What’s New in

Welcome
Thank you for purchasing MastercamV-9. Whether you are upgrading from a
previous version or using Mastercam for the first time we are confident that Version
9 will be an excellent addition to your company. Feel free to print this document out
and use it to become familiar with many of the new and powerful functions created
for Version 9.

As you read this document there may be references to sample files that can be
used to better understand the functionality. These files are included as an option
during the installation process. If you choose not to include them initially they can
be installed at a later date.

This document is broken into several sections designed to make it easy for users
to find specific changes for the products they use. The What’s New in V-9
information is available as both an HTML and a Word document located in the
MCAM9 directory.

Use the table of contents to move between sections of this document that apply to
the Mastercam products you use.
 Table of Contents

Design Mill Level 3

Translators Mill Multiaxis

Solids Lathe

Mill Entry Wire

Mill Level 1 Post Processors

Mill Level 2
Design and other General Features
Improved handling of Inch and Metric parts
Prior to Version 9 users had to be careful when working with files that were created in units
other than the system default, especially with Toolpaths and Solids.
 • All part files now store information regarding the units used to create it, when a file
is loaded the configuration file with the correct Units will be loaded if it is not
already the default.
• Files can be converted from Inch to Metric or Metric to Inch by going into Screen,
Configure and changing the current configuration file from one unit to another.
When the file is saved it will store the units it was converted to. Users also have the
ability to have Mastercam automatically scale the part during this process.
• The icon at the lower-left corner of the screen also includes the current system units
as well.

Some of the sample files used as examples areonly available in Inch or Metric to serve as
an example of this new functionality.

Chaining option - Surface Edges available for Single Selection

A new chaining option allowing users to select a surface edge when in Single selection
mode is now available. Prior to Version 9 users first had to create edge curves on the
surface first. With this option set the system will automatically create the edge curve and
use it with the function currently in use. Use the sample part Surface Edge Selection.MC9
to experiment with this new capability.

Chaining option – Sorting of Nested Chains

Since the release of Mastercam’snew Nesting product there has been a need to allow more
control over the sorting of chains during selection. This is critical when creating
toolpathsfor a Router because of how the material is held on the table. The machine needs
to cut the inside nested chains first before the outer chains. Here users can select Inside to
Out, Outside to Inside, including optimization. There is also a new switch to reverse the
direction of inner chains so compensation of Contour toolpathswill happen on the correct
side. You can load Nested Chain Sorting.MC9 to see the results of each option.

Chaining Option – Dynamic Start Positions

Mastercam has always relied on endpoints, and in some cases the midpoints, of entities to
create toolpaths. In Version 9 users have the ability to dynamically change the start point of
a chain to anywhere along the chains boundary. This can be done during the initial chain
selection by selecting the Change Start menu option or by editing existing toolpathswith the
Start Point option found in the Chain Manager accessed through the geometry icon in the
Operations Manager. This capability is available in both Mill and Lathe.
Expanded Attributes Settings
The Style / Width dialog box found in the Version 8 secondary menu has been enhanced to
include all possible attributes. Users can still change Color and Level independently, but
they can also set them along with Line Style, Line Width, and Point Style in one location.

Printing and Plotting line widths

As printers and plotters have been introduce with higher resolution the lines output from
Mastercamhave become increasingly harder to see. This has been especially difficult when
faxing the output. With Version 9 users can control the pixel width of the printed output.
This will create bolder prints without forcing the user to modify their line widths in the
MC9 file. This change affects printing and plotting only when Windows drivers are used.
Defaults for this and other settings can be set in Screen, Configure, CAD Settings,
Hardcopy.

Entity Attribute Manager

In response to many user requests for more ways to manage the geometry inside of
Mastercamwe have created the Entity Attribute Manager. This new function, found under
the Attributes button in the secondary menu, allows users to set specific rules for what
attributes are used in the creation of entities. With minimal keystrokes users can setup the
system so that all dimensions are created on Level 100, in Red, with a Line Width of 2. As
long as the Entity Attribute Manager is active all dimensions will be created with those
attributes without forcing the user to set them before starting. The same rules can be
applied to existing files or during translations from IGES, DWG or any other file format
supported by Mastercam. To access the EA Manager open the Attributes dialog box,
activate the EA Mgr switch, and press the EA Mgr button.
Autosave
A new option to save the part after every Toolpathoperation is created or generated has
been added. Instead of being strictly time based the system will save the file when
important data is being created.

Improved Selection Masking

With Version 9 it is now easier to set a specific selection mask. A new tree structure
improves access to all entity types. The attributes information is now available on the same
dialog box, making it much more efficient to define your selection mask.
View Manager
In an effort to make working with named views for Graphics, Construction, and Toolpaths,
we have created the View Manager. Users can now create, name, edit, and activate named
views from a single dialog box. The View Manager can be accessed from the Named menu
option in C-Plane and T-plane found on the secondary menu. The View Manager is also
part of the new WCS functionality

Working Coordinate Systems

One of the changes inside of Version 9 that can greatly increase productivity in many ways
is the new WCS, or Work Coordinate System. The WCS is found in the secondary menu
and is part of the new View Manager dialogbox. Mastercamhas always been a 3D product
with a single Work Coordinate System defined around the Top View. The WCS provides
the ability to temporarily reassign which View is the Top. This is especially helpful when
working with Aerospace or Automotive parts that were created in the orientation to where
they are being used in the whole project. Use the sample files WCS 1.MC9 and WCS
2.MC9 to experiment with this powerful feature.

Improved Right-Click Menu

Options for Dynamic Pan and Zoom have been added to the right-click menu. A new
option in Screen, Configure, Screenallows the use of “Free Mode” during Dynamic spin.
This method of dynamically rotating the part is similar to many of today’s current CAD
products.

Delete Duplicates
Users now have the ability to determine exactly what defines a duplicate entity. In
previous versions of Mastercamonly X, Y, Z coordinates were considered when
determining duplicates. Unfortunately this could remove geometry that users wanted to
keep. Now users can use any combination of attributes to determine if two entities are
identical. Load Delete Duplicates.MC9 and follow the instructions found in File,
Properties.
Alternate Configurations at Startup
With Version 9 users can use any configuration file when starting Mastercam. Prior to this
change the software would always start with either the Inch or the Metric configuration file
for the system defaults. This always forced users to load customized configfiles, which
could easily be forgotten. Now multiple users on the same system can customize the
Mastercamshortcuts to load their specific configurations. By editing the target line in the
Mastercam shortcut any customized CFG file can be loaded at startup.

Analyze - Small Surfaces

From time to time users have run into problems with surface files created on other CAD
systems. We often find small surfaces lying on top of existing surfaces that complicate
calculations or give results that a less than desired. This has especially been apparent while
developing some of the new Solids capabilities for Version 9. The small surfaces function
allows the user to specify a minimum surface area. It interrogates the part, identifies the
surfaces smaller than the designated area and allows the user to change the color so they
then can decide what to do with them. The part Small Surfaces.MC9 contains an extra
surface that creates an open sheet solid; follow the directions in the File, Properties of the
MC9 file to experiment with this feature. These small surfaces affect toolpathsnegatively as
well. We often find surfaces that have an area smaller than the total tolerance for
machining. Most of the time these small surfaces have little effect on the final toolpath, but
they can slow down calculations. It can be helpful to analyze every CAD Model that is
imported for surface machining. Set the minimum surface area to be the same as your
toolpath tolerance, then you can identify and deal with any small surfaces that exist in the
part.

Analyze – Check Solid

As more and more people import Solids from other systems into Mastercam we are
discovering that some of the imported data contains errors that cause problems with
Toolpaths. The Check Solid option interrogates a Solid to identify any problems that could
result in bad toolpaths. Check Solid is found in the Analyze, Surfaces menu just below the
Small Surfaces option.

Analyze Edit - Redefine

A redefine button has been introduced for Lines, Arcs, and Points. This enables the user to
completely recreate the entity without changing it’sID#. This is especially useful when
drastic changes need to be made to Wireframe entities used in Solids or Toolpathcreation.
Prior to this change users were forced move each endpoint one at a time.

Create
All of the functions found on the second page of the Create menu have been modified to
increase efficiency and ease of use.

Create – Chamfer
This functions dialog box has been redefined for ease of use. Select the method of 1
Distance, 2 Distances, or Distance and Angle, and the dialog box changes to prompt for the
correct input. This function also supports line-to-arc and arc-to-arc chamfers in addition to
the line-to-line capabilities found in Version 8.
Create - Letters
This function has been greatly simplified and reorganized with a single dialog box. Now
each of the 3 methods works identically.

Create – Pattern
A simplified interface along with the ability to preview parts before they are loaded makes
this feature easier to use.
Create – Ellipse and Polygon
These functions have been improved with an easier interface and more feedback to users so
there is no guesswork in what is being created.
Create – Bounding Box
This useful function has been upgraded for Version 9 with a Dialog Box that matches the
one found in Job Setup.

Create – Spiral/Helix
The ability to create Spirals and Helixes has been added to the long list of Create options
available in Mastercam. This function incorporates the abilities of the Spiral and Thelix c-
hook utilities into a single, easy to use, dialog box.

Create – Add-Ins
This new menu contains three items, Fplot, Gear, and Htable. These are standard C-hooks
that have been distributed with Mastercamfor several versions. Creating the Add-ins menu
frees up more room in Create, and makes more room for users and 3rd party software
developers to add new features.
Modify – Drag
A new dialog box improves the interaction at the same time more capabilities have been
added.

Xform – Squash
The Squash functionality available in Version 8 only as a c-hook utility has been added to
Xform. Squash enables users to flatten geometry on to the current Construction Plane at a
desired depth. Use the sample Squash.MC9 to experiment with this capability.
Xform – Scale and Scale XYZ
These two functions have been combined into a single dialog box. Users have the option of
Uniform or XYZ scaling. When a type is selected the dialog box changes to allow for the
input needed for that option.

Entities in Background Color

Now when users are warned about entities in the background color they are given an
opportunity to change the color immediately.

Dialog Box Focus

Version 9 will now remember the last tab visible in a specific dialog box and make it visible
the next time the function is entered. A nice feature when working with dialog boxes with
multiple tabs.

Function Key Mapping

Function key mapping has been expanded to include F11 and F12.
Translators

The ability to translate part data from other CAD/CAM systems into Mastercamhas always
been one of our products strengths. In Version 9 this advantage has been improved even
more.

