
Lathe Programming
Turn, Bore, Face, FaceOff, Groove, PartOff and Thread

functions at any angle with full tool shape support.
Centerline Hole-making Cycles.
Complete lathe tool library and tool drawings provide an
excellent starter set for fully animating a lathe
programming session with true 3D graphics.
When combined with the 2-Axis Advanced Edition
system, Lathe provides complete MillTurn support
including main & sub-Spindle part transfer, primarysecondary turret callouts, and combined Milling &
Turning functions in a single session.
SURFCAM 2-Axis Advanced Edition

Includes all Standard CAD & CAM features, all SURFCAM 2-Axis Base Edition features, plus:
Pocket & Contour

Automation
Multi-pass tapered sidewall and multiple island height

finishing.
Groove,
Corner-Round,
Chamfer
Automatic toolpath generators professionally machine

these frequently encountered features with full
graphics. Corner-Round and Chamfer tool geometry
automatically compensated for.
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June 2012
2-Axis Rest Milling
Efficiently removes material left by larger tool in a

POCKET or CONTOUR toolpath.
Thread Milling
Internal/External Thread Milling of straight or tapered

threaded holes or bosses with helical entry/exit moves.
Efficient threading of large threaded objects using Up or
Down, External or Internal modes.
4- and 5-Axis Drilling
Allows 5-Axis hole-making relative to a group of lines or

vectors when holes are at varying depths or aren't in a
specific construction view.
4-Axis Wire EDM
XYUV toolpath output from ruled surface definitions

including Multi-pass Skim cuts, Glue Stops, all cutting
strategies, and efficient Entry/Exit moves.
High Speed
Machining
Automatic radius generation at all sharp corners in a

POCKET or CONTOUR toolpath, including user specified
high feed rate, radius'ed moves to/from rapid plane and
on step-over moves, and repositioning parameters.
Pattern Slicing
Z-Range filter provides automatic toolpath segmentation

of multiple 2-Axis or 3-Axis milling toolpaths based upon
Z slice dimension, overlap amounts, and relative or
absolute clearance plane options. Automatically inserts
tool change records and other machining commands to
facilitate post processing.
4- and 5-Axis
Trimming
Trim excess material from the edge or periphery of a

part with precise control of 4- or 5-Axis motion using
wireframe geometry. Side and depth control relative to
geometry, all standard lead-in/out methods, and
automatic interpolation between non-parallel tool
vectors. Ideal for water jet, laser, or router trimming of
complex shapes.
Mill/Turn Mode
Mill/Turn Mode allows you to use any of the licensed

milling operations in a mill/turn environment by
activating three additional NC parameters on the Tool
Information tab that are required for mill/turn
machines.
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June 2012
CView Machining
4-Axis or 5-Axis indexing with toolpath graphics relative

to a 3D CAD model.
Hole Processing &

Templates
Allows programming and post processing of multiple

tools for any operation. Supports user-defined multitool templates for common hole-making features.
Retrieve hole processes from template library or create
and store user-definable templates. Sorting and
optimization options including reverse direction for
subsequent tools.
SURFCAM 3-Axis Base Edition

Includes all Standard CAD & CAM features, all SURFCAM 2-Axis Advanced Edition features, plus:
Z-Rough
Efficiently perform Z-level roughing of any collection of

surfaces from a billet or irregular 2D outline with
efficient 2D Z slice toolpaths.
Auto-Rough
Efficient Z-Level multi-pass breakup of any 3-Axis

toolpath.
3-Axis Cut
Machine along flow lines of any 3D doubly-curved

surface with ball, bull, or square end mill tools with
single or multi-surface gouge protection against any
number of 3D check surfaces with a clearance amount.
Limit cutting relative to surface patches, boundary
curves, or both. The minimum Z feature allows you to
accurately machine a shut-off surface for a plastic
injection mold. Retrace options to finish cut any surface
exactly the way you want with a minimal number of
menu picks. Cutter containment via surface patch areas
and/or boundaries, allowing the side, center, or contact
point of the cutter to machine to the boundary.
Containment boundaries can be any combination of
lines, arcs, or splines.
Z-Finish
Perform waterline finish cuts on an entire model with

efficient 2D Z slice passes around the model maintaining
a constant climb or conventional tool/part relationship.
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June 2012
Toolpath containment using a combination of curves

and check surfaces.
Flat Surface Milling
Automatic 2-Axis Pocketing or Contouring toolpaths on

all flat surface areas while avoiding all adjacent surfaces.
Min/Max Z-Level selection to control which surface
areas are to be machined. Minimum area control to
avoid choppy moves in small areas.
Project
Project 2-Axis Pocket or 2-Axis Contour toolpaths onto

multiple 3D surfaces with total gouge avoidance. Great
for 3D engraving.
Planar Machining
Machine any collection of surfaces in any fixed direction

or use a flow surface for cut direction control with full
gouge protection. Toolpath containment using curves
and check surfaces, waterfall edge protection, or avoid
surface areas based on their slope.
Contour 3D
Machining along any collection of 3D curves or along the

intersection of drive & part surfaces.
Tool Shapes
All 3-Axis toolpath generators support ball, bull, and

square endmills in any construction view.
Construction View
Support
All 3-Axis toolpath generators function in like fashion in

any construction view.
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June 2012

