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G-code Compatibility

AxioCNC streams standard G-code to your controller. The controller’s firmware (Grbl, Marlin, etc.) decides which commands it supports.

Supported file formats​

  • .nc
  • .gcode
  • .cnc

Use UTF-8 or ASCII. Standard G-code from CAM software is typical.

Common G-code commands​

Most CAM output uses a subset of G and M codes. Examples:

  • G0 / G1 — Rapid / linear move
  • G2 / G3 — Arc move
  • G17 / G18 / G19 — Plane selection (XY, XZ, YZ)
  • G20 / G21 — Inch / mm
  • G28 — Return to machine zero
  • G54–G59 — Work offsets
  • G90 / G91 — Absolute / incremental
  • M3 / M4 / M5 — Spindle on (CW/CCW) / off
  • M6 — Tool change (AxioCNC can pause for manual change and zeroing)
  • M8 / M9 — Flood coolant on / off

Support depends on your controller, not AxioCNC. Unsupported codes can cause error or alarm.

CAM software compatibility​

AxioCNC works with G-code exported from:

  • Fusion 360
  • Carbide Create
  • VCarve / Aspire
  • Estlcam
  • FreeCAD
  • Other CAM that outputs standard G-code

Use mm or inch consistently. Match Settings → Machine (and controller) units to the G-code.

Common issues​

  • Unsupported G-code — Controller reports error on a line. Check the console for the code. Remove or replace it in CAM, or use a controller that supports it.
  • Wrong units — G-code in mm but machine in inch (or vice versa). Align CAM, machine config, and controller.
  • Huge numbers — Some CAM tools output very large coordinates. Validate in the visualizer and fix in CAM if needed.
  • Line length — Grbl has a line length limit. Split long lines or simplify the toolpath in CAM.
  • Comments — Parentheses ( ) and semicolon ; comments are usually stripped or ignored. Ensure no critical data is only in comments.

Next steps​