.NC1 File Extension

.NC1 File Extension

Mastercam Numerical Control File

Developer CNC Software
Popularity

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Category CAD Files
Format .NC1
Cross Platform Update Soon

What is an NC1 file?

The .NC1 file extension is primarily associated with Mastercam, a leading CAD/CAM software used in manufacturing for creating precise instructions for CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines. These files contain numerical control data essential for guiding CNC machines to perform operations such as milling, drilling, and cutting with high precision.

More Information.

The .NC1 file format was developed to facilitate the transition from traditional manual machining processes to automated CNC machining. Historically, CNC machines required a way to interpret complex instructions generated from CAD designs.

The .NC1 files serve this purpose by encapsulating the necessary toolpath information, which the CNC machine reads and executes.

The initial purpose of these files was to ensure precise, repeatable, and efficient machining processes, which are vital in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and consumer electronics manufacturing.

Origin Of This File.

The .NC1 file format originates from the realm of CNC machining and CAD/CAM software. Mastercam, developed by CNC Software, Inc., is a prominent application that utilizes this file extension to store the toolpath instructions required by CNC machines. These files are integral to the workflow of many manufacturing industries, where precision and efficiency are crucial.

File Structure Technical Specification.

The .NC1 file structure is designed to be read and interpreted by CNC machines. While the specifics can vary depending on the machine and the software generating the file, a typical .NC1 file includes:

  • Header Information: Details about the machine type, tool information, and setup instructions.
  • Toolpath Data: Detailed G-code or M-code instructions that guide the machine’s movements, including coordinates, speed, and feed rates.
  • Footer Information: Optional data, such as program end commands and safety instructions.

How to Convert the File?

Windows

  1. Using Mastercam:
    • Open Mastercam and load the .NC1 file.
    • Go to the “File” menu and select “Export.”
    • Choose the desired output format (e.g., .NC, .DXF, etc.).
    • Save the file in the chosen format.
  2. Using Autodesk Fusion 360:
    • Open Fusion 360 and import the .NC1 file.
    • Navigate to the “File” menu and select “Export.”
    • Choose the appropriate format and save the file.
  3. Using Universal Gcode Sender:
    • Load the .NC1 file into the software.
    • Use the built-in tools to convert the file into a generic G-code format.

Linux

  1. Using FreeCAD:
    • Open FreeCAD and import the .NC1 file.
    • Use the “Export” function to save the file in the desired format.
  2. Using QCAD/CAM:
    • Load the .NC1 file into QCAD/CAM.
    • Use the “Save As” option to convert and save the file in another format like .DXF.
  3. Command-Line Tools:
    • Utilize scripts or command-line tools like nc2gcode to convert .NC1 files to generic G-code.

Mac

  1. Using Mastercam (via Virtual Machine or Bootcamp):
    • Open the .NC1 file in Mastercam running on a virtual machine or Bootcamp.
    • Export the file in the desired format.
  2. Using Autodesk Fusion 360:
    • Import the .NC1 file into Fusion 360.
    • Export the file using the built-in export options.
  3. Using Parallels Desktop:
    • Run a Windows environment on Mac using Parallels Desktop.
    • Follow the Windows conversion steps in Mastercam or Fusion 360.

Android

  1. Using CNC Viewer or GCodePrintr:
    • Open the .NC1 file using CNC Viewer or GCodePrintr.
    • Export the file in a different format if the app supports this feature.
  2. Using Cloud Services:
    • Upload the .NC1 file to a cloud-based service like Autodesk Fusion 360.
    • Use the mobile version to convert and download the file in another format.

iOS

  1. Using NC Viewer or Fusion 360 Mobile:
    • Open the .NC1 file using NC Viewer or the mobile version of Fusion 360.
    • Use available options to export or convert the file if supported.
  2. Using Cloud Services:
    • Upload the file to a cloud-based platform that supports conversion.
    • Convert the file through the platform and download it to your iOS device.

Others

  1. Web-based Conversion Tools:
    • Use online tools such as NC Viewer or similar web-based G-code viewers.
    • Upload the .NC1 file and use the export or conversion features provided by the platform.
  2. Cloud-based CAD/CAM Software:
    • Platforms like Onshape can import .NC1 files.
    • Use the software’s export function to convert the file into the desired format.

Advantages And Disadvantages.

Advantages:

  • Precision: Allows for highly precise machining, essential for complex and detailed parts.
  • Automation: Facilitates automated machining processes, reducing human error and increasing efficiency.
  • Standardization: Provides a standardized way to communicate with CNC machines, enhancing interoperability.

Disadvantages:

  • Complexity: Creating and editing .NC1 files require specialized knowledge and software.
  • Compatibility Issues: Different machines and software versions may have compatibility issues, requiring careful management.
  • Cost: High initial setup costs for the necessary software and CNC machinery.

How to Open NC1?

Open In Windows

  1. Mastercam: The primary software for creating and editing .NC1 files.
  2. Autodesk Fusion 360: Can open and convert .NC1 files with appropriate add-ons.
  3. Notepad: For viewing the raw text data (G-code) in the file.

Open In Linux

  1. FreeCAD: Open-source CAD software that can read and convert .NC1 files.
  2. QCAD/CAM: Another open-source tool that supports .NC1 file operations.

Open In MAC

  1. Mastercam for Mac: If available, or using Mastercam through a virtual machine.
  2. Autodesk Fusion 360: A cloud-based solution that works on Mac.

Open In Android

  1. CNC Viewer: Apps that can display the G-code contained within .NC1 files.
  2. GCodePrintr: For viewing and sending G-code to CNC machines.

Open In IOS

  1. NC Viewer: Apps designed for viewing and simulating CNC G-code.
  2. Fusion 360 Mobile: Allows access to files created in the desktop version.

Open in Others

  1. Web-based G-code Viewers: Platforms like NC Viewer offer browser-based solutions to open and simulate .NC1 files.
  2. Cloud-based CAD/CAM software: Such as Onshape, which can import and work with .NC1 files.

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