CNC

Description

"CNC stands for “Computer Numerically Controlled”. The terminology was previously just “NC” because for 60 years or more, some machine tools in factories have been Numerically (digitally) Controlled by paper tapes with punched holes or magnetic tapes. As the tape was passed through the machine’s reader, rows of holes representing numbers gave the tool’s motors instructions on where to move the cutting head to cut or machine material. The tapes were programmed by engineers or technicians using a scheme called “G-code” which was designed to cram as much information as possible onto the tape. The tape process seems a little primitive today, but it does indicate that the technology for providing a tool with sequential digital instructions for work to do goes back a long way. The recent addition of “Computer” as the first “C” in CNC reflects replacing the punched tape with a computer in order to provide the tool with instructions more directly. The addition of computers makes NC tools considerably more powerful and flexible, and helps make them easier to use. " (http://www.shopbottools.com/cncdefinition.htm)

Example

Shopbot Tools at http://www.shopbottools.com/cncdefinition.htm