Choosing the Right CMM Software: Why PC-DMIS is the Clear Winner

When it comes to metrology, the software that powers your CMM (Coordinate Measuring Machine) is just as important as the machine itself. Even the best CMMs can fall short without the right software to back them up. At Status Metrology, we believe the right CMM software can be the key to unlocking your quality department’s full potential. But with so many options out there, how do you know which one is the right fit for your business?

Let’s make the choice easier for you.

Navigating the CMM Software Landscape

The CMM software market is full of innovative tools, each promising to improve measurement speed and accuracy. As a trusted metrology partner, we’ve worked with many of the industry’s leading software platforms, including M-COSMOS, CAMIO, Aberlink 3D, and Modus. But after years of experience and thousands of CMM retrofits, one software stands out as the clear leader: PC-DMIS.

Why PC-DMIS is the Best for Your Business

PC-DMIS is the world’s leading CMM software, trusted by over 80,000 users worldwide. It’s compatible with a wide range of systems—from traditional CMMs to portable measuring arms and laser trackers—making it the go-to solution for both shop-floor operators and metrology professionals. Plus, it’s super flexible – you only need to choose the version that fits your needs. With three options to pick from – PRO, CAD, and CAD++- there is something for everyone.

PC-DMIS Pro

If you’re looking for a straightforward entry level option, PC-DMIS Pro is a great choice. While it doesn’t support CAD files, it is fully programmable in the ‘teach and learn’ mode, making it ideal for a high-volume production environment where programming is key. You get the speed and accuracy you need without the extras you don’t.

PC-DMIS CAD

PC-DMIS CAD is your all-rounder. It’s powerful enough to handle bigger jobs but more budget friendly by removing some of the specialist features. It’s particularly well-suited for working with to prismatic, precision parts – ideal for many day-to-day tasks.

PC-DMIS CAD++

PC-DMIS CAD++ is the leading CMM programming software. It is great for free-form shapes, prismatic parts, and sheet metal. You can use tactile, camera, or laser scanning to explore a whole new level of possibilities. If you want the ultimate in versatility, speed, and accuracy, this is the software for you. It can even write its own programs and read complex 2D drawings.

With more than 20 years of experience working with Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence, we’ve seen firsthand how PC-DMIS can elevate your metrology capabilities. Whether you’re in aerospace, automotive, or any other industry, PC-DMIS offers the tools you need to get the job done with precision and ease.

Top Features That Set PC-DMIS Apart

PC-DMIS isn’t just popular because of its widespread use—it’s trusted because it works. Here are some of the standout features that make it a must-have for your CMM:

• Path Optimisation: Streamline your measurement routines for faster, more efficient results.
• Calibration Collision Avoidance: Reduce risks during calibration, freeing up your operators to focus on other tasks.
• GD&T Automation: Automatically transfer GD&T data from blueprints to measurement routines, cutting down on manual input and reducing errors.
• Point Cloud Feature Extraction: Easily extract features like planes, circles, and surface points from point clouds—no laser probe required.
• One-Click Laser Scan Profiles: Save time with pre-configured settings for laser scanning.

Stay Ahead with Regular Updates

PC-DMIS is regularly updated to ensure it stays at the top of its game. The latest update, PC-DMIS 2024.2, includes improvements like expanded roughness reporting, allowing you to measure surface roughness directly alongside dimensional data. This makes your processes more efficient, saving you valuable time. Regular updates like this are part of why we’re proud to partner with Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence—they help ensure your CMM stays reliable and continues to provide a strong return on investment.

Certified Accuracy You Can Trust

PC-DMIS isn’t just widely used—it’s also officially certified by Germany’s National Metrology Institute, PTB (Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt). This certification guarantees that the software delivers the utmost precision when measuring straight lines, circles, planes, and other geometric shapes. You can trust that your measurements are accurate, every time.

Training That Makes a Difference

At Status Metrology, we offer industry-recognized PC-DMIS training for all levels—from beginners to advanced users. Our training is flexible and can be scheduled around your work commitments. Whether you prefer on-site sessions or want to come to us, we’ll tailor the training to meet your needs.

Interested in learning more? Get in touch with us for more information about training options or to book a free PC-DMIS demo.

Ready to Take Your CMM Software to the Next Level?

If you’re ready to see how PC-DMIS can transform your CMM processes, our team is here to guide you. Reach out to us with any questions or book a demo to experience the benefits for yourself.

Contact us at 01159 392228 or reach out here to get started.