It’s quite common for CAM software to come with built-in simulation to identify potential collisions and optimize virtual machining. However, most versions don’t deliver the experience of programming in the context of the NC machine and instead rely on third-party machine simulation to connect the processes.

To visualize a toolpath simulation in the context of the NC machine, the programmer must transfer a machine code (ISO or G code) generated from a post-processor to the simulation software. Learn more in this recent “Cutting Tool Engineering”  article, “Integrating Simulation.” http://www.ctemag.com/aa_pages/2015/150103-GetProgram.html