Changing the post processor in SolidWorks is a task that can greatly enhance your workflow and optimize the output of your CNC machines. The post processor is responsible for converting the toolpaths generated in SolidWorks into a format that is compatible with specific CNC controllers. In this tutorial, we will explore how to change the post processor in SolidWorks step by step.
Step 1: Accessing the CAM Settings
To change the post processor, we first need to access the CAM settings in SolidWorks. To do this, go to the ‘CAM’ tab on the command manager and click on ‘Mill Part Setup’. This will open up the CAM Part Setup dialog box.
Step 2: Selecting a Machine
In the CAM Part Setup dialog box, you will see a dropdown menu labeled ‘Machine’. Click on this dropdown menu and select your desired machine from the list. This selection determines which post processor options are available to you.
Note:
Make sure you have appropriate machine definitions installed for your desired machine. If not, you may need to install them before proceeding.
Step 3: Editing Post Processor Options
Once you have selected your machine, click on the ‘Post Processor’ tab in the CAM Part Setup dialog box. Here, you will find various options related to post processing.
- Select Post Processor: In this section, you can choose a specific post processor from a list of available options. The selected post processor determines how your toolpaths will be generated and formatted.
- Edit Post Processors: If none of the pre-defined post processors meet your requirements, you can edit an existing one or create a new custom post processor by clicking on this button.
- Output Directory: This option allows you to specify the directory where the post-processed files will be saved.
- Output File: Here, you can define the name of the output file that will be generated by the post processor.
Step 4: Applying the Changes
After making the necessary changes to the post processor options, click on ‘OK’ to apply them. SolidWorks will now use the selected post processor settings when generating toolpaths for your parts.
Note:
If you have multiple CAM operations in your part, make sure to repeat these steps for each operation if you want to change the post processor settings for all of them.
By changing the post processor in SolidWorks, you have full control over how your toolpaths are generated and formatted. This allows you to optimize your CNC machining process and ensure compatibility with your specific CNC controller.
Remember, selecting the right post processor is crucial for achieving accurate results and maximizing productivity. Experiment with different options and fine-tune your settings until you find the perfect fit for your needs.
With these simple steps, you can easily change the post processor in SolidWorks and take full advantage of its powerful CAM capabilities. Happy machining!