We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Course image

Do you want become a CNC machinist?

Do you have access to a CNC router or milling machine and need to learn how to program it?

Maybe you are already working in a machine shop and wish to improve your skills and pay grade?

Get a foot in the door in any machine shop by learning to program CNC milling machines.

Don't just rely on CAD/CAM to produce your parts, having a good understanding of the code CAM software outputs is an important part of being a CNC machinist.

Read more

Do you want become a CNC machinist?

Do you have access to a CNC router or milling machine and need to learn how to program it?

Maybe you are already working in a machine shop and wish to improve your skills and pay grade?

Get a foot in the door in any machine shop by learning to program CNC milling machines.

Don't just rely on CAD/CAM to produce your parts, having a good understanding of the code CAM software outputs is an important part of being a CNC machinist.

If you are a proud owner of a desktop CNC Router or are looking to improve your knowledge in a professional industry. you need to have a complete understanding of how to program FANUC G-Code.

This course will teach you how to program CNC parts using G-Code, the language of CNC Machines.

All Cycles Explained

G81 drilling cycle

G82 Counter boring

G83 peck drilling

G84 Tapping cycle

G85 Boring Cycles

All the Techniques

G10 and G54 Datum setup

Helical milling

Programming best practices

Example programs

G17, G18 and G19 planes explained

Floating datum

Become an expert in the world of CNC machining with this course.

What this course does not teach:

Machine setup procedure

At the machine instructions

How to operate a CNC machine

Enroll now

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Covers the basics of CNC programming, including all cycles, techniques, and best practices
Suitable for absolute beginners, those who want to brush up on their skills, or those who are completely new to CNC machining
Provides a comprehensive understanding of how to program FANUC G-Code, the language of CNC machines
Taught by an experienced instructor who is passionate about sharing his knowledge
This course is designed for those who have access to a CNC router or milling machine and need to learn how to program it
May not be suitable for those who are already experienced in CNC programming

