Vectric Spark for Mac - CNC & Laser CAD/CAM Software
Vectric Spark for Mac - CNC & Laser CAD/CAM Software
- GA-VLK-SPARK
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License Delivery: Your Vectric Spark license will be issued by the end of the month in which your order is placed.
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.
See the Spark Workflow in Action
Explore Spark's Design and Machining Tools
2D Import & Editing
2D Toolpaths
Built for Growing Skills
V-Carving
Hybrid CNC & Laser
Real-Time Preview
Drawing & Artwork
Vector Editing
CNC Toolpaths
Laser Toolpaths
Machines, Tools & Output
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
| Toolpath | Typical Use | Useful Controls |
|---|---|---|
| Cut Out | Releasing parts from sheet material | Inside/outside cutting, allowances, ramps, tabs, climb or conventional cutting |
| Cut Along | Grooves, channels, outlines, and decorative lines | Cut on the vector or offset the tool to either side |
| Flat-bottom recesses, trays, and raised lettering | Use a larger clearance tool followed by a smaller finishing tool | |
| Drilling | Dowel holes, pin locations, and hanging holes | Depth control and peck drilling for deeper holes |
| V-Carving | Signs, lettering, decorative engraving, and chamfered details | Standard or flat-bottom V-carving and multi-tool clearing strategies |
| Laser Picture, Cut, and Fill | Photo engraving, fine vector cutting, scoring, and filled areas | Prepared from the same artwork used for the CNC portion of the project |
A Streamlined Workflow from Design to Machine
- Create or import the design. Draw vectors in Spark or bring in supported artwork and bitmap references.
- Edit the geometry. Resize, combine, trim, offset, fillet, and refine vectors for the intended material and cutter.
- Configure the machine and tools. Select the machine/post processor and choose proven cutter settings from the Tool Database.
- Generate the toolpaths. Apply CNC and compatible laser operations to the selected vectors.
- Preview the job. Simulate individual or combined toolpaths in the 3D preview and correct issues before cutting.
- Save the output. Export toolpaths in the format required by the selected machine controller.
Mac System Requirements
| Operating System | macOS 12 or later |
|---|---|
| Processor | Apple silicon (M1 or later) |
| Memory | 8 GB minimum |
| Storage | 500 MB free space |
| Display | 1408 × 881 minimum resolution |
| Graphics | Integrated Apple GPU; no discrete graphics card required |
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.