FREE – TRAINING TUTORIAL SERIES

HOW-TO TIPS
COLLECTION
Answers to common Mastercam questions,
all in one place!
How To Tips
Mastercam 2018 How To Tips

Copyright: 1998 - 2018 In-House Solutions Inc. All rights reserved

Software: Mastercam 2018

Date: May 16, 2017

Notice

In-House Solutions Inc. reserves the right to make improvements to this manual at any time and
without notice.

Disclaimer Of All Warranties And Liability

In-House Solutions Inc. makes no warranties, either express or implied, with respect to this manual or
with respect to the software described in this manual, its quality, performance, merchantability, or
fitness for any particular purpose. In-House Solutions Inc. manual is sold or licensed "as is." The entire
risk as to its quality and performance is with the buyer. Should the manual prove defective following its
purchase, the buyer (and not In-House Solutions Inc., its distributer, or its retailer) assumes the entire
cost of all necessary servicing, repair, of correction and any incidental or consequential damages. In no
event will In-House Solutions Inc. be liable for direct, indirect, or consequential damages resulting from
any defect in the manual, even if In-House Solutions Inc. has been advised of the possibility of such
damages. Some jurisdictions do not allow the exclusion or limitation of implied warranties or liability for
incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you.

Copyrights

This manual is protected under International copyright laws. All rights are reserved. This document may
not, in whole or part, be copied, photographed, reproduced, translated or reduced to any electronic
medium or machine readable form without prior consent, in writing, from In-House Solutions Inc.

Trademarks

Mastercam is a registered trademark of CNC Software, Inc.

Microsoft, the Microsoft logo, MS, and MS-DOS are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation;

N-See is a registered trademark of Microcompatibles, Inc.; Windows 7 and Windows 8 are registered
trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
 Table of Contents

Mastercam Registration Instructions 6

Updating Mastercam 2018 Files -Advanced Option 7

Mastercam for SolidWorks Installation Instructions 12

Updating to Mastercam for SolidWorks 2018- Advanced Option 18

Evaluation Code Installation and Troubleshooting - Mastercam 2018 23

Running Mastercam 2018 with Evaluation License 32

Licensing Error for Hasp 35

Nethasp Unable to Launch Mastercam from Workstation - Mastercam 2018 38

Automatically Load Machine Upon Startup - Mastercam 2018 41

Changing Tool Settings Defaults - Mastercam 2018 43

Changing Toolpath Parameter Defaults Mastercam 2018 47

Customize Right Click Menu 51

Default Part File Path Mastercam 2018 56

Default Stock Setup - Mastercam 2018 58

Display Arc Center (On/Off) - Mastercam 2018 61

Editing Material Library Mastercam 2018 63

Manage Machine List 65

Setting The Default Editor Mastercam Post To 67

Setting Default Operations Library File Mastercam 2018 69

Setting Default Tool Library Mastercam 2018 71

Setting Imperial or Metric as Start-Up Default Mastercam 2018 73

Setup Default Machine 75

Change Background Color 77

Grid and WCS Display 79

Large Icon Display 83

Toolbars & Ribbons (Adding, Removing, Resetting and Backup) Mastercam 2018 87
Toolpath/Solids Manager Display/Hide 98

Available Fonts and Adding Fonts Mastercam 2018 100

Cleanup Geometry: Delete Duplicate and Find Overlapping Entities Mastercam 2018 109

Create Curves on Surfaces or Solid Edges 114

Dynamic Transform 120

Edge Selection Using Color Mask 125

Read ASCII Files and Create Geometry From Points Mastercam 2018 128

Transform Move to Origin 130

Model Prep: Split Surface and Move Mastercam 2018 133

Create a Lathe Tool Mastercam 2018 139

Creating a New Tool Library & Adding Tools (Mill) 145

Creating Custom Holder From a Level 156

Creating Custom Lathe Tools from a Level Mastercam 2018 164

Creating Custom Milling Tools from a Level 174

Importing Custom Milling Tools into Mastercam Tool Manager 186

Mill Saving Tool that was Created in an Operation 190

Feedrate Based on the Tool Definition Mastercam 2018 192

Mask on Arc Selection for Drilling and Circle Toolpaths - Mastercam 2018 194

Toolpaths are Outputting to Multiple NC Files Mastercam 2018 199

Using Solids for Toolpath Mastercam 2018 201

Why High Speed Dynamic Toolpath Stepover Changes 203

Axis Substitution 204

Creating Planes 212

Positive vs Negative Stock 224

Thread Mill Toolpath 227

Nesting - Part Spacing and Margins 232

Nesting - Sheets, Library and Scrap - Mastercam 2018 239

Wireframe - Swept 2D 250

Axis Substitution vs Rolldie C-Hook 275

Creating Lines (Vectors) for Tool Axis Control 276

Installing CIMCO DNC-Max and CIMCO License Key Files 286

Error 1920 on Install 299

Error Select Machine 300

Issue/Error WIBUCM64 308

Cannot Find Parasolid Data in SolidWorks File 309

Cannot Find Parasolid Data in Unigraphics/NX File 314

Cannot Open SolidWorks Assembly (Sldasm) 315

Inventor 2016 Files Unable to Open in X8 or Older 316

Open SLDPRT Error: SolidWork is not installed 317

Switching Between Imperial and Metric Configurations 320

Transferring Setups 322

Zip2Go 323

Post Install Instructions Mastercam 2018 327

Reloading the Machine Mastercam 2018 329

 Mastercam Registration Instructions

Mastercam Registration Instructions

Note: Registration does not apply to Mastercam employees, Resellers, or Demo Resellers.
These users already have accounts. Please contact [email protected] for more information
regarding these user types.

The registration and linking process ensures that only Mastercam customers receive the benefits of
Mastercam.com’s value-added content such as the Mastercam Forums and Knowledgebase. To register
and link, please use the steps below.

1. Launch your web browser and navigate to mastercam.com or click this link: www.mastercam.com.

2. Click on the Register link in the upper-right corner of the Mastercam landing page.

3. When the Create your account page is displayed, enter the required information and then click the
Create Account button on the bottom of the page.

How To Tips Page: 6

 Updating Mastercam 2018 Files -Advanced Option

Updating Mastercam 2018 Files -Advanced Option

To update the files, following next steps:
1. Create two empty folders on your desktop. Call one “2017” and the other
“2018”.
2. Copy only the custom Machine and Control Definitions from the “C:\User-
s\Public\Public Documents\shared Mcam2017\CNC_MACHINES” folder to the
2017 folder you created on the desktop.

The Machine Definitions will have one of the following file extensions:

.MCAM-MMD for mill

.MCAM-LMD for lathe

.MCAM-RMD for router

.MCAM-WMD for wire

(If you can’t see the file extensions, go to the end of this document for instructions on how to make
them visible).

The Control Definitions will have the following extension:

.MCAM-CONTROL

3. Copy just the custom post processors from the “C:\Users\Public\Public Documents\shared
Mcam2017\Machine Type\Posts” folder to the 2017 folder on the desktop. The post processors will have
a .pst, .psb extension.

Note: Machine Type could be mill, lathe, wire or router.

4. If you have a custom tool library, copy it to the 2017 folder on the desktop from
“C:\Users\Public\Public Documents\shared Mcam2017\Machine Type\Tools”.

5. In Mastercam, open the Backstage view by clicking on the FILE tab as shown.

Page: 7 How To Tips

 Updating Mastercam 2018 Files -Advanced Option

6. From the Backstage list, select the Convert and Migration Wizard as shown.

How To Tips Page: 8

 Updating Mastercam 2018 Files -Advanced Option

7. Select Advanced.

Page: 9 How To Tips

 Updating Mastercam 2018 Files -Advanced Option

8. Set Source to the created 2017 folder and Destination to the created 2018 folder.

9. Next > Next > Next > Finish.

10. Place updated files in respective 2018 folders.

Note: Operation libraries and operation defaults can be updated as well if needed. However, do
not update configuration file. The configuration file needs to be rebuilt within 2018. Keep in
mind for this that both versions can be opened at the same time

How To Tips Page: 10

 Updating Mastercam 2018 Files -Advanced Option

Troubleshooting
Issue: Unable to see file extensions.

1. Go to Windows Start menu.

2. Search “folder options”.

3. Go to File Explorer Options.

4. Select the View tab.

5. Uncheck Hide extensions for known file types.

Page: 11 How To Tips

 Mastercam for SolidWorks Installation Instructions

Mastercam for SolidWorks Installation Instructions

Download Mastercam 2018 for SolidWorks

Go to the following website to download Mastercam 2018:

http://www.inhousesolutions.com/downloads-installation

Once the files have been downloaded, see the Installation Steps further down this page.

Note: Mastercam 2018 for SolidWorks will only run on a 64-bit operating system. It will not run
on a 32-bit OS. You will also require a maintenance cut-off date of June 30, 2017 or later to run
this release.

Mastercam 2018 for SolidWorks Installation Notes:

1. Mastercam will install into the following default directories on your computer.

C:\Program Files\McamForSW2018

C:\Users\Public\Public Documents\shared McamForSW2018

C:\Users\”users.name”\Documents\my MCamForSW2018

Note: Mastercam 2018 for SolidWorks will not overwrite or modify any existing Mastercam
install.
Mastercam for SolidWorks will not automatically migrate any settings from any previous
versions of Mastercam.
You must be logged on as Administrator to install Mastercam 2018 for SolidWorks.

How To Tips Page: 12

 Mastercam for SolidWorks Installation Instructions

Installation Steps
1. Select the link and download mastercam2018fsw.exe. Pick the option to save the file and place it in a
location you will remember, i.e. your desktop.

2. Double click on the mastercam2018fsw.exe. Select Yes to allow the app to make changes to your
device.

3. Make sure that Mastercam 2018 is selected as shown. To configure the Mastercam 2018 for
SolidWorks install for SIM Type or Shared Folder Location, select the Configure button.

Note: To change units, you must do this in SolidWorks.

4. If you are using a NetHASP, you can change the SIM Type.

Page: 13 How To Tips

 Mastercam for SolidWorks Installation Instructions

5. Select Done.

6. Select Next.

How To Tips Page: 14

 Mastercam for SolidWorks Installation Instructions

7. Read and accept the license agreement.

8. Choose Next and wait for Mastercam 2018 for SolidWorks to install.

Page: 15 How To Tips

 Mastercam for SolidWorks Installation Instructions

9. When the installation is complete, select Exit.

10. Once Mastercam for SolidWorks has been installed and you’ve launched SolidWorks, you will need to
add it to SolidWorks Launch programs so it starts with SolidWorks. To do this, go to Tools, Add-Ins.

11. Pick the option to activate the Add-in and the option to start up so Mastercam 2018 for SolidWorks
starts when you boot SolidWorks.

Note: You can only have one version of Mastercam for SolidWorks active at a time. If you wish
to use an older version, you must first de-activate the version you are currently using and then
activate the version you wish to utilize.

How To Tips Page: 16

 Mastercam for SolidWorks Installation Instructions

Tip: If you are installing Mastercam 2018for SolidWorks on multiple computers, put the
mastercam2018fsw.exe on a USB stick and then you can copy the executable to each computer and
install Mastercam 2018for SolidWorks.

Also ensure you back up the mastercam2018fsw.exe somewhere safe in case you need to re-install the
software at a later date.

Page: 17 How To Tips

 Updating to Mastercam for SolidWorks 2018- Advanced Option

Updating to Mastercam for SolidWorks 2018- Advanced Option

To update the files, following next steps:
1. Create two empty folders on your desktop. Call one “2017” and the other
“2018”.
2. Copy only the custom Machine and Control Definitions from the “C:\User-
s\Public\Public Documents\shared Mcam2017\CNC_MACHINES” folder to the
2017 folder you created on the desktop.

The Machine Definitions will have one of the following file extensions:

.MCAM-MMD for mill

.MCAM-LMD for lathe

(If you can’t see the file extensions, go to the end of this document for instructions on how to make
them visible).

The Control Definitions will have the following extension:

.MCAM-CONTROL

3. Copy just the custom post processors from the “C:\Users\Public\Public Documents\shared
Mcam2017\Machine Type\Posts” folder to the 2017 folder on the desktop. The post processors will have
a .pst, .psb.

