Are they one in the same nowdays?
Are they one in the same nowdays?
No, they're different. Machine control software (such as Fanuc or Mach3) takes G-codes from CAM and makes the machine run the codes.
CAM takes a CAD drawing and a lot of help from the operator to tell it how to create the G-Codes that will make the part in the CAD drawing.
Many CAM programs have some CAD built-in, but many folks prefer to use their own CAD.
Hope that helps,
Bob Warfield
Try G-Wizard Machinist's Calculator for free:
http://www.cnccookbook.com/CCGWizard.html
Thanks Bob. And by the way, you have a kick butt web site!
Take care,
Terry