Advanced Programming - Post Processor

A "post processor" is a computer program which is used to translate data from one format to another format.  The postprocessor adapts computer-aided design data format, output by Router-CIM and AutoCAD programs, to a particular NC machine tool format.  The NC machine format is actually a format required by a specific machine-tool/control-unit combination.  This is necessary because each machine tool has its own characteristics.

 

The rules and regulations that govern the translation from one data format to another is provided by an international standard named EIA-RS-274-D. The standard represents a common method of translation of each machine activity into a special code for the machine tool.  The standard allows for optional codes to be defined so that machine tool manufacturers have latitude in choosing machine codes.

 

The postprocessor translates AutoCAD data (.DXF) into M and G codes (EIA-RS-274-D) using the basic principals provided in the international standard.  Additional translation methods are provided to address translation requirements that vary from the standard.

 

NOTE: You should only change post processor files after consulting CIM-Tech.  An improper setting/change could cause a failure in Router-CIM that may be hard to track down or troubleshoot.

 

Refer to the following sections for more information: