Does the CAD/CAM system support the functionality you need to do the types of jobs you do now?

While this might seem obvious, many a CAD/CAM purchaser has been so impressed by the whistles, gadgets, and features that the salesman wants to show, the customer forgets what they need. Make sure the CAD/CAM system you choose can perform the jobs you are purchasing it for. This should include a demonstration on YOUR parts, not just their canned demo parts.

Does the CAD/CAM system provide interoperability with your existing software, such as your CAD application?

Translation of data between CAD and CAM software applications is very high on the list of problem issues for most CAD/CAM buyers. The 'standard' format IGES, and the popular VDA format in Europe, are often 'flavored' by software developers to fit their needs and database structures. Makes sure your chosen CAM system provides flexible IGES support that can be customized to work with your existing software or software you may consider purchasing in the future.

Can the software support your additional manufacturing needs as your shop grows?

Most shops hope to expand their capabilities so they can offer more services to their customers and gain additional customers. It is very likely that additional and more sophisticated machinery that will decrease manufacturing costs will be purchased over time.

Make sure your chosen CAD/CAM software is able to grow with you. Some things to look for are high speed machining capabilities that can save you time and money even on your older machines. If you plan on adding a mill/turn or 4 or 5 axis machining center, make sure you can upgrade your software to support these capabilities.

Secondary to being able to perform the work you need done today, make sure your chosen CAD/CAM system allows you to achieve your long-term goals with minimum difficulties. However, this is not intended to mean that you should base your purchase on capabilities of the software you will never need or use.

Does the software provide an easy upgrade path?

Most CAD/CAM vendors provide upgrade paths that take into consideration the cost of the software you have previously purchased. In other words find out in advance what the vendors policy is for upgrading to the next higher level of their software. Get this policy in writing if possible.

Is everything I need included in the quoted price, or are there hidden 'extras'?

Unfortunately, you don't always get everything you see at the demonstration included in the software that arrives on your doorstep. Some CAD/CAM resellers will show the fully loaded high end system with all features enabled at the demo, but quote the 'basic' package, especially when price seems to be one of the deciding factors. Find out at the demonstration what is included in the level of the software you are planning on buying and what are the 'extras' or 'options'. Make sure your quote includes everything you need and clearly shows all associated costs.

The common features, or add-on applications, that can be optional cost items are toolpath verification, post processors, custom post processor development, communication utilities and NC editors.

Does the CAD/CAM System support my CNC machine(s)?

The end result and final test of all CAD/CAM software systems in the NC code it writes. The most powerful CAM system with the most robust features is useless if it won't run your machine adequately. Oddly enough most CAD/CAM buyers, unless they have had previously experienced problems with a prior purchase, overlook this very important qualifier. This oversight can be time consuming and costly to the buyer.

This is not to say that perfect NC code to your exact specifications should be demanded at the demonstration. However, inspect the NC code produced by the system. Is it close to what your expecting? Does the CAM system provide the tools to make minor modifications yourself? Is there a charge for post processor modifications, even minor ones?

Machine shown as reference only and does not designate preference!

There are some instances, for unique or new-to-market CNC machines, when an existing post processor to create the NC code right out of the box will not be available. Make sure the CAM system, vendor, and/or reseller have adequate tools and resources for developing your post processor. Make sure to get a price and estimated delivery quote for post development in the beginning. Do not expect resellers and vendors to guarantee that the post processor will do everything you want or support every function in the control. Provide a list of what you expect of the post processor and NC code to the post developer, if possible even before the quote is established. It is in your best interest, and that of the reseller, to know what the expectations are from the very start of the project and sale. Following this simple guideline of setting expectations early will save you and the reseller a lot of grief and aggravation later!

Know your Reseller

Whether your CAD/CAM purchase is a success or failure is not totally dependant on the software application itself. I've seen a lot of manufacturing software through the years, and I can't think of any system that is guaranteed to require no training or time-to-time assistance from a reseller. This is perhaps the best advise on this page, make sure you are confident that your reseller will be there to help when you need it and is technically competent.

As the differences between CAD/CAM software becomes less and less apparent, it really is the reseller who makes the difference. Ever wonder why, when surfing the net for CAD/CAM info, you see such differing opinions and experiences. The ones with the horror stories most likely have a less than stellar reseller (hey, that almost rhymes!). The ones that will defend the software through any battle, probably have a great reseller behind them.

I've developed, sold, and supported quite a few of the major PC-based CAD/CAM applications. I firmly believe that for each of these companies, it is their reseller channel or sales team that is their best asset. I've seen good dealers make not-so-good software successful and profitable for their customers. Unfortunately, I have also seen resellers either oversell or not support what in reality is good software, and make it untolerable for their customer.

Get to know your reseller. The good ones are there to help you be profitable.

Hey, that's me (second from left) in Australia doing a seminar!