PC-DMIS measurement and inspection software adds to the unique metrology performances a fully configurable, more intuitive graphic user interface (GUI) for easier operation.

PC-DMIS is available on all Hexagon Metrology machines and can be installed on existing DEA machines. It has been adapted for easy upgrading as an additional module to all non-DEA CMMs. The interface blends power with simplicity and is designed to provide users of all skill levels with easy access to the powerful routines in PC-DMIS software. The customizable graphic user interface features icons and tool bars that can be modified or deleted to streamline and simplify commands. "One click" start routines for probe qualification, part alignment and reporting functions improve inspection efficiency. The tool bars can be floated anywhere on the screen or can be docked against any screen edge. User specific profiles, allow operators to save the interface they use, including the placement of tool bars and windows on the screen. In addition to the intuitive operator interface, PC-DMIS includes the capability of fully automated probe qualification of all tools in a rack. The probe calibration can be saved by name to allow the user to recall and run a specific setup. The software also allows the user to load and unload tools from the rack automatically for added efficiency.

Among the key features included in PC-DMIS are the direct CAD interfaces (DCI) to the CATIA 4 and 5, Unigraphics, Pro-engineer, SDRC, IDEAS and ACIS system. In this mode, the measuring program can be generated working directly on the native CAD model, and using algorithms and tools of the native CAD model. This eliminates the need for translators and makes programming faster and more precise. Besides the direct access, PC-DMIS allows to associate more part programs to a single CAD file thus saving space on the disk. In addition, direct-access CAD models can be displayed even if the license for this CAD system is not available. The PC-DMIS direct translators allow to use native CAD models when the user does not have the specific CAD system. The CAD files can be translated directly into the native CAD format of PC-DMIS, that is similar to the IGES format. As a result, it is not necessary to translate into IGES first. Direct translators are currently available to CATIA 4 and 5, Pro-Engineer and Unigraphics.

Further important features are the capability to move 6 axes of the measuring system at the same time, the support for simulating continuous scanning with the SP600 and SP25 sensor, filters for selecting sizes and improved contouring functions. Handling of non-contact probes like Metris, Perceptron and NC100-RS allows fast measurement of car body features and scanning of free-form surfaces. In addition, PC-DMIS supports the migration of measuring programs created with a Hexagon Metrology software of an earlier generations, using translators, text editors and execution engines. The user can therefore use all measuring programs created in the past taking advantage of the modern PC-DMIS functions.

PC-DMIS is available in three versions to cope with different needs of dimensional inspection:

PC-DMIS pro: all basic measurement and programming functions for users who are not involved with CAD based inspection activities. Optional modules are available for graphic representation of measuring results, DMIS input/output and IGES/DXF output.

PC-DMIS CAD: measurement, programming, tool path simulation and graphic representation of measuring results are based on the CAD model of the part received or directly uploaded from the CAD database. Also available are direct interfaces to the most popular CAD systems and an off-line package for part program generation and simulation on remote stations.

PC-DMIS CAD++: all functions of PC-DMIS CAD enhanced with scanning capabilities, sheet metal routines and reverse engineering/surface analysis tools: the ideal software for die and mold manufacturers and model makers.
Various application packages are available to satisfy specific requirements such as measurement of gears and blades.

Various application packages and direct interfaces to the most common CAD systems are available to satisfy specific requirements: