PhCNC LSSE
Intended for Windows users who need the documented PhCNC CAM workflow: Gerber, ODB++, Excellon and DXF import; multi-tool isolation and rubout; project arrangement and panelization; native arc output; and CNC simulation.
Source-based engineering comparison
PCB CAM Software for CNC PCB Milling - PhCNC LSSE, FlatCAM and CopperCAM
PCB CAM software converts PCB manufacturing data into machining operations for CNC PCB milling. This comparison focuses on Gerber-to-G-code workflows, Excellon drilling, PCB isolation routing, copper clearing and board cutout for prototype production.
Capability matrix
Verified PCB CAM functions
The rows concentrate on functions that materially affect PCB prototyping rather than general-purpose CAD or machine-control features.
Documentation date: Features are based on publicly available product documentation and were checked on 18 August 2026. Product capabilities may change between versions.
Not confirmed means that the capability could not be verified from a reliable current public source. It does not necessarily mean that the software cannot perform the function.
| Feature | PhCNC LSSE | FlatCAM | CopperCAM |
|---|---|---|---|
| Input and PCB data | |||
| Gerber RS-274X import | Yes | Yes | YesIncluding macros and polygon surfaces |
| Excellon drill import | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| ODB++ project import | YesDirectories and supported compressed packages | Not confirmed | Not confirmed |
| DXF import | YesAutoCAD DXF | Not confirmed | Not confirmedOfficial page confirms DXF output, not import |
| Multiple PCB layers | YesMultiple designs and layers in a project | Not confirmed | YesUp to four circuit layers, plus drill and cutout data |
| PCB CAM operations | |||
| Isolation routing | YesUp to eight isolation tools | Yes | YesSimple or multiple contours |
| Multiple-tool isolation strategy | YesLarger tools used where geometry permits | Not confirmed | PartialLarge-tool roughing with engraving-tool finishing |
| Copper clearing / rubout | YesUp to eight rubout tools | Not confirmed | YesHatched copper-removal areas |
| Drilling from PCB data | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Peck / stepped-depth machining | YesIsolation, rubout, drilling, cutting and masking drill | Not confirmed | Not confirmedBoring cycles are documented; peck depth is not confirmed |
| PCB board cutout | YesCompensated internal and external contours | Not confirmed | YesAutomatic cut-path with support bridges |
| Panelization | YesCloning and production-panel arrangement | Not confirmed | Not confirmed |
| Alignment / registration workflow | YesRegistration pins, fiducial alignment and dedicated pin-drilling program | Not confirmed | YesAutomatic or manual layer alignment |
| Toolpath, output and workflow | |||
| G-code generation | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Native G2/G3 arc output | YesDetected circular geometry is preserved as native arcs | Not confirmed | Not confirmed |
| G-code simulation / verification | YesCNC workspace simulation; no machine control | Not confirmed | Not confirmed |
| Tool library / tool assignment | YesSeparate operation tools and parameters | Not confirmed | YesTool library and drilling strategies |
| Configurable postprocessor output | YesM06 / manual pause, modal output, line numbering, custom header and footer | Not confirmed | YesFully customizable postprocessor output |
| Project files | YesCreate, combine, save and reopen PhCNC projects | Not confirmed | YesCurrent project retained in the installation directory |
| Direct CNC machine control | NoSimulation and verification only | Not confirmed | NoProduces output for external machine software |
| License model | PartialCommercial perpetual license; free Evaluation Mode | PartialOpen-source project | PartialCommercial license; limited unlicensed export |
Workflow fundamentals
How PCB CAM fits between design and machining
The CAM stage interprets manufacturing geometry, assigns tools and machining parameters, and generates machine-readable output.
PCB isolation routing
Isolation routing removes narrow channels of copper around tracks and pads so electrically separate nets remain isolated. PCB CAM software calculates tool-center paths from the actual Gerber geometry while accounting for the selected cutter diameter.
Gerber to G-code
A typical workflow moves from Gerber copper and outline data to interpreted CAM geometry, then to machining toolpaths and finally G-code. Excellon drill data is processed separately because it describes hole positions and tool diameters rather than copper artwork.
PCB copper clearing and rubout
Isolation normally removes only the copper needed to separate conductors. Copper clearing, also called rubout, removes larger unwanted areas. This can require different path strategies and larger tools than fine isolation work.
Multiple-tool workflow
Dense PCB geometry may require a small cutter, while open regions can be processed with a larger tool. A documented multi-tool strategy can reduce the amount of work assigned to small tools, but the exact behavior differs between products and versions.
PCB drilling and board cutout
Prototype production usually includes Excellon-based drilling and routing of the finished board outline in addition to copper isolation. Tabs or support bridges may be needed to retain the board safely during contour cutting.
Double-sided PCB milling
Double-sided work requires the bottom layer to be transformed consistently and both sides to share a reliable physical reference. Mirroring, alignment holes, registration points and machine setup all affect whether the second side matches the first.
Selecting a workflow
Which PCB CAM software is appropriate?
The appropriate choice depends on input formats, required PCB operations, preferred operating environment and licensing model.
FlatCAM
Its official repository describes an open-source, Python-based PCB CAM application that converts Gerber geometry into isolation-routing G-code. Detailed capability and packaging can vary between the original project and later beta/fork versions.
CopperCAM
Its current official documentation describes a commercial Windows workflow for Gerber/Excellon import, isolation engraving, copper clearing, drilling, board cutout and configurable output for external CNC software.
PhCNC LSSE
PCB CAM software for CNC PCB prototyping
Evaluate Gerber, ODB++, Excellon and DXF project preparation, toolpath generation and G-code simulation without a time limit. A valid license is required for production-file export.
Software license: EUR 75
About this comparison
Feature information is based on publicly available official product documentation and was checked on August 10, 2026. Product capabilities may change between versions. Detailed source records are maintained internally by TELENET.