- Open your CAM Part: Load the part file you want to process in SolidWorks/SolidCAM. with the completed SolidCAM operations (toolpaths).
- Calculate Toolpaths: Ensure all operations in the SolidCAM Manager tree have been calculated (they should not have a red “X” next to them).
- Access G-Code Generation: Right-click on Operations or Machine in the CAM Manager tree and select Generate : Select G-Code > Generate
- Select APT Post-Processor: In the G-code generation window, you must select a post-processor (*.gpp) designed for APT output.
- Note1: If you do not have an APT post-processor (a post-processor named “Generic_APT” or “APT_CL”), you will need to acquire one from your SolidCAM support representative.
- *Note 2: If you don’t see one, you may need to copy a generic .gpp and .vmid file into your SolidCAM “Gpptool” directory, refer Note2 method.
- Generate: Click the Generate button to create the file. SolidCAM will generate the *.apt file in the same directory as the part project.
- Locate the File: The APT file will be generated alongside the G-code OR After generation, a text window will open showing the code. Go to File > Save As and ensure the extension matches your requirements (e.g., .apt)
* Note 2 method – To obtain a generic APT post-processor for SolidCAM, you typically need two specific file types: a .gpp (logic) file and a .vmid (machine definition) file.
Where to Download Generic APT post-processor – Since generic “APT” output is often used for third-party simulation or intermediate processing, you can find them here:
- Official SolidCAM Portal: The most reliable source is the SolidCAM Post-Processor Subscription Page. You may need to log in with your customer ID to access the full library.
- CAMWorks Post Library: Since SolidCAM and CAMWorks share similar architectures, the CAMWorks Post-Processor Library often hosts compatible generic posts.