What’s new with Mastercam 2017?

A quick briefing with CNC Software President Megan Summers and Senior Market Analyst Ben Mund gave me a look at Mastercam 2017.


The release of Mastercam 2017 follows the largest public beta program CNC Software has ever conducted. Mastercam 2017 is packed full of functionality that Beta testers from around the world asked to see included in the release – requests after actual test cuts in shops where users were able to tell CNC Software what and why they needed these features.

The top three areas that stand out are:

  1. Streamlined workflow: Make it so users can find and use the power tools – increasing the ability to use the under-used functionalities that used to be hidden. So, CNC Software engineers changed the accessibility of the software and the flow. It’s as simple as left to right, simple to complex. Items are grouped and it simple for programmers to see what they are doing. Today, users are implement many more of the available tools in Mastercam 2017 because they are at their fingertips. They are now getting more out of their software, with new and seasoned users finding they are up to speed within 2 days.
  2. Get the part onto the machine: Programmers need to make sure the model is ready and workholding is tailored to job for the most efficient reach and motion. Then, they need to take the model and get it on and off the machine fast. So engineers at CNC software further enhanced the Dynamic Motion toolpaths – one of the first physics-based stock-aware toolpath engines –  by expanding the driver for milling plus other machining processes along with smarter options such as line-of-site, micro-lifts, shortened cycle times, and the creation of smaller NC codes. In addition, Dynamic Motion helps users see a dramatic decrease in the time a part is on the machine, the number of inserts used. In some cases, users are seeing up to 90% savings in part cost production. Finally, there’s expanded power for complex machining; smarter fundamental operations such as material-aware drilling; and smarter advanced operations, such as automated multi-axis rotary milling. Mastercam 2017 also offers more support for more mill-turn machines, wider support for efficiency-conscious twin-turrets, and more efficient workflow with safer cutting.
  3. And users want to know how they can maintain their competitive edge: After the downturn in 2008, today’s busy shops want to keep busy and remain competitive long into the future. Users feel confident with CNC Software because the company is committed to manufacturing education – helping schools, students, and students’ parents know that manufacturing is a good job with portable skills that pays well; CNC Software offers professional training and certification, and has the largest CAM community in the world.

To learn more about CNC Software, click here.