Computer Numerical Control (CNC)

Computer Numerical Control (CNC) is the logical capability of driving a machine tool — mill, lathe, router, EDM, laser cutter, additive printer — through programmed instructions (typically G-code) generated by CAM tooling. CNC turns the CAM tool path into deterministic, repeatable, sub-millimetre motion of cutters, tables, and spindles.

What it covers

• G-code execution — interpreting ISO 6983 / ISO 14649 (STEP-NC) instructions.
• Multi-axis kinematics — 3-axis, 4/5-axis, mill-turn, Swiss-style, and parallel kinematics.
• Tooling and offsets — tool-length compensation, cutter radius compensation, work offsets.
• Probing and adaptive control — in-process measurement and feed-rate adaptation.
• Controller portfolio — Siemens Sinumerik, FANUC, Heidenhain, Mazak, Mitsubishi.

Relationships (see sidebar)

• Supports CAM / Manufacturing Planning, Manufacturing Execution, and Detailed Design.
• Dependency of the CAM Programming capability — CAM emits the tool path that the CNC consumes.
• Closely related to subtractive manufacturing planning and DFM/DFA review.