Toolpaths and Machining: Saving Your Toolpaths

Carveco Tutorial: Saving Your Toolpaths

In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to save toolpaths in Carveco Maker and convert them into G-code for your CNC or laser machine. We'll cover how to organize, preview, and export the toolpaths efficiently.

🔹 Opening the Save Toolpaths Dialog

• Right-click on Toolpaths and choose Save Toolpaths As.
• Or select toolpaths and click the Save Toolpath icon at the bottom of the toolpath list.

🔹 Organizing Toolpaths for Export

• Toolpaths on the right side of the dialog will be saved. Drag them from the left if needed.
• Ensure the execution order is correct — e.g., clearing before cutting out.
• If your toolpaths use different tools, make sure their tool numbers are unique or save them to separate files.

🔹 File Management Options

• Enable "Save toolpaths to separate files" to output individual G-code files for each operation.
• Enable "Append toolpath details to filename" for easier identification.
• Add a home move to instruct the machine to return to a safe position after running.

🔹 Selecting Save Location & Format

• Click Browse to choose a folder and filename for your output.
• Choose a Post Processor from the list — this translates toolpaths into the correct G-code format for your machine.
• Common formats include G-Code (mm) (*.tap) and others specific to your CNC brand.

🔹 Previewing Saved Files

• Open saved toolpaths in Notepad or WordPad to inspect the G-code.
• Lines include commands like spindle on, tool moves, and cutting paths.