Three Benefits of Installing Scytec DataXchange for Shop Floor Machine Monitoring

Are you considering implementing Scytec DataXchange in your shop? With Scytec DataXchange you can view OEE in real-time and modernize your shop floor. There are numerous benefits of installing Scytec DataXchange on your shop floor equipment so keep reading to learn more.

  1. Make Informed Decisions

With Scytec DataXchange, you can make informed, proactive decisions. The dashboard shows real-time shop floor data, automatically updates, rotates through screens, and allows you to view data from external systems. From utilization and feed rate to time spent in M0 and M1, downtime reasons, and part counts, Scytec DataXchange allows you to view the information you care about, whenever you want. That means you can make proactive decisions based on real-time information, instead of simply being reactionary.

  1. Get Real-Time Alerts

Another benefit that comes with Scytec DataXchange is access to email and text notifications. Instead of being tied to the dashboard searching for any issues, you can receive real-time alerts for a variety of parameters that you set. For example, if a machine is sitting idle for too long or running in low feed rate override for too long, you can receive a notification via email or text to alert you of the issues. That allows you to address an issue before it becomes larger problems.

  1. Unlimited Reports, Charts, and Users

With Scytec DataXchange, you also get access to unlimited reports, charts, and users for one rate. It’s not based on a per set/per license basis, which means all the decision makers and shop floor personnel can use it to their advantage. The dashboard can also be configured in a variety of ways to present the data in a way that makes sense for your operation. There’s an unlimited number of screens that can be configured to rotate, or filtered to view only certain equipment or statuses. With Scytec DataXchange, the power and flexibility are in your hands.

Contact Shop Floor Automations for help implementing Scytec DataXchange on your shop floor!

At Shop Floor Automations, we specialized in improving shop floor efficiencies. By installing Scytec DataXchange in your facility, we can help you modernize your shop floor and improve overall efficiency. We know the value in machine monitoring, which is why we offer affordable options that are easy on the budget. Not only do we provide flexible plans that include only the features you need but we also offer month to month options for our cloud product. From integrating Scytec DataXchange with ERP systems to assisting with Operator Interface troubleshooting, we do it all. Contact us today at (619) 461-4000 to request assistance or a quote.

To learn more about Scytec DataXchange and the machine monitoring hardware and software that we offer to make your shop floor more efficient, visit us on the web at shop floor.

 

Why You Should Monitor Machines with Scytec DataXchange

A 2-Port Wired Ethernet Connect with 1 port in use is wired to a Scytec Status Relay Controller to collect data from the machine they're connected to.Are you contemplating whether you should implement machine monitoring on your shop floor? With machine monitoring from Scytec DataXchange and the help of Shop Floor Automations, you can really take your operations to the next level.

What’s the purpose of machine monitoring?

Machine monitoring allows you to manage by fact. Instead of making educated guesses, by installing machine monitoring on your shop floor equipment, you can view OEE in real-time. This allows you to make informed decisions that can decrease downtime, improve utilization, and alleviate hidden bottlenecks. Shop floor equipment will be able to communicate automatically over Ethernet, populating a dashboard with data, statuses, and messages that allow leadership to proactively communicate with those on the shop floor.

Scytec DataXchange lets you view OEE in real-time.

If you are looking for a quality machine monitoring solution, Scytec DataXchange is the answer. Scytec was founded in 2001 and focuses strictly on machine monitoring. DataXchange came about in 2012 and is designed for cloud and on-premise applications. The solution is customizable, allowing you to start with just a few machines or scale up to global operations.

Modernize your shop floor with Scytec DataXchange.

With Scytec DataXchange, you can modernize your shop floor. It works via cloud or on-premise, so even less technologically advanced shops can utilize the technology. The technology is powerful, flexible and scalable, so it can be implemented and adapted to any shop floor. Scytec DataXchange also sends text and email notifications so even if you’re away from the facility, you can still keep an eye on what’s going on. With quality, integrated dashboards and unlimited real-time displays, reporting, charting and users, Scytec DataXchange is the best for keeping you up to date on your shop floor OEE.

