Getting Started in

Mastercam for SolidWorks

Getting Started in
Mastercam for

SolidWorks
January 2009

Be sure you have the latest information!

Information might have been changed or added since this document
was published. The latest version of this document is installed with
Mastercam for SolidWorks or can be obtained from your local
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ii Getting Started in Mastercam for SolidWorks

Getting Started in Mastercam for SolidWorks

Date: January 2009
Copyright 2009 CNC Software, Inc.All rights reserved.
First Printing: January 2009
Software: Mastercam for SolidWorks/ Mastercam X3 MU1
ISBN: 1-883310-90-3

IMPORTANT NOTICE!
PLEASE READ THIS STATEMENT AND THE SOFTWARE LICENSE AGREEMENT
COMPLETELY BEFORE USING THIS SOFTWARE. YOU MUST ACCEPT THE TERMS OF
THIS LICENSE BEFORE YOU CAN OPERATE THE SOFTWARE PROGRAM.
BY AGREEING TO THE LICENSE BELOW, OR BY CONTINUING TO USE THIS
SOFTWARE, YOU (EITHER AN INDIVIDUAL OR A SINGLE ENTITY) INDICATE YOUR
INTENTION TO BE BOUND BY AND ACCEPT THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THIS
SOFTWARE LICENSE. IF YOU DO NOT AGREE TO THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS,
YOU MAY NOT ACCESS OR OTHERWISE USE THIS SOFTWARE AND WILL IN FACT BE
PROHIBITED FROM DOING SO. THIS COMPUTER SOFTWARE MAY BE USED ONLY
PURSUANT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS SET FORTH BELOW, AND SOLELY IN
CONJUNCTION WITH THE ACCOMPANYING SECURITY MECHANISM (UNLESS
OTHERWISE SPECIFIED IN THE EXCEPTIONS TO SECURITY MECHANISM
REQUIREMENTS SECTION OF SUCH TERMS AND CONDITIONS) WHICH MUST BE
PRESENT ON YOUR COMPUTER (OR NETWORK AS APPLICABLE) AT ALL TIMES
DURING SUCH USE.
Please Note: Your company may have additional restrictions and guidelines in place
regarding the use of this Software that are in addition to those found within this Software
License. If you have any questions or concerns as to the existence of any such additional
restrictions or guidelines, you should consult with your supervisor or your IT Department
before using this Software.
Read This If You Have Received This Software From A Third Party: If you received this
Software from someone other than an authorized CNC Software, Inc. reseller, you do not
have a legal software license. (For example, if you acquired this Software simply by
buying a machine or Software from the former owner or from an auction, you do not have
a valid license.) You should contact CNC Software, Inc. (860-875-5006) in order to obtain
a new and valid license. Use of this Software without a valid software license is
unlawful, a violation of the Copyright Act and may expose you to criminal liability
under 17 United States Code Sec. 506, including fines and damages.

iii

Software License
If you have paid a license fee, CNC Software, Inc. (CNC) a Connecticut corporation with
its principal place of business at 671 Old Post Road, Tolland, Connecticut, 06084 hereby
grants to you a non-exclusive, non-transferable license (the License) to use this
software program and its accompanying documentation (and, if applicable, to permit
your authorized employees to use them), solely in accordance with the terms and
conditions of this Software License Agreement. You may use the Software solely for your
internal business purposes and solely in conjunction with the accompanying hardware or
software device, method, scheme or other security measure provided by CNC which
allows a user to access the Software and prevents unauthorized access to the Software
(the Security Mechanism). The Software, any updates to the Software through
purchase or due to enrollment in an authorized software Maintenance program
(including any that you download through the Internet), and the Documentation in
printed or electronic form shall hereinafter collectively be referred to as the Software
and are all governed by this License.

Restrictions
You may not use the Software without a Security Mechanism provided by CNC or CNCs
suppliers. When CNC or CNCs resellers provide you with a single-user Security
Mechanism, the Software may only be used (in executable code form only) on a single
computer to which the Security Mechanism is physically attached. In the event CNC or
CNCs resellers provide you with a multiple-user Security Mechanism for use over an
internal network (a Network Security Mechanism), the Software may be used: (a) in
executable code form only; (b) only on end-user computers that are connected to the
internal network to which the Network Security Mechanism is attached; and (c) only by
the number of users and accessed by the number of end-user computers for which
licenses were purchased and as further allowed by the Network Security Mechanism. You
may physically transfer the Software from one computer equipped with a single-user
Security Mechanism to another only if the Security Mechanism is included in the transfer
and is installed with the new computer.
You shall not: (a) copy (except as provided below), adapt, modify the Software; (b)
publish, display, disclose or create a derivative work from the Software or any part
thereof; (c) de-compile or translate, disassemble, create or attempt to create, by reverse
engineering or otherwise, the source code form of the Software from the executable code
of the Software; (d) remove any proprietary notices, labels or marks from the Software; (e)
sell, rent, lease, distribute or otherwise transfer or provide all or any part of the Software
to any person or entity without the prior written consent of CNC; (f) use the Software to
provide outsourcing, service bureau, time sharing or other services to any third party; or
(g) sublicense, assign, delegate or otherwise transfer your rights in the Software, under
the Software License Agreement or any of the related rights or obligations for any reason
without the prior written consent of CNC. You shall not circumvent, bypass, modify,

iv Getting Started in Mastercam for SolidWorks

reverse engineer, disassemble, disable, alter, enhance or replicate the function of the
Security Mechanism in any manner whatsoever. Any attempt to do so shall result in
automatic termination of this License without prejudice to all other legal rights and
remedies of CNC.