Note: Machine Type could be mill, lathe, wire or router.

4. If you have a custom tool library, copy it to the 2017 folder on the desktop from
“C:\Users\Public\Public Documents\shared Mcam2017\Machine Type\Tools”.

5. Open SolidWorks.

6. Select the Mastercam 2018 tab.

How To Tips Page: 18

 Updating to Mastercam for SolidWorks 2018- Advanced Option

7. Select Toolpath Utilities.

Page: 19 How To Tips

 Updating to Mastercam for SolidWorks 2018- Advanced Option

8. Select Migration Wizard.

7. Select Advanced.

How To Tips Page: 20

 Updating to Mastercam for SolidWorks 2018- Advanced Option

8. Set Source to the created 2017 folder and Destination to the created 2018 folder.

9. Next > Next > Next > Finish.

10. Place updated files in respective 2018 folders.

Note: Operation libraries and operation defaults can be updated as well if needed. However, do
not update configuration file. The configuration file needs to be rebuilt within 2018. Keep in
mind for this that both versions can be opened at the same time

Page: 21 How To Tips

 Updating to Mastercam for SolidWorks 2018- Advanced Option

Troubleshooting
Issue: Unable to see file extensions.

1. Go to Windows Start menu.

2. Search “folder options”.

3. Go to File Explorer Options.

4. Select the View tab.

5. Uncheck Hide extensions for known file types.

How To Tips Page: 22

 Evaluation Code Installation and Troubleshooting - Mastercam 2018

Evaluation Code Installation and Troubleshooting - Mastercam 2018

Download and install the most recent version of Mastercam from:

http://www.inhousesolutions.com/downloads-installation/

Evaluation Codes will work for both 2017 and 2018 and only need to be installed under one version in
order for them to take effect.

Note: To follow this process, an active internet connection is required.

Installing Evaluation Codes through 2018

For HASP Users
If Hasp is present, unplug from computer.

For NetHASP Users

If NetHasp is used, unplug from computer or open NhaspX.exe

How To Tips Page: 23

 Evaluation Code Installation and Troubleshooting - Mastercam 2018

For Windows 7
Start→ All Programs→ Mastercam 2018→ Utilities→ NHasp X

For Windows 10
Start→ Mastercam 2018→ NHasp X

Page: 24 How To Tips

 Evaluation Code Installation and Troubleshooting - Mastercam 2018

Change the SIM type to Hasp.

All Users
Launch Mastercam 2018.

The below pop-up will occur. Select Yes.

How To Tips Page: 25

 Evaluation Code Installation and Troubleshooting - Mastercam 2018

Select Activate a New License.

Page: 26 How To Tips

 Evaluation Code Installation and Troubleshooting - Mastercam 2018

Accept the terms and conditions and select Next.

How To Tips Page: 27

 Evaluation Code Installation and Troubleshooting - Mastercam 2018

Enter Activation code (copy and paste) and select Next.

Page: 28 How To Tips

 Evaluation Code Installation and Troubleshooting - Mastercam 2018

Wait for license information to be retrieved over the internet.

How To Tips Page: 29

 Evaluation Code Installation and Troubleshooting - Mastercam 2018

Verify that the license requested matches the products listed and select Next.

Page: 30 How To Tips

 Evaluation Code Installation and Troubleshooting - Mastercam 2018

Wait for products to be activated over the internet.

How To Tips Page: 31

 Running Mastercam 2018 with Evaluation License

You will be notified when the product(s) have been successfully activated.

Select Finish to exit the activation wizard.

Running Mastercam 2018 with Evaluation License

If a Hasp or NetHasp is not used on this computer, Mastercam 2018 will automatically use the evaluation
license.

If Mastercam 2018 is already being used on this computer, create a shortcut that can be used while the
evaluation is active. To do this, go to:

For Windows 7
Start > All Programs > Mastercam 2018 > Utilities > Mastercam Launcher.

Page: 32 How To Tips

 Running Mastercam 2018 with Evaluation License

For Windows 10
Select the Start button, scroll to Mastercam 2018 and select Mastercam Launcher as shown.

How To Tips Page: 33

 Running Mastercam 2018 with Evaluation License

Set License Type to Software in the bottom left hand corner and select the products you would like to
run and select Create Shortcut.

Page: 34 How To Tips

 Licensing Error for Hasp

Licensing Error for Hasp

Issue: Mastercam fails to launch and provides the error No SIM found.

Note: This document is intended for Hasp licensing. If this is occurring with a NetHasp please
see document ‘Nethasp_Unable to Launch Mastercam from Workstation’

Troubleshooting
Fix 1:
Make sure the NhaspX is set correctly.

For Windows 7
Start→ All Programs→ Mastercam2018→ Utilities.

For Windows 10
Start→Mastercam2018→NhaspX.

How To Tips Page: 35

 Licensing Error for Hasp

Set the SIM Type to HASP and the Mode should set to Local.

Note: You may need to switch sim type to NetHASP so you make the mode Local, then switch
back to HASP.

Page: 36 How To Tips

 Licensing Error for Hasp

Fix 2
It is possible the connection to the HASP was lost or the port is no longer working as expected. Move the
HASP to another port.

How To Tips Page: 37

 Nethasp Unable to Launch Mastercam from Workstation - Mastercam 2018

Nethasp Unable to Launch Mastercam from Workstation - Mastercam

2018
Issue: When launching Mastercam from a workstation that needs to access the Nethasp for licensing, if it
does not have access, one or both of the below pop-ups will occur.

Troubleshooting
Fix 1:
Make sure the NhaspX is set correctly.

For Windows 7
Start→ All Programs→ Mastercam2018→ Utilities.

For Windows 10
Start→Mastercam2018→NhaspX.

Page: 38 How To Tips

Nethasp Unable to Launch Mastercam from Workstation - Mastercam 2018

How To Tips Page: 39

 Nethasp Unable to Launch Mastercam from Workstation - Mastercam 2018

Set the SIM Type to NetHASP and the Mode should set to Network.

Fix 2
It is possible the connection to the HASP was lost or the port is no longer working as expected. Move the
HASP to another port.

Page: 40 How To Tips

 Automatically Load Machine Upon Startup - Mastercam 2018

Automatically Load Machine Upon Startup - Mastercam 2018

In Mastercam, open the Backstage view by clicking on the FILE tab as shown.

From the Backstage list, select the Configuration as shown.

How To Tips Page: 41

 Automatically Load Machine Upon Startup - Mastercam 2018

From the Tree View list, click on the Start/Exit and select Mill in the Startup product field as shown.

Select the OK button to exit System Configuration.

Select the Yes button to save the current settings as shown.

Page: 42 How To Tips

 Changing Tool Settings Defaults - Mastercam 2018

Changing Tool Settings Defaults - Mastercam 2018

From the Toolpaths Manager, click on the plus sign in front of the Machine Properties to expand it.

Select the Files folder as shown.

How To Tips Page: 43

 Changing Tool Settings Defaults - Mastercam 2018

In the Operations Defaults area, click on the Options button as shown.

Page: 44 How To Tips

 Changing Tool Settings Defaults - Mastercam 2018

Scroll to the top, expand Machine Properties and select Tool Settings.

How To Tips Page: 45

 Changing Tool Settings Defaults - Mastercam 2018

Set the Tool Settings as required. For example enable Assign tool number sequentially as shown.

Select the OK button to back out of each window you were in.

Start a new file for your defaults to take effect.

Page: 46 How To Tips

 Changing Toolpath Parameter Defaults Mastercam 2018

Changing Toolpath Parameter Defaults Mastercam 2018

From the Toolpaths Manager, click on the plus sign in front of the Machine Properties to expand it.

Select the Files folder as shown.

How To Tips Page: 47

 Changing Toolpath Parameter Defaults Mastercam 2018

In the Operations Defaults area click on the Options button as shown.

Page: 48 How To Tips

 Changing Toolpath Parameter Defaults Mastercam 2018

Scroll to the desired operation.

Select the plus signs if needed to expand the operation and select Parameters.

How To Tips Page: 49

 Changing Toolpath Parameter Defaults Mastercam 2018

Set the Toolpath Parameters as required. For example enable Clearance as shown.

Select the OK button to back out of each window you were in.

Start a new file for your defaults to take effect.

Page: 50 How To Tips

 Customize Right Click Menu

Customize Right Click Menu

There are two ways to access the Right mouse button menu customization page.

Option 1
Right mouse click in the ribbon area, and select Customize Quick Access Toolbar or Customize the
Ribbon. Both selections will open the Options dialog box.

In the Options dialog box select Context Menu.

How To Tips Page: 51

 Customize Right Click Menu

Option 2
Select the FILE tab.

From the Backstage list, select the Options as shown.

Page: 52 How To Tips

 Customize Right Click Menu

Select the Context Menu. All items currently setup for the Right mouse button menu are listed.

How To Tips Page: 53

 Customize Right Click Menu

To add additional tools, select the appropriate Category from the drop down menu. Select the desired
feature and select the Add button.

Page: 54 How To Tips

 Customize Right Click Menu

To remove a feature, select the feature that will be removed and select the Remove button.

Select the OK button to exit.

How To Tips Page: 55

 Default Part File Path Mastercam 2018

Default Part File Path Mastercam 2018

In Mastercam, open the Backstage view by clicking on the FILE tab as shown.

From the Tree View list, click on the Files and in the Data paths list, select Mastercam Parts (mcam,
emcam).

In the Selected item field select the Browse button and find the location where you want to save the
files.

Select the OK button to exit System Configuration.

Page: 56 How To Tips

 Default Part File Path Mastercam 2018

Select the Yes button to save the current settings as shown.

How To Tips Page: 57

 Default Stock Setup - Mastercam 2018

Default Stock Setup - Mastercam 2018

From the Toolpaths Manager, click on the plus sign in front of the Machine Properties to expand it.

Select the Files folder as shown.

In the Operations Defaults area, click on the Options button as shown.

Page: 58 How To Tips

 Default Stock Setup - Mastercam 2018

Scroll to the top, expand Machine Properties and select Stock setup.

How To Tips Page: 59

 Default Stock Setup - Mastercam 2018

Set the defaults in the Stock setup as required. As an example, click on the corner to change the stock
origin as shown.

Select the OK button to back out of each window you were in.

Start a new file for your defaults to take effect.

Page: 60 How To Tips

 Display Arc Center (On/Off) - Mastercam 2018

Display Arc Center (On/Off) - Mastercam 2018

Arc center points can be display or hidden.

To remove the arc center point display, in the HOME ribbon, disable Arc Center Points as shown.

How To Tips Page: 61

 Display Arc Center (On/Off) - Mastercam 2018

The geometry should look as shown.

Page: 62 How To Tips

 Editing Material Library Mastercam 2018

Editing Material Library Mastercam 2018

From the MACHINE ribbon, select the Material icon as shown.

Use the Source drop down arrow to select the appropriate library.

How To Tips Page: 63

 Editing Material Library Mastercam 2018

Double-click on the material that you want to edit.

In the Material Definition, make the desired changes.

Select the OK button to exit the dialog boxes.

Page: 64 How To Tips

 Manage Machine List

Manage Machine List

Select the MACHINE tab and click on the drop down arrow below the machine type you need and select
Manage List as shown.

Select the desired machine in the left window and select the Add button as shown.

The machine should be added into the Machine Definition Menu right window.

Select the OK button to exit Machine Definition Menu Management dialog box.

How To Tips Page: 65

 Manage Machine List

To select the machine that you added, from the MACHINE ribbon, click on the drop down arrow and
select new machine as shown.

Page: 66 How To Tips

 Did you like this book?
Discover other Mastercam Training Solutions at
www.eMastercam.com

Training
Solutions
Available :

Training Tutorials
Handbooks
Instructor Kits
Professional Courseware
eMastercam has the largest Multimedia
Mastercam community on the web Online Video eCourses
with over 56,000 members and over CNC STEM Activities
a million forum posts. While there, Site Licenses
be sure to join the conversation! Sitewide Subscriptions!
 Setting The Default Editor Mastercam Post To

Setting The Default Editor Mastercam Post To

Select the FILE tab.