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save

Reviews summary

Essential g-code foundation for cnc programming

According to students, this course offers a strong and practical foundation in CNC milling machine G-Code programming, particularly focusing on FANUC G-Code. Many learners found the instructor's explanations to be very clear, especially for those new to the subject. The inclusion of practical examples and detailed breakdowns of G-Code cycles (like G81, G83) is consistently highlighted as a major positive. While it excels at building core programming skills, some learners note that despite the course title, it's best for beginners to intermediate learners, and the promise of becoming an "expert" may be misleading for advanced users seeking more in-depth industrial applications or problem-solving. It's explicitly stated and reiterated by some that the course does not cover machine setup or operation, focusing solely on the coding aspect.
Does not cover machine setup or operational procedures.
"As noted in the description, it doesn't cover machine setup, which I think is a significant omission for a 'machinist' course, even if stated upfront."
"It's crucial to understand this course is strictly about programming G-Code, not how to operate a CNC machine."
"I appreciate that the instructor clearly stated what the course wouldn't teach, like machine operation, right from the start."
Builds a solid foundation in FANUC G-Code programming principles.
"This course is a must-have for anyone serious about understanding the basics of CNC."
"A solid introduction to G-Code. It truly helped me bridge the gap between CAM software and raw G-Code."
"I knew nothing about G-Code and now I feel confident in reading and writing basic programs. The G10 and G54 datum setup explanation was particularly lucid."
"As a professional machinist, it refreshed my understanding of some G-Code nuances I hadn't touched in years."
Instructor provides very clear explanations with practical examples.
"Absolutely fantastic! The instructor explains G-Code concepts very clearly, especially for someone new to CNC programming."
"The examples provided are practical and easy to follow. I particularly loved the detailed breakdown of the G81 drilling cycle and helical milling."
"As a hobbyist with a desktop CNC, this course was invaluable. The explanations of G-Code syntax and common cycles (G83 peck drilling was super helpful) were spot on."
"I appreciated the clear step-by-step guidance. I now feel confident in writing basic G-Code."
Some minor issues with audio quality or presentation style.
"The video quality is good, but sometimes the audio could be a bit clearer."
"I found the instructor's voice to be a bit monotonous at times, which made it hard to stay engaged during longer lectures."
Best for beginners/intermediate learners; not for advanced expertise.
"The content is mostly good, but some parts feel a bit rushed, especially the more complex cycles. You'll need more resources to become an 'expert'."
"While it covers G-Code, it's very basic. I was hoping for more in-depth problem-solving or real-world industrial examples."
"Disappointed. The promised 'expert' status is misleading. Good for absolute beginners, maybe, but not for me."
"I found the pace slow for experienced users looking to delve into advanced G-Code techniques."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in CNC Milling machine programming using G-Code with these activities:
Attend a CNC machining networking event
Attending CNC machining networking events will allow you to meet other people in the field and learn about new opportunities
Browse courses on CNC Machining
Show steps
  • Research and find a CNC machining networking event that is relevant to your interests
  • Register for the event and pay the registration fee
  • Attend the event and participate in the activities
Create a simple CNC machine program
Writing a CNC machine program will help you understand the principles of G-Code
Browse courses on CNC Programming
Show steps
  • Choose a simple object to create
  • Use a CAM software to generate the G-Code
  • Transfer the G-Code to the CNC machine
  • Run the program and observe the results
Practice writing G-Code programs
Practicing writing G-Code programs will help you become more proficient in the language
Browse courses on CNC Machining
Show steps
  • Find some online G-Code examples
  • Try to modify the examples to create your own programs
  • Share your programs with other students for feedback
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Attend a CNC machining workshop
Attending a CNC machining workshop will allow you to learn from experienced professionals and get hands-on experience with the equipment
Browse courses on CNC Machining
Show steps
  • Research and find a workshop that is appropriate for your skill level
  • Sign up for the workshop and pay the registration fee
  • Attend the workshop and participate in all of the activities
Create a blog or website about CNC machining
Creating a blog or website about CNC machining will help you solidify your understanding of the concepts and share your knowledge with others
Browse courses on CNC Machining
Show steps
  • Choose a topic that you are passionate about
  • Write high-quality content that is informative and engaging
  • Promote your blog or website to attract readers
Contribute to an open-source CNC machining project
Contributing to an open-source CNC machining project will allow you to learn from other developers and contribute to the community
Browse courses on CNC Machining
Show steps
  • Find an open-source CNC machining project that you are interested in
  • Read the project documentation and familiarize yourself with the codebase
  • Make a change to the codebase and submit a pull request
Participate in a CNC machining competition
Participating in a CNC machining competition will allow you to test your skills against other machinists and learn from the best
Browse courses on CNC Machining
Show steps
  • Research and find a CNC machining competition that is appropriate for your skill level
  • Practice your skills and prepare for the competition
  • Attend the competition and give it your best shot
Mentor a new CNC machinist
Mentoring a new CNC machinist will allow you to share your knowledge and skills while learning from others
Browse courses on CNC Machining
Show steps
  • Find a new CNC machinist who is looking for a mentor
  • Meet with your mentee regularly and provide guidance and support
  • Track your mentee's progress and provide feedback

