Connect/Interface between Vectric and CNC

[Miranda]

Hi Peter,

Welcome to CNC! This part can definitely feel confusing the first time, so I’ll break it down in plain language.

The big thing to understand is that you normally do not send the actual Vectric project file straight to the CNC.

Think of it as three steps:

Vectric = where you design the project and create the cutting instructions.

G-code = the finished set of instructions your CNC can understand.

Nighthawk/controller software = what sends those instructions to the CNC machine.

So your basic workflow looks like this:

1. Open your project in Vectric.

2. Make sure your material size, thickness, toolpaths, bits, and zero position are correct.

3. Use Vectric’s toolpath preview/simulation before exporting anything. This lets you check that the cuts look the way you expect.

4. Once everything looks correct, save or export the toolpaths as G-code.

This is the important part: when Vectric asks for a post-processor, you need the post-processor that is correct for your QB2 V2/Nighthawk setup.

A post-processor is basically a translator. It tells Vectric exactly how to write the G-code in a language your particular controller understands.

5. After saving the G-code, that is the file you would load into the control system that operates your CNC.

Where I don’t want to steer you wrong is the exact Nighthawk/QB2 V2 post-processor and transfer procedure. That is specific to your machine and controller. The best next step is to contact the manufacturer or dealer for your QB2 V2/Nighthawk system and ask them:

“What Vectric post-processor should I select for my QB2 V2 CNC using the Nighthawk controller, and what file type do I load into Nighthawk?”

They should be able to give you the exact post-processor name and show you where that exported G-code file gets loaded.

Hope that helps,

Miranda