From the Backstage list, select the Configuration as shown.

How To Tips Page: 67

 Setting The Default Editor Mastercam Post To

From the Tree View list, click on the Start/Exit and in the Editor list, select CIMCO.

Select the OK button to exit System Configuration.

Select the Yes button to save the current settings as shown.

Page: 68 How To Tips

 Setting Default Operations Library File Mastercam 2018

Setting Default Operations Library File Mastercam 2018

From the MACHINE ribbon, select the Machine Definition as shown.

The Machine Definition File Warning appears.

Select the OK button to continue.

In the Machine Definition Manager dialog box, select the Edit the control definition icon.

How To Tips Page: 69

 Setting Default Operations Library File Mastercam 2018

In the Control topics list, select Files.

Select the Default operation library (inch) or Default operation library (metric).

In the Selected item's file name, select the file that you want to use as the operation library default

Select the OK button to exit Control Definition dialog box.

Select the Yes button to save the definition.

Select the OK button to exit Machine Definition Manager dialog box.

Page: 70 How To Tips

 Setting Default Tool Library Mastercam 2018

Setting Default Tool Library Mastercam 2018

From the MACHINE ribbon, select the Machine Definition as shown.

The Machine Definition File Warning appears.

Select the OK button to continue.

In the Machine Definition Manager dialog box, select the Edit general machine parameters icon.

How To Tips Page: 71

 Setting Default Tool Library Mastercam 2018

Click on the Tool/material libraries tab.

Click the open folder icon and then select the tool libraries that you want to be your defaults.

Select the OK button to exit General Machine Parameters and Machine Definition Manager dialog

boxes.

Page: 72 How To Tips

 Setting Imperial or Metric as Start-Up Default Mastercam 2018

Setting Imperial or Metric as Start-Up Default Mastercam 2018

Select the FILE tab.

From the Backstage list, select the Configuration as shown.

From the Tree View list, click on the Start/Exit.

In the Configuration area, select the desired start-up configuration.

How To Tips Page: 73

 Setting Imperial or Metric as Start-Up Default Mastercam 2018

Select the OK button to exit System Configuration.

Select the Yes button to save the current settings as shown.

Page: 74 How To Tips

 Setup Default Machine

Setup Default Machine

Select the FILE tab.

From the Backstage list, select the Configuration as shown.

How To Tips Page: 75

 Setup Default Machine

From the Tree view list, select Default Machines.

Confirm that the paths are correct and select your machine as shown in the example below.

Select the OK button to exit System Configuration.

Select the Yes button to save the current settings as shown.

Page: 76 How To Tips

 Change Background Color

Change Background Color

Select the FILE tab.

From the Backstage list, select the Configuration as shown.

How To Tips Page: 77

 Change Background Color

From the Tree view list, select Color.

If you would like your background to be gradient, select the gradient start and gradient end color, and
set your preferred Gradient background direction.

If you would like a solid background color, select the Background Colors, and set the Gradient
background direction to None.

Select the OK button to exit System Configuration.

Select the Yes button to save the current settings as shown.

Page: 78 How To Tips

 Grid and WCS Display

Grid and WCS Display

Controlling Visibility
From the VIEW ribbon enable Show Grid.

Show Grid can be toggled on or off.

Snap to Grid
When drawing, one may or may not want to snap to the grid spacing.

From the VIEW, Snap to Grid can be toggled on or off.

Setting the Grid Size and Spacing

This is controlled within the Configuration and there are two ways to access this.

How To Tips Page: 79

 Grid and WCS Display

Option 1
Select the FILE tab.

From the Backstage list, select the Configuration as shown.

Page: 80 How To Tips

 Grid and WCS Display

From the Tree view list, expand Screen and select Grid Settings.

Note: The grid size must be bigger than the spacing.

How To Tips Page: 81

 Grid and WCS Display

Option 2
Open the Grid Settings found in the VIEW tab in the Grid group.

Select the OK button to finish.

Page: 82 How To Tips

 Large Icon Display

Large Icon Display

There are two ways to browse to the Options menu where Large icons is applied.

Note: This setting will affect the size of the icons in the managers but not the ribbon icons.

Option 1
Right mouse click in the ribbon area, and select Customize Quick Access Toolbar or Customize the
Ribbon. Both selections will open the Options dialog box.

How To Tips Page: 83

 Large Icon Display

Select Options and enable the Large icons box as shown.

Select the OK button.

Page: 84 How To Tips

 Large Icon Display

Options 2
Select the FILE tab.

From the Backstage list, select the Options as shown.

How To Tips Page: 85

 Large Icon Display

From the Tree view list, select Options and enable Large icons.

Select the OK button.

Page: 86 How To Tips

 Toolbars & Ribbons (Adding, Removing, Resetting and Backup) Mastercam 2018

Toolbars & Ribbons (Adding, Removing, Resetting and Backup)

Mastercam 2018
Quick Access Toolbar
Quick Access Toolbar (QAT), located in the upper-left corner of the Mastercam window, allows you to
have a quick access to the most commonly used commands. You can customize the toolbar by adding or
removing commands from it.

Ribbon
You can customize a ribbon by creating a new tab. Besides adding and removing commands, you can
hide entire tabs by turning off the checkbox before their name.

How To Tips Page: 87

 Toolbars & Ribbons (Adding, Removing, Resetting and Backup) Mastercam 2018

Adding and Removing Functions in the Quick Access Toolbar

Option 1
Right mouse click in the ribbon and select Customize Quick Access Toolbar.

Choose the commands that are not in the Quick Access Toolbar and select Add or choose the commands
currently in the QAT and select Remove.

Select the OK button.

Page: 88 How To Tips

 Toolbars & Ribbons (Adding, Removing, Resetting and Backup) Mastercam 2018

Option 2
Right mouse click on the icon of a function that you want to add in the QAT.

Select Add to Quick Access Toolbar.

To remove the function from the QAT, right mouse click on the icon and select Remove from Quick
Access Toolbar.

Resetting Quick Access Toolbar to Default Install Configuration

Right mouse click in the ribbon and select Customize Quick Access Toolbar.

How To Tips Page: 89

 Toolbars & Ribbons (Adding, Removing, Resetting and Backup) Mastercam 2018

Select the Reset button.

A warning window will pop up.

Select the OK button.

Select OK in the Options dialog box to finish the changes.

Page: 90 How To Tips

 Toolbars & Ribbons (Adding, Removing, Resetting and Backup) Mastercam 2018

Adding and Removing Functions in the Ribbon

Right mouse click in the Ribbon and select Customize the Ribbon.

The Ribbon tabs can be activated to appear or deactivated to disappear by checking the boxes beside
them.

How To Tips Page: 91

 Toolbars & Ribbons (Adding, Removing, Resetting and Backup) Mastercam 2018

Create a New Group if you want to add a command to an existing Tab.

As an example, create a New Group in the Wireframe tab and Rename it Router.

Then, select the Create Stair Geometry command and Add it to the new group.

Select the OK button.

Note: You cannot add icons to pre-sett groups.

Page: 92 How To Tips

 Toolbars & Ribbons (Adding, Removing, Resetting and Backup) Mastercam 2018

Creating Custom Ribbon Tab

Right mouse click in the Ribbon and select Customize the Ribbon.

Select the desired commands from:

How To Tips Page: 93

 Toolbars & Ribbons (Adding, Removing, Resetting and Backup) Mastercam 2018

To create a new tab select New Tab button.

Page: 94 How To Tips

 Toolbars & Ribbons (Adding, Removing, Resetting and Backup) Mastercam 2018

Rename the new tab and the new group.

Use Add button to add desired commands.

Note:Icons from different categories can be added to the same Ribbon tab. Icons can be added to
existing Ribbon tabs.

Select the OK button to finish the ribbon customization.

Resetting the Ribbon to Default Install Configuration

Right mouse click in the Ribbon and select Customize the Ribbon.

Check the boxes beside the tabs you want to reset to default install configuration.

How To Tips Page: 95

 Toolbars & Ribbons (Adding, Removing, Resetting and Backup) Mastercam 2018

Click Reset.

Page: 96 How To Tips

 Toolbars & Ribbons (Adding, Removing, Resetting and Backup) Mastercam 2018

A warning window appears.

Select the Yes button.

Select the OK button to exit the Options dialog box.

Backing up Toolbars
Toolbars are contained within the workspace file which is user specific.

Since Mastercam 2017 you can only have one workspace per user that can be used or modified.

Go to C:\Users\username\Documents\my mcam2018\CONFIG

Copy Mastercam.Workspace to a backup location.

To restore this workspace, add it to another user or add to another workstation and place the file in the
same location. Keep in mind that workspaces are user specific.

How To Tips Page: 97

 Toolpath/Solids Manager Display/Hide

Toolpath/Solids Manager Display/Hide

In the VIEW tab, enable the Managers shown.

If Auto Hide is disabled (the pin icon points down), the Manager tabs will appear at the bottom of the
manger panel.

If Auto Hide is on, the tabs will appear on the left hand side of the graphics window.

Page: 98 How To Tips

 Toolpath/Solids Manager Display/Hide

Auto Hide is controlled here.

How To Tips Page: 99

 Available Fonts and Adding Fonts Mastercam 2018

Available Fonts and Adding Fonts Mastercam 2018

Mastercam Fonts
Mastercam contains four pre-defined fonts:

l Mastercam Block Font
l Mastercam Box Font
l Mastercam Roman Font
l Mastercam Slant Font

These fonts are contained in a folder with the font name as the folder name under C:\Program
Files\Mcam2018\common\Fonts

How To Tips Page: 100

 Available Fonts and Adding Fonts Mastercam 2018

There is a mcam file for each character. These files can be opened and modified. If these are going to be
modified, it is highly recommended that the new files be saved in their own folders. This way the originals
will not be overwritten.

To select a new font (or one that has been modified and has been saved to its own folder), select
Mastercam (Other) Font and browse the folder the font is stored in.

Page: 101 How To Tips

 Available Fonts and Adding Fonts Mastercam 2018

Drafting Fonts
Drafting fonts are also known as note or text fonts. These fonts are:

l Dayville
l European
l Hartford
l Old English
l Palatino
l Roman
l Stick
l Swiss

This fonts can be slightly modified through Drafting Options.

How To Tips Page: 102

 Available Fonts and Adding Fonts Mastercam 2018

Select the Style and enter the text as shown.

Select the Advanced tab and click on the Note text as shown.

Page: 103 How To Tips

 Available Fonts and Adding Fonts Mastercam 2018

The Note text dialog box opens allows as shown. Make the required changes.

TrueType® Fonts
TrueType fonts and styles present on your system can be used by Mastercam.

From the Create Letters panel, click on the Select True Type icon.

How To Tips Page: 104

 Available Fonts and Adding Fonts Mastercam 2018

In the Font Dialog box select the desired font.

Note: The size selected will be overridden by the height found under parameters.

Page: 105 How To Tips

 Available Fonts and Adding Fonts Mastercam 2018

TrueType Fonts can be added to a system. Each font will be saved in its own file with the extension ttf.

There are a few methods to add a TrueType Font to a system and the method may vary depending on
the Windows version present. Therefore one may need to look into the steps required if the below is not
applicable to their system.

Download the TrueType Font on your computer.

How To Tips Page: 106

 Available Fonts and Adding Fonts Mastercam 2018

To check the font, Right-click on the font and select Preview as shown.

The preview should look as shown. Click on the Install button to install it.

Page: 107 How To Tips

 Available Fonts and Adding Fonts Mastercam 2018

You can also Right-click on the font and select Install as shown.

To check that the font was installed open the Control Panel using one of the options:

l Start > Control Panel > Fonts (View All Installed Fonts)
l or in Windows 10, in the search box type Fonts.

All installed TrueType Fonts will be stated here.

How To Tips Page: 108

 Cleanup Geometry: Delete Duplicate and Find Overlapping Entities Mastercam
2018
Cleanup Geometry: Delete Duplicate and Find Overlapping Entities
Mastercam 2018
When creating toolpaths, it can be difficult to chain the correct geometry if there is overlapping and
duplicated geometry present. One may also notice overlapping and duplicated geometry when
attempting to modify a drawing.

