What is PC-DMIS? Modules, integrations and alternatives
PC-DMIS is metrology software from Hexagon used to program and run coordinate measuring machines and related measurement devices, then evaluate and report dimensional results against CAD models and tolerances. It is the measurement layer of a quality process, producing the data that inspection, SPC and first article systems consume.
Also known as: PCDMIS, PC DMIS, Hexagon PC-DMIS
PC-DMIS lets metrologists build inspection routines, either by teaching a machine on the part, writing programs offline from CAD, or a mix. The program defines features to measure, how the probe approaches them, and which tolerances to evaluate, then runs and reports the results.
Hexagon offers variants and options for different device types, such as touch-probe CMMs, portable arms and laser or optical scanning, so the same family of software can cover several kinds of measurement. Because it works from CAD models, tolerance evaluation can follow GD&T conventions defined in the model or drawing.
In a manufacturing stack, PC-DMIS sits at the inspection station. Its results feed quality systems for first article reports, SPC and nonconformance, and its programs are tied to the part revision released from engineering. The ERP and PLM hold the item and revision; PC-DMIS holds the measurement routine and the raw results.
Modules and capabilities
CMM programming
Builds measurement routines for touch-probe machines, online on the machine or offline from CAD.
CAD import and alignment
Reads CAD models to define nominal geometry and aligns the part for measurement.
Tolerance evaluation
Evaluates dimensions and geometric tolerances against nominal data and reports deviations.
Reporting
Generates inspection reports and graphical output, with options for customised templates and data export.
Portable and scanning options
Supports measurement with portable arms and laser or optical scanners, depending on licensed options.
Automation and scripting
Allows routines to be run in batches and customised, depending on edition and options.
Integrations and data access
CAD formats
Imports neutral and native CAD formats for nominal geometry; check supported versions for your CAD system.
DMIS and I++
Works with standards such as DMIS programs and I++ interfaces that let other software communicate with measuring devices.
QIF and result data
Can export results in standard and custom formats, including QIF where supported, for use by quality systems.
Quality systems
Results are commonly passed to SPC and FAI tools through files or interfaces, for example from 1factory or InfinityQS ProFicient workflows.
Hexagon ecosystem
Interacts with other Hexagon metrology and quality products, depending on licensing and version.
Strengths
- Mature software supporting many CMM and portable measurement scenarios.
- Offline programming from CAD reduces machine downtime for programming.
- Strong GD&T evaluation and reporting for dimensional quality work.
- Large installed base means many trained metrologists and reseller support.
Limitations
- Tied mainly to Hexagon ecosystems; mixed-vendor labs may need additional software.
- Programming still needs skilled metrologists; outcomes depend on strategy and fixturing.
- It is a measurement tool, so traceability, SPC and corrective action sit elsewhere.
- Options and licences are modular, which can make costs and capabilities hard to compare.
Where AI helps PC-DMIS users
- - Draft measurement programs or feature lists from CAD annotations for a metrologist to review and prove out.
- - Summarise trends in deviations across runs and flag features drifting towards tolerance limits.
- - Match inspection reports to the correct part revision and flag mismatches before release.
- - Answer questions about inspection history and recurring out-of-tolerance features through read-only access to exported results.
Evaluating PC-DMIS? Check these
- Match software options to your measuring devices and probing needs before buying licences.
- Confirm CAD format and version compatibility with your engineering systems.
- Decide how results will flow to SPC, FAI and ERP quality records, and in which format.
- Plan for offline programming seats if machine time is scarce.
- Check training and support options through Hexagon or local resellers.
Common alternatives: Zeiss Calypso, PolyWorks, Verisurf, Metrolog, Renishaw-based tools, 1factory.
Frequently asked questions
What is PC-DMIS?
It is Hexagon's metrology software for programming and operating coordinate measuring machines and related devices. It measures parts against CAD nominals, evaluates tolerances and produces inspection reports used by quality teams.
Does PC-DMIS only work with Hexagon machines?
It is designed primarily for Hexagon equipment, though some third-party device support exists through interfaces such as I++. Mixed-vendor labs should verify compatibility for each device before standardising.
Can PC-DMIS feed an SPC or FAI system?
Yes, results can typically be exported in file formats or via interfaces and loaded into SPC or first article tools. The exact method depends on your version, options and the receiving system.
Is offline programming possible?
Yes. Programs can be built from CAD on a separate workstation and then run on the machine, reducing downtime. Offline work needs verification on the real part and fixture before production use.
What are alternatives to PC-DMIS?
Alternatives include Zeiss Calypso, PolyWorks, Verisurf and Metrolog. The best choice usually follows the CMM brand in use, plus how well results integrate with your quality and ERP systems.
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