DWG, DXF, and Inventor support at no charge

We have changed the engine we use for translation of AutoCAD files. In making this
change we have increased the reliability of translations, including support for version
earlier than R-13. At the same time we can now support Inventor version 5.0 files.

STL transform
The ability to modify and save STL files has been added with a new Xformcapability.
Users can Mirror, Rotate, Scale, Change Normals and other things to manipulate STL
models for use in Toolpath creation or for stock in Toolpath verification.

Support for the latest releases of ACIS, Parasolids, and STEP

As always we have made sure we are using the absolute latest version of these powerful
engines to insure compatibility. Version 9 supports Parasolids 13.2, and ACIS 7.0 to make
us compatible with industry leading Solid modelers.

Support for SolidWorks config information

Users are automatically prompted when an SLDPRT file contains more than one
Configuration. This allows users to load specific sections of an SLDPRT file. To see this
interaction use File, Converters, Parasolids, set the file type to SLDPRT and select
SLIDING TABLE.SLDPRT, there are two different configurations in this file that can be
loaded showing different version of the part.

New optional Pro-E translator

CNC Software has entered into an agreement with Pro-E to use their newest translator
engine called Granite. This gives us the ability to directly read in Solids from Pro-E and
turn them in to Solids that Mastercamcan use. See your Dealer for pricing information.

Solid healing during translation

This is a configurable option that allows Mastercamto automatically attempt to heal
imperfect Solids during the translation process. This switch can be set in Screen,
Configure, Files, in the Converters dialog box. This function is only supported when
MastercamSolids has been purchased. See you Dealer for more information.
Solids
MastercamSolids has been improved in significant ways for Version 9. From simple
changes to make creation and modification easier to the introduction of important new
capabilities Mastercam Solids is becoming an important part of every designer’s daily
tools. Most of these new capabilities are further explained and used in examples in
chapters 8 and 9 of the Solids Tutorial. Mastercam Solids is an option that can be added to
your version of Mastercam. Contact your dealer for pricing.

Extrusion - Modification
From within the Solids Manager users can now turn a Cut Body operation to an Add Boss
operation, or the reverse if needed. Prior to Version 9 users had to delete the operation and
re-create it instead of editing it in the Solids Manager.

Combine Operations
When multiple chains were selected to create cuts or bosses with Extruded, Revolved, or
Swept Solids in previous versions a new operation was created for each chain. In Version
9 users can select Combine Ops, which will create a single operation for all of the chains.
This is especially helpful when each chain will always have identical parameters.

Modify Solid Attributes from within the Solids Manager

Without leaving the Solid Manager users can now modify the attributes of a Solidsby
accessing this option in the right-click menu.

Solids Layout
The Layout C-hook utility created for Version 8 is now part of the menu options in Version
9. This makes it easier to create detailed multi-view layouts of your Solid models. Refer to
the Solids Tutorial for instructions on using this useful feature.

Surfaces can be converted to Sheet Solids

Version 9 gives users the ability to convert single and multiple surfaces into a Sheet Solid.
Sheet solids can be used for creating and modifying other Solids as well as machining and
offer users more options flexibility.

Thickening of Sheet Solids

Once a user has created a Sheet Solid they can thicken them so they have volume and in
turn become a Solid Body. This capability increases the flexibility of Solids by including
surfaces in the process.
Surfaces can be converted to Solid Bodies
Users often receive surface files that originated from another Solid Modeler. Until Version
9 these surface files could never be used to create a Solid. The same functionality that
allows the creation of Sheet Solids can also be used to sew together surfaces that form a
watertight model. This model becomes a Solid Body that can be further manipulated with
Mastercam Solids.

Feature Recognition
Now that Surfaces can be turned into a Solid the next step is identifying some of the
features that make up that Solid. In Version 9 Mastercam is introducing the recognition of
circular holes and fillets. Both through holes and blind holes are recognized. Wireframe
geometry, which is used for associativityis created, and new operations for future editing
are added to the Solid Manager. Recognized Fillets are also added to the Solids Manager
for future editing as well. This represents the first step in more powerful feature
recognition inside of MastercamSolids. This useful feature adds definition to any Solids
file translated into Mastercam, no matter what system was used to originally create it.

Face Removal
With Version 9 users can selectively identify faces from a Solid and remove them, turning
the Solid into an Open Solid Body. In place of the removed face a user can then sew in a
surface that to once again create a Solid Body with all of it’s history in tact.

Splitting of Solids
In previous versions users were always prohibited from performing an operation on a Solid
that would result in more than one solid being created as a result. This would generate an
error message saying disjoint Solids are not allowed. In Version 9 users have the option to
split Solids with Boolean and Trim operations and keep all of the resulting Solid Bodies.

Recreate Trim Bodies

In the case where you split a model with the Trim function and forget to keep both sides, an
option existing in the Solids Manager to recreate the trimmed body without having to redo
the operation. Right-click on the trim operation and select Recreate Trimmed Bodies, the
trimmed section will be restored.
Mill Entry
The following features and enhancements are available in Mill Entry. They are also
available in Levels 1, 2, and 3.
Work Coordinate System support
Not only is the new Work Coordinate System supported in Design, it is available for Entry
users as well. Given the limitation of Entry only creating Toolpaths in the Top view the
addition of the WCS makes creating toolpaths in Entry even easier.