Machine monitoring can change the culture of your company.

Machine monitoring doesn’t just allow you to improve shop floor efficiency. It can also change the culture of your company. Instead of educated guesses, you’re making informed decisions based on real-time data. This also empowers operators and allows you to take your business to the next level. Instead of being reactionary, the new normal is taking a proactive approach.

Contact Shop Floor Automations to Install Scytec DataXchange at Your Facility!

If you are ready to have Scytec DataXchange installed at your facility, contact Shop Floor Automations today. We have over years of experience implementing software and hardware solutions. Those looking to increase process efficiency and utilize machine monitoring throughout their operation can take advantage of our skills and expertise. Since , we’ve helped automate thousands of machines and integrated solutions that allow businesses to monitor shop floor equipment in real-time. To have Scytec DataXchange installed on your shop floor to modernize your equipment and increase overall process efficiency, contact us today at (619) 461-4000!

To learn more about the hardware and software solutions we offer to make your shop floor more efficient, visit us on the web at Shop Floor Automations.

Status Relay Controller for Scytec DataXchange– What’s the Difference Between SRC Standard and SRC Extended?

Four different machine monitoring screens showing the status of four different machines including uptime, downtime, and more.If you are utilizing Scytec DataXchange, you may need to implement hardware with your shop floor equipment. That is where the Status Relay Controller comes into play. This device comes in two versions, SRC Standard and SRC Extended. Shop Floor Automations can help you determine which is right for your shop floor equipment.

What is a Status Relay Controller?

The Status Relay Controller (SRC) is an affordable hardware device that can be connected to a wired or wireless Ethernet adapter and allows you to monitor digital and analog signals of your legacy shop floor equipment. This low-cost device is programmed and able to integrate with Scytec DataXchange. SRC comes in two different configurations, SRC Standard and SRC Extended.

SRC Standard

SRC Standard offers digital inputs for status and counters. The device comes with 8 digital inputs that can be configured in multiple ways without any programming. This flexible and scalable solution can be configured to detect high or low signals, alternating signals, latch high or low based on the pulse, or to function as a simple counter. It works great for monitoring stack lights and other signals from your shop floor equipment.

SRC Extended

SRC Extended offers analog data acquisition and extended digital functionality beyond what SRC Standard offers. It includes all of the functionality offered by the Standard SRC but also includes up to 8 analog inputs and 8 more digital inputs. There are a variety of sensors utilized by SRC Extended, including temperature, vibration, and fill sensors.

Do the SRC Standard and Extended options work with Scytec DataXchange?

Yes! Both the SRC Extended and SRC Standard are designed to work with Scytec DataXchange machine monitoring. Scytec DataXchange is the preferred choice of machine monitoring software for many shop floors due to its scalability and flexibility. With a month to month option and plans that meet your needs, those looking to modernize their shop floors and take communication to the next level choose Scytec DataXchange. To implement your shop floor equipment with Scytec DataXchange, SRC Standard and SRC Extended are great, low-cost options.

Contact Shop Floor Automations for Help with Your Status Relay Controllers!

If you are looking for help implementing Scytec DataXchange in your shop floor equipment, Shop Floor Automations can help. Whether you’re using SRC Standard or SRC Extended, our knowledgeable and skilled team can get the job done. We have over years of experience automating machines and implementing machine monitoring software and hardware. Our list of clients is growing by the day and we’d love to include your business with the rest of our success stories. If you are interested in learning more about Scytec DataXchange, SRC Standard and SRC Extended, or are ready to request a quote, contact us today at (619) 461-4000!

To learn more about the machine monitoring and automation services that we offer to make your shop floor more efficient, visit us on the web at Shop Floor Automations.

Do You Need a feedback from your operators on the shop floor?

