CNC Programming using Fanuc Custom Macro B

Assuming familiarity with conventional parts programming as well as some experience with procedure oriented computer programming like old BASIC or FORTRAN this text is indeed self contained and designed for self study. I would recommend keeping a text like Smid's or Lynch's handy in case you need to refresh your memory on an occasional M or G code but I found his side notes adequate here. With Macro programming you can use the more advanced mathematical functions like are used in FORTRAN to cut parts with more detailed geometries. Shapes may have to be cut using iterations for example as in lofting or skinning. Macro can essentially do everything that can be done with CAM software. With CAM you're likely paying for a developer's expertise in differential geometry as well as his programming expertise in implementing it in the CAM environment. Anyway the end product is still in M and G codes so nothing is alien here. It's a good skill to learn and you're really only limited by your own imagination.

I have Peter Smid's CNC Programming Handbook (which I highly suggest). I almost bought Smid's Macro programming book before I saw this. This book is $20-30 cheaper than Smid's book, and I am quite impressed with it. The description's table of contents is accurate; it covers a lot of useful topics. The explanations of the basics of macro programming are very clear. As long as you have experience with general CNC programming, you can follow the explanations. It does help to have previous computer programming experience, though. There are multiple chapters dedicated to applications of macro programming with plenty of examples. There are also a lot of very good programming tips throughout the book that will save new programmers some hassle debugging programs.The book focuses on Fanuc controls (the Fanuc 0i, in particular). However, the shop I work for uses Haas machines, and I have found that Haas's implementation of macros is quite standard. The mapping of system variables matches very closely to the book's description.

This covers a lot of introductory aspects of macro programming like construction, and how to layout code, and defines the characters and functions well as advanced stuff. I bought this book because I recently got a job that uses macros. the only thing I did not like about the book is the lack simplicity and understanding of some of the examples. I just found they didn't dumb it down enough for the new guys or i would have given 4 stars. i think it is a must have for reference with macro programming.

I had previously purchased the other popular books covering Macros, in effort to learn this powerful alternative & compliment to CAM programming, but none of them were as helpful as I expected. I learned of the author of this book while reading a forum, trying to learn more. As it turns out, he often posts there helping others with their questions. His good will and open handedness were what made me initially consider this book. However, after receiving the book it stands firmly on its own merit. Finally a book that covers the subject in clear and easy manner, and decidedly logical progression. I consider this THE go-to book on learning Macro B programming. Well worth the money and time. Highly recommended.

There is absolutely no wasted space in the 200+ pages here. Covers mostly everything, and gives you an understanding of the macro concept well enough to continue developing your understanding on your own. Since reading I have devised 2 practical macro applications in the shop I work in. It is necessary to be familiar with the cnc process already and the codes that accompany the process, but once you are this book expands your knowledge well beyond that of your peers. Some subjects are rather complex that relate to more advanced features of macros (communicating with external devices, PLC's and the like) but that gives you an idea of where to go after mastering the macro language.

Amazing work - lifelong resource for every macro programmer

this is a great book for the CNC programmer who wants to go beyond basic G&M code programming and maximize machine capability.

Well written and comprehensive. If you want to learn to use Fanuc Macro B, or just need a good reference book, this is for you. Has many examples of what Macro B can do for you. I highly recommend it.CNC Programming using Fanuc Custom Macro B