Fewer Regens make editing quick

With the introduction of Version 9 users will be able to modify any of the Tool Parameter
fields highlighted in yellow without being forced to regenerate the Operation. This change
affects all toolpaths and will be a big time saver.

New Compensation controls

Version 9 borrows from an idea first implemented in our Router product, the simplification
of compensation controls. Now users choose the type of compensation and the side in 2
controls. Compensation options include Computer, Control, Wear, Reverse Wear, and Off.
This change also allows users to turn off compensation and still use entry and exit moves.
Clearance Plane control
Another feature created in Router and added to Version 9 is a new way to handle the
Clearance Plane. Now users can choose to have the tool move to the Clearance plane on
ever retract or just at the beginning and end of an operation.

Canned Text Added to Drilling

Now users can add Canned Text to drill operations as they are defined with the same
interface found in “Change at Point” for Contour operations.
Feeds and Speeds Calculator
The feeds and speeds calculations in Version 9 have been improved to take the tool material
into account along with the stock material in calculating the feeds and speeds. The
calculator is also available as a right-click option on the tool parameter page to give users
access to while a toolpath is being created.

Dynamic Start Positions

Mastercam has always relied on endpoints, and in some cases the midpoints, of entities to
create toolpaths. In Version 9 users have the ability to dynamically change the start point of
a chain to anywhere along the chains boundary. This can be done during the initial chain
selection by selecting the Change Start menu option or by editing existing toolpathswith the
Start Point option found in the Chain Manager accessed through the geometry icon in the
Operations Manager.

Job Setup – Bounding Box

The Bounding Box option in Job Setup is now identical to that found under the Create
menu. The big changes include the ability to create geometry while defining stock.
Job Setup – Safety Zones
Users can now define an optional Rectangular, Spherical, and Cylindrical safety zones
around their material. The Safety Zone acts to force the tool outside anytime it is involved
in a rapid move between operations. This is useful in situations where the use of a
Clearance Plane may not ensure tool safety.
New Filter options
Users can now limit arc creation to specific planes during the filtering process.

Custom Tool Geometry stored in the MC9 file

Now users who require custom tools can create them and save them inside of the
Mastercampart file. When using the undefined tool type users can specify if the tool is
stored to an external MC9 file or to a level. The benefit of storing it to a level is that the
tool will always be with the part, even if used on another system. The definition can then
automatically used by Backplot and Verify.

Defer Loading NCI in File, Get

As files get larger and more complex they can take longer to load. We have had many
requests to be able to load files quicker, especially if all the user wants to do is view the file
for reasons other than toolpathcreation. A switch in the File, Get, dialogbox has been added
that allows the MC9 file to be loaded without the NCI data. Once the file is loaded the user
can continue to work on it as they normally would. If any function requiring the toolpath
data is invoked the toolpath data is automatically loaded.
Automatic Countersink Depth Calculations
Prior to Version 9 users had to do hand calculations to determine the depth of a drilling
operation to give them the desired countersink diameter. A new depth calculator has been
added to Drilling operations to automatically calculate the depth based on a user specified
diameter. The calculator gets the tool diameter, angle, and tip diameter direct from the tool
itself. All the user has to input is the desired diameter. This new feature is not limited to
just drills, it works with any tapered tool.
Mill Level 1
Mill Level 1 includes all of the improvements from Mill Entry plus those listed below.
Highspeed Pocketing
The highspeed pocket toolpathsintroduced in Version 8 for Surfaces has been improved and
migrated down to 2D pocketing. Options exit for Trochoidalcutting motion when the tool
encounters Full Material or for the Entire Pocket. Users also have control over the Loop
Radius and Spacing.

Transform of Transform Operations

Users can now transform the results of a transform operation instead of creating new
operations in the first Transform and using them in subsequent transforms.

Slot Milling
A new option found in the Circle Toolpathsmenu is for Slot Milling. This is designed
specifically for the milling of obroundslots. It contains a combination of Ramp Contour
and Circle Mill toolpaths.

Helical Boring
This new function is also found in the Circle Toolpaths, it is designed specifically for
Highspeedinsert cutters used for creating holes in all types of material. This toolpath uses a
downward helical motion to rough, performs a stepover at the bottom, and then helixes
back out of the part for the finish pass.

Thread Milling Support Tapered Threads

User requests have caused us to include new capabilities within the Thread Mill function to
support both internal and external tapered threads.
Pre-drill For Plunge Points
In a production environment users will frequently pre-drill plunge points to maximize
machine time and lessen tool wear. Now users can wait until all of their operations are
completed and then go back and automatically create drilling operations at each plunge
position.
Solid Drilling*
This new capability is built upon the Feature Recognition functions in Solids. It will
automatically identify both through, blind, and split holes in a Solid and create Drilling
toolpaths in a fashion similar to the Autodrillcapability introduced in Version 8. (This
function is only available if the Solids option has been purchased, contact your mastercam
dealer for details)

New Highfeed Machining Finish

The Highfeedmachining option in the Operations Manager has been improved on customer
request. Now users can use Highfeedonly to slow down and accelerate the cutter through
corners. The interface has been divided into Tabs with a separate tab for Finishing and
Roughing. Setting it up to control corner speeds is easier than ever.