Includes all Standard CAD & CAM features, all SURFCAM 3-Axis Base Edition features, plus:
Step Reduction
Milling
(SRM) patented multiple tool progressive roughing

procedure. Each tool specified in the SRM process is
automatically synchronized with regards to the
capabilities of all other tools to maximize tool efficiency,
perform corner picking, and prepare the material for
finishing operations. All roughing is done in one
operation and calculated simultaneously.
Plunge-Rough
Rough cut any collection of surfaces using end-cutting

tools with equilateral triangular or square cut patterns,
plunge increment or peck-drill cycle control.
HSM Constant 3D
Offset Milling
Maintains equal scallop height producing spiral in-out or

out-in toolpath on any collection of surfaces regardless
of surface slope variations.
HSM Rest Machining
Multi-tool high speed milling of left over material from

predefined tools. Supports all tool shapes.
HSM Steep/Shallow
Milling
Generates Constant 3D Offset and Z-Finish slices basedupon surface angle with overlap specifications.
HSM Pencil Cut
Multi-pass cutting along surface intersections where

material is left by larger tools.
HSM Radial Cut
NEW in SURFCAM 6! A path that starts on a central

point where the step-over is calculated along the
circumference of the circle radius you define. This
machining strategy is most effective on areas that
include shallow curved surfaces and circular areas as the
passes are spaced along the XY-plane.
HSM Spiral Cut
NEW in SURFCAM 6! A single, projected spiral path that

radiates outward from a center point. Tool motion can
move from either outside-in or inside-out. Most
effective on areas that include shallow curved surfaces
as the passes are spaced along the XY-plane (step-over)
and not the Z-plane (step-down).
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June 2012
HSM Multi Tool Rest

Roughing
NEW in SURFCAM 6! Efficiently perform Z-level rest

roughing of any collection of surfaces from a billet or
irregular 2D outline with efficient 2D Z slice toolpaths
with all tool types.
HSM Tool Shapes
All HSM toolpath generators mathematically support

tapered tools for accurate gouge protection and gouge
avoidance.

4-Axis Tool Axis

Control
Ten methods to control tool orientation relative to the

collection of surfaces being machined or avoided.
Minimum/maximum angular toolpath limits in XY, YZ,
and ZX planes.
Clearance Surface
Safe non-cutting moves to/from a graphically-defined

Cylinder, Plane or Sphere.
4-Axis Project
Projects any 2-Axis or 3-Axis toolpath onto a collection

of 3D surfaces orienting the cutter normal to the
surfaces or at lead/lag/side angles to the surface.
4-Axis Contour
Positions the tool along a collection of doubly curved

guide surfaces while providing gouge-free following of
multiple non-tangent floor surfaces with ball, bull nose
or square end mill, including support for a fixed side
angle.
4-Axis Classic Cut
Classic single-surface version of 4-Axis cutting along

surface flow lines.
4-Axis Multi-Surface
Cut
Six multi-surface cutting patterns, including: Planar,

Parallel to Surface, Morph between two Surfaces,
Parallel to Curve, Morph between two Curves, or Normal
to Curve strategies to customize how the geometry is to
be cut.
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June 2012
4-Axis Classic Swarf
Classic single-surface version of 4-Axis Swarf using the

side of the tool for axis control.
Swarf
Two multi-surface cutting patterns, including: Parallel to

curve or Morph between two curves, maintaining
contact with 3D doubly curved surfaces while using the
side of the tool for tool axis control. Support for
lead/lag or tilting of the tool axis during the cut.
Gouge Protection
Strategies
Four sets of drive & check surface gouge checking and

gouge avoidance strategies, including: Retract along tool
axis, Move tool away, Tilt tool away, Omit gouge points,
Stop calculations, and Report collisions.
Check Surface
Groups
Up to four individual groups of check surfaces with

individual gouge check strategies, stock to leave and
surface tolerance.
Roughing Options
Numerous variations of Multi-pass, Plunge, Morph, and

Depth roughing cuts with sophisticated sorting options.
Lead-In / Lead-Out
Moves
Eight individually selectable lead-in and lead-out types

that can be applied separately to links between passes,
surface gaps, multiple roughing passes and initial/final
entry/exit moves. Separate lead-in and lead-out types
for all 4-Axis Cut & Swarf cutting types.
Accurate Feed
Control
SURFCAMs postprocessors handle all rotary motion and

inverse time feedrate calculations automatically.
Tool Shapes
Ball, taper ball, bull, taper bull, or square nose end mill
over multiple surface groups.
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June 2012
Construction View
Support

Includes SURFCAM
Option 3-Axis MultiCut
Advanced, powerful multi-surface cutting strategies

used in the SURFCAM 4 & 5-Axis Advanced Edition
system with the tool axis vector locked to produce 3-Axis
toolpaths.

