Welcome to the first version of SOLIDWORKS CAM in 2018 on beta 2.  Starting last April, a specific group of users have been testing early versions on 2018.  With this 2018 release we have made adjustments to the software and workflows for this release.  We have some more big changes coming in beta 3.  For this version we have updated some tooling workflows and made the transition from Access to SQL lite for the technology database.  One main questions users have had is related to post processors, pricing and packaging.  Pricing and packaging will be announced as we get closer to the release this fall.  Post processors can be handled in a couple ways once the product is launch.  1.  SW CAM will ship with generic post processors that will give users a start on output G-Code for generic machines like Fanuc, Siemens, and others.  2.  SW CAM will also come with a Universal Post Generator that will give the users the ability to define more custom options for their specific machine.  3.  Post processors can be created by the reseller for an associated cost.  These post will be custom tailored to your machine and specific requirements.  This will be very helpful for 3+2 machines.  The post processor in SW CAM is very powerful and can be adjusted to do some pretty amazing things on unique machines. 

In the 2017 versions of SW CAM, we have created some videos to help show some of the processes for programming.  You will also find tutorials in the help pull down menu within the SolidWorks environment.   Below are some links for reference on videos that were created on the versions.  We will be adding updated videos on 2018 as we progress through the 2018 beta process. 

One last thing to note:  Because this is part of beta, the content created cannot be shared publicly.  The rules are the same as SOLIDWORKS 2018 beta.

assembly machining with combine features.mp4 - Google Drive

programming types.mp4 - Google Drive

contain avoid and WIP.mp4 - Google Drive

Assembly Vise - SolidWorks CAM.mp4 - Google Drive

sw cam isoparametric.mp4 - Google Drive

We are very excited to have our users test this product and I thank you for taking the time to look at the newest product in the SolidWorks eco-system!

Mike Buchli

Product Manager SOLIDWORKS CAM