本书共分30个单元，内容涉及数控发展历史、数控机床、数控技术的优点、现代数控机床、数控加工过程、数控编程、伺服控制、MCU与CPU、计算机数字控制、进给与转速、连续路径加工、加工中心的种类与组成、刀具监控及在程检测、切削刀具、刀具系统、自适应控制、电火花线切割加工、数控车床、数控铣床、数控机床主轴、计算机图形编程、CAD、CAM、CAD/CAM/CNC、柔性加工系统、数控职业范畴、工业机器人、计算机集成制造、面向21世纪的制造技术等，涵盖了数控发展的各个方向。此外，每篇文章后都附有专业词汇、课文注释、练习以及参考译文，一些课文后面还附有阅读材料供读者自学。

第2版前言
第1版前言
Unit 1 History of NC
Unit 2 Machines Using NC
Unit 3 Advantages of NC
Unit 4 Modern CNC Machine Tools
Unit 5 Elements of CNC Machine Tools
Unit 6 CNC Machining Process
Unit 7 CNC Programming
Unit 8 Servo Controls
Unit 9 MCU and CPU
Unit 10 CNC
Unit 11 Feeds & Speeds
Unit 12 Continuous Path
Unit 13 Types and Parts of Machining Centers
Unit 14 Tool Monitoring and In-Process Gaging
Unit 15 Cutting Tools
Unit 16 Tooling Systems
Unit 17 Adaptive Control
Unit 18 Wire-Cut EDM
Unit 19 CNC Lathes
Unit 20 CNC Milling Machines
Unit 21 Spindles of CNC Machine Tools
Unit 22 Computer Graphics Programming
Unit 23 CAD
Unit 24 CAM
Unit 25 CAD ／CAM／CNC
Unit 26 Flexible Machining System
Unit 27 Employment Opportunities in NC
Unit 28 An Introduction to Industrial Robots
Unit 29 Computer Integrated Manufacturing System
Unit 30 Manufacturing Technology Facing the 21st Century
参考文献