Mill Level 2
Mill Level 2 includes all of the improvements from Mill Entry and Level 1 plus the
following.

Solid Faces used as Check Surfaces

Instead of being able to pick a whole Solid for a Check Body, users can now select a single
face of a Solid for a Check Surface.
Mill Level 3

Mill Level 3 includes all of the improvements from Mill Entry, Level 1, and Level
2 plus those listed below.

New Interface - Initial Selection of Toolpath Geometry or Files

The main menu for Surface Toolpathshas been reorganized to make the
selection of geometry quicker and easier. Options for Drive, Check, and
Containment geometry have been added, as well as an enhanced CAD file
capability.

Drive Surface Options

Users can set Drive Surface selection for, All surfaces, Select surfaces, or
Nosurfaces. All automatically selects every visible surface with no user
interaction. Select prompts the user for surfaces to be treated as drive
surfaces, No selects no surfaces and is most often used with the CAD file
option.

Check Surface Options

Users can set Check Surface selection to, Select surfaces, Unselected
surfaces, or Nosurfaces. Select surfaces will prompt the user for which
surfaces to use as check surfaces in the toolpath. Unselected surfaces will
automatically select all visible surfaces that were not selected as Drive
surfaces. No selects no surfaces or prompts the user for them

Contain Options
Users can set the Contain option to Yes or No. Yes, automatically prompts the
user for a tool containment boundary, No will not.
CAD File Options
In Version 8 we introduced the ability to machine directly from an STL file. The
ability to create surface toolpaths, even when no surface data is available,
makes it possible for users to cut data that has been scanned from a physical
part where no CAD file exists. It can serve as a way to do rapid prototyping
with outhaving access to specialized equipment. In Version 9 this capability
has been expanded to handle any type of file supported in our translator
functionality. The options are Yes or No. Yes will prompt the user for a CAD file
after all of the ToolpathParameters are filled in. Once a file has been selected
another menu appears with controls to handle the CAD file data. The interface
and functionality of these options are similar to those found in STL, Xformunder
the File, Converters menu. An additional option exists to Set the Stock in Job
Setup to help in Verification of the toolpaths.

New Interface - Parameter Options for Drive, Check, and

Containment
In previous versions, users were unable to modify which surfaces or
containment geometry that was to be used for the toolpath. This caused users
to have to either abort the operation and restart, or create the toolpathand
then modify it later in the Operations Manager. The interface has been
reworked to make it easy for operations to be updated quickly, giving users
complete control and feedback on exactly what geometry is being used for
each toolpath.

Drive Surface/Solid
Once inside of the parameters of a Surface Toolpath, users can quickly see
exactly how many Surfaces have been selected as Drive surfaces. The Select
button gives them access to the model where they can see which surfaces
have been selected and have the opportunity to add or remove additional drive
surfaces.

Check Surface/Solid
The check surface option works in exactly the same way the drive surfaces
selection works.

Tool Containment
Prior to Version 9, Mastercamonly supported Tool Center Boundaries, which
acted as a fence to keep the tool from passing beyond a specific area of a set
of surfaces. Users requested more options that would give them better control
of the tool along the boundary. Now users can choose to have the tool
contained along the boundary by compensating it inside, outside, or centered
on the boundary. An additional offset amount can also be applied to the
boundary choice.

New Interface – Expanded Geometry Icons in the Operations

Manager
In keeping with the improved interface for surface selection the Operations
Manager has also been updated to make change even easier than before. The
Geometry icon can now be expanded to show separate icons for drive surfaces,
check surfaces, containment boundaries, start points and CAD files. This
interface change makes it easier to modify specific options without interfering
with the others. It also makes it easier to grab geometry from one operation
and include it in another.
Toolpath Tolerance and Filtering combined
Surface toolpaths in Version 9 now allow users to enter a Total tolerance for the
toolpath. If toolpath filtering is desired the user can select the button and
enter into the Total Tolerance dialog box where they can select a ratio of filter
tolerance to initial cut tolerance for the toolpath. In the illustration below the
Total Tolerance for the toolpathis .001, with a ratio of Filter Tolerance to Cut
Tolerance of 2:1 the values are automatically calculated so the initial Cut
Tolerance is .00033 and the Filter Tolerance is .00067. These two tolerances
added together equal the Total Tolerance of .001.
Solid Hidden Face Processing
When creating surface toolpaths on a Solid the kernel interrogates the model
and only passes faces that are not hidden to the surface toolpathalgorithms.
This reduced set of surfaces simplifies calculations for Mastercam when
creating the toolpath. Cases exist where an extremely large number of faces
have brought the Solids kernel to a halt, unable to continue processing and
therefore unable to pass this information to Mastercam for toolpath calculation.
A switch, labeled “Skip hidden face test for Solid bodies” has been added to the
Advanced Settings dialog box found on the 3rd tab of surfaces toolpaths. In
almost all cases you will want to keep this switch turned off to let the Solid
kernel pass a limited set of surfaces to Mastercamfor machining. Use this case
only when it appears that the Solid kernel is bogged down and unable to
process all of the faces.
Improved Roughing Capabilities
Highspeed Pocketing
New options have been added to Highspeed pocketing to give users more
control over the toolpathmotion. Not only can users set the loop radius and
spacing, they can also apply the Trochoidal (looping) motion for the entire
toolpath instead of just when the tool encounters full material.

