Should CNC post-processing remain a difficult and exclusive technology that only a few can understand?

Our response is a resounding “no.”

CNC post-processing has always been seen as a tough, expert-only area. Let’s explore why this is the case—and why it’s time to make things easier for everyone.

1. Complicated CNC Post Processor Editors

The post-processor editors inside most CAM software are really hard to use. These tools often require programming knowledge, using languages like Visual Basic or JavaScript. They are like basic text editors that don’t allow for easy adjustments, such as angular tool support, multi-channel mill turn functionality, specialized positioning moves between operations, or distinct positioning styles limited to simultaneous operations. This makes it difficult for most users to modify post-processors to suit their needs, keeping it out of reach for many.

2. You Need Advanced Programming Skills

Just knowing G-codes (NC programs) isn’t enough. To fully use these post-processor editors, users often need programming skills similar to a software developer. This high skill requirement makes post-processing harder for many machinists and CAM users.

3. Limited Access from CAM Vendors

Many CAM software companies restrict or even block access to post-processor editing, forcing users to rely on resellers or developers for small changes. This keeps users dependent and makes post-processing a slow, frustrating part of the process.

4. Lack of Documentation and Training

There aren’t many good learning resources for post-processor editing. The few materials that are available often don’t provide enough information for users to understand how to edit post-processors properly. Without good training, even eager learners are left confused.

5. Knowledge Isn’t Shared

There are many experts in CNC post-processing who keep their knowledge to themselves, either to make money from their skills or because they want to keep the advantage. Some resellers prefer to keep users from learning how to edit post-processors so they can charge for the service or sell software upgrades.

Together, these factors make CNC post-processing feel like an exclusive area, but that needs to change. Post-processing is an essential part of improving CNC operations, and more people should have the chance to learn it.

We believe that skilled CAM programmers and machinists can learn post-processing too.
1. Many CAM Programmers and Machinists Are Already Experts

In many companies, experienced CAM software users often become better at using the software than the trainers who taught them. These users spend a lot of time working on real projects, improving their skills as they go. If they can master CAM software, why not post-processing? Their experience on the shop floor gives them the understanding they need to succeed.

2. Knowing G-Codes Gives a Strong Start

Some people think writing G-codes manually is old-fashioned, but it’s still a valuable skill. The best machinists often know how to write G-codes by hand, which gives them a big advantage. They can easily adapt to CNC post-processing because they already understand how G-codes control the machine.

Why Change is Needed?

Some people argue that CNC post-processors are too complicated or sensitive for general use, but we disagree. If skilled CAM users and machinists can handle advanced programming and machining, they’re more than capable of managing their own post-processors too.

What’s missing?

A simple, easy-to-use tool that lets people edit post-processors without needing to be programming experts. Up until now, most post-processor editors have been too difficult for the average user.

Meet MANUSpost Developer
That’s where #MANUSpostdeveloper comes in. We’ve created this tool to make CNC post-processing easier for everyone. With MANUSpostdeveloper, anyone interested in improving their post-processing skills can now do so without needing advanced programming knowledge. This tool is designed to open up new opportunities for users to customize and optimize their CNC operations.

Conclusion

It’s time to make CNC post-processing accessible to more people. Skilled CAM programmers and machinists already have the knowledge to work with post-processors—they just need the right tools. With #MANUSpostdeveloper, they now have the power to take control of their CNC operations and make changes themselves. Let’s make CNC post-processing easier and more accessible to everyone.