An Operator Data Interface in Scytec DataXchange allows shop floor personal to enter shop floor production data and provide real-time equipment statuses. Essentially, it is the interface for Scytec DataXchange where data is communicated to the entire company

What are the benefits of an Operator Data Interface?

There are many benefits of the Operator Data Interface. Not only does the ODI offer a new way to communicate, but it also runs on Windows tablets, iPads, Android tablets, iPhones, and Android phones. This flexibility makes it one of the preferred options for shop floor machine monitoring.

Essentially, the ODI allows shop floor personnel and management to communicate planned and unplanned downtime, work orders and operations, part counts, and more. In addition to entering the data, ODI also provides real-time feedback from equipment and the data collection system. With the ability to receive text and email alerts, you’ll always know what’s happening on your shop floor.

Is there a way to get feedback for multiple machines in a cell?

Yes! The Scytec DataXchange ODI includes an Equipment Overlay View that includes user-defined colors representing real-time statuses along with key data for the equipment that is selected. By tapping a section of the screen, the operator can quickly and easily go to the main operator page to input data with just the touch of a button. This is a top-level visual tool that not only improves the accuracy of data for OEE but can also be utilized on tablets, TVs, PCs, and phones for easy access.

How easy is the Operator Data Interface to install?

Shop Floor Automations can not only implement Scytec DataXchange, but they can also assist with your Operator Data Interface. In addition to troubleshooting any issues that might arise, Shop Floor Automations can also integrate Scytec DataXchange with ERP systems to capture OEE and help with costing/quoting. We offer a month to month plan for the cloud version of Scytec DataXchange, and a flexible pricing model that is based only on the features you need. With customizable reports and charts on historical data, unlimited real-time displays, reporting, charting, and users, and a superior Operator Interface, Scytec DataXchange is the machine monitoring solution you need.

To learn more about the machine monitoring and automation services that we offer to make your shop floor more efficient, visit us on the web at shop floor production.

Use Predator Secure DNC to Enhance Ethernet CNC Machine Connectivity 

A shop floor employee working with a CNC machine overlaid by the predator and SFA logos. The text reads "Number one reseller of the year since 1999".Allowing your CNC machines to communicate effectively is essential for maintaining strong shop floor operations. However, strict network security can make that task harder with firewalls and other security measures. Thankfully, by implementing Predator Secure DNC at your facility, you can eliminate the requirements of your corporate domain.

If you aren’t sure if Predator Secure DNC is right for your facility, keep reading to learn more!

What is Predator Secure DNC?

Predator Secure DNC is a Windows-based Predator application that helps make secure program transfers easier and safer across Windows-based CNC controllers. By allowing your CNC machine tool to interface with your network more easily, you can eliminate the requirements of corporate domains, workgroups, and Windows Shares for DNC transfers. This software allows you to securely transfer files to and from CNC machines through firewalls, which is important for shops that have strict network security.

Benefits of Utilizing Predator Secure DNC

There are many reasons that shops install Secure DNC, but one of the biggest reasons is the fact that there are so many benefits that come with the software. If you have an older CNC that is running a legacy operating system, Secure DNC eliminates the need for costly controller upgrades. With Predator Secure DNC, you can integrate all of your legacy equipment and create a common application between all equipment. It also creates transparent CNC network security and standardizes communication protocols to make it easier for your IT Department.

Shop Floor Automations Can Reduce IT Department Struggles

Connecting machines to a corporate network always comes with challenges. Not only does your IT department have to worry about increased security risks with connecting machines to the corporate network, but they also face other challenges including unsupported O/S, workgroups, homegroups, domains, NETBUI, FTP, IPS/SPX, and Windows Shares. Plus, there is time and money associated with maintaining the equipment. Thankfully, when you contract with Shop Floor Automations to implement Secure DNC, we can bridge the gap between your IT Department and the shop floor.

Contact Shop Floor Automations today to learn more about using Predator Secure DNC at your facility!

