manual surfcam-6-system-summary.pdf
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SURFCAM System Summary
SURFCAM 6 System Summary Page 2 of 28 June 2012
SURFCAM Options by System
This cross reference defines all SURFCAM Systems and SURFCAM Options.
System
Level
2x T
RU
EMill
3x
TR
UEM
ill
3x
Mu
lti-
Cu
t
Nat
ive
Tra
nsl
ato
rs
Mac
hin
e S
IM
Solid
Wo
rks
PD
A
Flo
atin
g N
etw
ork
Lic
Stan
dar
d C
AD
Stan
dar
d C
AM
2x
Wir
e ED
M
4x
Wir
e ED
M
2x
Lath
e
Mill
Turn
5x Advanced Edition O O S O O O O S S S S S S
4x Advanced Edition O O S O O O O S S S S S S
3x Advanced Edition O O O O O O O S S S S S S
3x Basic Edition O O O O O O O S S S S S S
2x Advanced Edition O O N/A O O O O S S S S S S
2x Basic Edition O O N/A O N/A O O S S N/A N/A S N/A
Designer N/A N/A N/A O N/A O O S N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
Legend: S = Standard feature O = Optional feature N/A = Not available
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SURFCAM System Summary
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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), G-Code (.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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SURFCAM System Summary
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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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SURFCAM System Summary
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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 re-selecting the geometry.
SolidWorks Associativity
SURFCAM maintains full associativity with SolidWorks models or any Parasolid-based 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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SURFCAM System Summary
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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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SURFCAM System Summary
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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 Fanuc-style cycle retract control.
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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, primary-secondary 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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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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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 multi-tool 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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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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SURFCAM 3-Axis Advanced Edition 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 based-upon 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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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.
SURFCAM 4-Axis Advanced Edition Includes all Standard CAD & CAM features, all SURFCAM 3-Axis Advanced Edition features, plus:
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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4-Axis Classic Swarf
Classic single-surface version of 4-Axis Swarf using the side of the tool for axis control.
4-Axis Multi-Surface 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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Construction View Support
All 4-Axis toolpath generators function in like fashion in any construction view.
Includes SURFCAM Option 3-Axis Multi-Cut
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.
SURFCAM 5-Axis Advanced Edition
Includes all Standard CAD & CAM features, all SURFCAM 4-Axis Advanced Edition features, plus:
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.
5-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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5-Axis Classic Swarf
Classic single-surface version of 5-Axis Swarf using the side of the tool for axis control.
5-Axis Multi-Surface 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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Construction View Support
All 5-Axis toolpath generators function in like fashion in any construction view.
Includes SURFCAM Option 3-Axis Multi-Cut
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.
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 multi-level roughing of a collection of 3D surfaces. Supports multiple tool selection with TRUEMill Step Reduction Milling (TSRM) technology.
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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.
