Getting Started with SolidCAM Maker

Hanen Bdioui

22 September 2025 6 mins to read

If you’re passionate about creating intricate mechanical parts, custom prototypes, or experimenting with CNC machining, SolidCAM Maker Version is your gateway to mastering the world of Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) and the best part? It’s free for makers, hobbyists, and students! SolidCAM integrates directly with SOLIDWORKS, bringing advanced machining capabilities right to your desktop.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your existing skills, this guide will walk you through every step of getting SolidCAM Maker up and running, from downloading the software to starting your first CNC project. Let’s dive in!

What is SolidCAM Maker Version?

SolidCAM is a powerful CAM software that seamlessly integrates with SOLIDWORKS, making it a go-to tool for CNC programmers and machinists. It supports a range of machining operations, including 2D/3D milling, turning, and 5-axis machining. The SolidCAM Maker Version is specifically designed for hobbyists, makers, and students who want to experiment with CNC programming without the high cost of a full license.

With SolidCAM Maker, you gain access to:

Full machining power: 2D, 3D, and 5-axis milling, turning, and even more complex operations.
Seamless integration with SOLIDWORKS: You work in the familiar SOLIDWORKS environment while accessing CAM tools.
Real-world CNC capabilities: Generate G-code, simulate toolpaths, and set up machining operations for real CNC machines.

To use SolidCAM Maker, however, you will need to install SOLIDWORKS first. Luckily, there’s an affordable way to get SOLIDWORKS for Makers through the 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers program.

Figure 1: SOLIDWORKS for Makers: Personal 3D & Cloud Tools

Guide to Downloading & Installing SolidCAM Maker

Ready to get started? Follow these simple steps to download and install SolidCAM Maker and unlock its full CNC potential.

Step 1: Create a 3DEXPERIENCE Account & Install SOLIDWORKS for Makers

Sign Up for a 3DEXPERIENCE Account
- Head to the SOLIDWORKS for Makers page.
- Sign up for a 3DEXPERIENCE account. This is the platform you’ll use to access both SOLIDWORKS and SolidCAM.
- The cost for SOLIDWORKS for Makers is a $15/month or $48/year subscription, making it a great option for non-professionals.
Verify Your Account
- Once registered, you’ll get an email to verify your account. Click the activation link to confirm your account.
Download and Install SOLIDWORKS for Makers
- After verifying your account, the “Getting Started Email” will appear with further instructions.
- You will be directed to download 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers.
- Follow the installation steps carefully. This process installs SOLIDWORKS Connected via the 3DEXPERIENCE platform and will allow you to access the SOLIDWORKS environment for your projects.

Figure 2:SOLIDWORKS Connected Installation Process

Activate the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform
- Once the software is installed, click on 3D Creator Role in the platform. Wait for the SOLIDWORKS Connected box to load. After that, the Install button will appear.
- Follow the instructions to install any necessary hotfixes. DO NOT select SOLIDWORKS CAM, as this is separate from SolidCAM, which will be installed in the next step.

After this step, you’ll have SOLIDWORKS for Makers installed and connected to the 3DEXPERIENCE platform!

Step 2: Download and Install SolidCAM Maker Version

Download the SolidCAM Maker Version Installer
- Now that SOLIDWORKS is ready, it’s time to install SolidCAM Maker. You can download the installer from SolidCAM Maker Download
- This installer is lightweight and will guide you through the installation process.
Run the Installer

After downloading, run the Maker_SolidCAM.exe file and accept the End User License Agreement (EULA) when prompted.

Figure 3: Download and Installation Process

Restart SOLIDWORKS
- Once the installation completes, close SOLIDWORKS if it’s open and then restart it. This is crucial for proper integration of SolidCAM.
Accept the SolidCAM EULA
- Upon restarting SOLIDWORKS, you will be prompted with the SolidCAM End User License Agreement. Make sure to accept it to proceed.
Pin SolidCAM to the Toolbar
- To access SolidCAM, navigate to the Tools menu in SOLIDWORKS and select SolidCAM.
- Pin this option to your toolbar for quick access to your CAM tools directly from within SOLIDWORKS.

Once these steps are complete, you’re ready to start using SolidCAM Maker and begin creating your CNC programs!

Step 3: Open Part Files and Start Using SolidCAM

Download Sample Files to Get Started
- To make the learning process easier, download SolidCAM Sample Files from the Get Started with SolidCAM for Makers page.
- Choose from Inch or Metric versions based on your needs and download the zip file.

Figure 4: Steps to Download Sample Files for Getting Started

Load and Edit the Files in SOLIDWORKS
- After extracting the sample files, open SOLIDWORKS, and navigate to Tools > SolidCAM > Open.
- Browse to where you’ve saved the files, and open them to start experimenting with toolpath generation, simulations, and G-code generation.

Figure 5: Download and Installation Process

Maximizing Your SolidCAM Experience: Resources for Learning

SolidCAM Academy
- SolidCAM offers a wide range of e-learning tutorials through their SolidCAM Academy. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to expand your skills, these tutorials are a great resource to guide you through everything from simple 2D milling to complex 5-axis setups.

Figure 6: SolidCAM Academy – Your Learning Resource

SolidCAM Chatbot
- Need help while using the software? The SolidCAM Chatbot is a fantastic on-demand resource that answers your questions and offers advice related to both SolidCAM and SOLIDWORKS.
Community and Forums
- Join SolidCAM forums and communities where you can ask questions, share tips, and learn from other makers and hobbyists.

Figure 7: Engaging with the SolidCAM Forums for Support

Why SolidCAM Maker Version is Perfect for Makers and Hobbyists

As a maker or hobbyist, you’re likely working on personal projects, prototypes, or small-scale production. SolidCAM Maker Version is perfect because:

It’s cost-effective: Free for makers, students, and hobbyists.
It integrates with SOLIDWORKS, a design software you may already be familiar with.
It supports professional-grade CNC machining: Access to full milling, turning, and 5-axis capabilities at no cost allows you to experiment and learn without financial strain.
You get access to real-world CNC tools: Generate toolpaths, simulate machining, and produce G-code ready for real CNC machines.

This combination of powerful tools, affordability, and easy integration makes SolidCAM Maker an ideal solution for anyone looking to explore CNC machining on a budget.

Conclusion: Your Next Steps with SolidCAM Maker

Now that you know how to download and install SolidCAM Maker Version, the next step is to dive in and start creating. Whether you’re designing prototypes for a personal project or experimenting with CNC milling for the first time, SolidCAM Maker offers everything you need to bring your ideas to life.

The learning curve can be steep at first, but with the SolidCAM Academy, chatbot support, and countless online resources, you’ll quickly master the software. It’s time to unlock your full creative potential and step into the world of CNC machining—one toolpath at a time.

Happy Machining, and enjoy the process of building with SolidCAM! ️

Author
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Hanen Bdioui

Sales Development Representative at ChampionXperience

Hanen Bdioui, founder of ChampionXperience, is a Sales Development Representative skilled in SimLab Soft, SOLIDWORKS, 3DEXPERIENCE, and 3DEXCITE. She helps companies and learners explore VR, AR, and PLM solutions to drive innovation.