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computer numerical control
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computer numerical control

Also known as: CNC
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Quick Summary

Computer numerical control (CNC) is a manufacturing process that uses computer programs to control machinery, such as machine tools. This technology is a key part of computer-integrated manufacturing and is also used in industrial robots.1

CNC systems allow machine tools to be easily adapted for different tasks by changing the control program (software). This makes CNC machines more versatile and simpler to operate than older numerical control (NC) systems. They are also generally more accurate and less expensive to maintain. CNC technology is often enhanced by computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) systems, which allow designs to be created and then directly translated into machine control programs.23

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
3 Britannica Sources
  1. computer numerical control
  2. machine tool - Computer numerical control (CNC)
  3. machine tool - Computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM)

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