Mach3 by ArtSoft CNC Software Inc. is a Windows-based CNC control application that turns a standard PC into a flexible machine controller. It reads G-code and generates precise step-and-direction signals to drive stepper or servo systems, making it a popular choice for mills, routers, lathes, plasma cutters, and engravers in hobby, prototype, and small-shop environments.
Key capabilities:
- Controls up to six axes (X, Y, Z, A, B, C) with configurable kinematics and motion tuning
- Works via a PC’s parallel port or through supported external motion controllers (plugin-based)
- Real-time DROs and toolpath visualization, MDI, jogging, soft limits, homing, and limit switch handling
- Spindle and coolant control (PWM/relay), feed and speed overrides, backlash compensation, and threading support (with proper hardware)
- Work and tool offsets (G54–G59, tool length), probing (G31), and touch-off routines
- Macro support (VBScript) and “Brains” logic for custom behaviors, plus a plugin architecture for add-ons
- Customizable screens and built-in wizards to streamline common machining tasks
- Support for pendants/MPGs, THC integration for plasma (via plugins), and Modbus connectivity
Compatibility notes:
- Runs on supported versions of Microsoft Windows. The built-in parallel port driver requires a 32-bit Windows environment; modern 64-bit systems typically use an external motion controller.
- Licensing is per machine.
Mach3 is widely adopted for retrofits and new builds alike, valued for its feature depth, broad hardware support, and active community resources.
Mach3 Mach3 is developed by ArtSoft CNC Software Inc.. The most popular version of this product among our users is 7.6. The names of program executable files are Mach2.exe, Mach3.exe and Mach4GUI.exe.
You can check Mach3, LazyCam, SheetCam TNG and other related programs like Gearotic Motion at the "download" section.
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