5-Axis Tool Axis

Control
Ten methods to control tool orientation relative to the

collection of surfaces being machined or avoided.
Minimum/maximum angular toolpath limits in XY, YZ,
and ZX planes.
Clearance Surface
Safe non-cutting moves to/from a graphically-defined

Cylinder, Plane or Sphere.
5-Axis Project
Projects any 2-Axis or 3-Axis toolpath onto a collection

of 3D surfaces orienting the cutter normal to the
surfaces or at lead/lag/side angles to the surface.
5-Axis Contour
Positions the tool along a collection of doubly curved

guide surfaces while providing gouge-free following of
multiple non-tangent floor surfaces with ball, bull nose
or square end mill, including support for a fixed side
angle.
5-Axis Classic Cut
Classic single-surface version of 5-Axis cutting along

surface flow lines.
Cut
Six multi-surface cutting patterns, including: Planar,

Parallel to Surface, Morph between two Surfaces,
Parallel to Curve, Morph between two Curves, or Normal
to Curve strategies to customize how the geometry is to
be cut.
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June 2012
5-Axis Classic Swarf
Classic single-surface version of 5-Axis Swarf using the

side of the tool for axis control.
Swarf
Two multi-surface cutting patterns, including: Parallel to

curve or Morph between two curves, maintaining
contact with 3D doubly curved surfaces while using the
side of the tool for tool axis control. Support for
lead/lag or tilting of the tool axis during the cut.
Gouge Protection
Strategies
Four sets of drive & check surface gouge checking and

gouge avoidance strategies, including: Retract along tool
axis, Move tool away, Tilt tool away, Omit gouge points,
Stop calculations, and Report collisions.
Check Surface
Groups
Up to four individual groups of check surfaces with

individual gouge check strategies, stock to leave and
surface tolerance.
Roughing Options
Numerous variations of Multi-pass, Plunge, Morph, and

Depth roughing cuts with sophisticated sorting options.
Lead-In / Lead-Out
Moves
Eight individually selectable lead-in and lead-out types

that can be applied separately to links between passes,
surface gaps, multiple roughing passes and initial/final
entry/exit moves. Separate lead-in and lead-out types
for all 5-Axis Cut & Swarf cutting types.
Accurate Feed
Control
SURFCAMs postprocessors handle all rotary motion and

inverse time feedrate calculations automatically.
Tool Shapes
Ball, taper ball, bull, taper bull, or square nose end mill
over multiple surface groups.
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June 2012
Construction View
Support

Includes SURFCAM
Option
3-Axis Multi-Cut

system with the tool axis vector locked to produce 3-Axis
toolpaths.
SURFCAM Options
TRUEMill 2-Axis
TRUEMill 2-Axis option can be added to any CAM system.
TRUEMill 2-Axis
Patented milling toolpath engine that precisely controls

the tools engagement with the material. Enables
machining with much more aggressive machining
parameters (depths, step-overs, speeds, feeds), which in
turn results in significantly reduced cycle times.
TRUEMill Rest
Automatically mills recess areas with a smaller tool using

accurate tool engagement management to remove
material left from a large tool of a previous TRUEMill
operation.
TRUEMill
Calculator
Comprehensive tutorial and recommendations for

tooling, speeds, and feeds to achieve optimum results
when using TRUEMill.
TRUEMill 3-Axis
TRUEMill 3-Axis option can be added to any CAM system. Includes TRUEMill 2-Axis.
TRUEMill 3-Axis
Fast, efficient, bulk material removal process using

TRUEMill 2-Axis technology as a sub-system for multilevel roughing of a collection of 3D surfaces. Supports
multiple tool selection with TRUEMill Step Reduction
Milling (TSRM) technology.
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June 2012
TRUEMill 3-Axis Multi-Cut

3 Axis Multi-Cut options can be added to any 3-Axis system and is included with any 4 or 5-Axis system.
system with the tool axis vector locked to produce 3Axis toolpaths.
3-Axis Multi-Cut
Machine Simulation
Machine Simulation option can be added to any CAM system.
Supports Milling, Turning and Mill/Turn applications
by fully animating a machine model including stock
removal verification and toolpath analysis. Identify
problem areas such as potential collisions, gouges or
over-travel conditions, allowing correction in
SURFCAM prior to NC Code generation.
Functionality via a graphical utility with full machine
kinematics and comprehensive collision and axis
limits checking.
Machine
Simulation
SolidWorks (PDO & PDA)