If you are interested in implementing Secure DNC, Shop Floor Automations can help. For over years, we’ve been helping clients with their machine monitoring and shop floor automation projects. Whether you are looking to implement Predator Secure DNC on some machines or need help automating your entire shop floor, trust the experts at Shop Floor Automations. Since , we’ve been working to help clients improve shop floor efficiencies and we’d be happy to offer our quality and affordable services to you as well. Call us today at (619) 461-4000 or email us at info@shopfloorautomations.com to request service.

To learn more about the shop floor automation services we offer at Shop Floor Automations, visit us on the web at Shop Floor Automations.

Eliminate Old Technology on Your CNC Machines with USB Connect

If you are working with outdated technology on your CNC machines and other shop floor equipment, it’s time to look into USB Connect.

What are the benefits of USB Connect?

A CNC machine with a serial cable leading from Serial Port 1 to a USB Connect installed inside the machine.USB Connect solutions can eliminate the old technology on your CNC machines. They can also increase storage at the machine and allow you to store large part programs and use drip-feeding and other controls. By eliminating older technology like floppy disks, you can increase the efficiency of your shop floor and improve overall productivity.

USB Connect Solutions

There are a few different types of USB Connect solutions that we offer at Shop Floor Automations. These include:

Floppy Drive Emulator: Our Floppy Drive Emulator plugs into any floppy power connector and eliminates your need for floppy disks. It works with both computers and CNC machines and supports Wired EDM, Mills, Lathes, Lasers, Robots, and other equipment.

Portable USB Connect: Portable USB Connect allows you to drip-feed with single button repeat operation. This portable and rugged aluminum piece of equipment connects via RS232 serial port and has a 4-line LCD display which allows you to move around the shop floor.

Pendant USB Connect: The USB Connect Pendant can mount right to your CNC machine and supports any type of machine. It is easy to install, comes with a USB thumb drive, and allows you to upload, download, and drip-feed.

USB Connect Pendant – Mazak: This USB Connect Pendant adds a USB port to Mazak machines. It comes with Mazatrol CMT support for conversational programming and allows you to send and receive EIA, G-Code files.

USB Connect Pendant – Switchbox: This USB Connect comes with built-in Switchbox capability. It does automatic switching and works with any DNC system as a backup system. Should your main system fail, you can walk up with a USB drive and transfer files to the CNC.

Contact Shop Floor Automations today for assistance installing USB Connect on your CNC machines!

If you are interested in taking advantage of the benefits offered by USB Connect, Shop Floor Automations can help! Since , we’ve been working with clients in California and Texas to help them improve their shop floor efficiencies.

Whether you’re looking to implement a Floppy Drive Emulator to remove the need for floppy disks or want to install Portable USB Connect so you can reduce the need for expensive memory upgrades, call Shop Floor Automations. For over years, we’ve helped countless clients and we would be happy to offer the same quality and affordable services to you as well. Call us today at (619) 461-4000 to learn more or request service.

To learn more about the shop floor automation services we offer at Shop Floor Automations, visit us on the web at Shop Floor Automations.

How Machine Monitoring Can Improve Your Shop Floor Efficiency

A 2-Port Wired Ethernet Connect with 1 port in use is wired to a Scytec Status Relay Controller to collect data from the machine they're connected to.Improving shop floor efficiencies is essential in today’s competitive market. Thankfully, you can take advantage of machine monitoring in Dallas TX to take your productivity to the next level. By utilizing machine monitoring, you can view in real-time what your shop floor equipment is doing and make informed decisions.

Selecting the right machine monitoring software might seem difficult, but there are really only two options to consider; Scytec DataXchange and Predator MDC.

Scytec DataXchange

When it comes to machine monitoring software, Scytec DataXchange is one of the best options. This software is available in an on-premise or cloud-based package and starts at just $45 per month. With Scytec DataXchange, you can view real-time overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) on a dashboard specifically designed for manufacturers. That means you can monitor machine overrides and downtime remotely, and collect data on equipment status.