Mastercam can help find these entities and delete them. This will make toolpathing and modifying
drawings easier.

Delete Duplicates
Ensure that no entities are selected in the graphics window.

From the HOME ribbon, select Duplicates as shown.

Page: 109 How To Tips

 Cleanup Geometry: Delete Duplicate and Find Overlapping Entities Mastercam
2018
If duplicates are founded a list with the items deleted will appear.

Select the OK button to finish.

The geometry that was duplicate will change the color to magenta.

To reset the geometry color, right click in the graphics window and select Clear Colors.

How To Tips Page: 110

 Cleanup Geometry: Delete Duplicate and Find Overlapping Entities Mastercam
2018

Find Overlapping Entities

To open the Chooks director, located on the C:\Program Files\Mcam2018\chooks

l Press Alt + C or,

l From the HOME ribbon, select the Run Add-In icon as shown.

Page: 111 How To Tips

 Cleanup Geometry: Delete Duplicate and Find Overlapping Entities Mastercam
2018
From the Chooks directory select FindOverlap.dll.

Make a window that encases all entities to be checked.

How To Tips Page: 112

 Cleanup Geometry: Delete Duplicate and Find Overlapping Entities Mastercam
2018

Press Enter or select the End Selection button.

In the FindOverlap C-Hook dialog box select the Cleanup button.

The number of overlapping entities deleted will be stated.

Select the OK button to finish the command.

Page: 113 How To Tips

 Create Curves on Surfaces or Solid Edges

Create Curves on Surfaces or Solid Edges

Create Curves on All Edges of Surfaces
From the WIREFRAME ribbon, select the Curve All Edges.

Make sure that the 3D construction mode is enabled in the Status bar.

Select the surface or surfaces.

Press Enter or select the End Selection button.

How To Tips Page: 114

 Create Curves on Surfaces or Solid Edges

The Curve On All Edges panel opens. Select the OK button to accept the default settings.

Creating Curves on One Edge of Surface

From the WIREFRAME ribbon, select the Curve One Edge.

Page: 115 How To Tips

 Create Curves on Surfaces or Solid Edges

Select the surface. Drag the arrow to the desired edge for curve creation. Click to select the edge.

How To Tips Page: 116

 Create Curves on Surfaces or Solid Edges

Repeat the steps until all desired curves have been created. Select the OK button from the Curve ON
One Edge panel to finish the command.

Creating Curves on Solid

From the WIREFRAME ribbon, select the Curve All Edges.

Page: 117 How To Tips

 Create Curves on Surfaces or Solid Edges

Activate the Solid Selection.

Activate appropriated selection type for desired selection.

In this example, curves will be applied to one face of the solid only.

How To Tips Page: 118

 Create Curves on Surfaces or Solid Edges

Select the End Selection button.

Select OK from the Curve On All Edges panel.

Page: 119 How To Tips

 Dynamic Transform

Dynamic Transform
Dynamic function allows you to manipulate geometry orientation and location using an interactive
gnomon. You can translate, translate in 3D, and rotate all within one powerful function.

Note: Starting with Mastercam X8 and moving forward, Drag command was removed due to
the same functionality being available with TRANSFORM Dynamic. Although the same
functionality is available, the command works slightly different.

The Dynamic Gnomon helps you to manipulate geometry orientation and location interactively. The
gnomon comprises three axes connected at the origin, with selection points that let you choose different
types of transformations. The image below shows these selection points, with the links on the right
providing detailed information on each.

How To Tips Page: 120

 Dynamic Transform

From the TRANSFORM ribbon, select the Dynamic icon.

Select the entities.

Press [Enter] or select

Place the gnomon origin position.

Page: 121 How To Tips

 Dynamic Transform

Translate along an axis

Click on an axis and a ruler appear.

Drag the cursor on it to move the entities in the selected axis direction.

Enter a value if needed.

How To Tips Page: 122

 Dynamic Transform

Rotate about an axis

Click on the arc and drag to rotate entities.

The entities will be rotated around the axis with the same color as the selected arc.

Page: 123 How To Tips

 Dynamic Transform

3D Translate
This option is helpful to snap to other entities.

Select the gnomon origin.

Drag it and snap to another entity.

How To Tips Page: 124

 Edge Selection Using Color Mask

Edge Selection Using Color Mask

Quick Mask Toolbar, aligned vertically on the right edge of the graphics window, allows you to control
entity selection based of a defined criteria. Each Quick Mask button has two functions, select all or select
only, depending on whether you click the left half or right half of the button. Hover over you mouse over
each button half to view its function.

Color Mask allows you to select the entities based on their color.

Page: 125 How To Tips

 Edge Selection Using Color Mask

Click on the Select all entities by color (left side of the button).

In the Select All dialog box enable the color that is the same with the entities that you want to select.

Select the OK button.

How To Tips Page: 126

 Edge Selection Using Color Mask

All entities of the selected color are selected.

You can select multiple colors in the Select All dialog box, by holding down the Ctrl key.

Page: 127 How To Tips

 Read ASCII Files and Create Geometry From Points Mastercam 2018

Read ASCII Files and Create Geometry From Points Mastercam 2018
Scenario: The drawing supplied is not correct but a list of the points to create the geometry is available.

Excell
Tip: In Excel, enter all the points into 2 columns.

Save the file as a CSV.

Mastercam
In Mastercam, select the Open icon from the Quick Access Toolbar.

Change the file type to ASCII Files.

Select the file and go to Options.

How To Tips Page: 128

 Read ASCII Files and Create Geometry From Points Mastercam 2018

Set the desired outcome.

Page: 129 How To Tips

 Transform Move to Origin

Transform Move to Origin

Move to Origin will move all visible entities relative to the point selected to the origin. If in 2D mode, the
entities will move in the X and Y axis only but maintain the current Z values. If in 3D mode, the entities will
move in all axes. Therefore the point selected to move to the origin will be placed at 0,0,0.

Set the appropriate construction mode 2D/3D in the Status bar located at the bottom of the graphics
window as shown.

From the TRANSFORM ribbon, select the Move to Origin icon.

How To Tips Page: 130

 Transform Move to Origin

Select the point to translate from.

In this example, the top of the part will need to be Z zero and the part needs to be in positive X
and Y.

Page: 131 How To Tips

 CAD/CAM Systems

Home Learning Edition

Demo Software
––––––––––––––––
DOWNLOAD

LOG IN & LEARN TODAY!

Expand your Mastercam knowledge, anytime and at your own pace,
with our selection of step-by-step online video eCourses.

Highlights Include:
• Online previews with table of
contents including the time it
takes to complete each session.
• Mastercam 2018 Home Learning
Edition Demo Software
download is included so you can
follow along with our instructors.
• Corresponding eBook is
provided.
• Quizzes follow each tutorial.
• Personalized certificate of
completion for each successfully
completed eCourse.
• Lifetime access

www.eMastercam.com/ecourses Only $149 each!

 Transform Move to Origin

The selected corner of the part will be moved to the origin as shown.

To reset the geometry color, right click in the graphics window and select the Clear Colors icon.

How To Tips Page: 132

 Model Prep: Split Surface and Move Mastercam 2018

Model Prep: Split Surface and Move Mastercam 2018

Model Prep commands are very useful when you imported a solid from a different CAD software such as
SolidWorks or SolidEdge. The commands allow you to modify the solid in Mastercam.

Model Prep commands required a solid without history. Removing a solid's history strips all
operations and features from a selected solid model and converts the solid into a "brick" in the
Solids Manager. Choose Remove History from the MODEL PREP tab.

Below is the sample part to demonstrate the function to split a surface and move a surface.

How To Tips Page: 133

 Model Prep: Split Surface and Move Mastercam 2018

Model Prep - Split

Create a line on both sides of the feature that you would like to Split / Move.

From the MODEL PREP ribbon select Split Solid Faces.

Page: 134 How To Tips

 Model Prep: Split Surface and Move Mastercam 2018

Select the face.

If there is a solid history linked to this part, the pop-up below may occur. In order to process, the history
will need to be removed.

How To Tips Page: 135

 Model Prep: Split Surface and Move Mastercam 2018

Deactivate the solid Face Selection and select the dividing line.

Select the OK button to finish the command.

Repeat for the opposite side of the solid.

Model Prep - Move

From the MODEL PREP ribbon select the Move icon.

Page: 136 How To Tips

 Model Prep: Split Surface and Move Mastercam 2018

Pick the three faces, including the bottom face.

Click on the stem of the arrow of the desired axis and drag the gnomon in the desired direction.

Select the OK button to finish the command.

How To Tips Page: 137

 Model Prep: Split Surface and Move Mastercam 2018

The geometry should look as shown.

Page: 138 How To Tips

 Create a Lathe Tool Mastercam 2018

Create a Lathe Tool Mastercam 2018

From MACHINE tab, select the Machine Type.

Select the desired Lathe.

Select the Turning tab and click on the Lathe Tool Manager.

Right mouse click in the upper box and select Create new tool.

Select the tool type that is applicable.

How To Tips Page: 139

 Create a Lathe Tool Mastercam 2018

Page: 140 How To Tips

 Create a Lathe Tool Mastercam 2018

Under the Inserts Tab, populate all fields that apply to this custom tool.

How To Tips Page: 141

 Create a Lathe Tool Mastercam 2018

Under the Boring Bars tab, populate all fields that apply to this custom tool.

Page: 142 How To Tips

 Create a Lathe Tool Mastercam 2018

Under the Parameters tab, enter the Program Parameters, Default Cutting and Toolpath Parameters.
Specify the desired Compensation orientation.

Then select Save to Library.

How To Tips Page: 143

 Create a Lathe Tool Mastercam 2018

Select Destination Library.

Select the Save button.

Page: 144 How To Tips

 Creating a New Tool Library & Adding Tools (Mill)

Creating a New Tool Library & Adding Tools (Mill)

Create a New Tool Library
From the MACHINE ribbon, select the Machine Type, Mill.

Select the desired machine.

From the Toolpaths ribbon, select the Tool Manager.

How To Tips Page: 145

 Creating a New Tool Library & Adding Tools (Mill)

From the Tool Manager, select Create new tool library icon.

Enter the name of the new tool library (eg. New Library 1) and then select Save.

Page: 146 How To Tips

 Creating a New Tool Library & Adding Tools (Mill)

Creating New Tools for the Library

Right click in the lower window of the Tool Manager and select Create new Tool.

The Tool Wizard window opens.

How To Tips Page: 147

 Creating a New Tool Library & Adding Tools (Mill)

Select the Tool Type and then click on the Next button.

Page: 148 How To Tips

 Creating a New Tool Library & Adding Tools (Mill)

Set the tool geometry parameters in the Define Tool Geometry page, then select Next button to
continue.

How To Tips Page: 149

 Creating a New Tool Library & Adding Tools (Mill)

In the Finalize Properties modify the parameters as needed and select the Finish button.

Page: 150 How To Tips

 Creating a New Tool Library & Adding Tools (Mill)

Repeat this step for all the tools required for this tool library.

Select the OK button.

Save changes to your current library? Select the Yes button.

How To Tips Page: 151

 Creating a New Tool Library & Adding Tools (Mill)

Copying Tools to Library

Select the tool library the tools will be copied from.

Page: 152 How To Tips

 Creating a New Tool Library & Adding Tools (Mill)

Select the tool(s) you would like to add to another library from the lower window. Then use the up arrow
to move them to the upper window.

How To Tips Page: 153

 Creating a New Tool Library & Adding Tools (Mill)

Select the destination tool library (eg. New Library 1) > Open

Page: 154 How To Tips

 Creating a New Tool Library & Adding Tools (Mill)

Select the tool(s) you would like to add to this library from the upper window. Then use the down arrow
to move it to the lower window.

Select the OK button to finish.

Save changes to your current tool library? Select the Yes button.

How To Tips Page: 155

 Creating Custom Holder From a Level

Creating Custom Holder From a Level

To open the Levels Manager, ensure Levels is enabled under the VIEW tab.

Select the Levels tab from the bottom of the Manager panels.

or

Select the Levels tab from the left-hand bar.

Page: 156 How To Tips

 Creating Custom Holder From a Level

Create a new Level and name it "Custom Tool." Set this level to be the main level as the tool will be drawn
at this level.

