Powermill - NexGenCAM - HSM & F360 Tool Library Plugin

Below are detailed instructions to install the NexGenCAM HSM/F360 Tool Library plugin that allows you to access ether an HSMWorks, (.hsmlib) or a F360, (.json) tool library to use directly in Powermill. The advantage is that you can leverage the use of HSM or F360 and share tool libraries across the board including feeds and speeds. Leveraging the same tool lists. Users can also take advantage of the Autodesk standard tool libraries that include Helical and Harvey tools among other for quick access by EDP number. 

1.) Receive the HSMToolimporter.zip file from NexGenCAM and place it on your computers C drive. This file can be requested by email, support request via our website, or contacting your NexGenCAM representative directly.  

https://nexgencamsupport.freshdesk.com/support/home

2.) extract and run the .msi installer file onto your PC directly and run it. 

3.) Restart Powermill. If you are prompted to enable the plugin do so and move to step 4. If not, From the File Tab at the top of the Ribbon bar, under Options on the right side of the list, Access Manage Installed Plugins. 

4.) Enable the HSM Tool Importer plugin and OK to close the popup. 

5.) Create a custom UI command button with the Ribbon or Quick Access tool bars to launch the Plugin. Uses the command below in the custom button. 

PLUGIN {46A0EE76-708E-4D69-9375-8517BB69E988} FILTERLIBRARY

6.) Run the plugin using the custom button. There will be a prompt popup, use the windows explorer interface in the popup to navigate to the folder with your HSM or F360 tool libraries then select the the library you wish to access by using the file type drop down in the bottom right corner. Options in the drop down will be as below and are per the respective software. 

7.) After selecting the library. The popup Library should appear. Start by using any of the available filters described below to search the tool library.   

1. Tool Type selection drop down.

2. Quick search field. Uses Name, text, and EDP numbers for an example to find the tool in the library.

Advanced Filters, use this area to filter by diameter range, flute number, lengths, and end conditioning.

4. Selection field. As you Filter or search your results will be listed in spreadsheet format with all of the tools information here, You may select the tool here in the window and you may select multiple tools listed at one time. 

5. Create Tools & or Cancel. This sends the tools to Powermill or closes out the plugin.  

For more assistance with this plugin please send in a support request or contact us at NexGenCAM.