Or does MasterCam include that functionality?
In mastercam you can Do DNC two ways.
Both start with "File" Next Menu"Comunicate" you have Mastercams comunications or you can use the Cimco Editor comunications inside ther Editor.
Mastercam can do most of what you want including the CAD side on both from Solids Base or surface Base..
But for a Little more power over shapes I like the combo of Solidworks and MC.
As for the Artcam thought. you like that you are able to basclly Coin the 2D drawing giveing a 3D effect.
Mastercam is about release it's add on that will do the same thing from drawings or say your family picture.
We are around the corner from release.
So it comes down to what you want to make and how much control by how much software do you really have to have.
As for being able to bring in a file like a BMP or JPG and being able to engrave this image . I all ready do this with Raster to Vector with engraving package that works nice inside MC.
Well enough said On my side.
(Note: The opinions expressed in this post are my own and are not necessarily those of CNCzone and its management)
Cadcam
Software and hardware sales, contract Programming and Consultant , Cad-Cam Instructor .