Copying Restrictions
You may make one (1) copy of the Software for backup or archival purposes, provided
that you reproduce all proprietary notices of CNC on any such copy.

Non Transferable
You may not transfer or assign the Software or this Software License Agreement or any
rights or obligations hereunder. Any attempt to do so will automatically terminate this
License without the need for notice. This termination is without prejudice to all other
legal rights and remedies of CNC.

Intellectual Property Rights

The Software is and includes intellectual property of CNC. All associated intellectual
property rights, including, without limitation, worldwide patent, trademark, copyright
and trade secret rights, are reserved by CNC. CNC retains all right, title and interest in
and copyrights to the Software, regardless of the form or media in or on which the
original or other copies may subsequently exist. This Software License Agreement shall
not constitute a sale of the Software and no title or proprietary rights to the Software are
transferred to you hereby. You acknowledge that the Software is a unique, confidential
and valuable asset of CNC, and CNC shall have the right to seek all equitable and legal
redress which may be available to it for the breach or threatened breach of this Software
License Agreement including, without limitation, injunctive relief. Unauthorized copying
of the Software or failure to comply with the above restrictions shall result in automatic
termination of this License and this Software License Agreement without prejudice to all
other legal rights and remedies of CNC.

Confidentiality
You acknowledge that the Software contains proprietary trade secrets of CNC and you
hereby agree to maintain the confidentiality of the Software using at least as great a
degree of care as you use to maintain the confidentiality of your own most confidential
information. You agree to promptly communicate the terms and conditions of this
Software License Agreement to those persons employed by you who come into contact
with the Software, and to use your best efforts to ensure their compliance with such terms
and conditions, including, without limitation, absolutely preventing such persons to use
any portion of the Software for the purpose of deriving the source code of the Software or
defeating the Security Mechanism.

Enforcement Obligations
In the event you become aware that any person or entity in your employ or under your
control is using the Software in a manner not authorized by this Software License
Agreement, you shall immediately take all steps necessary to stop such unauthorized use
of the Software. You shall promptly notify CNC in writing of any unauthorized use of the
Software of which you become aware.

Limited Warranties
CNC WARRANTS THAT THE MEDIA ON WHICH THE SOFTWARE IS DISTRIBUTED
WILL BE FREE OF DEFECTS IN MATERIAL OR WORKMANSHIP FOR A PERIOD OF
THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER PURCHASE. THE FOREGOING LIMITED WARRANTY
EXCLUDES DEFECTS ARISING OUT OF ACCIDENT, NEGLECT, MISUSE, FAILURE OF
ELECTRIC POWER AND CAUSES OTHER THAN ORDINARY AND AUTHORIZED USE.
EXCEPT FOR THE FOREGOING LIMITED WARRANTY, THE SOFTWARE IS PROVIDED
AS IS, WITH ALL FAULTS. THIS LIMITED WARRANTY IS THE ONLY WARRANTY
PROVIDED BY CNC REGARDING THE SOFTWARE. TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT
PERMITTED BY LAW, CNC DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND,
EITHER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, IMPLIED
WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
CNC IS NOT OBLIGATED TO PROVIDE ANY UPDATES TO THE SOFTWARE.
Sole and Exclusive Remedy for Breach of Warranty: YOUR SOLE EXCLUSIVE REMEDY
AND CNCS SOLE OBLIGATION HEREUNDER SHALL BE, AT CNCS SOLE OPTION (i)
REPLACEMENT OF THE DEFECTIVE MEDIA; OR (ii) REFUND OF THE PURCHASE
PRICE OF THE SOFTWARE. CNC SHALL HAVE NO OTHER OBLIGATION OR LIABILITY
TO YOU ARISING FROM OR RELATED TO THIS LICENSE OR YOUR USE OF THE
SOFTWARE. ANY USE BY YOU OF THE SOFTWARE IS AT YOUR OWN RISK.
Note on Documentation: While CNC makes every effort to ensure that its
Documentation for the Software is accurate and up-to-date, it cannot guarantee the
Documentation at all times represents the latest operation and functionality of the
Software. The content of all documentation, in electronic or printed form, for the
Software is provided for informational purposes only. The content of the Documentation
may be changed without notice to you. CNC expressly disclaims any warranty or
representation that the Documentation is an accurate and/or current reflection of the
Softwares operation and performance.