Career center

Learners who complete CNC Milling machine programming using G-Code will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
CNC Machinist
CNC Machinists work with CNC (computer numerical control) machines to produce parts for a variety of industries, including aerospace, automotive, and manufacturing. This course will teach you how to program CNC milling machines using G-Code, the language of CNC machines. This skill is essential for CNC machinists, as it allows them to create precise and accurate parts.
Manufacturing Engineer
Manufacturing Engineers design and develop manufacturing processes and systems. They work with CNC machinists to ensure that parts are produced efficiently and accurately. This course will teach you the basics of CNC programming, which will be helpful for Manufacturing Engineers who want to understand the process of CNC machining.
Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical Engineers design and develop mechanical systems, including machines, engines, and other devices. They often work with CNC machinists to produce parts for their designs. This course will teach you the basics of CNC programming, which will be helpful for Mechanical Engineers who want to understand the process of CNC machining and how to design parts that can be easily produced on CNC machines.
Production Manager
Production Managers oversee the production process in manufacturing facilities. They work with CNC machinists to ensure that parts are produced on time and according to specifications. This course will teach you the basics of CNC programming, which will be helpful for Production Managers who want to understand the process of CNC machining and how to manage CNC machinists.
Quality Control Inspector
Quality Control Inspectors ensure that products meet quality standards. They work with CNC machinists to inspect parts for defects. This course will teach you the basics of CNC programming, which will be helpful for Quality Control Inspectors who want to understand the process of CNC machining and how to inspect parts for defects.
Tool and Die Maker
Tool and Die Makers create and repair tools, dies, and other fixtures used in manufacturing. They often work with CNC machinists to produce parts for tools and dies. This course will teach you the basics of CNC programming, which will be helpful for Tool and Die Makers who want to understand the process of CNC machining and how to create and repair tools and dies.
Automation Technician
Automation Technicians install, maintain, and repair automated systems, including CNC machines. This course will teach you the basics of CNC programming, which will be helpful for Automation Technicians who want to understand the process of CNC machining and how to maintain and repair CNC machines.
CAD/CAM Technician
CAD/CAM Technicians use computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software to create and program CNC machines. This course will teach you the basics of CNC programming, which will be helpful for CAD/CAM Technicians who want to understand the process of CNC machining and how to create and program CNC machines.
CNC Programmer
CNC Programmers create and edit CNC programs. This course will teach you the basics of CNC programming, which is essential for CNC Programmers.
Industrial Engineer
Industrial Engineers design, improve, and install integrated systems for managing industrial production. They often work with CNC machinists to improve the efficiency of CNC machining processes. This course will teach you the basics of CNC programming, which will be helpful for Industrial Engineers who want to understand the process of CNC machining and how to improve the efficiency of CNC machining processes.
Manufacturing Supervisor
Manufacturing Supervisors oversee the production process in manufacturing facilities. They work with CNC machinists to ensure that parts are produced on time and according to specifications. This course will teach you the basics of CNC programming, which will be helpful for Manufacturing Supervisors who want to understand the process of CNC machining and how to manage CNC machinists.
Mechanical Designer
Mechanical Designers design and develop mechanical systems, including machines, engines, and other devices. They often work with CNC machinists to produce parts for their designs. This course will teach you the basics of CNC programming, which will be helpful for Mechanical Designers who want to understand the process of CNC machining and how to design parts that can be easily produced on CNC machines.
Product Engineer
Product Engineers design and develop products. They often work with CNC machinists to produce parts for their designs. This course will teach you the basics of CNC programming, which will be helpful for Product Engineers who want to understand the process of CNC machining and how to design parts that can be easily produced on CNC machines.
Quality Assurance Manager
Quality Assurance Managers oversee the quality assurance process in manufacturing facilities. They work with CNC machinists to ensure that parts meet quality standards. This course will teach you the basics of CNC programming, which will be helpful for Quality Assurance Managers who want to understand the process of CNC machining and how to ensure that parts meet quality standards.
Research and Development Engineer
Research and Development Engineers design and develop new products and technologies. They often work with CNC machinists to produce prototypes and parts for new products. This course will teach you the basics of CNC programming, which will be helpful for Research and Development Engineers who want to understand the process of CNC machining and how to produce prototypes and parts for new products.

Reading list

We've selected seven books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in CNC Milling machine programming using G-Code.
Provides a comprehensive overview of CNC programming, covering topics such as programming codes, toolpath generation, and machine setup. It includes numerous examples and exercises, making it a valuable resource for both beginners and experienced CNC programmers.
Provides a practical guide to CNC programming for machinists, covering topics such as programming codes, toolpath generation, and machine setup. It valuable resource for both beginners and experienced CNC programmers.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of CNC machining technology, covering topics such as machine design, programming, and operation. It valuable resource for students and professionals alike.
Provides a beginner-friendly guide to CNC milling for makers, covering topics such as machine setup, programming, and toolpath generation. It valuable resource for those who are new to CNC milling.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of CNC programming and operation, covering topics such as G-code, toolpaths, and machine setup. It valuable resource for students and professionals alike.

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:

Similar courses

Similar courses are unavailable at this time. Please try again later.
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser