CADCAM on small systems

With the improved performance provided by modern 16 bit microcomputers and the development of PC networking systems, the distinction between microcomputer- and traditional minicomputer-based CADCAM systems has become less clear than was the case just a few years ago. As an alternative classification this article considers the concept of a `small¿¿ CADCAM system, distinguished in terms of cost, size, capability and supplier, and discusses the advantages and problems resulting from the use of such systems.