Vectric Spark for Mac - CNC & Laser CAD/CAM Software

Vectric Spark brings 2D design, CNC toolpath creation, laser workflows, and machining preview together in one native macOS application. It is designed for makers who want a clear path from an idea or imported design to machine-ready output without switching between separate CAD and CAM programs.

For Genmitsu users working on a Mac, Spark provides a practical workspace for signs, cut-out parts, pockets, drilling, V-carving, image engraving, and compatible laser projects. Vectric lists Genmitsu (GRBL) among its supported laser machine families; because individual controllers and add-ons vary, we recommend confirming your exact machine with the free trial before purchase.

Explore Spark's Design and Machining Tools

2D Shape Creation

Draw circles, ellipses, rectangles, lines, and curves by dragging on screen or entering exact dimensions. Every shape remains editable as the project develops.

Image Adjustment

Import bitmap artwork, then adjust brightness, contrast, gamma, borders, and black-and-white conversion before preparing a laser engraving.

Node Editing

Edit vector nodes and spans directly to refine corners, curves, and imported geometry for CNC-ready outlines.

Text Tools

Use fonts installed on the Mac, adjust character and line spacing, fit text inside a vector boundary, or create curved text layouts.

Boolean Operations

Weld, subtract, or retain overlapping areas to construct more complex vectors from simple shapes, with a live result preview.

Vector Trimming

Hover to preview intersecting vector segments and remove unwanted sections while keeping the remaining geometry connected.

Fillet Tools

Create radius, dog-bone, and T-bone fillets. The internal-corner options help slot-together parts fit despite the round profile of a router bit.

Cut Out Toolpaths

Machine inside or outside a profile with allowances, ramps, tabs, overcut, and climb or conventional cutting controls.

Pocket Toolpaths

Clear material inside closed vectors for trays, recesses, and raised lettering, with separate clearance and finishing tools where needed.

V-Carving

Create crisp lettering, pointed corners, decorative lines, flat-bottom V-carving, and multi-tool clearing strategies.

Laser Picture

Convert a photograph or grayscale image into a variable-power engraving toolpath for compatible laser hardware.

3D Toolpath Preview

Preview individual or combined toolpaths against realistic material textures before sending the job to the machine.

Why Use Vectric Spark with a Desktop CNC?

• Native macOS workflow: Designed specifically for Mac rather than running through a Windows compatibility layer.
• Design and CAM in one application: Create or import artwork, edit vectors, generate toolpaths, preview the result, and export machine-ready files.
• Essential CNC operations: Build cut-out, cut-along, pocket, drilling, and V-carving toolpaths for common maker projects.
• CNC and laser in one project: Prepare machining and compatible laser operations from the same vectors and artwork.
• Preview before machining: Use the 3D toolpath preview to check the planned result and refine settings before running the job.
• Reusable machine setup: Store cutters, feeds, speeds, cutting depths, machine configuration, and post-processor settings.

Design and Vector Editing Tools

Start from scratch with circles, rectangles, curves, freehand lines, and text, or import existing 2D artwork and bitmap images. Spark includes node editing, Boolean operations, interactive trimming, boundary trimming, offsets, and fillets for building CNC-ready geometry.

Dog-bone and T-bone fillets are especially useful for slot-together projects because they compensate for the round profile of a router bit at internal corners. Bitmap adjustment and vector-based cropping also help prepare photographs and artwork for laser engraving.

CNC and Laser Toolpaths

A Streamlined Workflow from Design to Machine

1. Create or import the design. Draw vectors in Spark or bring in supported artwork and bitmap references.
2. Edit the geometry. Resize, combine, trim, offset, fillet, and refine vectors for the intended material and cutter.
3. Configure the machine and tools. Select the machine/post processor and choose proven cutter settings from the Tool Database.
4. Generate the toolpaths. Apply CNC and compatible laser operations to the selected vectors.
5. Preview the job. Simulate individual or combined toolpaths in the 3D preview and correct issues before cutting.
6. Save the output. Export toolpaths in the format required by the selected machine controller.

Mac System Requirements

Important: Spark is currently a macOS-only product and does not support Windows or Linux. Automatic tool changing and Vectric gadgets are not supported.

Compatibility and Existing Vectric Files

Spark uses the same family of post processors as other Vectric products, and custom post processors can be imported. It can open CRV and CRV3D files, but only supported design elements are imported; unsupported content such as unavailable 3D models or toolpaths is ignored. Multi-sheet files are opened one sheet at a time.

Spark project files can be opened by Aspire, VCarve, and Cut2D version 13 or later. Tool databases can also be imported between Spark and other Vectric products.

Compatibility depends on the machine, controller, post processor, and any installed laser hardware. Before purchasing, use the Vectric free trial and a sample project to confirm your exact setup. You can also review the official Vectric Spark feature page and current system requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Vectric Spark run on Windows?

No. Spark is currently available only for macOS and requires Apple silicon (M1 or later).

Can Spark be used with a Genmitsu CNC or laser?

Vectric lists Genmitsu (GRBL) among the supported laser machine families, and Spark supports a broad range of CNC machines through post processors. Test the free trial with your exact Genmitsu model, controller, and add-on configuration before purchasing.

Can Spark combine CNC routing and laser work?

Yes. For a machine equipped with compatible laser hardware, Spark can prepare CNC and laser toolpaths in the same project using shared vectors and artwork.

Does Spark support automatic tool changers?

No. Automatic tool changing is not supported. Multi-tool projects can still be prepared, but tool changes must be handled manually at the machine.

Can I import an existing VCarve, Cut2D, or Aspire project?

Spark can open CRV and CRV3D files and import supported content. Unsupported 3D models or toolpaths are ignored, and only one sheet can be opened at a time.