Disclaimer of Consequential Damages and Limitation of Liability

IN NO EVENT WHATSOEVER WILL CNC, OR ITS EMPLOYEES, SHAREHOLDERS,
DISTRIBUTORS OR RESELLERS BE LIABLE TO YOU FOR ANY INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL,
OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH THIS
SOFTWARE LICENSE AGREEMENT OR THE USE OF THE SOFTWARE, EVEN IF CNC HAS

vi Getting Started in Mastercam for SolidWorks

BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. WITHOUT LIMITING THE

FOREGOING, CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES SHALL INCLUDE, WITHOUT LIMITATION,
SPECIAL, PUNITIVE OR EXEMPLARY DAMAGES, DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF BUSINESS,
LOSS OF PROFITS, BUSINESS INTERRUPTION, LOSS OF BUSINESS INFORMATION,
AND LOSS OF OR DAMAGE TO ANY PRODUCTS THAT THE SOFTWARE IS USED IN
CONJUNCTION WITH.
CNCS ENTIRE LIABILITY WITH RESPECT TO ITS OBLIGATIONS UNDER THIS
SOFTWARE LICENSE AGREEMENT OR OTHERWISE SHALL NOT EXCEED THE
AMOUNT OF THE LICENSE FEE PAID BY YOU FOR THE SOFTWARE. SOME
JURISDICTIONS DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF IMPLIED
WARRANTIES OR LIABILITY FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO
THE ABOVE LIMITATIONS OR EXCLUSIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.

Indemnification
You shall indemnify and hold harmless CNC, its officers, directors, employees, resellers
and agents (the Indemnified Parties) from and against all losses, settlements, claims,
actions, suits, proceedings, judgments, awards, damages, liabilities, costs and expenses
including, without limitation, reasonable attorneys fees (collectively Losses) which
arise out of or are related to any breach of this Software License Agreement by you or your
employees, agents, resellers, dealers or sub-dealers, and shall reimburse the Indemnified
Parties for any and all legal, accounting and other fees, costs and expenses reasonably
incurred by any of them in connection with investigating, mitigating or defending any
such Losses.

Educational Pricing
If this Software was obtained through or in accordance with a CNC Educational Pricing
plan, option, grant, schedule or program, it may not be used by anyone, including you, to
conduct any computer aided design, computer aided drafting, computer aided
machining, or training activities that, directly or indirectly, generate or otherwise result in
monetary revenues for the benefit of any individual or any entity, other than the school
that originally received this Software.

Termination
This Software License Agreement is effective until terminated. You may terminate this
Software License Agreement at any time by returning to CNC all copies of the Software
under your control and by returning the Security Mechanism to CNC. CNC may
terminate this Software License Agreement if CNC determines, in its sole discretion, that
you have violated the terms of this Software License Agreement. Upon termination of this
Software License Agreement, you agree to immediately return to CNC all copies of the
Software, return the Security Mechanism to CNC, and certify to CNC in writing that all
known copies, including backup copies, have been returned. All provisions relating to

vii

confidentiality, proprietary rights, indemnification and non-disclosure shall survive the

termination of this Software License Agreement. You may not transfer this Software to
the purchaser of any equipment on which the Software may be resident. You may not
transfer this Software via liquidation, bankruptcy, auction, close of business, or any
other method that does not involve an authorized Mastercam reseller. This License is
for you alone. In the event you breach the provisions of this Section, CNC shall be
entitled to liquidated damages in the amount of Fifteen Thousand Dollars ($15,000), plus
its reasonable attorneys fees and court costs.

General
This Software License Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with
the laws of the state of Connecticut, USA without regard for Connecticuts conflicts of law
principles. The sole and exclusive jurisdiction and venue for any litigation arising from or
related to this Software License Agreement or the subject matter hereof shall be in an
appropriate state or federal court located in Hartford, Connecticut. You hereby submit to
the personal jurisdiction of the US District Court for the District of Connecticut and the
Superior Court of the State of Connecticut. This Software License Agreement shall
constitute the entire agreement between you and CNC with respect to the subject matter
hereof. Any waiver or modification of this Software License Agreement shall be valid only
if it is in writing and signed by both parties hereto. If any part of this Agreement is found
invalid or unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remainder of this
Agreement shall be interpreted so as to reasonably affect the intention of the parties.

Attorneys Fees
In the event that CNC is required to take legal action to enforce its rights under this
License Agreement and obtains a ruling or settlement in its favor, you shall be liable to
CNC for its reasonable attorneys fee incurred in investigating and prosecuting its claim.

U.S. Government Restricted Rights

The Software provided hereunder is a commercial item, as that term is defined in 48
C.F.R. 2.101, consisting of commercial computer software and commercial computer
software documentation, as such terms are used in 48 C.F.R. 12.212. Consistent with 48
C.F.R. 12.212 and 48 C.F.R. 227.7202-1 through 227.7202-4, the Software made available to
the United States of America, its agencies and/or instrumentalities, is provided with only
those rights set forth in this Agreement. Use, duplication or disclosure of the Software by
the government is subject to the restrictions as set forth in subparagraph (c) (1) and (2) of
the Commercial Computer Software-Restricted Rights clause at 48 C.F.R. 52.227-19, as
amended, or any successor regulations thereto.

Export Restrictions
You represent and warrant that you will not, without obtaining prior written
authorization from CNC and, if required, of the Bureau of Export Administration of the

viii Getting Started in Mastercam for SolidWorks

United States Department of Commerce or other relevant agency of the United States
Government, export or re-export, directly or indirectly, the Software from the United
States to (i) any country destination or entity to which export is restricted by the Export
Administration Regulations of the United States Department of Commerce; (ii) any
country or entity subject to sanctions administered by the Office of Foreign Assets
Control, United States Department of the Treasury; or (iii) such other countries or entities
to which export is restricted by any other United States government agency. You further
agree that you are solely responsible for compliance with any import laws and regulations
of the country of destination of a permitted export or re-export, and any other import
requirement related to a permitted export or re-export.

Exceptions to Security Mechanism Requirements

CNC software programs Mastercam Design LT and Mastercam Demo as well as printed
and electronic documentation do not require the use of Security Mechanisms, and the
provisions in this Software License Agreement relating to Security Mechanisms do not
apply to your use of such programs, provided, however, that such provisions shall apply
to your use of all other Software and documentation provided hereunder.

Survival
All provisions of this Software License Agreement relating to confidentiality, nondisclosure, CNCs proprietary rights, disclaimers, and limits of liability, or
indemnification by Customer shall survive termination of this License for any reason.

Reservation of Rights
All rights not expressly granted are reserved by CNC.

Trademarks
Mastercam is a registered trademark of CNC Software, Inc.
SolidWorks is a registered trademark of Dassault Systmes Corporation
Windows, Windows 2000, Windows XP, and Windows Vista are registered trademarks of
Microsoft Corporation. Mastercam Verify is created in conjunction with MachineWorks
Ltd. Mastercam Backplot includes Copyrighted intellectual property rights owned by
NWD.

Printed in the United States of America.

Printed on recycled paper.

ix

Contents
1. Introducing Mastercam for SolidWorks ......................... 1
Videos and Documentation .................................................... 1
Watching the Videos ................................................................. 1
Using the Help ........................................................................... 3

Interface Tour ............................................................................ 5

Considerations and Limitations ............................................ 7
2. Installation ..................................................................................... 9
Licensing................................................................................... 10
Installing a HASP (Single-User License) ............................ 10
Using a NetHASP (Network Licensing) ............................... 11

Installing Mastercam for SolidWorks ................................. 12

Entering the SIM Update Code ............................................ 16
Updating HASP Codes ........................................................... 17

3. General Work Flow ................................................................... 21

4. Basic Part Drawing in SolidWorks ................................... 27
Drawing a Part ......................................................................... 28
Changing the Default Tool Plane ......................................... 37
The Mastercam Gnomon ....................................................... 38
5. Miscellaneous Tasks ................................................................ 41
Configuration .......................................................................... 41
Tool Manager ........................................................................... 42
Material Manager.................................................................... 42
Machine Definition Manager ............................................... 43

x Getting Started in Mastercam for SolidWorks

Control Definition Manager ................................................. 44

6. Mastercam for SolidWorks FAQ ........................................ 45
General ...................................................................................... 45
Compatibility ........................................................................... 46
Licenses ..................................................................................... 47

chapter 1

Introducing Mastercam
for SolidWorks
Mastercam for SolidWorks provides Mastercam X3 CAM
functionality within SolidWorks. Inside SolidWorks, you can access 3D
high speed (HST) toolpath strategies and Mastercams new 2D Feature
Based Machining (FBM) automated mill and drill toolpath generation.
Also, Mastercam for SolidWorks supports boundary creation, part setup
(including tool and material managers), verification, post processing,
and communications.

Videos and Documentation

Mastercam for SolidWorks includes tutorial videos and Help. You can
find information about additional tutorials on
www.mastercamforsolidworks.com.

Watching the Videos

The videos provide a brief introduction to Mastercam for SolidWorks.
Please watch these videos first. You can repeat any video section at your
own pace.

2 Getting Started in Mastercam for SolidWorks

From the SolidWorks menu bar, choose Help, and then choose Videos
in the Mastercam Help section.

When the video starts, maximize the window and scroll down until you
can see the caption and video controls (see below).

Introducing Mastercam for SolidWorks - 3

Using the Help

The Help is a subset of the full Mastercam Help and provides primarily
context-sensitive information for the dialog boxes that display as you
work with the product. Click a dialog boxs Help button to view the
associated help topic.

4 Getting Started in Mastercam for SolidWorks

Some Mastercam dialog boxes display in the SolidWorks style. Those

dialog boxes, too, have Help buttons that open the Mastercam for
SolidWorks Help.

The Help also includes high-level conceptual topics that describe

Mastercam for SolidWorks. To access these topics, choose Help from
the SolidWorks menu bar, and then choose Contents in the Mastercam
Help section.

Introducing Mastercam for SolidWorks - 5

Interface Tour
Mastercam for SolidWorks is integrated into the SolidWorks interface.
The Mastercam menu provides access to all Mastercam for SolidWorks
functionality in the SolidWorks menu bar.

