143.1.1 - Programming & Macros

Machine Programming Methods

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

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
- Add G-Code Extension
  - Modify Extension Dictionary to include rest of G-Codes

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