CAM2 Software by FARO

Overview

CAM2 is a comprehensive, Windows-based metrology software platform developed by FARO Technologies for dimensional inspection, reverse engineering, and quality control in precision manufacturing environments. Built on a modular architecture, CAM2 integrates seamlessly with FARO’s portfolio of 3D measurement hardware—including laser trackers, portable coordinate measuring machines (CMMs), articulating arm CMMs, and 3D scanners—to deliver traceable, ISO-compliant measurement workflows. The software employs geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T)–driven analysis engines grounded in ASME Y14.5 and ISO 1101 standards, enabling users to perform first-article inspection, statistical process control (SPC), deviation mapping, and automated report generation directly from point cloud or CAD-based datasets.

Key Features

• Multi-sensor data fusion: Supports simultaneous import and alignment of point clouds, probe measurements, and photogrammetric targets from FARO hardware.
• GD&T-compliant inspection: Full implementation of datums, feature controls (e.g., position, profile, runout), and tolerance stack-up analysis per ASME Y14.5–2018 and ISO 1101:2017.
• Automated reporting engine: Generates customizable PDF, Excel, and XML reports with embedded color-mapped deviation plots, pass/fail status flags, and audit-ready metadata.
• Scripting and automation: Includes CAM2 Script—a Python-based macro language—for batch processing, custom fixture setup, and integration into factory MES or PLM systems.
• Real-time collaboration tools: Enables secure, role-based sharing of inspection projects across geographically distributed teams via FARO WebShare Cloud integration.
• Calibration traceability: Maintains full NIST-traceable calibration logs for all connected devices, supporting FDA 21 CFR Part 11 electronic signature requirements when configured with appropriate user access controls.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

CAM2 natively supports industry-standard CAD formats including STEP AP203/AP214, IGES, Parasolid (.x_t), and native SolidWorks (.sldprt/.sldasm). It accepts raw measurement data from FARO hardware in proprietary .faro, .ptx, and .asc formats, as well as universal formats such as STL and OBJ for reverse engineering applications. The software conforms to ISO 9001:2015 quality management system requirements for inspection software validation and supports GLP/GMP-aligned validation documentation packages—including IQ/OQ/PQ protocols—upon request. All GD&T calculations are validated against NIST SP 958 and ANSI/ASME B89.7.3.1–2022 uncertainty estimation guidelines.

Software & Data Management

CAM2 implements a centralized project database structure with version-controlled file history, user activity logging, and configurable permission tiers (Admin, Engineer, Operator, Viewer). Audit trails record every measurement action—including operator ID, timestamp, instrument serial number, and environmental conditions (if logged)—ensuring compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 clause 7.7 and FDA 21 CFR Part 11 Annex 11 requirements. Data export options include CSV for SPC charting in Minitab or JMP, STEP AP242 for model-based definition (MBD) handoff, and JSON for API-driven integration with enterprise QMS platforms like ETQ Reliance or Siemens Teamcenter.

Applications

CAM2 is deployed across aerospace Tier-1 suppliers for wing spar alignment verification; automotive OEMs conducting body-in-white (BIW) gap-and-flush analysis; medical device manufacturers validating implant geometry per ISO 13485; and energy sector contractors performing as-built verification of turbine blade root profiles. Its flexibility extends to tooling certification (e.g., mold cavity inspection per VDI 2634), weld seam contour assessment using laser line scanners, and large-scale infrastructure alignment (e.g., shipyard hull section assembly using laser tracker networks).

FAQ

Is CAM2 compatible with non-FARO measurement hardware?
CAM2 is engineered exclusively for FARO hardware ecosystems; third-party devices are not supported for real-time acquisition or calibration integration.
Does CAM2 support multi-language user interfaces?
Yes—localized UIs include English, German, French, Spanish, Japanese, Korean, and Simplified Chinese, with locale-specific GD&T symbol rendering and unit conventions.
Can CAM2 be validated for regulated industries?
Yes—FARO provides IQ/OQ documentation templates and supports installation qualification under ISO 13485 and 21 CFR Part 11 when deployed with Windows Server Active Directory authentication and encrypted database storage.
What training and technical support options are available?
FARO offers instructor-led onsite and virtual courses (CAM2 Fundamentals, Advanced GD&T, Automation Scripting), plus 24/7 global support through certified regional service centers with remote diagnostics capability.
Is cloud deployment supported?
CAM2 operates as an on-premise desktop application; however, project data synchronization and collaborative review are enabled via FARO WebShare Cloud, hosted on AWS GovCloud infrastructure compliant with ISO 27001 and SOC 2 Type II.