SolidWorks PDO (Part Design Only) option can be added to any SURFCAM system.
SolidWorks PDA (Part Design & Assembly) option can be added to any SURFCAM system.
Only (1) SolidWorks PDO or PDA option per (1) SURFCAM System
Full sketching capability
Includes all 2D and 3D sketch capability.
No Drafting Layouts
Note: The PDO & PDA versions cannot create drafting layouts.
Full part feature creation
Design of parametric solid models and assemblies. Includes (but

not limited to) Extrude, Revolve, Sweep, Loft (Both Boss and Cut),
Fillets and chamfers, Holes, Draft, Shell, Rib, Scale, Dome, Shape,
Deform, Indent, Flex, Wrap, Cavity, Join, Combine, Split.
Surfacing tools
Radiated and ruled surfaces, Face tools and healing.
Advanced Features
Patterns and mirrors, Reference geometry such as planes and axes.
Sheet metal functionality
Folds, bends, flanges, rips, tabs, miters, lofted bends, sketched

bends, hems and more. Alternatively, create a solid shape as
starting point then use advanced capabilities such as "convert solidto-sheet metal" functionality to develop a manufacture-able sheet
metal part.
Mold Tools
Parting Line, Shut-off surfaces, Parting surfaces, Tooling split

Core/Cavity Splits
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June 2012
Assembly Motion * (PDA

only)
Simply by clicking and dragging components, you can check an

assembly for proper motion and collisions. In addition, you can
simulate physical motion involving assembly mates, contact,
springs, and gravity, as well as create, edit and save video
animations.
Assembly Modeling * (PDA

only)
The ability to create and manage multi-file assemblies.
Configuration Management
Design tables.
File Import
SolidWorks (.sldprt, .prt, .lfp, .sldlfp, .prtdot, dot)

SolidWorks (.sldasm, .asm) * (PDA Only)
ProE Assembly (.asm, .asm*, .xas) * (PDA Only)
Inventor Assembly (.iam) * (PDA Only)
Solid Edge Assembly (.psm, .asm) * (PDA Only)
Parasolid (.x_t, .x_b, .xmt_txt, .xmt_bin)
IGES (.igs, .iges)
STEP AP203/214 (.step, .stp)
ACIS (.sat)
VDAFS (.vda)
VRML (.wrl)
STL (.stl)
Catia Graphics (.cgr)
ProE Part (.prt, .prt*, .xpr)
UGII (.prt)
Inventor Part (.ipt)
Solid Edge Part (.par)
CADKEY (.prt, .ckd)
IDF (.emn, .brd, .bdf, .idb)
Rhino (.3dm)
DWG, DXF
Page 19 of 28
June 2012
File Export
SolidWorks (.sldprt, .prt, .lfp, .sldlfp, .prtdot, .sldftp)

SolidWorks (.sldasm, .asm, .asmdot) * (PDA Only)
eDrawing (.eprt) * (PDA Only)
ProE Assembly (.asm) * (PDA Only)
Parasolid (.x_t, .x_b)
IGES (.igs, .iges)
STEP AP203/214 (.step, .stp)
ACIS (.sat)
VDAFS (.vda)
VRML (.wrl)
STL (.stl)
Adobe PDF (.pdf)
Adobe Photoshop (.psd)
Adobe Illustrator (.ai)
Universal 3D (.u3d)
3D XML (.3dxml)
Microsoft XAML (.xaml)
Catia Graphics (.cgr)
ProE Part (.prt)
JPEG (.jpg)
Tif (.tif)
HCG (.hcg)
HOOPS HSF (.hsf)
DWG, DXF
SURFCAM Floating Network License

SURFCAM Floating Network License option can be added to any SURFCAM system.
Software Licensing (FNL)
Provides a license generated by a license server that is

not locked to a particular PC, enabling a team of users to
share a pool of SURFCAM systems more efficiently.
Page 20 of 28
June 2012
CAD File Translators

CAD File Translators option can be added to any SURFCAM system.
Native CAD File Translators are available for importing files from the following CAD systems:
Catia V4 (.model, .exp)
Version 4.1.9 - 4.2.4
Catia V5/V6 (.catpart, .catproduct)
Version R6 R21 / Catia Version 6 R2012
Inventor (.ipt, .iam)
Version 6 11, 2008-2012
ProEngineer (.prt, .prt.*, .asm. .asm*)
Version 16 - Wildfire 5 Creo Version1
Unigraphics NX (.prt)
Version 11 - 18, NX NX8
STEP (.step, .stp)
Version AP-203 & AP-214
SURFCAM 3rd Party Add-ins

