You don’t need to build a 5-axis, dual-spindle Swiss post from scratch. Even skilled integrators take weeks to do that. Start small:
Test, iterate, and document every change with comments (using #).
When you stop blaming the post and start commanding it, you aren’t just a CAM programmer anymore—you’re a machine whisperer.
Have a specific post editing nightmare? Share your error code in the comments below. Chances are, someone has already fixed it with three lines of MP logic.
Mastercam Post Processor Editing: A Comprehensive Guide
Mastercam is a popular computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software used by machinists and manufacturers to create and optimize G-code for CNC machines. One of the key components of Mastercam is the post processor, which plays a crucial role in converting the CAM software's output into a format that can be read by the CNC machine. In this article, we will explore the world of Mastercam post processor editing, including its importance, basic concepts, and step-by-step editing techniques.
Why Edit Mastercam Post Processors?
Post processors are essentially translators that convert Mastercam's output into a specific CNC machine's language. While Mastercam provides a range of built-in post processors for various CNC machines, there may be instances where a custom post processor is required. This could be due to:
Basic Concepts of Mastercam Post Processors
Before diving into post processor editing, it's essential to understand the basic concepts:
Step-by-Step Guide to Editing Mastercam Post Processors
Editing a Mastercam post processor requires a basic understanding of programming concepts and the post processor syntax. Here are the general steps: mastercam post processor editing
Common Post Processor Editing Tasks
Some common tasks that may require post processor editing include:
Best Practices and Tips
When editing Mastercam post processors, keep the following best practices and tips in mind:
In conclusion, Mastercam post processor editing is a powerful way to customize and optimize the output of your CAM software. With a basic understanding of post processor concepts and syntax, users can make targeted changes to improve the machining process. By following best practices and tips, users can ensure that their edited post processors produce accurate and efficient G-code for their CNC machines.
Mastercam Post Processor Editing: A Comprehensive Guide
Mastercam is a popular computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software used by machinists and manufacturers to create and optimize G-code for CNC machines. A crucial component of Mastercam is the post processor, which converts the CAM software's internal code into a format that can be read by the CNC machine. However, sometimes the standard post processor needs to be edited or customized to meet specific requirements. In this article, we'll delve into the world of Mastercam post processor editing and explore its importance, benefits, and best practices.
What is a Post Processor?
A post processor is a software component that translates the toolpath and machining operations generated by Mastercam into a G-code file that the CNC machine can understand. The post processor is responsible for:
Why Edit a Post Processor?
There are several reasons why you might need to edit a Mastercam post processor: You don’t need to build a 5-axis, dual-spindle
How to Edit a Mastercam Post Processor
To edit a Mastercam post processor, you'll need:
The post processor editing process typically involves:
Best Practices for Mastercam Post Processor Editing
When editing a Mastercam post processor, keep the following best practices in mind:
Conclusion
Mastercam post processor editing is a powerful way to customize and optimize your CAM workflow. By understanding the basics of post processor editing, you can improve CNC machine compatibility, add custom operations, and enhance efficiency. Remember to follow best practices, such as backing up the original post processor and thoroughly testing changes. With this guide, you're ready to dive into the world of Mastercam post processor editing and take your machining operations to the next level.
Additional Resources
By providing a comprehensive overview of Mastercam post processor editing, this article aims to serve as a valuable resource for machinists, manufacturers, and CAM software users. Whether you're a seasoned expert or just starting out, this guide will help you navigate the world of post processor editing and unlock the full potential of your Mastercam software.
Editing Mastercam post processors allows you to customize G-code output to perfectly match your CNC machine’s requirements, reducing the need for risky manual code modifications. Safe Editing Practices
Always Create a Backup: Before making any changes, copy your original .pst file and store it in a safe location. Test, iterate, and document every change with comments
Use Proper Tools: While standard text editors work, Mastercam Code Expert is recommended for its built-in recognition of variables and operators.
Utilize the Debugger: Enable the debugger in Mastercam to step through the post-processing routine. This helps you identify exactly which part of the post processor code is generating specific lines of G-code. Common Customization Steps
Open the File: Locate your post processor file (typically with a .pst extension) in the Shared Mastercam directory. Identify Modifications: Common edits include:
Tool Change Logic: Adjusting commands to match specific machine tool changer requirements.
Spindle & Coolant Control: Modifying M-codes (e.g., changing coolant start/stop timing).
Custom Macros: Adding safety checks or proprietary machine functions.
Test with Simple Toolpaths: After saving changes, test the post on a simplified part with only one or two toolpaths to verify the output before running it on a machine. Advanced Support and Resources Mastercam Post Processor User Guide - CLaME
This document presents a comprehensive technical deep dive into the architecture, logic, and methodology of editing Mastercam Post Processors. It is structured for CNC programmers, manufacturing engineers, and post processor developers seeking to move beyond basic modifications into structural customization.
At the top of the .PST file, you will find critical switches:
# General Output Settings
progname$ : 1 # Use program name from Mastercam
spaces$ : 0 # Add spaces between addresses (0=no, 1=yes)
omitseq$ : yes # Omit sequence numbers?
seqno$ : 2 # Start sequence number at N2
Example Edit: To force an imperial output, find fastmode$ and metrictool$ and set them appropriately.
# CUSTOM EDIT: Changed from M08 to M88 for thru-spindle coolant on 2026-04-13
if coolant$ = 1, pbld, n$, "M88", e$ # Was M08
The post must decide between G02 (CW) and G03 (CCW). The variable gcode$ usually dictates the movement type.