WHAT TYPE OF FILE OR EXTENSION IS USED TO LOAD A DESIGN IN A CNC ROUTER?

The computerized milling machines or CNC routers (Computerized Numerical Control) are very modern machines controlled by a computer and when operating move with high precision thanks to the commands received through a digital file in which are the precise instructions of how to process the material (such as cutting or engraving) whether it is a wood, acrylic, aluminum or any other similar or derivative.

Most CNC routers use a G code which contains all the information translated into coordinates which the router’s controller interprets and translates into movements, speeds, revolutions, etc. of the spindle or motor.

As we said previously, these instructions are created through a digital file in CAM software (Design Software), these programs convert a cut, engraved or mixed design into the G code that the CNC router needs to work. In the market, there are a variety of design programs and some work with their type or file extension, but among the most common to make 2D or 3D designs are DXF or DWG among others.

Now, each CNC router also has a controller software or means of communication that allows interpreting the design, that can be a software installed in a computer that in turn is communicated with the router via USB or a DSP control, the latter in essence is my computer with limited and specific commands to load the design file or transfer it to the CNC router, this system or method is prevalent, simple, reliable and economic and some of our Qustom CNC router models use it.