The most used Mastercam for SolidWorks functions are also available
from the SolidWorks Command Manager above the Mastercam tab.

6 Getting Started in Mastercam for SolidWorks

The familiar Mastercam Toolpath Manager is an integral part of

Mastercam for SolidWorks. All function buttons are supported and
operate as in Mastercam.

Appropriate Toolpath Manager right-click menu functionality is also

supported.

Introducing Mastercam for SolidWorks - 7

Considerations and Limitations

Mastercam for SolidWorks operates differently than the full version of
Mastercam. Please be aware of the following issues:

Mastercam and SolidWorks differ in the use of planes. For

more information, see Chapter 4, Basic Part Drawing in
SolidWorks on page 27.

You must use SolidWorks selection methods. Mastercam

selection methods have been removed.

Parts that are appropriate for HST machining strategies in

Mastercam can be programmed in Mastercam for SolidWorks.

You must not resize the screen during backplotting.

Rotary simulation is not yet functional.

Mastercam for SolidWorks will not install with 64-bit

SolidWorks.

8 Getting Started in Mastercam for SolidWorks

chapter 2

Installation
To install and run Mastercam for SolidWorks, you must have
administration privileges and the following:

SolidWorks 2008 or 2009 installed (32-bit version)

Mastercam for SolidWorks installation files

Valid Mastercam for SolidWorks license (HASP SIM or

NetHASP)

Update code information (current users only)

Minimum requirements for Mastercam for SolidWorks:

Operating System: Windows XP (preferred) or Windows

Vista (Business or Ultimate), including the latest service
packs and recommended updates. NET 3.0 framework.

Software: SolidWorks 2008 or SolidWorks 2009. (Note that

Mastercam will not install in a SolidWorks 64-bit version.)

Processor: 1.5 GHz 32-bit Intel-compatible processor. 64-bit

Intel-compatible processors are supported.

Memory: 2 GB (minimum). Your use of the software could

require more RAM to ensure optimal performance.

Virtual memory: Double the amount of RAM.

Graphics Card: Certified OpenGL graphics card and driver. Go

to www.solidworks.com/sw/support/videocardtesting.html
for a complete list of certified graphics cards.

10 Getting Started in Mastercam for SolidWorks

Hard Disk Space: 2 GB available hard disk space (minimum).

Monitor: 1024 x 768 pixel resolution (minimum) at 96 dpi

(1280 x 1024 recommended).

Mouse: 2-button Windows compatible mouse (minimum).

Network Protocol: (NetHASP users only) TCP/IP protocol for

NetHASP installation; VPN is unsupported.

Other: DVD drive. Adobe Acrobat Reader 7.0.7 or higher.

Internet Explorer 6.x or 7.x.

Licensing
Mastercam for SolidWorks supports both single-user and network
licensing. With single-user licensing, you need a small device called a
HASP SIM. The standard HASP SIM is a USB device. If your computer
cannot accept a USB device, you can obtain a parallel HASP SIM
through your Authorized Mastercam Reseller for an extra charge.
With network licensing, you need a device called a NetHASP (parallel or
USB) SIM. This device is also called a network SIM and must be
installed on a network PC.
These devices protect against illegal use of Mastercam software.

Installing a HASP (Single-User License)

To install the single-user license:

Turn off the computer, monitor, and all external peripheral

devices.

Based on the type of HASP, locate an available parallel or USB

port on the computer. If you are unsure of the ports location,
consult your computer documentation.

Installation - 11

Plug the male end of the HASP into the port.

Caution: The HASP attaches to your port in only one orientation. Do

not force it, because you might damage the port and the HASP. If the
HASP does not slide easily into the port, check its orientation. Match
the HASP to the port and try again. Also, check the HASP for
damaged pins. If the pins are damaged, and you cannot easily
straighten them, contact your Mastercam Reseller for a replacement.

If you are installing a HASP to a parallel port, tighten the two

screws on the HASP to firmly attach it to your computer.

If necessary, connect your printer cable to the HASP. Then

tighten the screws on the printer cable connector to firmly
attach it to the HASP.

Note: You can connect a printer cable to the back of a parallel HASP
and continue to use the port for printing.

Using a NetHASP (Network Licensing)

With network licensing, a group of users who are connected to the same
network can run Mastercam for SolidWorks from any PC on the
network. Instead of requiring one HASP per computer to run
Mastercam, a single NetHASP is installed on any PC on the network.
That computer is referred to as the NetHASP server; it is not necessarily
a network server. An individual Mastercam user then checks out a
license from the available licenses on the network when starting
Mastercam for SolidWorks.

12 Getting Started in Mastercam for SolidWorks

Installing Mastercam for

SolidWorks
The following sections describe how to install Mastercam for
SolidWorks, as well as how to integrate the product into SolidWorks and
how to manage your HASPs and licensing.
Note: Before proceeding, you must have SolidWorks installed.

To install Mastercam for SolidWorks

1

Insert the Mastercam for SolidWorks disk, and when the

installation dialog box displays, click the Mastercam for
SolidWorks button.

