Over the past decade, manufacturing processes all over the world have undergone some dramatic changes. The introduction of automated systems and computer technology has allowed industries to significantly increase their productivity. CAM is the abbreviation for Computer Aided Manufacturing. Computer aided manufacturing accurately converts product drawing or the object into a computer readable code format, enabling the machine to manufacture the product. Computer aided manufacturing can be used in different machines like lathes and milling machines for manufacturing the related product.

A computer aided manufacturing system allows the manufacturer to systematically communicate work instructions to the machine. CAM has evolved from a technology referred to as the Computer Numerical Control (CNC), invented in the 1950s. CNC performed a set of coded instructions in a punched paper tape.

Computer aided manufacturing facilitates effortless and quick computer programming and faster execution of design changes. The computer aided management system integrates the computer aided design systems and controls tasks that involve order placement, scheduling, and replacement of tools. The implementation of CAM system leads to overall increase in efficiency of the manufacturing process. CAM systems are used in the automotive, aviation and furniture manufacturing sectors and areas such as mechanical engineering and electronic designing. Another significant benefit of using the computer aided management system is that it allows customization of the manufacturing process for creating client specific designs.

A computer aided manufacturing system requires a 3D environment for making it compliant with CAD systems. The CAM system can cost $18,000 or more along with the appropriate software. CAM allows automated integration of the manufacturing procedure with other mechanization systems such as Computer-Integrated Manufacturing (CIM), Integrated Computer-Aided Manufacturing (ICAM), Flexible Manufacturing System (FMS), Direct Numerical Control (DNC), and Manufacturing Process Management (MPM).
Repetitive tasks involved in the manufacturing process are delegated to machines using the CAM system, allowing workers involved to concentrate on quality control and productivity.