How To Tips Page: 157

 Creating Custom Holder From a Level

Draw the custom holder vertically with the tip of the holder on X0, Y0. Draw only half of the holder, as the
profile will revolve to create a complete holder. The holder must be drawn as a continuous chain,
meaning there can be no overlaps or duplicate entities.

From the MACHINE ribbon, select the Machine Type, Mill.

Select the desired machine.

Page: 158 How To Tips

 Creating Custom Holder From a Level

Select the Holder tab

Click on the New holder button.

How To Tips Page: 159

 Creating Custom Holder From a Level

Select Import custom geometry from a level button as shown.

Page: 160 How To Tips

 Creating Custom Holder From a Level

Select the custom level, then click on the OK button.

How To Tips Page: 161

 Creating Custom Holder From a Level

Set the Connection settings as required and then, select the Next button.

Page: 162 How To Tips

 Creating Custom Holder From a Level

Set the General settings as required, then select the Finish button.

How To Tips Page: 163

 Creating Custom Lathe Tools from a Level Mastercam 2018

Creating Custom Lathe Tools from a Level Mastercam 2018

To open the Levels Manager, ensure Levels is enabled under the VIEW tab.

Select the Levels tab from the bottom of the Manager panels.

or

Page: 164 How To Tips

 Creating Custom Lathe Tools from a Level Mastercam 2018

Select the Levels tab from the left-hand bar.

How To Tips Page: 165

 Creating Custom Lathe Tools from a Level Mastercam 2018

Create a new Level and name it "Custom Tool." Set this level to be the main level as the tool will be drawn
at this level.

Page: 166 How To Tips

 Creating Custom Lathe Tools from a Level Mastercam 2018

Note: Draw the custom tool with the tip of the tool on X0, Y0. A custom lathe tool must be
drawn with two closed chains in two different colors. One chain represents the tool’s holder (non
cutting geometry) and the second represents the tool’s insert or cutting edge. Each chain must
be drawn as a continuous chain, meaning there can be no overlaps or duplicate entities.

The tool geometry can look as shown.

From MACHINE tab, select the Machine Type.

Select the desired Lathe.

How To Tips Page: 167

 Creating Custom Lathe Tools from a Level Mastercam 2018

From the TURNING ribbon, select the Lathe Tool Manager.

Right click in the upper window of the Tool Manager and select Create new tool.

Page: 168 How To Tips

 Creating Custom Lathe Tools from a Level Mastercam 2018

Select the Custom tool.

How To Tips Page: 169

 Creating Custom Lathe Tools from a Level Mastercam 2018

Select the Geometry tab and select the Geometric Tool Orientation in TOP Plane and Tool Orientation
in Turret that apply to this custom tool.

Under the Tool Geometry, select the Level that the custom tool geometry is created in.

Page: 170 How To Tips

 Creating Custom Lathe Tools from a Level Mastercam 2018

Under the Tool Type tab, indicate the Tool Type (General Turning / Threading / Grooving/Parting /
Boring bar / Drill/Tap/Reamer).

How To Tips Page: 171

 Creating Custom Lathe Tools from a Level Mastercam 2018

Under the Parameters tab, set Program, Default Cutting Parameters and Tool name. Then select Save
To Library.

Page: 172 How To Tips

 Creating Custom Lathe Tools from a Level Mastercam 2018

Select Destination Library.

Select the Save button.

How To Tips Page: 173

 Creating Custom Milling Tools from a Level

Creating Custom Milling Tools from a Level

To open the Levels Manager, ensure Levels is enabled under the VIEW tab.

Select the Levels tab from the bottom of the Manager panels.

or

Select the Levels tab from the left-hand bar.

Create a new Level and name it "Custom Tool." Set this level to be the main level as the tool will be drawn
at this level.

Page: 174 How To Tips

 Creating Custom Milling Tools from a Level

Draw the custom tool vertically with the tip of the tool on X0, Y0. Draw only half of the tool, as the profile
will revolve to create a complete tool. Make sure it is an open chain. The tool must be drawn as a
continuous chain, meaning there can be no overlaps or duplicate entities.

How To Tips Page: 175

 Creating Custom Milling Tools from a Level

Page: 176 How To Tips

 Creating Custom Milling Tools from a Level

From the MACHINE ribbon, select the Machine Type, Mill.

Select the desired machine.

From the Toolpaths ribbon, select the Tool Manager.

How To Tips Page: 177

 Creating Custom Milling Tools from a Level

Right click in the upper window of the Tool Manager and select Create new tool.

Page: 178 How To Tips

 Creating Custom Milling Tools from a Level

Select the Custom Tool.

Select the Next button.

How To Tips Page: 179

 Creating Custom Milling Tools from a Level

Click on the Import and link to custom geometry from a level icon.

Page: 180 How To Tips

 Creating Custom Milling Tools from a Level

Select the level with the custom tool geometry (in our case 10).

Select the OK button to continue.

How To Tips Page: 181

 Creating Custom Milling Tools from a Level

The custom tool will be now displayed. Select the Next button.

Page: 182 How To Tips

 Creating Custom Milling Tools from a Level

Set your Operation and General parameters.

Select the Finish button.

How To Tips Page: 183

 Creating Custom Milling Tools from a Level

Right click on custom tool and select Save tool(s) to library.

Page: 184 How To Tips

 Creating Custom Milling Tools from a Level

Browse to the desired library and Save.

How To Tips Page: 185

 Importing Custom Milling Tools into Mastercam Tool Manager

Importing Custom Milling Tools into Mastercam Tool Manager

Many custom tools are available for download as .DXF files from a supplier’s website.

Open Mastercam Tool Manager

(Start>All Programs>Mastercam 2018>Tool Manager)

or

File>Open

Select the tool library this tool will be stored in.

Tool libraries have the extension of .tooldb. The default location for these files is

C:\Users\Public\Public Documents\shared Mcam2018\mill\Tools

From the New Milling toolbox, select Custom Tool.

Page: 186 How To Tips

 Importing Custom Milling Tools into Mastercam Tool Manager

Click on the Import and link to custom geometry from a file as shown.

Select the .DXF file of the desired custom tool.

How To Tips Page: 187

 Importing Custom Milling Tools into Mastercam Tool Manager

Make adjustments to the tool’s geometric parameters as needed. Then select the Next button.

Page: 188 How To Tips

 Importing Custom Milling Tools into Mastercam Tool Manager

Make adjustments to the tool’s Operation and General parameters as needed. Then select Finish.

How To Tips Page: 189

 Mill Saving Tool that was Created in an Operation

Mill Saving Tool that was Created in an Operation

Mill tools created in an operation will not automatically save to the library.

In the Tool page, right mouse click on the tool that you created.

Page: 190 How To Tips

 Mill Saving Tool that was Created in an Operation

Find the library where you want to save the tool.

Click on the Save button to finish.

How To Tips Page: 191

 Feedrate Based on the Tool Definition Mastercam 2018

Feedrate Based on the Tool Definition Mastercam 2018

Lock feedrates in Configuration, locks the feeds and speeds set in the toolpath parameters. If you
change the feeds and speeds in the tool definition, and want to use those values each time you select the
same tool, you should disable the option as shown in the following steps.

Select the FILE tab.

From the Backstage list, select the Configuration as shown.

How To Tips Page: 192

 Feedrate Based on the Tool Definition Mastercam 2018

Unchecked Lock Feedrates and select the Apply button as shown.

Select the OK button to Save all current settings to the Configuration file.

Select the OK button to exit the System Configuration.

Note: In some cases, customers have to restart Mastercam for this to take effect.

Page: 193 How To Tips

 Mask on Arc Selection for Drilling and Circle Toolpaths - Mastercam 2018

Mask on Arc Selection for Drilling and Circle Toolpaths - Mastercam

2018
Below is the sample part to demonstrate Mask on Arc selection.

From the TOOLPATHS tab, select Drill icon.

How To Tips Page: 194

 Mask on Arc Selection for Drilling and Circle Toolpaths - Mastercam 2018

From the Drill Point Selection dialog box, select the Mask on Arc button.

Page: 195 How To Tips

 Mask on Arc Selection for Drilling and Circle Toolpaths - Mastercam 2018

Select the arc to match.

How To Tips Page: 196

 NEW! eMastercam.com
Sitewide
Subscription

ALL eBook and eCourses

*

only $
39 .99/Month!
LEARN MORE: www.eMastercam.com
 Mask on Arc Selection for Drilling and Circle Toolpaths - Mastercam 2018

Create a window that encases all entities that should be included (left click and drag).

Press Enter to finish the selection.

Page: 197 How To Tips

 Mask on Arc Selection for Drilling and Circle Toolpaths - Mastercam 2018

Verify that all of the required arcs have been selected.

Select the OK button to accept the selection.

How To Tips Page: 198

 Toolpaths are Outputting to Multiple NC Files Mastercam 2018

Toolpaths are Outputting to Multiple NC Files Mastercam 2018

When posting toolpaths, some are outputting to their own NC file.

This occurs quite often when the file name is modified after creating a toolpath.

The problem can be resolved by renaming the NC name for the toolpaths.

Select all toolpaths or the ones that are required to output together.

To do this, either Select all operations in the Operations Manager, or use standard Windows
commands (Shift or Ctrl).

Page: 199 How To Tips

 Toolpaths are Outputting to Multiple NC Files Mastercam 2018

Right click over the Toolpath Group and select Edit selected operations.

From the flyout list, select Change NC file name.

Enter the new NC name.

Select the OK button to finish.

How To Tips Page: 200

 Using Solids for Toolpath Mastercam 2018

Using Solids for Toolpath Mastercam 2018

Solid features can be selected for the entities required for toolpath creation. How these features are
selected can be slightly different depending whether 2D toolpaths or surface toolpaths are being used.

2D Toolpaths
These toolpaths will allow wireframe and/or solid(s) to be selected. These toolpaths are contour, drill,
pocket, face, engraving, and 2D High Speed Toolpaths.

When selecting the entities to be used, set the Chaining type to Solids.

Surface Toolpaths
These toolpaths require surface(s) and/or solid(s) to be selected. When selecting from a solid, a specific
face(s) or edge may be required while excluding the rest of the solid(s). In order to make this available,

Page: 201 How To Tips

 Using Solids for Toolpath Mastercam 2018

Solid Selection can be activated while selecting the entities. By default you can select the solid faces or
the entire solid.

How To Tips Page: 202

 Why High Speed Dynamic Toolpath Stepover Changes

Why High Speed Dynamic Toolpath Stepover Changes

When backplotting or verifying a high speed dynamic toolpath, one may notice that the step-over
appears to be inconsistent. The reason for this is that Mastercam takes the stepover value entered
within the toolpath parameters as a guideline. The stepover produced takes into account the tool’s
engagement into the material.

By taking the tool’s engagement into account, the step-over will increase on outside curves and will
decrease on inside curves. This maintains a more constant chip load.

Page: 203 How To Tips

 Axis Substitution

Axis Substitution
Axis substitution replaces the X or Y axis with a rotary axis, known as the A axis or B axis. It is used to wrap
a toolpath around a cylinder. The geometry can be either flat or already properly oriented in 3D space
(select the Unroll option if this is so). Using this option, the part will be rotated about the rotating axis
while the tool moves perpendicular to the axis of rotation.

Rotary diameter sets the size of the cylinder that the toolpath is rotating about. It is used mainly for
toolpaths on cylinders.

Before you can create rotary axis motion, you need to properly configure the rotary axis components in
your machine definition. You will only be able to select rotary axis options which are supported by your
machine definition.

Mastercam can simulate the rotary axis performance while backplotting the toolpath.

As an example will used a solid part that does not have any wireframe.

Create the geometry required by the toolpath

Create the wireframe using Curve on all edges command
Select the WIREFRAME tab and click on the Curve all edges icon.

How To Tips Page: 204

 Axis Substitution

From the General Selection toolbar, activate the Solid Face if needed.

Select the face required.

Once desired faces are selected press Enter or click on the End Selection button.

Page: 205 How To Tips

 Axis Substitution

Leave the default settings in the Curve All Edges panel.