SURFCAM 3rd Party Add-ins are designed to enhance and customize the use of SURFCAM CAD/CAM
Systems to enable maximum productivity for design and manufacturing specific applications.
For more detailed information on available Add-ins for SURFCAM, visit:
http://www.surfcam.com/surfcam_add-ins.aspx
SURFCAM 3rd Party Add-ins are not developed or controlled by Surfware, Inc. and thus, Surfware, Inc. is
not responsible for any losses, damages, or changes that these Add-ins may have on system(s). Any sales
or support requests for any 3rd Party SURFCAM Add-ins are to be directed to the individual Add-in vendor.
Page 21 of 28
June 2012
MPost Post Processors Included in SURFCAM CAM

Systems
MPost Mill Post Processors
Anilam_Conversational.M3
APTCL.m3
APTCLFILE.M3
AXYZ Router.m3
Bostomatic.M3
Boxford MM.m3
Bridgeport BOSS DX32.m3
Bridgeport BOSS DX32.m3
COMPACT2.M3
Davince mill.m3
DIGITIZE-DATA.M3
DYNAMYTE-2400C.M3
Dynapath Delta 30
Conversational.M3
DYNAPATH Delta 30.m3
DYNAPATH-DELTA50C.M3
Enshu.m3
Enshu.m3
Fadal 4 axis.M4
Fadal Format 1 - Custom .m3
Fadal Format 1 - Generic.M3
Fadal Format 1 High Speed.M3
Fadal Format 1 Rigid Tap.M3
Fadal Format 1 with Subs.M3
Fadal Format 2 with Subs.M3
FADAL-F1-RIGIDTAP.M3
FADAL-F1-SUBS.M3
FADAL-F1-VMC.M4
Fagor.M3
FAGOR-8050MC.M4
Fagor8055.m3
Fanuc 10M 4 Axis.m4
Fanuc 15M High Speed.M3
Fanuc 15M with Tool Preselect.M3
Fanuc 15MB with G5.1.M3
Fanuc 15MB.m3
Fanuc 16M with Tool Preselect.M3
Fanuc 16M.M3
Fanuc 18Mi, MATSUURA HOR B+ B.M4
name Chevalier Anilam

name APTCL
name APTCL3 Non-Multax Generator
name AXYZ
name Bostomatic
name BOXFORD MM
name Bridgeport BOSS DX32
name Bridgeport BOSS DX32 Multi-Part
name Compact II Mill Source
name 0Davince_mill
name INC file > Digitized Format
name Dynamyte-2400-Conversational
name Dynapath Delta 30 Conversational
name DYNAPATH Delta 30
name Dynapath Delta 50C
name Enshu J-50 SUB G54-G58 J1-J5
name ENSHU HORI JE30S with Tool Preselect - Sub G54.1 P1-48
name Fadal 4 Axis
name Fadal Format 1 - Custom (Format 1 To Run This Post)
name Fadal Format 1 - Generic
name Fadal High Speed Format 1
name Fadal Format 1 Rigid Tapping
name Fadal Format 1 with Sub Programs Calls
name Fadal Format 2 with Sub Programs
name Fadal Format 1 With Rigid Tap
name FADAL-F1-SUBS.M3
name FADAL-F1-VMC.M4
name Fagor
name FAGOR-8050MC.M4
name Fagor 8055
name Fanuc 10M 4 Axis
name Fanuc High Speed 15M
name Fanuc 15M with Tool Preselect
name FANUC 15MB with G5.1
name HAAS VF-SERIES
name FADAL Format 1
name DYNAPATH Delta 30
name MAZAK - Mazatrol
name Fanuc 10M 4 Axis
name Mitsubishi M0
name Fanuc 15MB
name Fanuc 16M with Tool Preselect
name Fanuc 16M
name Fanuc 18Mi 4 MATSUURA HORI B+ and B
Page 22 of 28
June 2012
Fanuc 18Mi, MATSUURA HOR B0B360.M4