3-Axis Multi-Cut
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.
Machine Simulation
Machine Simulation option can be added to any CAM system.
Machine Simulation
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.
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 solid-to-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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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
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SURFCAM System Summary
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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.
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SURFCAM System Summary
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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.
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SURFCAM System Summary
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MPost Post Processors Included in SURFCAM CAM Systems
MPost Mill Post Processors
Anilam_Conversational.M3 name Chevalier Anilam
APTCL.m3 name APTCL
APTCLFILE.M3 name APTCL3 Non-Multax Generator
AXYZ Router.m3 name AXYZ
Bostomatic.M3 name Bostomatic
Boxford MM.m3 name BOXFORD MM
Bridgeport BOSS DX32.m3 name Bridgeport BOSS DX32
Bridgeport BOSS DX32.m3 name Bridgeport BOSS DX32 Multi-Part
COMPACT2.M3 name Compact II Mill Source
Davince mill.m3 name 0Davince_mill
DIGITIZE-DATA.M3 name INC file > Digitized Format
DYNAMYTE-2400C.M3 name Dynamyte-2400-Conversational
Dynapath Delta 30 Conversational.M3
name Dynapath Delta 30 Conversational
DYNAPATH Delta 30.m3 name DYNAPATH Delta 30
DYNAPATH-DELTA50C.M3 name Dynapath Delta 50C
Enshu.m3 name Enshu J-50 SUB G54-G58 J1-J5
Enshu.m3 name ENSHU HORI JE30S with Tool Preselect - Sub G54.1 P1-48
Fadal 4 axis.M4 name Fadal 4 Axis
Fadal Format 1 - Custom .m3 name Fadal Format 1 - Custom (Format 1 To Run This Post)
Fadal Format 1 - Generic.M3 name Fadal Format 1 - Generic
Fadal Format 1 High Speed.M3 name Fadal High Speed Format 1
Fadal Format 1 Rigid Tap.M3 name Fadal Format 1 Rigid Tapping
Fadal Format 1 with Subs.M3 name Fadal Format 1 with Sub Programs Calls
Fadal Format 2 with Subs.M3 name Fadal Format 2 with Sub Programs
FADAL-F1-RIGIDTAP.M3 name Fadal Format 1 With Rigid Tap
FADAL-F1-SUBS.M3 name FADAL-F1-SUBS.M3
FADAL-F1-VMC.M4 name FADAL-F1-VMC.M4
Fagor.M3 name Fagor
FAGOR-8050MC.M4 name FAGOR-8050MC.M4
Fagor8055.m3 name Fagor 8055
Fanuc 10M 4 Axis.m4 name Fanuc 10M 4 Axis
Fanuc 15M High Speed.M3 name Fanuc High Speed 15M
Fanuc 15M with Tool Preselect.M3 name Fanuc 15M with Tool Preselect
Fanuc 15MB with G5.1.M3 name FANUC 15MB with G5.1
Fanuc 15MB with G5.1.M3 name HAAS VF-SERIES
Fanuc 15MB with G5.1.M3 name FADAL Format 1
Fanuc 15MB with G5.1.M3 name DYNAPATH Delta 30
Fanuc 15MB with G5.1.M3 name MAZAK - Mazatrol
Fanuc 15MB with G5.1.M3 name Fanuc 10M 4 Axis
Fanuc 15MB with G5.1.M3 name Mitsubishi M0
Fanuc 15MB.m3 name Fanuc 15MB
Fanuc 16M with Tool Preselect.M3 name Fanuc 16M with Tool Preselect
Fanuc 16M.M3 name Fanuc 16M
Fanuc 18Mi, MATSUURA HOR B+ B-.M4
name Fanuc 18Mi 4 MATSUURA HORI B+ and B
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Fanuc 18Mi, MATSUURA HOR B0-B360.M4
name Fanuc 18Mi 4 MATSUURA HORI B0 - 360
FANUC AICC PreTool.M3 name FANUC AICC PreTool
FANUC HPCC PreTool.M3 name FANUC HPCC PreTool
FSmill.m3 name FSMILL
GENERIC.M4 name GENERIC.M4
GENERIC-SUBS.M3 name GENERIC-SUBS.M3
Haas Horizontal .m4 name Haas Horizontal
Haas VF-9 4x Index X (A) Axis.m4 name HAAS VF-9 4x Index X (A) Axis
Haas VF-Series 4x Index X (A) Axis.m4 name Haas VF-Series 4x Index X (A) Axis
Haas VF-Series.m3 name HAAS VF-SERIES
Haas With M97 Sub Programs 54-59.m3
name Haas With M97 Sub Programs 54-59
Haas With M98 Sub Programs 54-59.m3
name Haas With M98 Sub Programs 54-59
Haas_4axis_indexing.m4 name HAAS 4Axis Indexing
HaasVF w Tool Descriptions.M3 name HAAS VF with Tool Description
HAASVF.M4 name HAASVF.M4
HaasVFSeries.m3 name HAAS VF
HAASVF-SUBS.M3 name HAASVF-SUBS.M3
Hardinge VMC600 II Fanuc 15MB.m3 name HARDINGE VMC600 II FANUC 15MB
Heidenhain TNC 2500 Conversational.m3
name Heidenhain TNC 2500 Conversational Language
Heidenhain TNC 415.M3 name Heidenhain TNC 415 Conversational
Heidenhein TNC 415 with Subs.M3 name Heidenhain TNC 415 Conversational Sub Program
HITACHI-VK45.M3 name HITACHI-VK45.M3
Hurco 81004 4 Ax.m4 name Hurco 81004 4 Ax
Hurco Ultimax III Version 8.M3 name Hurco Ultimax III Version 8
Huron-Inch.m3 name HURON INCH
Huron-Inch.m3 name HURON METRIC
Kitamura Mycenter - Index X 4 axis.M4
name KITAMURA Mycenter - INDEX X 4 axis
Kitamura Mycenter - Index Y 4 Axis.M4
