From firmware to CN: how FARO’s in‑house stack makes adding probes and external devices transparent

Editorial axis: Skipper + Pigreco + firmware — one stack, zero operator friction

FARO develops its CNC software and firmware fully in‑house. The result is a cohesive stack where Pigreco (CAD/CAM) hands jobs to Skipper (the proprietary, ISO‑compatible CN interface) and the machine executes with consistent, predictable behavior. For operators, new capabilities appear inside the same interface and workflow they already know. ([farocnc.com](https://farocnc.com/software-cnc/))

Verified capabilities that make integration “transparent”

• Barcode Integration — scan a code to load the correct job and start immediately; access can be restricted to read‑only for safety. ([farocnc.com](https://farocnc.com/software-cnc/))
• I/O Control Panel — instant visibility on every I/O for real‑time diagnostics and shorter downtime. ([farocnc.com](https://farocnc.com/software-cnc/))
• Caliper Mode (with mechanical probe) — the machine works as a digital caliper to check heights and alignment before or during runs. ([farocnc.com](https://farocnc.com/software-cnc/))
• Preview & Simulation + Virtual Pendant — validate toolpaths and intervene from one screen, mirroring the physical pendant. ([farocnc.com](https://farocnc.com/software-cnc/))

Why ISO matters: compatibility, continuity, less lock‑in risk

FARO states Skipper is ISO‑compatible. ISO 6983‑1 defines the widely used “G‑code” program format for NC controls. In practice, adhering to this standard helps preserve program portability and know‑how, mitigating vendor lock‑in while still allowing FARO to add advanced, proprietary functions in its interface over time. (Inference based on the standard’s scope.) ([farocnc.com](https://farocnc.com/software-cnc/))

Plug & run batches with barcodes

For repeatables, place job presets on barcodes. Operators scan, the right part loads, and the queue can run unattended with job batches. Fewer clicks, fewer errors, and consistent outcomes across shifts. ([farocnc.com](https://farocnc.com/software-cnc/))

Diagnostics without guesswork

When behavior deviates, the I/O Control Panel shows the live state of sensors, actuators and safety chains. Many issues can be isolated by the operator before calling service, improving uptime. ([farocnc.com](https://farocnc.com/software-cnc/))

For eyewear and jewelry teams

• Eyewear: quick pre‑run checks on acetate/metal fixtures with the probe; barcode‑driven model changes on small batches. ([farocnc.com](https://farocnc.com/eyewear/?utm_source=openai))
• Jewelry: 2D‑optimized Pigreco workflows for diamond‑cut and profiling, with simulation before execution in Skipper. ([farocnc.com](https://farocnc.com/software-cnc/))

Deep dive resources

• FARO Software: Pigreco + Skipper — features, interface and ecosystem. ([farocnc.com](https://farocnc.com/software-cnc/))
• ISO 6983‑1 (G‑code) overview — official scope and definitions. ([iso.org](https://www.iso.org/standard/34608.html?utm_source=openai))
• Eyewear applications — industry focus and examples. ([farocnc.com](https://farocnc.com/eyewear/?utm_source=openai))
• FARO Academy — training paths for teams. ([farocnc.com](https://farocnc.com/faro-academy/?utm_source=openai))

Note: Where not explicitly listed on FARO pages, device/tool compatibility requires prior engineering evaluation. The examples above focus on documented features (Barcode Integration, I/O panel, Caliper Mode, simulation, Virtual Pendant) and ISO compatibility. ([farocnc.com](https://farocnc.com/software-cnc/))