FAQ's

Who makes HSMWorks?

HSMWorks was created by the same team that makes Cimco Products. Cimco Integration had over a decade of experience creating CAM and CNC add-ins for other companies before creating HSMWorks.

What CNC machines do you support?

2.5D milling, 3D milling, 5-axis milling and Turning. Turning includes support for multiple turrets, subspindle, and driven tools.

Does HSMWorks run in any CAD other than SolidWorks?

No. We were developed from the ground up to run only inside of SolidWorks.

Why Not?

This approach allows us to provide a level of seamless integration that is impossible to achieve if we ran inside of multiple CAD systems or offered "stand-alone" versions.

That is why HSMWorks looks and acts like SolidWorks, and not a like completely different application "pasted" into SolidWorks. In fact, it weren't for our logo, you'd probably have a hard time telling that were not a SolidWorks product.

Do I have to have SolidWorks to run HSMWorks?

Yes. HSMWorks is an add-in for SolidWorks.

We do offer a versions of HSMWorks that include SolidWorks Part modeling only (HSMWorks Standard) and SolidWorks Parts, Assemblies, Drawings (HSMWorks Pro). These are for those who use HSMWorks only for CNC programming.

If you are new to SolidWorks or use SolidWorks for design, we recommend you purchase we recommend that you buy SolidWorks from a SolidWorks VAR. While we know SolidWorks very well, our main focus is CNC machine tool programming, not support of SolidWorks for design and engineering.

What Versions of SolidWorks does HSMWorks Run In?

We are always guaranteed to run at least two versions back of SolidWorks. For example, HSMWorks 2011 will run in SolidWorks 2009 and newer.

How much does HSMWorks cost?

This varies from country to country so we don't advertise prices. We are comparable to other CAM products in our performance class. However, when you consider our speed, quality, and ease of learning and use, many companies find we are the best value.

How is HSMWorks Protected?

The most common method is the same as SolidWorks. We give you a code that allows you to activate on one computer. You can move HSMWorks between computers yourself by first de-activating on one and then re-activating the license on a different computer.

We offer a Network License Manager at no charge. This allows any computer that can see your server to check out the license, either on a LAN or VPN.

We do also offer a USB key (aka: dongle).  If you lose the dongle you don't have to re-buy the software. There is a $100 replacement charge for lost or stolen dongle.

Just specify which method you prefer when ordering.

What about Feature Recognition?

HSMWorks includes some feature recognition including hole processing but we purposely chose not to create a feature-centric system. Our studies found that forcing users to create an extensive knowledge database or to define parts as discreet features is very time-consuming and provides little practical payoff.

Our experience indicates that up to maybe 95% of the advantage of feature recognition is in automatic hole processing. The way we do 3D machining FR is irrelevant since the software already considers the entire model or some area of the model constrained by a boundary or check surfaces.

2.5D parts are just too varied and setup considerations too complex to classify "real" parts as discreet features to machine. Forcing the user to do so or undo and work-around FR can be very frustrating and is simply far more work than reward.

Is there an annual Subscription Cost?

Yes. It works out to about 15% and includes all software updates, technical support, access to our post library and most post processor modifications. If you check our revision history you will see that you actually get a lot for your continued investment.

Are there any hidden costs?

Absolutely not. We include a great editor, communications, DNC, Verify, support library post, and basic post modification with every system we sell. Just buy 2.5D, 3D, 5X or Lathe with subscription.

What about training?

HSMWorks is unlike any other CAM you have ever seen or used. If you know SolidWorks, you already mostly know how to use HSMWorks. It just makes sense and most situations require no formal training at all.

Just work through a few tutorials and start making parts. If you have a question, ask. Using web meetings we can be in your office faster than we could drive accross town to see you.

Where do I get support?

We are your first line of support. We are open 8AM -6:00PM EST (however if you send us an email after hours or on weekends you will often get an answer). HSMWorks Corporate provides backup support if we are not available.  Unlike many systems HSMWorks does not require a lot of ongoing support.

What about post processors?

HSMWorks includes about 50 post processors that install with the software. These cover all the common machines (Haas, Fanuc, Mori Seiki, Fadal, Hurco, Mazak, Prototrac, etc).

It seems that everyone likes their code a little different even for the same make and model machine. We make the changes you need and seldom charge for post modifications except customized 5-axis mill or mill/turn machines which require a lot more work on our part.

The HSMWorks posts are written in JavaScript, which is an open standard. Documentation is included when you install HSMWorks and any customer can edit their own posts.

How often do you come out with new releases?

We put out about two major releases each year but have smaller releases every month or so. Because of the way we are developed these updates are reliable, stable and installation could not be simpler.