Comprised of staircad and staircam modules, alphastair v6 provides everything needed for staircase design, costing, and manufacture. Both modules utilize GUI that lets users add or delete toolbars and tailor screen layouts to preference. They also share integrated database with single point data entry. Along with built-in checking routines for regulatory compliance, software features 3D CAD drawings, materials lists, and ability to produce ready-to-sign quotations.

Leading joinery software developer, alphacam, has launched alphastair V6, the latest release of its high capability design-to-manufacturing application for staircase production.

Incorporating a wealth of new features for faster and simpler operation, the modular CAD/CAM system, comprising staircad and staircam, provides everything needed to enable staircases to be designed, costed and manufactured quickly and effectively.

Both alphastair V6 modules feature a completely revised Graphical User Interface (GUI), which enables operators to rapidly add or delete toolbars, as well as tailor screen layouts to their individual requirements. Staircad and staircam also share a fully integrated database with single point data entry, and the system's new graphically based menus allow all relevant information to be specified and updated simply and accurately.

In-built checking routines within alphastair ensure that all designs conform to latest Building Regulations in the UK and can be adapted for other countries. In addition, staircad automatically provides fully detailed 3D CAD drawings and materials lists, along with accurate costings and ready-to-sign quotations printed on company branded stationery, if required.

Revisions to the product design, material specification, overhead and margin can all be accommodated instantly by the software, with costings and quotations recalculated at the click of a mouse button.

Close integration between staircad and staircam provides automatic generation of CNC machine code directly from the system's common database, using either pre-configured or user specified tools, speeds and feeds. Staircam also supports manual nesting of components on the machine tool bed, for maximum raw material and enhanced tool utilisation. Similarly, the system will provide board assembly lists and glue-up schedules on demand, for optimum manufacturing efficiency.

Direct linking of alphastair V6 with alphacim and alphacim lite business management systems enables sales order processing, the calculation of cutting lists and invoicing all to be automated. It also provides information for built-in bar coding and part labelling, as well as a comprehensive variety of management reports to further streamline the operation of order-based joinery manufacturing companies.

Like other alphacam CAD/CAM software releases, alphastair V6 will be available world-wide in all major languages. It will also be backed by local customer helpdesks, advanced on-site or remote system support, comprehensive product training programmes and the company's networking, installation and IT consultancy services.