name Kitamura MYCENTER - INDEX Y 4 Axis
Kitamura MYCENTR.M3 name KITAMURA Mycenter
Makino - Fanuc 15M.M3 name Makino Fanuc 15M
MAKINO-A51-SUBS.M4 name MakinoA51-SUBS.M4
Matsurra Yasnac MX2 - Index X - 4 Axis .m4
name Matsurra Yasnac MX2 - INDEX X - 4 AXIS
Matsuura Yasnac Preselect and subs.M3
name MATSUURA VERT Yasnak With Tool Preselect - subs
MAZAK - Mazatrol .m3 name MAZAK - Mazatrol
MAZAK-MATRIX.M3 name MAZAK-MATRIX.M3
MIKRON-TNC430ISO.M3 name Micron VCP-800 3 Axis Mill // TNC-426
MILLTRONICS-CENTURION7.M4 name Milltronics-Centurion7.M4
Mitsubishi w_N safe start.M3 name Mitsubishi W_N SAFE START
MMpro.m3 name MMPRO
OKK 4 Axis Fanuc.M4 name OKK 4 Axis FANUC CONTROL
Okk Fanuc.M3 name Fanuc OKK
OKK HM4 with Tool Preselect.m3 name OKK HM4 with Tool Preselect and Sub G54.1 P1 to P48
OKK HM4 with Tool Preselect.m3 name OKK HM4 JUST SUBS ( SINGLE TOOL )
Okuma_P200-Horiz.m3 name Okuma-OSP-P200-HORZ
OKUMA-OSP200P.M3 name OKUMA-OSP200P.M3
OkumaOSP700m.m3 name Osp700.m
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OkumaOSP700mSubs.m3 name Osp700.m with subs. #6
Prolite1000.m3 name PROLIGHT 1000 Prolite2000.m3 name PROLIGHT 2000
ProtoTRAK AGE3.M3 name ProtoTRAK A.G.E.3
Prototrak.M3 name ProtoTRAK
ProtoTrak_2axis_Conversational.M3 name PROTO TRAK 2axis
ProtoTrak_Conversational.M3 name PROTO TRAK 3 axis
RokuRoku Fanuc 0M.m3 name ROKU-ROKU FANUC OM
Shoda 3X.m3 name Shoda 3X
Shoda 3X.m3 name Shoda 2 Head Call
Shoda 3X.m3 name Shoda 3 Head Call
Shoda 3X.m3 name Shoda 4 Head Call
Shoda 3X.m3 name Shoda 6 Head Call
ShopBot V3.m3 name ShopBot V3
Siemens 810.M3 name Siemens 810M
Smartcnc.m3 name smartcnc100
Speclite.m3 name spectraLIGHT 0200
SUPER MAX w-Subs .M3 name SUPER MAX w/Subs G54-59 FANUC XV Series 1020 A
Thermwood Model 70.M3 name Thermwood Model 70
ThermWood_40.M3 name Thermwood 40
Vickers Acramatic A2100 MC control.m3
name Cincinnati Acramatic A2100 MC control
Yasnac I80 with 54 Subs.m3 name Yasnac I80 with 54 Sub's and Block Skips
MPost Lathe Post Processors
Colchester.l2 name COLCHESTER
Fagor Lathe.L2 name Fagor Lathe
Fanuc 10T.L2 name Fanuc 10T
Generic Lathe.L2 name Generic lathe
GENERIC.L2 name Generic.L2.doc
GENERIC.L2 name Mori Seiki - G71/G72 cycles 5-Aug-10
Hardinge Fanuc 0T .l2 name Hardinge Fanuc 0T
HYUNDAI-FANUC0ITD.L2 name HYUNDAI-FANUC0ITD.L2
FSWlatheVWM.l2 name FSLATHE-VWM
FSWlatheWLcentroid2010.l2 name FSLATHE-Wlcentroid
Haas SL Series - G71_G72 cycles.L2 name Haas SL Series - G71_G72 cycles
Haas SL.L2 name Haas SL Series
MILLTRONICS-CENTURION6.L2 name Milltronics-Centurion6.L2
Mori Seiki - G71_G72 cycles.L2 name Mori Seiki - G71_G72 cycles
Mori Seiki MF T6.l2 name Mori Seiki MF T6
Mori Seiki with Stock Stop.L2 name Mori-Seiki w/ Stock stop @ beginning.
Mori Seiki.L2 name Mori Seiki
Mori Seiki2.L2 name Mori Seiki
Okuma.L2 name Okuma
Okuma2.L2 name Okuma
Puma S240.l2 name Puma S240
Taiyo Seiki 3T.l2 name Taiyo Seiki 3T
Yasnac 2000B.L2 name Yasnac 2000B
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MPost EDM Post Processors
Agie EDM.E2 name Agie EDM 2 Axis
Charmilles EDM.E2 name Charmilles EDM 2 Axis
CHARMILLES.E2 name Charmilles
Generic EDM.E2 name Generic EDM
HANSVEDT.E2 name Hansvedt EDM
HANSVEDT-COLUMNAR.E2 name HANSVEDT-COLUMNAR.E2
Mitsubishi EDM.E2 name Mitsubishi H Series EDM
Sodick EDM.E2 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*
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System Requirements
Minimum Requirements Operating System: Windows XP Service Pack 3 32-bit or 64-bit
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 *
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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
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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*
SURFCAM Options by SystemStandard CAD Features Included in All SystemsStandard CAM Features Included in All SystemsSURFCAM System EditionsSURFCAM DesignerSURFCAM 2-Axis Base EditionSURFCAM 2-Axis Advanced EditionSURFCAM 3-Axis Base EditionSURFCAM 3-Axis Advanced EditionSURFCAM 4-Axis Advanced EditionSURFCAM 5-Axis Advanced Edition
SURFCAM OptionsTRUEMill 2-AxisTRUEMill 3-AxisTRUEMill 3-Axis Multi-CutMachine SimulationSolidWorks (PDO & PDA)SURFCAM Floating Network LicenseCAD File TranslatorsSURFCAM 3rd Party Add-ins
MPost Post Processors Included in SURFCAM CAM SystemsMPost Mill Post ProcessorsMPost Lathe Post ProcessorsMPost EDM Post Processors
SPost Post Processors Included in SURFCAM CAM SystemsSPost Mill Post ProcessorsSPost Lathe Post ProcessorsSPost EDM Post Processors
System RequirementsLanguage Versions available for SURFCAM 6Help and TutorialsProduct Patent Information