Download the Notepad++ Gcode plugin
Or visit the project page on github!
A Notepad++ GCODE editor plugin that enables file editing alongside a 3D simulation directly within your favorite editor.
NCneticNpp : Notepad++ Gcode editor plugin
Gcode is the main language for CNC machines, guiding their actions with precise instructions. CNC programs, mostly in Gcode, detail movements, speeds, and tool sequences for manufacturing. Gcode commands control various functions, from paths to speeds, in CNC tasks. Notepad++ is a vital tool for crafting and adjusting Gcode programs efficiently for different uses.
While Notepad++ handles basic Gcode editing well, it lacks some features found in specialized editors. One improvement is NCneticNpp, which adds simulation and visualization tools to Notepad++. This lets users preview how Gcode will affect machine movements before running it.
Installation
1. Download the plugin.
2. Locate the Notepad++ plugins folder:
32-bit: C:\Program Files (x86)\Notepad++\plugins
64-bit: C:\Program Files\Notepad++\plugins
3. Add the corresponding plugin file:
32-bit: C:\Program Files (x86)\Notepad++\plugins\NCneticNpp\NCneticNpp.dll
64-bit: C:\Program Files\Notepad++\plugins\NCneticNpp\NCneticNpp.dll
NCneticNpp: Gcode editing for Notepad++
Simulation & Navigation
NCneticNpp stands out for its impressive 3D simulation feature for Gcode. This feature provides users with a dynamic preview of how Gcode will work in real life.
This 3D simulation helps users preview and analyze the machining sequence. It also helps catch potential errors or collisions before deploying Gcode to the machine, making manufacturing smoother and more efficient.
Users can easily navigate the Gcode program by interacting with the 3D view. Clicking on specific elements in the simulation lets them explore different sections of the program visually.
Moreover, NCneticNpp lets users select a line of code in the text editor, instantly finding its place in the 3D view.
Syntax Highlighting
NCneticNpp adds its own lexer to Notepad++, which helps with syntax highlighting and formatting for Gcode programs. Syntax highlighting means making important Gcode parts like Gcodes, Mcodes, comments, and coordinates look different visually.
By using different colors for each part of the code,
Users who like customizing syntax highlighting can use Notepad++'s built-in language definition feature. This feature lets them create their own color schemes for their NC programs, making coding more personal and easier to follow.
To do this, users can go to the 'Language' menu and choose 'Define your language.' Then, they can set up detailed rules for syntax highlighting.
Notepad++ compelling features for Gcode editing:
Powerful Search and Replace Options
The search and replace function in Notepad++ provides a range of options, such as case sensitivity, whole word matching, and search direction, which, when combined with Regex, empowers users with a robust toolkit for manipulating and refining Gcode files.
Regex support in Notepad++ enables users to tackle complex editing tasks effortlessly. With Regex, users can create sophisticated search patterns to identify specific sequences or formats within the Gcode.
Compare plugin
The Compare plugin in Notepad++ enhances Gcode editing by facilitating easy comparison between two Gcode files.
This feature enables side-by-side visual analysis, highlighting differences in real-time. Users can swiftly identify variations in code structure, commands, or coordinates, streamlining the debugging and revision process.
The plugin's intuitive interface and highlighting of disparities simplify the task of synchronizing and merging Gcode files, ensuring accuracy and consistency in CNC programming.
Scripting
Scripting in Notepad++ provides a powerful toolset for optimizing Gcode editing workflows. This feature allows users to automate repetitive tasks, create custom functions, and extend the software's capabilities according to specific Gcode programming needs.
By leveraging scripting languages like Python or Lua, users can develop tailored scripts to manipulate Gcode, perform batch operations, or implement specialized functionalities.
This flexibility empowers CNC programmers to streamline their editing processes, enhance efficiency, and customize Notepad++ to better cater to the intricacies of Gcode editing, ultimately fostering a more productive and tailored environment for CNC programming tasks.
