CAD and CAM are abbreviations for ‘Computer Aided Design’ and ‘Computer Aided Manufacture’ respectively. Both are basically computer programs — sets of instructions —used to create drawings or to assist in manufacture of goods. Through a CAD program rough sketches are initially made on a computer screen by using a light pen or a mouse, which can further be finalized in exact details. The final drawings can thereafter be stored in computer memory in entirety or in parts for future use. Alterations or updating can subsequently be easily made in the final drawings. CAD programs are sometimes made for specific purposes such as designing printed circuit boards and computer chips. A CAM program, on the other hand, is used in the manufacture of goods in industries. For instance, computer-driven lathes, drills, welding machine or robotically operated production lines can be employed in factories to speedily manufacture a wide range of precision produced goods.