Alignment of Plunge Points in Pocketing

As is often the case in many pocket operations, the cavity being machined will
shrink in size with each additional Z cut. This change causes pocketing to
define a new plunge point for each Z depth, leaving multiple plunge points that
make it difficult to pre-drill for. When this option is activated in the parameter
section, pocketing will identify a plunge point common to each cavity and use it
as a plunge point for every change in Z. This makes using the new Start Hole
option referred to in the Level 1 section more productive.

Automatic Critical Depth Identification

Roughing with a constant Z toolpath is a very efficient way to remove large
amounts of material quickly. Constant Z roughing uses a Z step entered by the
user to control the depth of each new cut. Often models have flat sections that
do not lie on a specific Z plane that is common to the defined cut depth,this
can leave more material than desired on top of these flats. Users need the
ability to identify these flats in a model during roughing to adjust the step down
in Z. Prior to Version 9 users had to manually select each of the flat features,
now the Critical Depth interface will automatically identify and add these flats
to a list of depth cuts. Users can easily add or remove depth cuts from the list
in this same menu. The sample file Critical Depth Cuts.MC9 can be used to
see the difference this function makes.

Plunge Roughing Expanded

As plunge roughing tools become more specialized users have request greater
control over this option. In addition to the rectangular pattern in Version 8,
Mastercam now has the ability to use another toolpathas the XY pattern for
Plunge Roughing. Users can use any toolpath that has the desired motion in X
and Y and then use that toolpath as the pattern for plunge roughing.
Restmill
Restmillis now a stand-alone function that resides in the root menu of roughing.
It still contains all of the options found in Contour roughing as well as
specialized functions for computing remaining stock. Users can now choose
between a single previous operation, all previous operations, or they can
calculate remaining stock based on tool geometry values for diameter and
corner radius.

Helical Entry
Helical entry options have been added to roughing toolpaths for Plunge,
Contour, and Restmill.

Gap Settings
Users can now enter in a value for Tangential line length in the Gap Setting
dialog box. This coupled with the already existing Arc radius and angle gives a
new level of control over how the tool enters into the material being cut.
Project Blend
This new option allows toolpathsthat have been blended between 2 chains to
be projected onto multiple surfaces. The results are similar to a Flowline
toolpath without having to be concerning about the UV flow lines of the
selected surfaces.
Improvements in Finishing
Leftover
Leftover toolpathshave been improved to give more control over tool motion.
Users can limit Leftover to calculate a toolpathfor shallow areas only. It can cut
the leftover region with a tool motion that is perpendicular to the remaining
stock. Or it can use a hybrid option that will cut with a Constant Z approach
and then switch to a perpendicular motion.
Mill - Multiaxis
Multiaxis toolpaths in Version 9 have undergone extensive changes giving
users access to new powerful functions.

Geometry Interface
A new method for defining Cut Patterns, Tool Axis Control, Drive Surfaces, and
Check Surfaces has been implemented for most Multiaxis toolpaths. This
dialog box will appear first when creating Multiaxis toolpathsor when the
geometry icon in the Operations Manager is selected. See the Multiaxis sample
parts for specific examples.

Cut Pattern
The cut pattern works as a guide to determine how the toolpathwill be
generated. Users can pick an existing Surface or define parametric Cylinders,
Spheres, and Boxes that guide initial tool motion.
Tool Axis Control
This option allows users complete control on how the tool axis motion will be
controlled during toolpathgeneration. Using a surface for both the cut pattern
and the tool axis control will result in a Flowline like toolpath with the surface
normalscontrolling the too axis. Additional options give the ability to force the
tool axis to behave specific to the usersneeds. Including options to focus the
toolpath to or from a specific position, and the use of a closed boundary to
contain the tool axis.

Cut Surfaces
This option enables users to choose drive surfaces that are to be cut. Surfaces
other than the Pattern surface can be included.

Check Surfaces
This option allows users to define surfaces as check surfaces similar to 3 axis
milling.

Multisurface 5 axis
This new toolpathgives users the ability to Rough and Finish with the same
interface. The interface gives users control over Lead and Lag angles. Toolpath
stepover along and across the part. Options for zigzag, one-way, or spiral
toolpath motion, roughing parameters including number of depth cuts and
values for depth of cut.Point Generators, which are used to add additional tool
moves in areas of the part that change rapidly. Other options include the
ability for users to set Axis limits so toolpaths can not be created with angles
greater than the Milling machine can support.

Conical and Taper Cutters

Multiaxis toolpaths in Version 9 can also compensate for Conical and Tapered
cutters, giving greater flexibility in creating parts with undercuts.
Mill – New Backplot Controls
Run Mode Interruption
Users can begin backplottingin Run mode and then interrupt it by hitting the
Enter key. From there they can change parameters and switch to Step mode to
verify their toolpaths.

Display Dialog Box Interface

As options have increased in Backplotchanges have been made in the interface
to make it easy to modify. The interface gives users quick access to everything
needed to utilize backplot to it’s most potential.

