Introduction to CNC Code - 3: A Word
A NC word is a series of characters arranged in a specified order that provides a specific command to the machine. A word consists of a address (discussed later) followed by numbers and/or symbols. Here are some examples - but not all - of the typical words:
| CNC Word and example | Description |
| F as in F12.0 | Feed rate (as in 12.0 inches per minute) |
| G as in G1 | Tool movement (as in linear interpolation while under feed control) |
| M as in M6 | Miscellaneous function (as in tool change command) |
| N as in N100 | Block sequence number (as in block number 100) |
| R as in R.25 | Arc radius (as in 0.25 radius) |
| S as in S1250 | Spindle speed (as in1250 RPM) |
| T as in T3 | Selection of tool (as in use tool number 3) |
| X as in X2.5 | X-axis coordinate. (as in 2.5 inches in the X direction) |
| Y as in Y4.75 | Y-axis coordinate. (as in 4.75 inches in the Y direction) |
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