FANUC AICC PreTool.M3
FANUC HPCC PreTool.M3
FSmill.m3
GENERIC.M4
GENERIC-SUBS.M3
Haas Horizontal .m4
Haas VF-9 4x Index X (A) Axis.m4
Haas VF-Series 4x Index X (A) Axis.m4
Haas VF-Series.m3
Haas With M97 Sub Programs 5459.m3
Haas With M98 Sub Programs 5459.m3
Haas_4axis_indexing.m4
HaasVF w Tool Descriptions.M3
HAASVF.M4
HaasVFSeries.m3
HAASVF-SUBS.M3
Hardinge VMC600 II Fanuc 15MB.m3
Heidenhain TNC 2500
Conversational.m3
Heidenhain TNC 415.M3
Heidenhein TNC 415 with Subs.M3
HITACHI-VK45.M3
Hurco 81004 4 Ax.m4
Hurco Ultimax III Version 8.M3
Huron-Inch.m3
Huron-Inch.m3
Kitamura Mycenter - Index X 4
axis.M4
Kitamura Mycenter - Index Y 4
Axis.M4
Kitamura MYCENTR.M3
Makino - Fanuc 15M.M3
MAKINO-A51-SUBS.M4
Matsurra Yasnac MX2 - Index X - 4
Axis .m4
Matsuura Yasnac Preselect and
subs.M3
MAZAK - Mazatrol .m3
MAZAK-MATRIX.M3
MIKRON-TNC430ISO.M3
MILLTRONICS-CENTURION7.M4
Mitsubishi w_N safe start.M3
MMpro.m3
OKK 4 Axis Fanuc.M4
Okk Fanuc.M3
OKK HM4 with Tool Preselect.m3
OKK HM4 with Tool Preselect.m3
Okuma_P200-Horiz.m3
OKUMA-OSP200P.M3
OkumaOSP700m.m3
name Fanuc 18Mi 4 MATSUURA HORI B0 - 360

name FANUC AICC PreTool
name FANUC HPCC PreTool
name FSMILL
name GENERIC.M4
name GENERIC-SUBS.M3
name Haas Horizontal
name HAAS VF-9 4x Index X (A) Axis
name Haas VF-Series 4x Index X (A) Axis
name HAAS VF-SERIES
name Haas With M97 Sub Programs 54-59
name Haas With M98 Sub Programs 54-59
name HAAS 4Axis Indexing
name HAAS VF with Tool Description
name HAASVF.M4
name HAAS VF
name HAASVF-SUBS.M3
name HARDINGE VMC600 II FANUC 15MB
name Heidenhain TNC 2500 Conversational Language
name Heidenhain TNC 415 Conversational
name Heidenhain TNC 415 Conversational Sub Program
name HITACHI-VK45.M3
name Hurco 81004 4 Ax
name Hurco Ultimax III Version 8
name HURON INCH
name HURON METRIC
name KITAMURA Mycenter - INDEX X 4 axis
name Kitamura MYCENTER - INDEX Y 4 Axis
name KITAMURA Mycenter
name Makino Fanuc 15M
name MakinoA51-SUBS.M4
name Matsurra Yasnac MX2 - INDEX X - 4 AXIS
name MATSUURA VERT Yasnak With Tool Preselect - subs
name MAZAK - Mazatrol
name MAZAK-MATRIX.M3
name Micron VCP-800 3 Axis Mill // TNC-426
name Milltronics-Centurion7.M4
name Mitsubishi W_N SAFE START
name MMPRO
name OKK 4 Axis FANUC CONTROL
name Fanuc OKK
name OKK HM4 with Tool Preselect and Sub G54.1 P1 to P48
name OKK HM4 JUST SUBS ( SINGLE TOOL )
name Okuma-OSP-P200-HORZ
name OKUMA-OSP200P.M3
name Osp700.m
Page 23 of 28
June 2012
OkumaOSP700mSubs.m3
Prolite1000.m3
Prolite2000.m3
ProtoTRAK AGE3.M3
Prototrak.M3
ProtoTrak_2axis_Conversational.M3
ProtoTrak_Conversational.M3
RokuRoku Fanuc 0M.m3
Shoda 3X.m3
Shoda 3X.m3
Shoda 3X.m3
Shoda 3X.m3
Shoda 3X.m3
ShopBot V3.m3
Siemens 810.M3
Smartcnc.m3
Speclite.m3
SUPER MAX w-Subs .M3
Thermwood Model 70.M3
ThermWood_40.M3
Vickers Acramatic A2100 MC
control.m3
Yasnac I80 with 54 Subs.m3
name Osp700.m with subs. #6

name PROLIGHT 1000
name PROLIGHT 2000
name ProtoTRAK A.G.E.3
name ProtoTRAK
name PROTO TRAK 2axis
name PROTO TRAK 3 axis
name ROKU-ROKU FANUC OM
name Shoda 3X
name Shoda 2 Head Call
name ShopBot V3
name Siemens 810M
name smartcnc100
name spectraLIGHT 0200
name SUPER MAX w/Subs G54-59 FANUC XV Series 1020 A
name Thermwood Model 70
name Thermwood 40
name Cincinnati Acramatic A2100 MC control
name Yasnac I80 with 54 Sub's and Block Skips
MPost Lathe Post Processors

