A vertical machining center (VMC), also known as a vertical milling center, is a type of computer numerical control (CNC) milling machine used for precision machining operations, primarily milling. It has vertical spindle orientation. This means that the cutting tool moves up and down along the vertical axis, while the work-piece remains stationary or moves horizontally.

A CNC lathe or in other words, Computer Numeric Control lathe is a machine tool that is controlled by a computer. The computer instructs the machine to perform certain operations such as turning, drilling, boring and threading on a workpiece. The CNC ensures for precise and consistent results by using digital control systems to automate the machining process. 

CNC lathes are well suited for producing cylindrical parts like shafts and spindles as well as complex shapes that involves multiple machining operations and functions depending on the needs of the industry. They are commonly used in a wide variety of manufacturing and industrial applications to produce parts with efficiency. 

A person must input programmed instructions into a computer controlled system (CNC) to define the size, shape and position of the required cuts on a work-piece. The CNC lathe machine tool then uses servomotors and other components to move the cutting tool on the work-piece to achieve the desired shape.