Programming sliding head machines just got easier. Meet NC Assist 2026.

“Having a great machine is one thing, but if you haven’t got the skills to program it, it’s not going to make many parts.”

Sliding head programming has a reputation for being notoriously difficult with its multiple toolpaths, multiple channels, and collision-rich environment. NC Assist from Star Micronics changes that with a template-driven conversational programming system that lets anyone stitch complex programs together quickly and confidently.

The 2026 release is a major step change: full 3D simulation with a comprehensive tool library, Y-axis support, tilt working plane operations, macro programming, engraving simulation, and cycle time estimation built right in. Find out more in this conversation with Clinton Perry of MTDCNC and Alec Warner of Star Micronics, and if you want to try out the software for free, visit www.stargb.com for a 30-day trial.