Using Mastercam Zip2Go

Mastercam’s Zip2Go feature makes it easy to share program files by combining all required files into a single compressed package. This is especially useful when sharing a machining program with technical support, a colleague, or a customer, and ensures that all necessary reference files—such as tool libraries, machine files, and configuration files—are included.

A Zip2Go package ensures that the recipient sees exactly the same project as the sender, without broken links or missing files. For this reason, it is recommended whenever Mastercam projects are sent for analysis or troubleshooting.

Creating a Zip2Go file

You can create a Zip2Go file directly from within Mastercam. Follow these steps:

1. Go to the “File” tab and select “Zip2Go.” Alternatively, you can use the Zip2Go icon on the Quick Access Toolbar, which is usually located in the upper-left corner of the interface.
2. The program prompts you to save the part file before continuing. This ensures that all recent changes are included in the package.
3. The Zip2Go wizard opens and provides three options:
   1. Create
   2. Edit
   3. Extract
      
      Select “Create” to create a new Zip2Go package.
4. On the File Options page, you can select which files to add to the Zip2Go package. You can clear file types or remove individual files from the list at the bottom of the page.
5. In the next step, you can optionally add extra files, such as documents, images, or measurement reports that were not created directly by Mastercam.
6. Finally, click “Finish.” The program prompts you to select a save location and file type. By default, the file type is set to content file. Change it to “Z2G” and save the file.

Zip2Go then creates a single, easy-to-share file containing all the part files and settings required for the project.

Extracting a Zip2Go file

A Zip2Go package can be opened in any Mastercam installation. Extract it as follows:

1. Drag the .Z2G file directly into a new Mastercam session. The Zip2Go wizard opens automatically.
2. Select the folder where you want to extract the files. You can select “Extract as Flat View” to place all files in the same folder.

After extraction, the project files are immediately available in Mastercam. This makes information exchange, collaboration, and troubleshooting easier.

Mastercam’s Zip2Go is a powerful tool for sharing and archiving projects. It simplifies the handling of support requests, reduces errors, and ensures that all required files are transferred together in a single package. Zip2Go should be part of your standard workflow whenever projects are transferred between computers or sent to technical support for analysis.