SolidCAM Maker Version
Design. Create. Machine.
The world’s best design tools are available for everyone pursuing their hobbies, personal projects or studies for free or at very low cost. True Making, however, goes well beyond designing your dream project. With the free SolidCAM Maker Version, you can now transfer your designs into manufacturing using SolidCAM, the leading CAM-software used by tens of thousands of industrial customers worldwide.
The SolidCAM Maker Version is for Makers, Hobbyists and Students only – no commercial use. It offers all the functionality of the regular SolidCAM Version, except it has only three built-in post processors:
- ISO Milling 3X post
- Mach3 Milling post
- ISO Turning 2X post
The SolidCAM Maker version can load CAM parts built in SolidCAM Education version. But CAM Parts built in the Maker version cannot be read in SolidCAM’s Educational or Industrial versions.
You must have SOLIDWORKS already installed – the SolidCAM Maker Version is an Add-In to SOLIDWORKS.
SolidCAM Maker Versions can be downloaded for free and will be updated in the same way as the latest SolidCAM.
First-Time Using SolidCAM Maker Version?
To get started quickly and successfully:
👉 Join SolidCAM Academy
👉 Watch the SolidCAM demo recordings
👉 Then follow the learning path: General → Toolkit → 2.5D Milling → 3D Milling…
These steps will guide you through the essential tools and workflows for SolidCAM Maker.
Maker Resources
Questions, answered.
Everything you need to know about the free SolidCAM Maker version — licensing, compatibility and G-code output.
How do I download SolidCAM Makers?
- Complete the form at solidcam.com/maker-registration.
- Verify your email.
- Go to My SolidCAM and log in.
- You will see the available downloads.
What version of SOLIDWORKS is SolidCAM Makers compatible with?
SolidCAM Makers is compatible with desktop versions of SOLIDWORKS, like SOLIDWORKS Design. Cloud-based versions of SOLIDWORKS, like SOLIDWORKS xDesign, are not supported.
Does SolidCAM Makers support 5-axis toolpaths?
Yes, you can program and simulate 5-axis toolpaths for educational or demonstration purposes. However, G-code generation (exporting) for 5-axis operations is disabled in the Maker version.
How many computers can I install SolidCAM Makers on?
Each license of SolidCAM Makers allows for a single installation of the software.
Can I open projects made with SolidCAM Maker with a commercial version of the software?
No, SolidCAM Makers projects cannot be opened with a commercial version of the software. SolidCAM Makers will open and convert commercial projects, but they will no longer be able to be opened in the commercially available versions of the software.
Do I need an internet connection to run SolidCAM Makers?
No — after the license is installed, SolidCAM does not need access to the internet.
I have used SolidCAM Makers for a while. Why do I need a license now?
All SolidCAM Maker users are required to maintain an active license of the software. It is available for free with the completion of a form and active My SolidCAM credentials.
My install is asking for a license. Where do I get one?
- Go to SolidCAM.com.
- Go to My SolidCAM and log in.
- Your license is visible on the left side of the screen under "My Licenses".
How do I activate my license?
First-time installation: the installer will prompt you to enter your license key at the end of the installation process.
Already installed?
- Launch the "License Manager" found in the SolidCAM folder of your start menu.
- Go to the "Online Activation" tab of the License Manager.
- Enter your product key and email address and click "Activate".
How can I change the extension of my G-code output?
- Open your Machine/VMID file.
- Go to the "Working Style" tab.
- Navigate to the "Gcode Output / Gcode file extension" option and enter the extension you require.
Note: this will not change the data that is saved — it just changes the file extension.
I don't see my machine in the list of machines with G-code. Why not?
SolidCAM Maker only outputs G-code for our predefined list of approved hobbyist post-processors (see the list below). If your exact machine isn’t listed, you must map your machine definition (VMID) to one of these approved standard posts (like Mach3 or standard ISO Milling) to generate code.
What post-processors are approved?
- gMill_3x_Mach3_Imperial.gpx
- gMill_3x_Mach3_Metric.gpx
- gMill_3x_Mach4.gpx
- ISO_Mill_Education.gpx
- ISO_Turn_Education.gpx
- Rownd_PrecisionCNC.gpx