CNC files exist as 2 different types. Please find information about each of them below.
Type 1: CNC Machine Tool Path
A .cnc file stores CNC machine tool path data. Files with .cnc extension can be engineering CAD files in CNC machine tool path format. Open with: QuickCAM 2D. Convert: Unfortunately, no conversion pos...
General Information
| Title | CNC File Extension |
| Extension | .cnc |
| Full Form | CNC Machine Tool Path File |
| File Type | Text-Based Code File |
| Developer | Various (Industry Standard) |
| MIME Type | text/plain |
File Function
| Primary Function | Store instructions |
| Additional Functions | Control CNC machine |
| Features | Plain text, G-code |
File Characteristics
| Quality | Precision dependent |
| Supports Layers | N/A |
| Supports Transparency | N/A |
| Editable | Yes |
Use Cases
| Manufacturing | Yes |
| Prototyping | Yes |
| Woodworking | Yes |
| Metalworking | Yes |
| Plastic Fabrication | Yes |
Security and Practices
| Security Risks | Code tampering |
| Best Practices | Verification, Backups |
Historical/Version Information
| Initial Release | Varies |
| Latest Version | Dependent on software |
Associated Types
| Similar Extensions | .nc, .gcode, .tap, .ngc |
Software Compatibility
| Software | Usage Policy | OS Compatibility |
|---|---|---|
 Autodesk Fusion 360 |
Subscription | Windows, Mac |
 Mastercam |
Paid | Windows |
| SolidCAM |
Paid | Windows |
Type 2: PartMaster CNC File
Learn about CNC files. CNC files cannot directly use machines. CNC files need processing by the Post Processor program. Post Processor makes path files. These path files access tools to translate into...
General Information
| Title | CNC File Extension |
| Extension | .cnc |
| Full Form | PartMaster CNC File |
| File Type | CAM/CNC Data File |
| Developer | Dolphin CAD/CAM Systems |
| MIME Type | application/octet-stream |
File Function
| Primary Function | Store CNC code |
| Additional Functions | Machine instructions, Toolpaths |
File Characteristics
| Text Based | Yes |
| Binary | Possible |
| Editable | Yes |
Use Cases
| Manufacturing | Yes |
| Machine Programming | Yes |
| Prototyping | Yes |
Security and Practices
| Security Risks | Low |
| Best Practices | Verification, Backups |
Historical/Version Information
| Initial Release | Not widely known |
| Latest Version | Depends on software |
Associated Types
| Similar Extensions | .gcode, .nc, .tap |
Software Compatibility
| Software | Usage Policy | OS Compatibility |
|---|---|---|
| PartMaster |
Paid | Windows |