When the Mastercam for SolidWorks welcome window

displays, click Next.

Installation - 13

Read the agreement, select I accept the terms of the

license agreement, and then click Next.

Enter your user and company name, and then click Next.

Select an installation path (or leave the default), and click

Next.

Select your SIM type and the default measurement units,

and then click Next.

Click Install to finalize your choices and to begin the

installation.

When installation completes, click Finish.

To verify the installation

1

Start SolidWorks.

In the Tools menu, select Add-Ins.

14 Getting Started in Mastercam for SolidWorks

Find Mastercam for SolidWorks in the Add-Ins dialog

box, and check the Active Add-ins box, if necessary.

Installation - 15

If you want Mastercam for SolidWorks to start

automatically with SolidWorks, select the check box in the
Start Up column.

Click OK to finalize your choices.

In the SolidWorks menu bar, make sure that you have a

Mastercam menu.

16 Getting Started in Mastercam for SolidWorks

Entering the SIM Update Code

When you install or upgrade Mastercam for SolidWorks, and you are
not on Mastercam Maintenance, you must update your HASP and
NetHASP SIMs with an update code. The SIM must be activated with
the update code before you can run the new or updated version of
Mastercam for SolidWorks.
The update code is a file that is delivered to you by one of these
methods:

Included with your Mastercam for SolidWorks software kit

Mailed on electronic media

E-mailed as a file attachment

Printed documentation received via fax, e-mail, or mail

Note: You should remove any SIMs other than the Mastercam for
SolidWorks SIM before entering the update code.
Before entering the update code, prepare for the update based on the
format of the update code you received and your personal preference:

E-mail attachment: Save the attachment as a file to an

accessible location. (Do not change the file extension.)

Mastercam for SolidWorks installation kit electronic media:

Insert the media in the appropriate drive to access the file.

Printed documentation: Have a copy of the document

available.

Installation - 17

Updating HASP Codes

IMPORTANT: Before you begin this phase of the installation
process, be sure you have read the previous sections Installing
a HASP (Single-User License) and Installing Mastercam for
SolidWorks.

To enter a HASP update code

1

Choose ONE of the following methods to run HaspX.exe.

The method you choose is based on the format of the
update code you received and your personal preference:

In the Mastercam Help section of the SolidWorks

Help menu, choose About Mastercam for
SolidWorks. In the About Mastercam dialog box,
click Hasp.

18 Getting Started in Mastercam for SolidWorks

From the Windows desktop, choose Start, All

Programs, Mastercam X3 MU1 in SolidWorks,
Hasp X.

Double-click the update code file (*.HCODE).

Use Windows Explorer to navigate to the Mastercam

for SolidWorks installation location, and double-click
HaspX.exe.
The HaspX utility analyzes the SIM and displays the
SIM serial number. Verify that the displayed serial
number matches the serial number provided with
your Mastercam for SolidWorks documentation.

Installation - 19

TIP: Keep a record of the serial number in the event that you
need to contact Technical Support Services at CNC Software or
your Mastercam Reseller.
2

In the HaspX dialog box, use one of the following methods

to enter the update code:

If you received your update code as a file, choose

Update code to open the code file. The HaspX utility
extracts the update code from the file.

If you received your update code as printed

documentation, enter the code in the text field next
to the Update code button. (Do not click the Update
code button.)

Choose Update at the top of the HaspX dialog box. The

program updates the SIM and displays the products for
which the SIM has been activated.

Choose OK to exit the HaspX utility.

Notes:

Start date/End date: Displays the start date and end date for
the SIM. For some evaluation copies of Mastercam for

20 Getting Started in Mastercam for SolidWorks

SolidWorks, the HASP SIM starts and expires on a specified

date. You cannot use the software after the end date.

Maintenance Expiration date: This field shows the date your

Maintenance plan expires, based on your annual renewal date.

HASP Status: This area shows whether the utility found the
HASP SIM on your computer.

chapter 3

General Work Flow

The general work flow for programming Mastercam toolpaths in
SolidWorks will be familiar to a Mastercam user, as the following steps
show. (For more detailed instructions, please refer to Chapter 4, Basic
Part Drawing in SolidWorks. Also, you can find information about
additional tutorials on www.mastercamforsolidworks.com.)
1

Open a SolidWorks part. (To create one, see Chapter 4,

Basic Part Drawing in SolidWorks on page 27.)

Set a tool plane, as follows:

a.

Choose View Manager from the Command Manager.

b. In the View Manager dialog box, select the plane you

want to use (1 below), and click the set tool plane
button (2 below).
c.

Click OK.

22 Getting Started in Mastercam for SolidWorks

Click the Mastercam Toolpath Manager button (circled

in the image below) to display the Mastercam for
SolidWorks Operations Manager.

Set the machine group properties as needed. Remember

that a stock definition is required for FBM Milling.
For more information on machine group properties,
please refer to Machine groups in the Mastercam for
SolidWorks Help.)