Select the OK button from the Curve on all edges panel to finish the command.

Unroll the Geometry

From TRANSFORM tab, select the Roll icon.

How To Tips Page: 206

 Axis Substitution

Select the desired geometry using the Chain option.

Select the OK button to continue.

Page: 207 How To Tips

 Axis Substitution

In the Roll panel, enable Copy and Unroll. Enter the outside diameter.

To ensure the entire contour is generated change the Positioning angle.

To see the result as shown in the picture above, you might need to scroll down and enable
Counterclockwise.

How To Tips Page: 208

 Axis Substitution

Select the OK button to exit the command.

Create the Contour Toolpath using Axis Substitution

From the TOOLPATHS tab, select the Contour icon.

Select the four flat chains in the same direction and from the same starting point.

Select the OK button to finish the selection.

Page: 209 How To Tips

 Axis Substitution

Select a tool and set the parameters as you would in any contour toolpath.

Expand Axis Control if needed and select Rotary Axis Control.

Enable Axis Substitution and select the appropriate axis (in this example select Y axis is used).

Enter Rotary Diameter (Outside diameter of part).

Select the OK button to finish.

How To Tips Page: 210

 Axis Substitution

To verify the toolpath, under Operations Manager, select the Backplot icon.

Press the Play button to backplot your operation.

The toolpath should look as shown.

Page: 211 How To Tips

 Creating Planes

Creating Planes
There are five ways of creating planes:

• Dynamic Plane

• Plane From Solid Face

• Plane From Line Normal

• Plane From Geometry

• Plane From Gview

From the VIEW ribbon, ensure Planes is enabled in the Manager group.

How To Tips Page: 212

 Creating Planes

Dynamic Plane
In the Planes Manager, select the Create a new plane icon.

Select the Dynamic Plane.

Page: 213 How To Tips

 Creating Planes

Place gnomon at desired origin for the plane (AutoCursor is useful here).

Rotate, drag, and/or move axes as needed.

How To Tips Page: 214

 Creating Planes

Page: 215 How To Tips

 Creating Planes

Once positioned correctly, enter a plane Name and select OK.

How To Tips Page: 216

 Creating Planes

Plane From Geometry

In the Planes Manager, select the Create a new plane icon.

Select From geometry.

Select geometry that indicates the direction required for the Y axis and X axis.

Name the plane and select the OK button.

Page: 217 How To Tips

 Creating Planes

Plane From Solid Face

In the Planes Manager, select the Create a new plane icon.

From solid face.

Select face.

Note: The Z axis will be normal to the face and the gnomon will be centered on face.

How To Tips Page: 218

 Creating Planes

Name the plane and select OK.

Page: 219 How To Tips

 Creating Planes

Plane From Gview

Rotate your part using the middle mouse button to a desired view other than the seven existing plane
views listed in the Planes Manager.

In the Planes Manager, select the Create a new plane icon.

Select From Gview.

Note: The gnomon will be placed in a fixed WCS orientation on the existing origin with the Z
axis always pointing towards you (Top view relative to the new WCS).

How To Tips Page: 220

 Creating Planes

Name the plane and select the OK button.

Page: 221 How To Tips

 Creating Planes

Plane From Line Normal

In the Planes Manager, select the Create a new plane icon.

Select From line normal.

Select the normal line.

Note: The Z axis will lie on the selected line pointing in either direction and the gnomon will be
placed on the nearest corner.

How To Tips Page: 222

 Creating Planes

Name the plane and select the OK button.

Page: 223 How To Tips

 Positive vs Negative Stock

Positive vs Negative Stock

Negative stock is the opposite of positive stock but there are some things you need to keep in mind
when using these functions. If the outcome is not what is required, the model needs to be modified to
suit the desired outcome.

The Stock to leave fields can be found on the Cut Parameters page within your toolpath.

To demonstrate this, a simple profile will be used.

Positive Stock
The interior corners will offset from the profile and clip away the excess to maintain a sharp corner. The
exterior corners will offset which will result in a gap; the gap is filled with a fillet.

How To Tips Page: 224

 Positive vs Negative Stock

Page: 225 How To Tips

 Positive vs Negative Stock

Negative Stock
The interior corners will offset which will result in a gap; the gap is filled with a fillet. The exterior corners
will offset from the profile and clip away the excess to maintain a sharp corner.

How To Tips Page: 226

 Thread Mill Toolpath

Thread Mill Toolpath

From TOOLPATHS tab, select the expand gallery arrow.

From the Toolpath gallery select the Thread Mill icon.

Page: 227 How To Tips

 Thread Mill Toolpath

Select the geometry.

Select the OK button to continue.

Select the Tool page and create a Thread mill tool.

Note: Mastercam does not have thread mill tools in the default library. To create a thread mill,
see the Import Custom Milling Tools from Level document found under How to Tips at
www.inhousesolutions.com.

How To Tips Page: 228

 Thread Mill Toolpath

In the Cut Parameters, set the following parameters:

Number of active teeth (Sets the number of teeth used to cut the thread. You can enter a value of one
(1) even for multi-tooth cutters. A greater number of active teeth reduces the number of revolutions
needed to cut the thread.)

Thread Pitch (Sets the distance between the teeth of the thread mill. If using a single point cutter enter
the pitch of the thread you are trying to create.)

Set the Lead In/Out and Multipass parameters as needed.

Page: 229 How To Tips

 Thread Mill Toolpath

In the Linking Parameters, set the Clearance plane, Top of thread and Thread depth to the desired
coordinates.

Select the OK button to finish the toolpath.

How To Tips Page: 230

 Thread Mill Toolpath

Backplot the toolpath.

Page: 231 How To Tips

 Nesting - Part Spacing and Margins

Nesting - Part Spacing and Margins

When setting part spacing and margins for a nested sheet is important to have a small space. This is
done to allow a greater yield but lead in/out needs to be taken into consideration as they may gauge a
part. Damaged and/or rough edges of a sheet also need to be considered.

This document will go over some basics of when it comes to part spacing and margins when nesting
however there is more information available through the help menu. This can be easily accessed within

each dialog window by selecting the Help button.

Reviewing the parameter definitions is recommended.

How To Tips Page: 232

 Nesting - Part Spacing and Margins

Nest To…
When setting part to part distance and margins, where these will reference to needs to be taken into
consideration. This is within the Nesting Configuration>Nest to.

Note: All changes to Nesting Configuration need to be made before adding parts or creating
nest. If changes are required nest will need to be recreated.

Page: 233 How To Tips

 Nesting - Part Spacing and Margins

Nesting to Tool Center nests the parts close together leaving very minimal or no waste material.

How To Tips Page: 234

 Nesting - Part Spacing and Margins

Part spacing = Tool 1 Radius + Tool 2 Radius + Part to Part Distance

Page: 235 How To Tips

 Nesting - Part Spacing and Margins

Nesting to Tool Diameter will force all toolpaths to use control compensation. This will result in a larger
space between parts.

Part spacing = Tool 1 Diameter + Tool 2 Diameter + Part to Part Distance

How To Tips Page: 236

 Nesting - Part Spacing and Margins

Sheet Margins
Margins are set up within the Sheet tab of a nest.

Page: 237 How To Tips

 Nesting - Part Spacing and Margins

Part to Part Distance

Part to part distance is set up within the part tab of a nest.

How To Tips Page: 238

 Nesting - Sheets, Library and Scrap - Mastercam 2018

Nesting - Sheets, Library and Scrap - Mastercam 2018

When nesting, the option to create sheets on the fly as needed or import from a library is available.

Creating Sheet
From TOOLPATHS tab, select the Nesting icon.

To create sheets as needed or to create a sheet that will be saved to a library, right click over Sheet List in
the Sheets tab.

Page: 239 How To Tips

 Nesting - Sheets, Library and Scrap - Mastercam 2018

Select either Add rectangular or Add chained.

How To Tips Page: 240

 Nesting - Sheets, Library and Scrap - Mastercam 2018

Adding Rectangular
Once the rectangle is added, you can modify the size, the quantity, and apply a specific material.

Page: 241 How To Tips

 Nesting - Sheets, Library and Scrap - Mastercam 2018

Adding Chained
Using chained geometry is useful for utilizing scraps and uniquely shaped stock.

The geometry must be present in the current part file and must be the actual size.

Creating Sheet Libraries

Nesting sheet libraries contain full sheets and scrap sheets. Sheet libraries are saved with an NSLX
extension. When a sheet is saved to a library, the sheet geometry and settings for size, material, origin,
grain direction, and quantity is retained.

How To Tips Page: 242

 Nesting - Sheets, Library and Scrap - Mastercam 2018

Saving to Library
To save a sheet in a library, right-click in the ‘Sheets List’ on the Sheets tab and choose Save to library.
This will retain the sheet size and/or shape and the material.

Page: 243 How To Tips

 Nesting - Sheets, Library and Scrap - Mastercam 2018

Saving Scrap
To save a sheet in a sheet scrap library, select Nesting Configuration and check box for Save Sheet
Scrap. The library used for scrap is indicated here as well. An existing library or new library can be used.

Note: If there are existing scraps around the shop, the geometry can be drawn and the sheet
can be added to the library using Add chained and Save to Library. Keep in mind that
Mastercam is not an MRP system so you will need to manage these scrap yourself. Some users
prefer to manually add scraps of standard sizes and not use this function.

How To Tips Page: 244

 Nesting - Sheets, Library and Scrap - Mastercam 2018

Importing from a Library

To import a sheet from a library, right-click in the Sheets List on the Sheets tab and choose Import from
library.

Page: 245 How To Tips

 Nesting - Sheets, Library and Scrap - Mastercam 2018

Choose Metric or Standard sheets.

To import more than one sheet from the same library, use [Shift+click] to select a range of sheets or
[Ctrl+click] to select separate sheets. The check marks indicate what sheets you have selected.

To delete a sheet(s), select the sheet(s) and press delete on your keyboard. If the sheet you are deleting
is selected to add to the Sheet List, it will still add it but will be deleted from the library for the next sheet
import.

Note: Keep in mind that Mastercam is not a MPR system and will not track your materials and
scraps.

Additions
Trim
Trim is found under the Additions tab. This will square off the remaining material with a saw operation.

The different options give you the opportunity to indicate what you would like to take priority in the
sequence. Preferences for this will depend on different requirements.

How To Tips Page: 246

 Nesting - Sheets, Library and Scrap - Mastercam 2018

Longest distance first will give priority to the greatest distance available no matter the orientation.

Shortest distance first will give priority to the least distance available no matter the orientation.

Page: 247 How To Tips

 Nesting - Sheets, Library and Scrap - Mastercam 2018

Horizontal first will give priority to the horizontal direction no matter the distance.

Vertical first: will give priority to the vertical direction no matter the distance.

Note: If scrap is being save, the separate cut-offs are not saved, the irregular shape is. Set the
minimum width for cut-off and set the parameters for the saw operation. The parameters for
the saw operation are found under Advanced.

How To Tips Page: 248

 Nesting - Sheets, Library and Scrap - Mastercam 2018

Page: 249 How To Tips

 Wireframe - Swept 2D

Wireframe - Swept 2D
Wireframe Swept 2D is a 2½D toolpath that is created by sweeping one contour (across contour) along a
second contour (along contour). This toolpath allows only one along contour. The across and along
contours blend together which generates a 2½D toolpath.

Toolpath Creation
Example 1 – Cleaning corners
Below is an example of where a swept operation would be used to clean out corners in a profile,
minimizing the radius. This assumes the profile has been created with a contour operation with a profile
tool.

Note: For this example, surfaces have been created to make this part easier to see; however
wireframe is required for this toolpath. Surfaces and solids are unnecessary.

How To Tips Page: 250

 Wireframe - Swept 2D

Note: The geometry colour and line weight is irrelevant.

From the TOOLPATHS tab, select the Expand gallery.

Page: 251 How To Tips

 Wireframe - Swept 2D

Select the Swept 2D icon.

How To Tips Page: 252

 Wireframe - Swept 2D

Select the contours.

Note: Use Partial chain, select the start and end of the chain (keep in mind the direction of the chain).
Alternative, if different color geometry has been used, select the chain based on the geometry color
and use the Chain option instead of the partial chain.

