is the vital bridge between a digital toolpath and the physical machine. It translates generic CAM data into the specific G-code "language" a machine controller understands. For many programmers, learning to edit these files is the "rite of passage" that separates a basic user from a master. eMastercam.com Why Edit a Post?
If your machine uses standard flood coolant ( M08 ) but a new high-pressure system requires M88 , update the string variables or coolant selection logic block (often found under pcoolon or within the general parameters section): # Change from: # sm08 : "M08" # To: sm08 : "M88" Use code with caution. Toggling Optional Block Deletes
Mastercam is a popular computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software used by machinists and manufacturers to create and optimize G-code for CNC machines. A crucial component of Mastercam is the post processor, which converts the CAM software's internal code into a format that can be read by the CNC machine. However, sometimes the standard post processor needs to be edited or customized to meet specific requirements. In this article, we'll delve into the world of Mastercam post processor editing and explore its importance, benefits, and best practices.
If you are just getting started, refer to the official Mastercam Post Processor User Guide for detailed syntax information. mastercam post processor editing
pbld, n$, *t$, "M06", e$ # Existing tool change line pbld, n$, "M01", e$ # New line added to output M01 after the tool change
Mastercam post processor editing is not a skill you learn in a weekend. It is a journey of debugging, late-night breakthroughs, and the sheer joy of watching your first custom G-code run perfectly.
Have a specific post editing nightmare? Share your error code in the comments below. Chances are, someone has already fixed it with three lines of MP logic. is the vital bridge between a digital toolpath
: Used to store data like spindle speed or tool numbers.
A post processor is a specialized file (usually with a .pst extension) that tells Mastercam how to format the NC code for a specific CNC machine's controller (e.g., Fanuc, Haas, Siemens, Heidenhain).
You don’t need to build a 5-axis, dual-spindle Swiss post from scratch. Even skilled integrators take weeks to do that. Start small: eMastercam
While Notepad works, it is dangerous. Mastercam ships with a dedicated editor that highlights MP syntax (different colors for variables, strings, and comments). If you prefer third-party tools, or CIMCO Edit with user-defined languages will save you from missing curly braces.
: You used a variable name that hasn't been declared at the top of the post. Check for typos or add the declaration line (e.g., my_variable : 0 ).
Change the string text inside the quotes to match your machine tool manual specifications. 5. Step-by-Step Editing Workflow and Safety Protocols
Copy YourMachine.PST to YourMachine_Backup_2024.PST . Never edit the live file until you’ve tested it on an offline copy.
Mastercam Post Processor Editing: A Comprehensive Guide to Customization