Introduction to CAD & CAM Software

While not necessary to run your PCNC 1100 mill, CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) will greatly expand what you can do with a CNC mill. The gracefully machined curves and contoured surfaces you’ve seen would be near-impossible to program without computer calculation.

Each PCNC 1100 system includes a limited version of SheetCAM, a 2D CAM program, plus programming wizards (imbedded applications for basic tasks like drilling hole patterns or cutting rectangular pockets). While these tools are helpful, your capabilities will be greatly enhanced if you have a more full featured CAD/CAM program. CAD/CAM is essential to take advantage of the full potential of CNC. Tormach offers a full range of CAD/CAM software. Please see the links to the left for more information.

Choosing a CAD/CAM system can be overwhelming if you are new to these types of software. There are a lot of options in the marketplace - the PCNC 1100 can work with any CAD/CAM system that can write industry standard G-code. Whether you choose one of our offerings or not, it is important to choose software that will meet your needs in regards to functionality, affordability, and usability.

We have had many conversations with people struggling to select their first CAD/CAM. If you have questions, take a look at our whitepaper (link). In it, we’ve tried to present information clearly and succinctly to help you make a choice that will help you get the most out of your PCNC 1100. If you have additional questions, please call us. You'll end up talking to one of our technical specialists, not a sales person. Our objective is not to sell you something, but rather to help you get the most out of your CNC mill.

Statement on Manufacturer's Offers

Tormach is a fully authorized distributor for all software we sell. While we do not update our web site with every promotion, we do guarantee that any promotional bonus or discount offered by a software manufacturer will be identical when purchased through Tormach. Please Contact Us for details.