Select the across geometry using one of the options stated above. Keep in mind the direction of the
contours as their directions dictate the direction the toolpath will go.

Page: 253 How To Tips

Wireframe - Swept 2D

How To Tips Page: 254

 Wireframe - Swept 2D

Select the along geometry.

Select the OK button to exit the Chaining dialog box.

Page: 255 How To Tips

 Wireframe - Swept 2D

Select the point of intersection.

How To Tips Page: 256

 Wireframe - Swept 2D

Select the appropriate tool.

Page: 257 How To Tips

 Wireframe - Swept 2D

Review the parameters. They may need some modification depending on your part and the directions of
your chains.

Select the OK button to finish the toolpath.

How To Tips Page: 258

 Wireframe - Swept 2D

The toolpath should look as shown.

Page: 259 How To Tips

 Wireframe - Swept 2D

Example 2 -Create Profile

Below is an example of where a swept operation would be used to create the profile without roughing
operation.

Note: For this example, surfaces have been created to make this part easier to see; however
wireframe is required for this toolpath. Surfaces and solids are unnecessary.

How To Tips Page: 260

 Wireframe - Swept 2D

Create geometry in the shape of the profile which will be the across contour and create geometry that
dictates the path the profile will follow (along contour).

Note: The geometry colour and line weight is irrelevant.

From the TOOLPATHS tab, select the Expand gallery.

Page: 261 How To Tips

Post processors that
are requested worldwide.

g-code

We speak your machine’s language.

Implementing successful post processors for decades, the post department at In-House Solutions has earned
a reputation for quality, resulting in one of the largest post departments in the world. We have an extensive library
that is continually developed and expanded to include current machines and controllers. If a post is not already
available, we will develop a custom one for nearly any machine. We have
great relationships with OEMs who provide technical information for both
machines and controls, which in turn allows us to produce post processors
that will generate edit-free code and run your machine efficiently.

www.inhousesolutions.com/posts
 Wireframe - Swept 2D

Select the Swept 2D icon.

How To Tips Page: 262

 Wireframe - Swept 2D

Select the across geometry using Partial option. Select the first entity of the contour starting from the
point of intersection.

Page: 263 How To Tips

 Wireframe - Swept 2D

Select the along contour, starting from the point of intersection between the two contours.

Select the OK button to finish the toolpath.

How To Tips Page: 264

 Wireframe - Swept 2D

Select point of intersection.

Page: 265 How To Tips

 Wireframe - Swept 2D

Select the appropriate tool.

How To Tips Page: 266

 Wireframe - Swept 2D

Set the parameters as needed.

Select the OK button to finish the toolpath.

Page: 267 How To Tips

 Wireframe - Swept 2D

Backplot the toolpath.

This toolpath can also be selected to rough out the part. A C-Hook is used to transform the finish
toolpath into a rough toolpath.

How To Tips Page: 268

 Wireframe - Swept 2D

Copy the toolpath in the Toolpath Manager

In the Toolpath Manager, right mouse click on the toolpath and select Copy.

Right mouse click again in the Toolpath Manager and select Paste. You should have two toolpaths.

Page: 269 How To Tips

 Wireframe - Swept 2D

Select the Parameters in the first toolpath and select a 1.0" Ball Endmill.

How To Tips Page: 270

 Wireframe - Swept 2D

Change the parameters as needed.

Page: 271 How To Tips

 Wireframe - Swept 2D

Regenerate the toolpath.

Press Alt+C or select Run Add-In icon under HOME tab.

This should default to C:Program Files\Mcam2018\chooks

How To Tips Page: 272

 Wireframe - Swept 2D

Select Swept2R.dll.

Set the roughing parameters as needed.

Select the OK button to finish.

Page: 273 How To Tips

 Wireframe - Swept 2D

The toolpath should look as shown.

How To Tips Page: 274

 Axis Substitution vs Rolldie C-Hook

Axis Substitution vs Rolldie C-Hook

Using an Axis Substitution function, the tool will always point to the center of the part. The side of the
tool does not machine the walls.

The Rolldie C-Hook toolpath is designed to compensate to the side of the tool and not to the center of
the tool.

How To Tips Page: 275

 Creating Lines (Vectors) for Tool Axis Control

Creating Lines (Vectors) for Tool Axis Control

When creating a Multi-axis toolpaths, the tool axis control needs to be set within the toolpath.
Depending on the Multiaxis toolpath, there are several ways to control the tool axis orientation:

• Line

• Surface

• Plane

• From point

• To point

• Chain

This document will review two methods of creating lines (also called vectors) that can be used to control
the axis of the tool.

Option 1 - Using Line Normal

This option requires that the user select each location where the vector will be created.

Page: 276 How To Tips

 Creating Lines (Vectors) for Tool Axis Control

From the WIREFRAME tab, select the drop down arrow next to the Line Closest and click on the Line
Normal.

Set whether or not Points will be created and if they will be, set the location (Contact point or End
point). Set the line Length and the Direction.

How To Tips Page: 277

 Creating Lines (Vectors) for Tool Axis Control

Select a surface or a solid face that the vectors need to be normal to.

In the example below, a solid is used; therefore, Face Selection was activated.

Page: 278 How To Tips

 Creating Lines (Vectors) for Tool Axis Control

Move the vector selector to the location required for the vector and left click. Several vectors may be
required depending on the part.

Option 2 Using Point Segment

This option will create vectors on set increments (spacing). This is a faster way of creating vectors if
multiple are needed or the part is large. Option 1 can also be used to add additional vectors if needed.

Some machines require equally spaced points along the curves to generate a proper toolpath. Use the
Number of segments to create the points equally spaced.

Note: This needs to be done per surface.

How To Tips Page: 279

 Creating Lines (Vectors) for Tool Axis Control

Create Equally Spaced Points Using Point Segment

From the WIREFRAME tab, select the drop down arrow next to the Point Position and click on the Point
Segment.

From the Point Segment panel, set the segment Distance between points or the Number of points
required and lock.

In this example, a locked Distance is used.

Page: 280 How To Tips

 Creating Lines (Vectors) for Tool Axis Control

In the case of a solid, the edge can be selected. If surfaces are used, an edge curve will need to be
created. Points will be created along the edge or curve selected spaced out by the segment distance
entered.

Select the OK button.

Select all points using the Quick Mask on all points button.

How To Tips Page: 281

 Creating Lines (Vectors) for Tool Axis Control

Create the Lines (Vectors) Using Project Command

From TRANSFORM tab, select Project.

In the Project panel enable Surface/Solids.

Page: 282 How To Tips

 Creating Lines (Vectors) for Tool Axis Control

Select surfaces or solid faces.

In the below example, a solid face is used; therefore, Face Selection was activated. Do not select the
entire body.

Press Enter to finish the selection.

How To Tips Page: 283

 Creating Lines (Vectors) for Tool Axis Control

Set the Projection to Normal and enable Project Lines.

Flip the direction if needed.

Select the OK button to finish.

Page: 284 How To Tips

 Creating Lines (Vectors) for Tool Axis Control

The lines should look as shown.

How To Tips Page: 285

 Installing CIMCO DNC-Max and CIMCO License Key Files

Installing CIMCO DNC-Max and CIMCO License Key Files

CIMCO products require a license key file to be able to run as a licensed version. There are two options to
installing the license key file; connected and not connected to the internet. This document shows how to
process for both.

Once the software is installed, if you do not have a license key file, it will function as a 30 days timed
evaluation version. This evaluation version has some technical limitations but will function for a period of
30 Days from when installed (once the evaluation version has been installed; uninstalling will not reset
the 30 day limitation). Upon purchase a .key file or the CIMCO license will be emailed to you.

Temporary and Permanent File Types:

There are two types of license key files; Temporary and Permanent.

Temporary License Key File:

The temporary license key file is timed but allows the software to run as a licensed version (within the
time limit) without requiring an Activation Key.

Permanent License Key File:

The Permanent license key file is not timed and requires an Activation Key.

The activation function will only allow the activation of the number of installations purchased and ties
the install to the hardware. Please ensure that the computer the software installed on is the computer
you intend to use the software on before activating a permanent license key!

For DNC-Max server software that is running as a service, the service will need to be stopped and the
application DNC-Max server will need to be run as an application temporarily to allow for the activation
process of a permanent license key. After the license is activated the DNC-Max application can be closed
and the service can be restarted.

How To Tips Page: 286

 Installing CIMCO DNC-Max and CIMCO License Key Files

What type of License file do I have?

This is an example of a temporary license file for a standalone system. This means the license file needs to
be installed directly on the system in which Cimco is installed.

Page: 287 How To Tips

 Installing CIMCO DNC-Max and CIMCO License Key Files

This is an example of a temporary license file for a server setup. This means the license file needs to be
installed on the system that is your Cimco License Server.

How To Tips Page: 288

 Installing CIMCO DNC-Max and CIMCO License Key Files

This is an example of a permanent license file for a standalone system. This means the license file needs
to be installed directly on the system in which Cimco is installed.

Page: 289 How To Tips

 Installing CIMCO DNC-Max and CIMCO License Key Files

This is an example of a permanent license file for a server setup. This means the license file needs to be
installed on the system that is your Cimco License Server.

How To Tips Page: 290

 Installing CIMCO DNC-Max and CIMCO License Key Files

Install License Key File

Step 1: Install License Key File
Method A: Install with the “License Key Manager”

Once you have installed DNC-Max or CIMCO Edit, the installer will create an association of .key files to
open with “KeyManager.exe”. Double click on your “license.key” file to launch the “License Key
Manager.” Click on the “Show Info” button and it will show the products that you have purchased. To
install the keyfile, check the product(s) on the check boxes then click on the “Install Keyfile” button.

Page: 291 How To Tips

 Installing CIMCO DNC-Max and CIMCO License Key Files

Step 2: Get Activation Key from the Web (Required only for permanent key files)
CIMCO Edit and DNC-Max each require its own Activation Key. The steps of getting both Activation Keys
are the same.

Once Step 1 is complete, launch the software. If your license key file is the Permanent license key file, you
will be prompted with an Activation Key request window. Click on “You can obtain the Activation Key by
clicking on this text”, this will take you to CIMCO Software’s web site Activation Key Generation section.

Note: The System Identification Number from your computer is already in the right place. Click
on “Get Activation Key” (If you get an error, please contact our support department.
[email protected]).

How To Tips Page: 292

 Installing CIMCO DNC-Max and CIMCO License Key Files

When the website has been launched, click the “Generate Key” button:

The Activation Key will be generated (sample number shown “C6E0B43B”). Highlight the Activation Key
and copy it (Ctrl + C or right mouse click):

Page: 293 How To Tips

 Installing CIMCO DNC-Max and CIMCO License Key Files

Go to the software Activation Key request window and paste (Ctrl + V or right mouse click) the Activation
Key in the white space. Click the “OK” button and your software will be licensed.

How To Tips Page: 294

 Installing CIMCO DNC-Max and CIMCO License Key Files

Step 2: Get Activation Key from the Web When Not Connected to the Internet
If your computer (the computer that is requesting an Activation Key) is not connected to the internet,
then you need to write down the “System Identification Number.”

Go to a computer that has internet connection or call someone who has the internet access such as our
support department and have them get the Activation Key for you by going through the following
procedure.

Page: 295 How To Tips

 Installing CIMCO DNC-Max and CIMCO License Key Files

Browse to order system.cimco.com/support_activate.php and enter the “System Identification Number”

you wrote down earlier. Select “Generate Key.”

How To Tips Page: 296

 Installing CIMCO DNC-Max and CIMCO License Key Files

Write down “Generated Activation Key.”

Page: 297 How To Tips

 Installing CIMCO DNC-Max and CIMCO License Key Files

Go back to the computer in which Cimco is installed and enter the “Generated Activation Key” and click
the “OK” button.

Trouble Shooting
If you are using a floating or network license and more than one license file is present on the network,
the key file may not install correctly. The old key files need to be removed or the extension needs to be
renamed to something other than key.

How To Tips Page: 298

 Error 1920 on Install

Error 1920 on Install

Issue: When installing the below error occurs and the install cannot be completed.

