Method for programming computer controlled multi-axis devices.

A method for programming a computer controlled multi-axis device (for example a CNC machining device) is provided. First a measurement probe (for example a simulated cutting tool (402)) of a passive three dimensional coordinate measuring machine (CMM) (10) is operated by an experienced operator manually through a selected three dimensional path (404); thus developing and storing three dimensional data of position and/or orientation of the measurement probe. These data are transferred to the controller of the multi-axis device to replicate with the multi-axis device the selected path. A preferred CMM (10) comprises a lightweight, multi jointed measuring arm (12).