If appropriate, choose Mastercam, Create Boundary to

create machining boundaries (see following image).
For more information on creating boundaries, please
refer to Containment Boundaries in the Mastercam for
SolidWorks Help.

General Work Flow - 23

Use ONE of the following methods to choose a toolpath

type:

Choose HST Surface Toolpaths to program high

speed surface toolpaths.
HST toolpaths demonstrate the integration of
Mastercam with SolidWorks selection methods. If
you have pre-selected geometry, Mastercam applies
the toolpaths to the selections. Otherwise,
Mastercam applies the toolpaths to the entire part.
(For more information, please see HST Toolpaths
in the Mastercam for SolidWorks Help.)

24 Getting Started in Mastercam for SolidWorks

Note: HST in Mastercam for SolidWorks does not support check

surfaces.

Choose FBM Drill to have Mastercam detect and

program drilled holes automatically. (For more
information, please see FBM Drill Toolpaths in the
Mastercam for SolidWorks Help.)

Choose FBM Mill to have Mastercam detect and

program closed, open, nested, and through pockets
automatically. (For more information, please see
FBM Mill Toolpaths in the Mastercam for
SolidWorks Help.)

Set the appropriate toolpath parameters, and create the

toolpath as you would in Mastercam.

General Work Flow - 25

Backplot the toolpath. (For more information, please see

Backplotting Toolpaths in the Mastercam for
SolidWorks Help.)

Verify the toolpath. (For more information, please see

Verifying Toolpaths in the Mastercam for SolidWorks
Help.)

10 Edit the toolpath as necessary.

26 Getting Started in Mastercam for SolidWorks

11 Post the toolpath. (For more information, see Posting

Toolpaths in the Mastercam for SolidWorks Help.)

12 When ready for machining, choose Mastercam,

Communications to send the posted NC code to the
machine. (See Mastercam Communications in the
Mastercam for SolidWorks Help.)

13 Cut the part.

chapter 4

Basic Part Drawing in

SolidWorks
When Mastercam users draw parts in SolidWorks, they quickly discover
a major difference in the two applications coordinate systems.
Mastercam sets up its default planes like this:

The Z axis of the work coordinate system (WCS) is normal to

the Top plane.

The Top plane is the default tool plane.

28 Getting Started in Mastercam for SolidWorks

But SolidWorks sets up its default planes like this:

The world Z axis is normal to the Front plane.

The Front plane is the default tool plane.

In other words, Mastercams Top plane is equivalent to SolidWorkss

Front plane. This means that, for the best compatibility with
Mastercam, start your SolidWorks drawing on the Front plane.

Drawing a Part
Perform the following procedure to draw a simple Mastercam for
SolidWorks part. (You can find information about additional tutorials
on www.mastercamforsolidworks.com.)

Basic Part Drawing in SolidWorks - 29

To draw a basic Mastercam for SolidWorks part

1

Choose File, New.

In the New SolidWorks Document dialog box, click the

Part button and then OK.

Note: If the New SolidWorks Document dialog box shows Templates

and Tutorial tabs, click the Novice button to return to Novice mode.

In the panel on the left, click Front Plane, and then click
the Sketch button in the popup window that displays.

30 Getting Started in Mastercam for SolidWorks

Click the Sketch tab in the Command Manager.

Click the small arrow next to the Rectangle tool, and select
Corner Rectangle from the menu that displays.

Basic Part Drawing in SolidWorks - 31

Click the Front planes origin, and draw a rectangle

towards the upper-right.

Click the Smart Dimension button.

32 Getting Started in Mastercam for SolidWorks

Place your mouse over the left-hand line and click.

Drag the dimension to the left, and click again.

10 Type 80 into the Modify box, and press [Enter].

Basic Part Drawing in SolidWorks - 33

11 Similarly to how you set the height, dimension the parts

width to 110.

12 Click the Features tab in the Command Manager.

34 Getting Started in Mastercam for SolidWorks

13 Click Extruded Boss/Base.

14 In the graphics area, drag the gray arrow until the scale
reads -20, and then release the mouse to set the size.

Basic Part Drawing in SolidWorks - 35

15 Click the green check mark to finalize the extrusion.

16 Go back to the Sketch tab, and choose the circle tool.

36 Getting Started in Mastercam for SolidWorks

17 Click on the parts Front plane, click and drag to draw a

circle, and then give the circle a dimension of 20.

18 On the Features tab, select Extruded Cut.

19 Click the green check to finalize the feature.

20 Create a toolpath on the part.

Basic Part Drawing in SolidWorks - 37

Changing the Default Tool Plane

Although Front is the default tool plane for Mastercam for SolidWorks,
you can change the default to any plane you want.

To change the default tool plane

1

From the SolidWorks menu bar, choose Mastercam,

Configuration.

In the left-hand pane of the System Configuration dialog

box, select Mastercam for SolidWorks.

In the Tool plane drop-down, select the plane that you

want.

If you want Machine Z to always equal the tool plane,

select Machine Z Equals Tool Plane.

If you want a different Machine Z, select it from the

Machine Z drop-down.