Colchester.l2
Fagor Lathe.L2
Fanuc 10T.L2
Generic Lathe.L2
GENERIC.L2
GENERIC.L2
Hardinge Fanuc 0T .l2
HYUNDAI-FANUC0ITD.L2
FSWlatheVWM.l2
FSWlatheWLcentroid2010.l2
Haas SL Series - G71_G72 cycles.L2
Haas SL.L2
MILLTRONICS-CENTURION6.L2
Mori Seiki - G71_G72 cycles.L2
Mori Seiki MF T6.l2
Mori Seiki with Stock Stop.L2
Mori Seiki.L2
Mori Seiki2.L2
Okuma.L2
Okuma2.L2
Puma S240.l2
Taiyo Seiki 3T.l2
Yasnac 2000B.L2
name COLCHESTER
name Fagor Lathe
name Fanuc 10T
name Generic lathe
name Generic.L2.doc
name Mori Seiki - G71/G72 cycles 5-Aug-10
name Hardinge Fanuc 0T
name HYUNDAI-FANUC0ITD.L2
name FSLATHE-VWM
name FSLATHE-Wlcentroid
name Haas SL Series - G71_G72 cycles
name Haas SL Series
name Milltronics-Centurion6.L2
name Mori Seiki - G71_G72 cycles
name Mori Seiki MF T6
name Mori-Seiki w/ Stock stop @ beginning.
name Mori Seiki
name Mori Seiki
name Okuma
name Okuma
name Puma S240
name Taiyo Seiki 3T
name Yasnac 2000B
Page 24 of 28
June 2012
MPost EDM Post Processors

Agie EDM.E2
Charmilles EDM.E2
CHARMILLES.E2
Generic EDM.E2
HANSVEDT.E2
HANSVEDT-COLUMNAR.E2
Mitsubishi EDM.E2
Sodick EDM.E2
name Agie EDM 2 Axis

name Charmilles EDM 2 Axis
name Charmilles
name Generic EDM
name Hansvedt EDM
name HANSVEDT-COLUMNAR.E2
name Mitsubishi H Series EDM
name Sodick EDM
*Contact local reseller for any custom developed MPost Post Processor requirements*
SPost Post Processors Included in SURFCAM CAM

Systems
SPost Mill Post Processors
UNCX01.P75
EXAMPLE - Millturn Post
UNCX01.P80
EXAMPLE - Bridge Mill Post
UNCX01.P85
Dual Table Mill Post
UNCX01.P90
EXAMPLE - 5 Axis Laser Post
UNCX01.P05
Generic CNC with Fanuc 15M
UNCX01.P15
Haas VF-Series with Haas control
UNCX01.P20
Fadal Format One - CNC88 control
UNCX01.P24
OKK with Fanuc 180is control
UNCX01.P28
Kitamura with Fanuc 16IMA control
UNCX01.P34
Mori Seiki with Fanuc 18i control
SPost Lathe Post Processors

UNCL01.P44
Okuma with OSP7000L ctrl
UNCL01.P66
Mori Seiki with Fanuc ctrl
UNCL01.P80
Haas SL with Haas ctrl
UNCL01.P81
Hardinge with Fanuc 18T ctrl
SPost EDM Post Processors

UNCX01.P55
Mitsubishi Wire with M500 ctrl
*Contact your local reseller for any custom developed SPost Post Processor requirements*
Page 25 of 28
June 2012
System Requirements
Minimum Requirements
Operating System: Windows XP Service Pack 3 32-bit or 64bit

Processor: Duo Core II or higher
Memory: 2 GB RAM
Hard Disk Space: 2 GB Free
Video: 1 GB Windows XP DirectX 11.0 or higher compatible
display adapter capable of 1024x768 resolution in 32-bit color.
Note: Integrated graphics cards can degrade performance and
are not recommended.
DirectX: DirectX 9.0
Pointer: Windows Compatible Mouse
Communications Port: USB
DVD Drive
Recommended Requirements
Operating Systems:
Windows XP Professional Service Pack 3 32-bit or 64-bit
Windows 7 32-bit,
Windows 7 64-bit (application will run in 32-bit mode)
Processor: Quad Core
Memory: 4 GB RAM (32-Bit) / 8 GB RAM (64-bit)
Hard Disk Space: 4 GB Free
Video: 2 GB Windows XP/7 DirectX 11.0 or higher compatible
display adapter capable of 1280x1024 resolution in 32-bit color
(XP)/ Basic Mode (Win 7) Note: Integrated graphics cards can
degrade performance and are not recommended.
DirectX: DirectX 11.0
Pointer: Windows IntelliMouse Optical Mouse with wheel
Communications Port: USB
DVD Drive
* Note: SURFCAM is not supported to run on any Mac system *
Page 26 of 28
June 2012
Language Versions available for SURFCAM 6