Home Position
Users can now have the option to include moves to the Home Position while
using Backplot. Located on the General Tab, this option can be used to help
assure users that tool changes do not collide with the part in any way.

Save as Geometry
Now users have control over what Level Backplotted geometry is saved to,
including the Entity Attribute Manager. The three switches labeled Now,
Session, and Alwayscontrol when Geometry will be saved. Now will save
geometry for the occasion that backplot is run, Session will activate the saving
of geometry for the remainder of the current session. Always will turn it on
permanently.

Tool Profile
On the Appearance Tab users will find a setting for the display of the tool. Auto
will use one of the standard profiles for displaying the tool. As defined will read
each tool and represent it as it has been defined. This is important when using
custom tools.

Show Coordinates and Verbose Mode

Also found on the Appearance Tab is Show coordinates, which also allows
Verbose Mode to be activated. Show Coordinates works like it always has,
display X, Y, and Z values as the tool moves around the screen. Verbose Mode
displays all of the toolpath information for every step of the toolpath. This
includes the Toolpath Group Name, The Toolpath Type, The Operation ID
Number, and the Toolplaneused. Tool information like the Name, Diameter,
Corner Radius, and Coolant information also appear. That is followed by the X,
Y, Z values for each step and the type of move it is. G0 is a rapid move, G1 is a
linear feed move, G2 is a clockwise arc move, and a G3 is a counter clockwise
arc move. Following each move is the current feedrate. All of this information
allows users to see exactly what information will be sent to the Post.

Toolpath Motion Color

Not only can users set colors for backplot results, they can control the color of
each type of motion Mastercamcreates. Rapid, Feed, CW arcs, and CCW arcs
can all have a separate color to aid in the inspection of a toolpath.\
Lathe
Lathe contains all of the Design improvements listed previously in this document.
Automated Relief Cuts for Threading
Found in the Create menu, users can create geometry to describe thread relief grooves from
tables.

Display Tools and Stock Filled during Toolpath Generation

A switch in Job Setup allows for the Stock and Chucks to always be filled during Toolpath
creation.

Quick Toolpaths
Users can now control the Tool Filter display, Tool station number, and Program Number to
Quick Toolpaths.

Solids Chaining
With Version 9 Lathe users can create Toolpaths directly on a Solid without first having to
create additional entities.

Stock View Integration

The Stock View C-hook introduced after the release of Version 8 has been incorporated into
the Operations Manager and improved. This feature does not run in Lathe Entry.

Custom Tool Geometry Stored in the MC9 File

Just like in Mill, Lathe users are now able to store custom Tool Geometry in the MC9 file.
Tool Clearance Control
The Stock Update dialog box gives users control of Tool Clearance moves. They can come
from Job Setup or be modified in each Operation if desired.

Cutoff Display Control

In the same dialog box users can now control what to display after a Cutoff move.
Reference Points
Users now can control reference points similar to those found in Mill. This gives users
more flexibility for those parts where just a little more tool control is needed.

Toolpath Filtering
A toolpath Filter capable of creating arc moves has been added to Face, Roughing, Finish,
and Grooving toolpaths
Feeds and Speed Calculations
Now Version 9 Lathe can calculate feeds and speeds from both the stock material and the
tool material. Cutting speeds for threads have also been added to the calculator.

New Operations for Part Handling

Version 9 users now have the ability to perform miscellaneous part handling operations
inside of the Operations Manager and continue creating toolpathson the results. The Misc.
Ops menu gives users the ability to perform a Stock Transfer from one chuck to another, a
manual Stock Flip, Movement of a Chuck and Tailstock, and placement of a Steady Rest.
Use the Lathe Tutorial exercises to learn how to use these helpful new features.

Improved Definition of Tool Avoidance Boundaries

Job Setup has been expanded to include options for Steady Rests. It also has improved the
definition of Chucks, Tail Stock and the Stock itself.
Semi-finish pass in Roughing
Users can now create a semi-finish pass as part of any roughing operation. Users have
control over the amount of number of passes, step over amounts, and stock to leave all done
in one Operation with the same tool to better prepare the part for the next step.
Improved Overlap Control in Roughing
Version 9 gives greater control over overlap in roughing. Instead of forcing an overlap on
every pass, users can now control it by angle. Once the tool reaches the angle entered by
the user it begins created overlapped passes during the rough operation.

Automatic Corner Break in Finish

Now users don’t have to create those small corner breaks called out in a print. Instead they
can let Mastercamdo it for them. This simple dialog box gives users complete control over
the creation of fillets and chamfers.
Improved Finishing in Irregular Shaped Grooves
Users can now rough and finish grooves that were defined with the Chain selection. This
will save an extra finish operation.

Spot Drilling Depth Calculated by Diameter

Similar to how Countersinks work in Mill Lathe users can set a depth of a Drill operation
based on a desired diameter at the surface of the stock.
Lathe – New Backplot Controls
Run Mode Interruption
Users can begin backplottingin Run mode and then interrupt it by hitting the Enter key.
From there they can change parameters and switch to Step mode to verify their toolpaths.

Display Dialog Box Interface

As options have increased in Backplotchanges have been made in the interface to make it
easy to modify. The interface gives users quick access to everything needed to utilize
backplot to it’s most potential.

