Navigating the Mastercam Tabs
The Mastercam ribbon layout consists of a File tab (referred to as the Backstage) with tasks such as creating a new Mastercam part file, merging files, or accessing the Mastercam community and other resources. This is followed by the Home tab, and subsequent tabs. These tabs are visible by default.
You can customize the functions or groups in a tab, or create your own. Select File, Options to open the Options dialog box to customize the ribbon.
Each tab is grouped into sections, making it easier to locate specific functions. For example, on the Wireframe tab there is an Arcs group, containing functions for creating arcs.
Tab Functions
Each tab has a specific set of functions that are related. For example, the Solids tab contains functions for creating and modifying solid geometry. Select the drop-down below to learn about each tab.
Tabs functions
| Tab name | Description |
|---|---|
| File | Also referred to as the Backstage. Contains options for file management and links to the Mastercam communities and other helpful resources. |
| Home | Contains functions for modifying geometry attributes, deleting entities, and analyzing entities. |
| Wireframe | Contains functions for creating and modifying points, lines, shapes, and arcs. |
| Surfaces | Contains functions for creating and modifying surfaces. |
| Solids | Contains functions for creating and modifying solids. |
| Model Prep | Contains functions for modifying solids. |
| Mesh | Contains functions for creating and modifying meshes. |
| Drafting | Contains functions for creating dimension text and notes. |
| Transform | Contains functions for moving, rotating, and projecting geometry. |
| Machine | Contains functions for setting up your machine definition, control definition, and simulation. |
| View | Contains functions for modifying the graphics view and part appearance. |
Each function on a tab also contains a tooltip that can be viewed by hovering over an individual function.
Mastercam disables functions that are currently inaccessible. If you see that the functions in a tab are grayed out, you are probably working in a function that disables other features.
Contextual Tabs
Mastercam also includes contextual tabs. Contextual tabs are tabs that display when certain options are selected, such as selecting a Mill machine.
Contextual tabs also display when you select different types of geometry in the graphics window. For example, if you select only wireframe geometry, an extra tab titled Wireframe Selection displays tools that you might need for analyzing or editing.
Similar tabs display when you select solid, surface, mesh, or a mixture of geometry types.
