Introduction to CNC Code - 2: A Character
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WARNING: Machine tools present a safety hazard. Improper operation can result in severe injury. These topics are for non-laboratory study only and are not to be used in conjunction with the operation of any tool or machine described herein. Never use a machine tool without the supervision of a qualified instructor.
The NC codes are the "language" that is recognized and understood by the CNC machine's controller. This language, like any language, has a specific structure to insure accurate communication. The NC code structure consists of characters, words, blocks, and programs.

There are 9 charter types used in CNC  programming:

  1. letters A thru Z
  2. a number or combination of numbers 0 thru 9
  3. + plus sign
  4. - minus sign
  5. . decimal or period
  6. : colon
  7. ; semi-colon
  8. / slash
  9. % percent

Words, blocks, and programs are described on the following pages
CNC CAD/CAM Books
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