FastCAM
Encyclopedia
FastCAM are early pioneers and inventors of CAD/CAM software, releasing one of the first on screen nesting systems in 1982. The system was run on the North Star Horizon S100 BUS (one of the first challenges to the minicomputer and before the first IBM computer came out in 1983), Z80 8-bit microprocessor, 64 KB of RAM, twin 360 KB floppy disks.
The system was unique because it included a separate floating point processor providing mini computer performance. This was integrated into the software using Microsoft’s original compilers. The Lear-Siegler terminal was modified with a card to convert it to Tektronics compatible graphics. The Servogor plotter gave accurate scale simulations of the precise tool path and sequence for verification purposes. The Teletype
Model 43 ASR gave listings and punch tape for the early NC flame cutters. Later an interactive keyboard gave mouse-like capabilities.
This was a revolutionary system at the time and significant commercially because it made computing affordable for manufacturers cutting parts from steel plate.
Established as a business in 1978, FastCAM is now one of the oldest Computer-aided manufacture (CAM) software companies in the world, supplying programs for all types of Computer Numerical Control CNC machinery for Steel Profile Cutting including Gas, Plasma, Laser and Waterjet.
The system was unique because it included a separate floating point processor providing mini computer performance. This was integrated into the software using Microsoft’s original compilers. The Lear-Siegler terminal was modified with a card to convert it to Tektronics compatible graphics. The Servogor plotter gave accurate scale simulations of the precise tool path and sequence for verification purposes. The Teletype
Teletype Corporation
The Teletype Corporation, a part of American Telephone and Telegraph Company's Western Electric manufacturing arm since 1930, came into being in 1928 when the Morkrum-Kleinschmidt Company changed its name to the name of its trademark equipment...
Model 43 ASR gave listings and punch tape for the early NC flame cutters. Later an interactive keyboard gave mouse-like capabilities.
This was a revolutionary system at the time and significant commercially because it made computing affordable for manufacturers cutting parts from steel plate.
Established as a business in 1978, FastCAM is now one of the oldest Computer-aided manufacture (CAM) software companies in the world, supplying programs for all types of Computer Numerical Control CNC machinery for Steel Profile Cutting including Gas, Plasma, Laser and Waterjet.