Good written reference guide to HSM

Getting started with UGS

More thorough training - If you really want to be a Mechanical Engineer, you should review this.

CNC involves a “software tool chain.” This means that there is more than one program required to go from initial concept to the design being cut on your machine.
The basic links of the chain are CAD -> CAM -> G Code Streaming

First, the part is designed in CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software. Alternatively, you may find “flat files” such as those with extensions of “DXF” or “SVF” files on vector design websites, or sharing websites.

After the part is designed, a CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) program is used to generate “G Code” or NC files for the part. (Solidworks using HSM Express Plug-in). G Code just tells your CNC machine how it is to move in order to cut out or engrave your part.

The G Code file is “streamed” from your computer to machine by a G Code sender such as Universal G Code Sender (UGS).

It will go to a post-processor which converts the G-Code into electrical signals that the CNC will use to control the stepper motors. We use GRBL running on an Arduino.