38 Getting Started in Mastercam for SolidWorks

The Mastercam Gnomon

Mastercam for SolidWorks has its own gnomon, which displays at your
parts origin. In its normal state, the gnomons blue arrow denotes the
machine Z, the green arrow denotes the Y axis, and the red arrow
denotes the X axis:

When you change a planes orientation (such as setting the tool plane),
you may see multiple Mastercam gnomons on the screen:

One of the gnomons shows the orientation of the new tool plane, and
the other represents the orientation of machine Z.

Basic Part Drawing in SolidWorks - 39

You can toggle the display of Mastercams gnomons in the Graphics

Options dialog box, which you access from the Mastercam, Graphics
Options menu command. To remove the gnomon from the screen,
deselect both Show Tool Plane Icon and Show Machine Z Icon:

Alternatively, you can drag the sliders to change the icons transparency
from opaque to fully transparent.

40 Getting Started in Mastercam for SolidWorks

chapter 5

Miscellaneous Tasks
Mastercam for SolidWorks includes the following functions for support
tasks. You can find detailed information about these features in the
Mastercam for SolidWorks Help.

Configuration
To access the System Configuration dialog box, choose Mastercam,
Configuration from the SolidWorks menu bar. (For more information,
please refer to System Configuration dialog box in the Mastercam for
SolidWorks Help.)

42 Getting Started in Mastercam for SolidWorks

Tool Manager
As in the full version of Mastercam, the Tool Manager lets you view and
manage tool libraries, the tools in your part file, and tool definitions.
You can create new tools, edit existing tools, and copy tools between
libraries and machine groups. (For more information, please refer to
Tool Manager in the Mastercam for SolidWorks Help.)

Material Manager
Mastercam for SolidWorks also includes the Material Manager, where
you can select, edit, and create materials that Mastercam for
SolidWorks can use to calculate more accurate feed rates and spindle
speeds. (For more information, please refer to Material Manager in
the Mastercam for SolidWorks Help.)

Miscellaneous Tasks - 43

Machine Definition Manager

Use the Machine Definition Manager to configure your machines
capabilities and features.

44 Getting Started in Mastercam for SolidWorks

Standard machine definitions are installed with Mastercam for

SolidWorks. However, modifications to the machine definition and
posts must be done using a licensed installation of Mastercam X3. For
more information, refer to Machine Definition Manager in the
Mastercam for SolidWorks Help.
Note: Although you can make changes to the parts machine
definition with Machine Definition Manager, you should not create
new definitions within Mastercam for SolidWorks.

Control Definition Manager

Use the Control Definition Manager to configure your machine control
to work with Mastercam and the machines post processor. See
Control Definition Manager in the Mastercam for SolidWorks Help.

chapter 6

Mastercam for
SolidWorks FAQ
General
Question: How does Mastercam for SolidWorks work?
Answer: It is an add-in to SolidWorks just like COSMOS, PhotoWorks,
and PDMWorks.
Question: Is Mastercam for SolidWorks equivalent to Mastercam Level
3?
Answer: It features a subset of Level 3s functionality, including 3D
HST-style toolpaths, FBM Drill, FBM Mill, Verify, Backplot,
Communications, and posting.
Question: Is there an add-in for Mastercam Multiaxis?
Answer: Not yet.
Question: Is there an add-in for Mastercam Lathe?
Answer: Not yet.

46 Getting Started in Mastercam for SolidWorks

Compatibility
Question: Can I install Mastercam for SolidWorks on Windows XP 64bit?
Answer: Yes, but Mastercam for SolidWorks must run inside the 32-bit
version of SolidWorks, even on a 64-bit machine.
Question: Will I need to have a copy of Mastercam X3 on my system to
run Mastercam for SolidWorks?
Answer: No. Mastercam for SolidWorks is a standalone installation that
contains all the necessary Mastercam program files to run the product.
(You do, however, need to have SolidWorks installed.)
Question: Will Mastercam for SolidWorks run on Microsoft Vista?
Answer: Yes, in Vista Business or Ultimate editions.
Question: I have an OEM version of SolidWorks that came with another
software package. Can I add Mastercam for SolidWorks to that version?
Answer: No. The OEM versions disallow add-ins.
Question: Will Mastercam for SolidWorks work with SolidWorks
Configurations and Assemblies?
Answer: Yes.
Question: Can my SolidWorks files be stored in my PDMWorks Vault?
Answer: Yes.

Mastercam for SolidWorks FAQ - 47

Licenses
Question: How will my Mastercam product work on a SolidNetWork
license?
Answer: As long as the computer has an active license of SolidWorks
running, Mastercam for SolidWorks will run.
Question: What happens when I open a SolidWorks file (with
Mastercam toolpaths) in a seat of SolidWorks that does not have
Mastercam?
Answer: The user will notice nothing different about the file.

Mastercam is a registered trademark of CNC Software, Inc. Copyright 1983-2009. All rights reserved.
SolidWorks is a registered trademark of DS SolidWorks Corporation.

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Tolland, CT 06084 USA
www.mastercam.com
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Getting Started in Mastercam for SolidWorks

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