| A | B |
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| Absolute | System in which positions are given with respect to a fixed point, usually the origin. |
| Address Character | A letter used in G & M code programming to designate a class of functions. |
| Block | A single line of code in an NC part program. |
| Feed | The distance advanced by the cutting tool along the length of the work for every revolution of the spindle. |
| Fixture | A device designed and built for holding a particular piece of work for machining operations. |
| G Code | Preparatory functions that involve actual tool movements that control the machine. |
| G & M Codes | Programming code used to control CNC machines. |
| Incremental | A system in which each position is taken from the one prior. Also called relative. |
| Jig | A device that holds and locates a piece of work and guides the tools that operate upon it. |
| Laser | An acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. Some common uses for lasers are cutting, measuring, and guidance systems. |
| Lathe | A machine tool used for turning cylindrical forms on work pieces. Modern lathes are often equipped with digital readouts and numerical controls. |
| Machinability | The ease or difficulty of machining as it relates to the hardness of a material to be cut. |
| M Code | M codes are miscellaneous functions that include actions necessary for machining but are not actual tool movements. |
| Milling Machine | A machine that removes material from work by means of a rotary cutter. |
| Modal | Information that is retained by the system until new information is obtained. |
| NC | Numerical Control. Any controlled equipment that allows an operator to program its movements through a series of coded instructions consisting of numbers, letters, symbols, etc. |
| Parameter | Attribute of a feature, such as a dimension, that can be modified. |
| Preparatory Code | Codes that carry out machining operations or establish machine settings; G-codes. |
| Spindle Speed | The number of revolutions per minute (rpm) that is made by the cutting tool of a machine. |
| Tolerance | The acceptable amount of dimensional variation that will still allow an object to function correctly. |
| V-Block | A square or rectangular steel block with a 90 degree V-groove through the center, provided with a clamp for holding round stock for drilling, milling, and laying out operations. |
| Word | The programming expression formed when a letter (address) is combined with a number. |
