Manual machine programming, often called Manual Data Input (MDI) is directly typing numbers, letters, and characters into a text-based file format
MDI can be done either directly on the CNC machine being programmed ("online" programming), or via a text/code writing software/interface (ex: Notepad, VSC, etc.), done on a separate computer system than the CNC machine ("offline" programming) using a text/code writing software interface
Online Programming has the advantage of not requiring an additional system, as well as being directly connected to the machine for quick and efficient program testing/iteration, but often has the downside of requiring the machine to not currently being running or making products while programming is occurring
Offline Programming has the advantage of not requiring direct access to a machine (remote capabilities), as well as the ability of being able to program many programs simultaneously across many different programmers, using a wide range of computing devices
Conversational Programming
Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) is a computer-based, 2D/3D Graphical machine programming method utilizing visualizations of tools, toolpaths, and stock removal, typically in conjunction with CAD models of parts. CAM is the most visually-intuitive way to program machines, since the actions of the CNC machine can be visually simulated
The CAM software uses a Post-Processer to generate the appropriate, machine-specific G-code needed to execute those tool paths on the CNC machine.
A programmer can edit the G-Code from here as needed to add functionality beyond what a CAM program is capable of generating.
If you do not have it already, download Visual Studio Code
Modify Extension Dictionary to include rest of G-Codes