If you are learning CAD/CAM for machining and manufacturing, the real problem isn't a lack of resources-it's sorting through scattered tutorials to find a guide that connects the fundamentals to practical use. Principles and Practices of Cad/Cam from CRC Press is positioned as that kind of structured introduction.
Principles and Practices of Cad/Cam
Written by Vikram Sharma, Vikrant Sharma, and Om Ji Shukla, this 316-page textbook aims to introduce the fundamental aspects of CAD-CAM systems with illustrations and examples, rather than diving into narrow technical details. The book is published by CRC Press and comes in English, with an ISBN of 9781032396767.
Quick verdict
For someone entering machining CAD manufacturing, this book offers a deliberate, example-driven path through CAD-CAM basics. At USD 81.90, it is a textbook-priced purchase, but the structure and clarity make it a reasonable anchor for a course or self-study plan.
Who it suits
If you are a student, an instructor, or a professional moving into CAD/CAM from a related machining role, the book's level fits. Its stated aim-introducing fundamental aspects without overwhelming specifics-means it works best as a first structured resource rather than a troubleshooting manual.
What stands out
The author team is clearly credited, the publisher is CRC Press, and the 316-page length gives enough room for a structured overview. The dimensions are 10 x 7 inches with a 0.7-inch thickness. The ISBN 9781032396767 is also present, which makes finding the edition straightforward. The English-language text and Technology & Engineering genre point to an instructional engineering resource.
Meaningful trade-offs
The main trade-off is depth versus accessibility. Because the book deliberately avoids specifics, readers hitting an advanced CAD/CAM issue-like a niche machining operation or a specific software parameter-will likely need a supplementary reference. The USD 81.90 price also positions this as an educational investment, so if you only need a quick skim of CAD/CAM concepts, that cost may feel high for the breadth offered.
Bottom line
Principles and Practices of Cad/Cam is a purposeful textbook for foundational learning in machining CAD manufacturing. It is not a pocket guide and not a deep dive, but for anyone who wants a structured, illustrated starting point from a credited author team, it delivers what the title promises.
