Best Free CAM Software for CNC Routers
1. LinuxCNC
To begin with the basics, YouCam is professional-tier webcam software for Windows (yes, it only works on Windows from 7 to 10), and it’s specifically designed for enthusiast live-streamers, whether we’re talking home or business users. CAM or Computer Aided Manufacturing software are used to give instructions to CNC or milling machines to create products. The primary purpose of CAM software is to create a faster manufacturing process with more precise product dimensions and materials.
- Additional software, firmware, or drivers are no longer available because Windows 10 has all the necessary software to support Microsoft LifeCam cameras.
- Creo CAM Software Increase productivity through more efficient machining and tool path design with machining, tooling, sheet metal, and additive manufacturing. Improve quality, lead time, and costs Creo NC and Tool Design solutions give you everything you need to achieve the highest quality precision machining in the fastest possible time.
- Computer aided manufacturing (CAM) software is a tool/program that uses numerical control (NC) to create detailed instructions (G-code) that drive CNC machines. CAM software streamlines the machining process and automates actions like drilling and cutting, which makes it ideal for high-quality manufacturing.
Operating Systems - Linux
Without a doubt, the LInuxCNC is the top competitor to the major paid software, Mach series. LinuxCNC is popular among hobbyists as it is completely free, open-source and offers impressive features. They can be used to drive milling machines. 3D printers, Lathes, Plasma cutters, Laser cutters, Hexapods, Robot arms, and more. It uses a Linux Operating System with real-time extensions (RTAI and RTLinux) and can control up to nine joints or axes of a CNC machine. LinuxCNC can handle peripheral machine elements like tool length measurement, tool-change procedures, cooling, etc.
Main Features
- Easy to configure and setup
- Full source code available under the GNU GPLv2
- A helpful and active user community
- Numerous pre-configured GUI templates
- Excellent compatibility with popular machine control hardware interfaces
- Support advanced features such as rigid tapping, cutter compensation, etc.
2. Universal G-code Sender
Operating Systems - Linux, Windows, Raspberry Pie, and OS X
Available on GitHub, Universal G-code Sender (UGS) is a favorite pick by countless CNC hobbyists. It incorporates a configurable G-code optimization that removes excessive code such as white space, comments, etc. and converts arcs.
UGS is a Java-based software that works with CNC controllers like TinyG, GRBL, with the help of a PC. As it is Java-based, it supports all primary OS. It offers a simple solution if you want to control TinyG and GRBL CNC machines accurately.
Best Free CAM Software for CNC Routers
1. LinuxCNC
Operating Systems - Linux
Without a doubt, the LInuxCNC is the top competitor to the major paid software, Mach series. LinuxCNC is popular among hobbyists as it is completely free, open-source and offers impressive features. They can be used to drive milling machines. 3D printers, Lathes, Plasma cutters, Laser cutters, Hexapods, Robot arms, and more. It uses a Linux Operating System with real-time extensions (RTAI and RTLinux) and can control up to nine joints or axes of a CNC machine. LinuxCNC can handle peripheral machine elements like tool length measurement, tool-change procedures, cooling, etc.
Main Features
Bobcad Cam Software
- Easy to configure and setup
- Full source code available under the GNU GPLv2
- A helpful and active user community
- Numerous pre-configured GUI templates
- Excellent compatibility with popular machine control hardware interfaces
- Support advanced features such as rigid tapping, cutter compensation, etc.
2. Universal G-code Sender
Operating Systems - Linux, Windows, Raspberry Pie, and OS X
Available on GitHub, Universal G-code Sender (UGS) is a favorite pick by countless CNC hobbyists. It incorporates a configurable G-code optimization that removes excessive code such as white space, comments, etc. and converts arcs.
Cam Software Like Mastercam
UGS is a Java-based software that works with CNC controllers like TinyG, GRBL, with the help of a PC. As it is Java-based, it supports all primary OS. It offers a simple solution if you want to control TinyG and GRBL CNC machines accurately.