"Error 1920.Service CodeMeter Runtime Service (CodeMeter.exe) failed to start. Verify that you have
sufficient privileges to start system services."

This error occurred due to the users not having full administrative rights. Give the user full administrative
rights or install under another user that has them.

If this error continues to occur, it can also been resolved by creating another user and install under that
user.

Note: It is also recommended that when installing the software, all firewalls, user account
controls and anti-virus are turned off.

How To Tips Page: 299

 Error Select Machine

Error Select Machine

Issue: While posting code this error occurs: "Error – Select Machine Achievable Toolplane With X-Axis
Along Machine X – Set and Repost."

This error can occur while programing a Vertical Machining Center with a chuck and indexing about the A-
axis (around X-axis). To machine the Back face you cannot use the Back plane as the Tool plane and
Construction plane. The X-axis will be orientated in the wrong direction.

The following image shows Mastercam defined Top, Front and Back planes with their axes orientation.

Note: The Back plane X-axis positive orientation is in the opposite direction that the X-axis in the Front
plane.

Page: 300 How To Tips

 Error Select Machine

To correct the problem, a new plane has to be defined that has the X-axis as well as the Y and Z axes
orientated in the proper direction.

The plane axes should be orientated as shown.

The easiest way to create the new plane, is rotating the Top plane 90 degrees.

Note: When programing parts in which you index the A-axis the Tool planes and the
Construction planes should be defined by rotating the Top plane. Use Dynamic plane to create
the new planes

How To Tips Page: 301

 Error Select Machine

Plane Dynamic - Rotate the Top Plane

To create a new plane open Planes Manager.

Make sure that the WCS, C (Construction plane) and T (Tool plane) are all set to Top as shown.

Page: 302 How To Tips

 Error Select Machine

Select the Create new plane icon (+) and from the list select Dynamic as shown.

Pick a corner to position the gnomon.

How To Tips Page: 303

 Error Select Machine

To rotate the gnomon axes around the X axis, you have to select one of the red arcs as shown.

Note: If you cannot snap to -90 degrees, enter the value by starting typing it.

Page: 304 How To Tips

 Error Select Machine

In the New Plane panel, enter a new name and make sure that you set the Origin where you needed. If
you are creating a new toolpath, assign the new plane as the Tplane and Cplane. Do not set the plane as
WCS.

How To Tips Page: 305

 Error Select Machine

If need to modify the existing toolpath, once you create the new plane, make sure that you change the
Tool plane and the Construction plane in the existing toolpath.

Select the OK button.

Page: 306 How To Tips

 Error Select Machine

Regenerate the toolpath.

Re-post the toolpath.

How To Tips Page: 307

 Issue/Error WIBUCM64

Issue/Error WIBUCM64
Issue: On start up, Mastercam gives this error:

"The program can’t start because WIBUCM64.dll is missing from your computer. Try reinstalling the
program to fix this problem."

Fix: Install the Codemeter.

From http://www.mastercam.com, Support and Downloads, select Drivers and Utilities.

Download the Code Meter Utility and ReadMe - .zip

Follow the instructions from the ReadMe to install Code Meter.

Page: 308 How To Tips

 Cannot Find Parasolid Data in SolidWorks File

Cannot Find Parasolid Data in SolidWorks File

Issue: When attempting to open a SolidWorks file (sldprt) in Mastercam, the error “Cannot find Parasolid
data in SolidWorks file” is produced.

Recommendation 1: Make sure the latest update is installed for both Mastercam
and SolidWorks.
Recommendation 2: You have to unregister the component as Admin, and then
re-register it as Admin.
SwDocumentMgr.dll – Register through Advanced Configuration.
Note: Depending on your computer operating system the instruction to open the Advanced
Configuration can be slightly different.

For Windows 7
Start

All Programs

How To Tips Page: 309

 Cannot Find Parasolid Data in SolidWorks File

For Windows 10
Click on the Start button

Scroll down and find Mastercam 2018

Advanced Configuration

If a message "Do you want to allow this app to make changes to your device" appear s on the screen,
select Yes button to continue.

Page: 310 How To Tips

 Cannot Find Parasolid Data in SolidWorks File

Select Components

Click on the plus in front of the C drive.

Browse to C:\Program Files\mcam2018\common\SWORKSDATA\

SwDocumentMgr.dll as shown.

Right click over SwDocumentMgr.dll and go to Unregister component.

Then right click over SwDocumentMgr.dll and go to Register component.

How To Tips Page: 311

 Cannot Find Parasolid Data in SolidWorks File

Recommendation 3: SwDocumentMgr.dll – Register manually.

Search “cmd”.

Right click and Run as administrator.

If a message "Do you want to allow this app to make changes to your device" appear s on the screen,
select Yes button to continue.

Page: 312 How To Tips

 Cannot Find Parasolid Data in SolidWorks File

Type: cd C:\program files

[Enter]

Type: regsvr32.exe mcam(version)\common\sworksdata\swdocumentmgr.dll [Enter]

This message will appear on the screen.

How To Tips Page: 313

 Cannot Find Parasolid Data in Unigraphics/NX File

Cannot Find Parasolid Data in Unigraphics/NX File

Issue: When attempting to open a file, the error “Cannot find Parasolid Data in Unigraphics/NX file” is
produced.

If the file is a unigraphics, NX or Catia file, an add-on translator is required.

Sales will need to quote this, please email [email protected].

Page: 314 How To Tips

 Cannot Open SolidWorks Assembly (Sldasm)

Cannot Open SolidWorks Assembly (Sldasm)

Mastercam still looks to the part files (sldprt), therefore they need to be present in the same folder as the
assembly file.

How To Tips Page: 315

 Inventor 2016 Files Unable to Open in X8 or Older

Inventor 2016 Files Unable to Open in X8 or Older

Issue: Inventor 2017 or Inventor View 2017 files unable to open in Mastercam.

Cause: Mastercam dlls versions are older than the ones installed by Inventor 2017, this causes a conflict.

Fix:

Close all Mastercam and Inventor programs

C:\Program Files\Mcam2018

l Rename tbb.dll to tbb.old

l Rename tbbmalloc.dll to tbbmalloc.old

Copy tbb.dll and tbbmalloc.dll from Inventor or Inventor Viewer folder to Mcam2018 folder.

l C:\Program files\Autodesk\Inventor 2017\Bin.

l C:\Program files\Autodesk\Inventor View 2017\Bin.

Page: 316 How To Tips

 Open SLDPRT Error: SolidWork is not installed

Open SLDPRT Error: SolidWork is not installed

Issue: Opening SLDPRT error: SolidWorks is not installed on this computer. Solids History can only be
read if SolidWorks is installed.

To fix the problem follow the next steps.

How To Tips Page: 317

 Open SLDPRT Error: SolidWork is not installed

Select the FILE tab.

From the Backstage list, select the Configuration as shown.

Page: 318 How To Tips

 Open SLDPRT Error: SolidWork is not installed

From the Tree view list select Converters and make sure that Import SOLIDWORKS Solids History.

Select the OK button.

How To Tips Page: 319

 Switching Between Imperial and Metric Configurations

Switching Between Imperial and Metric Configurations

Select the FILE tab.

From the Backstage list, select the Configuration as shown.

How To Tips Page: 320

 Switching Between Imperial and Metric Configurations

Change the Current configuration to the desired units.

Note: English is imperial.

Page: 321 How To Tips

 Transferring Setups

Transferring Setups
The following is a list a files and their location that can be transferred from one computer to another.

Machine files
– Control files (.mcam-control) found in “C:\Users\Public\Public Documents\shared Mcam2018\CNC_
MACHINES”

– Machine definitions (.mcam-mmd, .mcam-lmd, .mcam-rmd and/or .mcam-wmd) found in

“C:\Users\Public\Public Documents\shared Mcam2018\CNC_MACHINES”

– Post files (.pst, .psb and/or .psm) found in “C:\Users\Public\Public Documents\shared

Mcam2018\Machine Type\Posts” (Machine Type could be Mill, Lathe, Router or Wire)

Tool Libraries (if you have modified or created your own)

C:\Users\Public\Public Documents\shared Mcam2018\Machine Type\Tools

Power library (wire machine only)

C:\Users\Public\Public Documents\shared Mcam2018\wire\power

Operation Libraries (.mcam-operations) (if you have modified or created your

own)
C:\Users\Public\Public Documents\shared Mcam2018\Machine Type\Ops

Operations Defaults (.mcam-defaults) (if you have modified or created your

own)
C:\Users\Public\Public Documents\shared Mcam2018\Machine Type\Ops

I do not recommend transferring your configuration because there will be different paths and settings
from one computer to another.

How To Tips Page: 322

 Zip2Go

Zip2Go
Zip2Go Overview
Use the Zip2Go utility to gather and compress the open (current) Mastercam part data into a .Z2G file.
That file can then be opened and viewed with most zip/unzip programs. This is especially useful if you are
trying to share file information with In-House Solutions’ Technical Support and/or Post Team.

Note: Zip2Go scans the machine groups in your current file and captures certain information
such as your Mastercam configuration, machine definition, post files, tool and material
libraries, Wire power libraries, ATP files, STL files, and machine group default and operation
files.

How to Make a Zip2Go

Open your Mastercam file.

Page: 323 How To Tips

 Zip2Go

Open the Backstage view by clicking on the FILE tab as shown.

From the Backstage list, select the Zip2Go as shown.

How To Tips Page: 324

 Zip2Go

In the File Options window, select all check boxes.

Page: 325 How To Tips

 Zip2Go

Select the Create Zip2Go button.

Select Save button to save the file at the desired location.

Locate the Zip2Go file – attach to email and send to support contact.

How To Tips Page: 326

 Post Install Instructions Mastercam 2018

Post Install Instructions Mastercam 2018

Save the zip file containing the post from your email to an appropriate place such as the desktop.

Extract the files from the zip file to a folder. This will create a folder with the files.

Copy and paste the post file(s) (.pst and .psb if applicable) into the appropriate ‘Posts’ folder in your
Mastercam shared directories. Please note the directories below are the default directories.

C:\Users\Public\Public Documents\shared Mcam2018\lathe\Posts

C:\Users\Public\Public Documents\shared Mcam2018\mill\Posts

C:\Users\Public\Public Documents\shared Mcam2018\router\Posts

C:\Users\Public\Public Documents\shared Mcam2018\wire\Posts

Copy and paste the machine definition (.mcam-mmd, .mcam-lmd, .mcam-rmd, .mcam-wmd) and control
definition (.mcam-control) into the “CNC_MACHINES” folder of your Mastercam shared folder.

C:\Users\Public\Public Documents\shared Mcam2018\CNC_MACHINES

Go back to Mastercam and add the machine to the appropriate Machine Type list if it does not already
exist. To add a machine to the Machine Type list, select the MACHINE tab. Then under the appropriate
Machine Type (Mill, Lathe, Mill-Turn, Wire, Router), select Manage List from the drop down.

How To Tips Page: 327

 Post Install Instructions Mastercam 2018

Then select the machine from the list and click Add. To close the window, click the check mark. Once the
machine has been added, select it from the menu to make it active.

Select the OK button.

Page: 328 How To Tips

 Reloading the Machine Mastercam 2018

Reloading the Machine Mastercam 2018

If you are getting a new machine definition or control definition and need to update the machine
definition in a Mastercam file that had the previous version of the machine/control definition loaded,
follow the steps below.

In the Toolpaths Manager, click the “+” beside Properties.

Delete this text and replace it with your own content.

Click on the Files.

How To Tips Page: 329

 Reloading the Machine Mastercam 2018

In the Machine Group Properties dialog box, select the Replace folder.

Page: 330 How To Tips

 Reloading the Machine Mastercam 2018

Select the machine definition file even if it is selected already.

This will load the new machine definition and control definition settings into your current Mastercam file
and overwrite the old settings which the current file is using.

Note: Be sure to replace the machine definitions using the above steps whenever new machine
and control definitions are received from your Mastercam reseller. Always keep a back-up copy
of your existing machine control definitions along with the post

How To Tips Page: 331

 Robot Software
Program and simulate all your robots
in the same cell, for all your applications,
while your robots are still working.
Book a demo and see for yourself!

www.OCTOPUZ .com