How to use G-code Toolpath and Print Viewer: a practical file-check workflow
Open a real file with G-code Toolpath and Print Viewer and check important fields, output, format boundaries, and local privacy.
When to use it
Use this read-only tool when before printing or machining, you want to inspect units, coordinate mode, work bounds, layers, and critical machine commands. Actual G-code behavior depends on the printer, CNC controller, and firmware. This viewer plots textual motion but cannot simulate machine dynamics or guarantee safety.
Practical example
For FDM G-code, confirm G21 millimeters and G90 absolute positioning, then inspect first-layer bounds, nozzle/bed temperatures, and extrusion. For CNC, search G54, G43, M6, and spindle commands.
Steps
- Choose a .gcode/.nc/.tap file and select print or CNC mode.
- Review detected units, absolute/relative mode, bounds, and layer information.
- Scrub layers or play the path, distinguishing rapid from cutting/extrusion moves.
- Search homing, temperature, tool-change, and work-coordinate commands; correct the slicer or CAM source.
Result checklist
- G20/G21 units and G90/G91 positioning are explicit
- XYZ bounds stay within machine travel or print bed
- Rapid and extrusion/cutting moves are distinguishable without suspicious crossings
- Homing, work coordinates, temperature, spindle, and tool changes fit the target controller
First troubleshooting checks
The model is scaled by 25.4
This normally means inch/mm interpretation is wrong; inspect G20/G21 and CAM/slicer export units.
The preview is right but the machine moves differently
Firmware macros, offsets, compensation, and vendor codes are interpreted by the real controller and are not simulated here.
Real limitations
- Macros, subprograms, vendor extensions, and five-axis motion may be unsupported
- Time estimates omit real acceleration, firmware planning, and tool changes
- A preview cannot prove machine, fixture, or work-coordinate safety
Privacy and file safety
Parsing runs in the current browser tab and the file is not uploaded to FreeTool to use this tool. Still use a trusted device for customer, engineering, research, or medical material. Keep the original unchanged and clear downloads, screenshots, and browser data after a shared device.