Available Languages
English
Chinese - Traditional
Chinese - Simplified
Czech
French
Finnish
German
Italian
Japanese
Korean
Polish
Portuguese
Russian
Spanish
Swedish
Help and Tutorials

Contents Based Help
SURFCAM makes it easy to get exactly the help you need, when
you need it. By simply pressing the F1 key or clicking on the
Help button when in a particular menu, SURFCAM will display
help messages appropriate for that operation or function. A
comprehensive database provides links to related topics, insuring
your questions are answered completely. Also available in PC/Web
Browser, iPad2 Web Browser and Windows CHM Help Formats
online at: http://www.surfcam.com/help.aspx
Get Started Manual
This printable 153-page manual in SURFCAM will familiarize you

with the steps necessary to begin using SURFCAM effectively in
your shop. With the Get Started Manual, youll learn the
fundamentals of 2-D and 3-D part design, as well as how to choose
and apply tool paths to machine them. Additional topics include
an overview of the system, part verification (simulated cutting of
the part within SURFCAM) and post-processing of G-Code for
specific machine controls.
SURFCAM Tutorials
These web-based videos in SURFCAM offer a comprehensive look

at the full-range of SURFCAM functionality. Continuously updated
and highlighting the newest SURFCAM features, these videos will
aid both beginning and experienced users in understanding and
applying the features of SURFCAM to their parts.
http://www.surfcam.com/surfcam_tutorials.aspx
Page 27 of 28
June 2012
Product Patent Information

SURFCAM Functionality
USA Patent #
Granted Date
SRM
6,704,611
March 9, 2004
TRUEMill
7,577,490
August 18, 2008
TRUEMill
7,451,013
November 11, 2008
TRUEMill
7,831,332
November 9, 2010
TRUEMill
8,000,834
August 16, 2011
TRUEMill
1,070,714
September 29, 2011
*For more detailed patent information, visit: http://patft.uspto.gov/netahtml/PTO/search-bool.html*
Page 28 of 28
June 2012

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SURFCAM System Summary

SURFCAM Options by System

Floating Network Lic

SURFCAM 6 System Summary

SURFCAM System Summary

Standard CAD Features Included in All Systems

Move/copy geometry by a fixed or incremental distance between two locations.

3D dimensioning in any construction view. Linear, angular, radial, diametric

File Import Formats

File Export Formats

SURFCAM V5 (.scprt), SURFCAM Velocity 4 (.scprt), SURFCAM Tool File (.scctl),

SURFCAM 6 System Summary

SURFCAM System Summary

SURFCAM 6 System Summary

SURFCAM System Summary

Standard CAM Features Included in All Systems

Toolpath templates allow you to collect, share and reuse parameters.

Windows-based high performance editNC text editor specifically designed to

SURFCAM 6 System Summary

SURFCAM System Summary

Fanuc-compatible 2 or 3-Axis mill or lathe G code files can be converted into

Consolidates toolpaths into NURB format according to user-specified tolerance

SURFCAM 6 System Summary

SURFCAM System Summary

SURFCAM System Editions

SURFCAM 2-Axis Base Edition

Allows changing the coordinate system orientation and

Face Milling of irregular boundaries with spiral, zig-zag,

Mill unlimited path/island profiles with tool centerline or

Mill a connected set of line-arc-spline elements that do

Efficient spiral, zig-zag, or zig-only cutting patterns, and

Drill, Countersink, SpotDrill, PeckDrill, ChipBreak, RH

SURFCAM 6 System Summary

SURFCAM System Summary

Automatic hole-making at Pocket or TRUEMill 2-Axis

Automatic Plunge, Ramp, Peck Drill, or Helical motion

2-Axis Wire EDM

Wire Thread-Cut Off, Tank Flushing, Multi-pass Skim

Turn, Bore, Face, FaceOff, Groove, PartOff and Thread

SURFCAM 2-Axis Advanced Edition

Pocket & Contour

Multi-pass tapered sidewall and multiple island height

Automatic toolpath generators professionally machine

SURFCAM 6 System Summary

SURFCAM System Summary

2-Axis Rest Milling

Efficiently removes material left by larger tool in a

Internal/External Thread Milling of straight or tapered

4- and 5-Axis Drilling

Allows 5-Axis hole-making relative to a group of lines or

4-Axis Wire EDM

XYUV toolpath output from ruled surface definitions

Automatic radius generation at all sharp corners in a

Z-Range filter provides automatic toolpath segmentation

Trim excess material from the edge or periphery of a

Mill/Turn Mode allows you to use any of the licensed

SURFCAM 6 System Summary

SURFCAM System Summary

4-Axis or 5-Axis indexing with toolpath graphics relative

Hole Processing &

Allows programming and post processing of multiple

SURFCAM 3-Axis Base Edition