Home Position
Users can now have the option to include moves to the Home Position while using
Backplot. Located on the General Tab, this option can be used to help assure users that tool
changes do not collide with the part in any way.

Save as Geometry
Now users have control over what Level Backplotted geometry is saved to, including the
Entity Attribute Manager. The three switches labeled Now, Session, and Alwayscontrol
when Geometry will be saved. Now will save geometry for the occasion that backplot is
run, Session will activate the saving of geometry for the remainder of the current session.
Always will turn it on permanently.
Tool Profile
On the Appearance Tab users will find a setting for the display of the tool. Auto will use
one of the standard profiles for displaying the tool. As defined will read each tool and
represent it as it has been defined. This is important when using custom tools.

Show Coordinates and Verbose Mode

Also found on the Appearance Tab is Show coordinates, which also allows Verbose Mode
to be activated. Show Coordinates works like it always has, display X, Y, and Z values as
the tool moves around the screen. Verbose Mode displays all of the toolpath information
for every step of the toolpath. This includes the Toolpath Group Name, The Toolpath Type,
The Operation ID Number, and the Toolplaneused. Tool information like the Name,
Diameter, Corner Radius, and Coolant information also appear. That is followed by the X,
Y, Z values for each step and the type of move it is. Following each move is the current
feedrate. All of this information allows users to see exactly what information will be sent
to the Post.

Toolpath Motion Color

Not only can users set colors for backplot results, they can control the color of each type of
motion Mastercamcreates. Rapid, Feed, CW arcs, and CCW arcs can all have a separate
color to aid in the inspection of a toolpath.
Wire
Wire contains all of the Design improvements other than the WCS (Work
Coordinate System) listed earlier in this document.

Redesigned Contour Interface

Users can now define what type of part they are cutting to influence the
parameters they input.

Type of Cut
Choose an icon that describes the cut being made, straight, tapered in, tapered
out, tapered in with a land, taperedout with a land. Each choice enables
different controls.

Chain Height
Previous version of Wire had many restrictions regarding what it defined and
where in Z it existed. Not users can select a chain, and then indicate it if define
the XY, UZ or Land Height.
Multiple Tabs
Users can now create multiple tabs on a contour with complete control over
location and size. Use the Automatic method that requires only the tab size
and the desired number, or manually place the tabs exactly where they will be
best. No matter how the tabs are created they can edited graphically without
losing any functionality.

Graphical Feedback of Cuts

As users define the cuts for each Contour they will get immediate feedback
regarding the order and type of cuts that are going to be generated. The tree
structure of the display shows users exactly what is going to happen on each
contour to be programmed.
Expanded Control of all Lead-Ins and Lead-Outs
Wire 9 gives complete control over how the Wire will enter and exit each
section of the Wirepath.
Access to STCW in every Toolpath
Users can access the STCW setting in every toolpath instead of having to rely
on the STCW settings from the secondary menu.

Toolpath Transform
Toolpath Transform now supports Wirepath rotation as well as translation.

Save as Geometry
Now users have control over what Level Backplotted geometry is saved to,
including the Entity Attribute Manager. The three switches labeled Now,
Session, and Always control when Geometry will be saved. Now will save
geometry for the occasion that backplot is run, Session will activate the saving
of geometry for the remainder of the current session. Always will turn it on
permanently.

Backplot Support for Tapered Threading

Tapered Thread positions are now supported in Wire backplot.

Mitsubishi Wire Users

Do not use Version 8 Mitsubishi wire power settings libraries with Version 9.
Version 8 Mitsubishi libraries will create incorrect Wirepaths if used with
Mastercam Wire Version 9.

Background
During Version 9 development, CNC Software changed the Mitsubishi power
settings libraries to display both wire radius and wire diameter values. The
Version 9 Mitsubishi post processor will use the radius value (TLRAD) instead of
the diameter value (TLDIA) to accurately represent the wire offset for each
skim pass.

To update existing post processors

Please see Post Processors - What’s new in the V9.PDF, which is located
in the main Mastercam directory.
To convert existing Mitsubishi libraries
Use the Mits8to9.Dllto convert Version 8 Mitsubishi libraries. This C-Hook will
use values in the Version 8 libraries to create libraries suitable for use with
Version 9. To use the Mits8to9 C-Hook type Alt-C and select Mits8to9.Dll from
the list of available C-Hooks.
Post Processors
Updating Posts from Previous Versions
Since Version 9 is a major release posts that have been written for earlier version must be
updated to insure proper functionality and safety. If a Post from a previous release is used
Mastercamwill issue a warning to the user with instructions to run Update PST. This
function is found under the NC utils, Post processor menu.

Post Numbered Questions Information

The post question list files (MILL8Q.PST, LATHE8Q.PST, WIRE8Q.PST) have been updated and renamed
for release. The new names for these files are Mill9.PNQ, Lathe9.PNQ, and Wire9.PNQ. PNQ = Post
Numbered Questions.

Support for Full 360 Degree Arcs

With some simple changes to the post it is now possible to out putfull circles as a single
360 arc move instead of two 180 moves. Refer to the Post update documentation below for
details.

Extensive Post Changes

All new post information specific to Version 9 is documented in a file called Post
Processors - What's New in V9.PDF. This file is installed in the root directory of
Mastercam 9, by default this directory is C:\MCAM9.