Documentation

The MapleCAM user guide covers installation, the CAM workflow, every operation, machine setup, file formats, and troubleshooting.

The Tenon user guide covers the cut list, the stock settings, the joinery and the fit settings that decide whether parts go together, every product in the catalogue, and both ways out — exporting a job or sending it to MapleCAM.

Both are bundled inside their application as in-app help, so the copy you have always matches the version you are running.

Bug reports and feature requests

Email info@whatsit.ca. Include:

  • Which application — MapleCAM or Tenon
  • What you were doing when the problem occurred
  • What you expected vs. what actually happened
  • Your operating system and Java version (java -version)
  • The .mcam project or .tenon.yaml design that triggers the issue, if applicable

A public issue tracker is on the roadmap.

FAQ

What Java version do I need? Java 21 or later, for both apps. Use any JDK distribution — your package manager, your OS vendor, or a download from openjdk.org.

Do these require an internet connection? No. MapleCAM’s only network call is a small update check on startup that fetches /api/version.json from this site to see if a newer version is available; it fails silently when offline and sends no project data.

What CNC machines does MapleCAM support? Anything that accepts GRBL, grblHAL, or LinuxCNC G-code. More dialects are planned.

Can I import 3D models? No. MapleCAM is 2.5D, working from 2D designs (SVG, DXF). 3D surface carving is on the roadmap.

Do I need Tenon to use MapleCAM, or the other way round? No — they’re separate applications. Tenon designs flat-pack parts and hands them to MapleCAM to cut; each is useful on its own.

Which Tenon file format should I use? Designs save as .tenon (YAML). Older saves used .tenon.yaml and still open.

Are these really free? Yes. No account, no subscription. If you find MapleCAM useful, donations are welcome.