Scytec DataXchange also allows you to track multiple types of cycle time and you can utilize hardware adapters like MTConnect or FANUC FOCAS to ensure machine compatibility. By implementing this machine monitoring software in your Dallas TX facility, you can improve your shop floor efficiencies.

Predator MDC (Machine Data Collection)

Predator MDC is another top option when comparing machine monitoring solutions in Dallas TX. This machine data collection software allows you to monitor up to 4,000 machines and includes access to over 30,000 reports and charts. You will have the capability for automated and manual shop floor data collection and can track everything from cycle time, idle, and setup, to tear down and equipment downtime.

With Predator MDC, you will have access to real-time information on how your shop floor equipment is operating. This allows you to not only organize real-time data into actionable metrics, but you can also compare continuous improvement results for your lean manufacturing efforts. You’ll no longer have to rely on spreadsheets, as Predator MDC puts everything in an easy to read dashboard and provides access to charts and reports that give you the insights and information you need.

Trust Shop Floor Automations with Machine Monitoring in Dallas TX.

At Shop Floor Automations, we have over years of experience implementing machine monitoring in Dallas TX. Whether you are looking to install Predator MDC to monitor up to 4,000 CNC machines or want to implement Scytec DataXchange for on-premise and cloud-based machine monitoring in Dallas TX, you can trust Shop Floor Automations to get the job done in a quality and timely manner. We’ve automated thousands of manufacturing machines and helped countless companies take advantage of machine monitoring and we’d love to add you to our list of success stories. Contact us today at (619) 461-4000 to learn more about our machine monitoring services in Dallas TX.

To learn more about the services, software, and hardware offered by Shop Floor Automations, please visit us on the web at Shop Floor Automations.

What’s New With Predator DNC Software v11 Release?

Predator DNC v11.0 was just released, updating its v10 predecessor. The latest version of Predator DNC comes with a bevy of updates that are intended to improve the software’s functionality.

Why Upgrade to Predator DNC v11.0?

This version of Predator DNC is designed to improve communications with Ethernet-based CNCs, CMMs, 3D printers, robots and PLCs. The Ethernet-based Predator Secure DNC technology is intended to support a wide array of Windows-based devices and also includes improvements to FTP, Fanuc Focas, and more. Predator DNC v11 also comes with a new user interface that makes the software easier to use.

What’s new with v11.0?

Predator DNC is updated with new features regularly. With Predator DNC v11, there are numerous updates and new features, including:

Windows 10 Support: Microsoft Windows 10 has been added to v11. This update also includes support for both the x64 and IoT Enterprise edition. With the announcement from Microsoft that support end in January 2020 for Windows 7, this is a critical time to migrate system remained patched and secured on the shop floor network.

Secure DNC: You can also take advantage of the latest Predator DNC software by transferring to your legacy machines with older Windows operations system using Predator Secure DNC. Predator DNC Software allows you to network all CNCs, EDMs, robots, and PLCs on one network. Major CNC protocols like Mazatrol (CMT), Okuma B, and Xmodem are all supported and you can send and receive drip-feed to up to 4,096 devices. With highly flexible interface options, you can easily communicate with your shop equipment via wireless, wired, USB, and Ethernet.

Unlimited File Size Support: You can also take advantage of the latest Predator DNC software by transferring unlimited size files. The software was thoroughly tested with 32GB files.

Mori Seiki Terminator: With Predator DNC v11.0 you can also get the new Mori Seiki Terminator. This allows Mori CNCs to integrate directly into Predator DNC v11 without the need to manage and maintain the Mori Server Software.

These are just some of the benefits that you can get by upgrading to v11. If you are interested in learning more about the update or scheduling installation, contact Shop Floor Automations!

Contact Shop Floor Automations today to learn more about Predator DNC v11.0

If you want to learn more about Predator DNC v11 and how it can help improve your shop floor efficiencies, we can help. Since , we’ve been working to assist shops with equipment automation and machine monitoring. If you are interested in having Predator DNC v11 installed at your facility to take advantage of the updates and new features offered, contact us today at (619) 461-4000.

To learn more about the shop floor automation services we offer at Shop Floor Automations, visit us on the web at Shop Floor Automations.

Types of DNC Software for your Dallas TX Shop Floor

A close up of a CNC controller screen, showing program code and other data being drip fed.If you are looking for a way to improve your shop floor efficiency, you should consider implementing DNC Software. With DNC software in your Dallas TX facility, you can increase productivity because it allows you to manage your CNC programs, machine parameters, and offsets on a single network. There are several types of DNC software available, but Predator DNC and Ascendant eXtremeDNC are the two most popular software packages.

Predator DNC Software

At Shop Floor Automations, we use numerous Predator software packages to help our clients automate their shop floors and improve overall efficiencies. Predator DNC is a software that can greatly improve your shop floor efficiency. Known for being highly flexible, Predator CNC can work via wireless, wired, Ethernet, and USBs. It supports major CNC protocols like Mazatrol (CMT), Xmodem, and Okuma B, and allows for CNC DNC file transfers that are typically too large for CNC memory. Plus, you can easily upgrade to Predator PDM or MDC when you’re ready. This is one of the only programs that supports up to 4,096 machines, making it great for larger shop floors.

Ascendant eXtremeDNC Software

Ascendant eXtremeDNC Software is another DNC software that can improve your shop floor. This software first debuted in 1996 but has been updated to support newer operating systems. You can operate Ascendant eXtremeDNC Software on either wireless and wired systems, and with this DNC software, DNC communication for programs too large for CNC memory is achievable, as are successful CNC transfers. This open architecture system (OAS) has all of the necessary communication protocols and you can view essentially all graphical manufacturing files on demand. With applications like Adobe Acrobat and AutoView supported, Ascendant eXtremeDNC Software is a great DNC Software choice for many shop floors.

Benefits of Installing DNC Software in Dallas TX

When implementing DNC Software in Dallas TX, there are numerous benefits. Most importantly, the software eliminates walking time to and from CNC controls and PCs. Imagine not only the time you will save yourself but also how that saved time can benefit your overall operation. That in itself makes installing DNC Software enticing, but there are additional benefits, including:

  • The ability to manage machine files, do remote requests, and transfer files
  •   Drip-feeding large programs and group them by building or cell
  •   Obtain RS232 CNC software for your shop floor
  •   Improve CNC revision control with ERP & MES bar-coded paperwork

Shop Floor Automations can implement DNC Software in Dallas TX.

With over years of experience, you can trust Shop Floor Automations to install DNC Software at your Dallas TX facility. Not only can we implement DNC software in Dallas TX, but we also have a vast array of software, hardware, and services that can help improve your shop floor efficiencies. Since , we’ve helped countless shops out by installing DNC Software. Contact us today at (619) 461-4000 to request DNC Software for your Dallas TX facility.

To learn more about the services, software, and hardware offered by Shop Floor Automations, please visit us on the web at Shop Floor Automations.

 

 

Should I Use Scytec DataXchange or Predator MDC Offer for Machine Monitoring in Fort Worth TX?

A tv monitor on a shop floor displaying machine monitoring software for various machines, showing uptime and downtime of each one.Facility managers have one main goal in mind and that is to keep the facility running smoothly. However, there are always other goals in the back of their mind, such as improving shop floor efficiencies. In order to do that, they need to be able to view real-time OEE information to truly identify areas for improvement. Thankfully, by installing machine monitoring like Predator software in Fort Worth TX, you can easily view real-time data, including cycle time, idle time, setup time, teardown time, machine downtime, and scrap reasons.

Why Utilize Machine Monitoring?

Machine monitoring is a great solution for those concerned with shop floor efficiencies. By viewing cycle time, downtime, idle, setup and teardown in real-time, you can truly gauge how effective your equipment is and look for ways to improve the process. This is especially important for lean manufacturing processes where accurate shop information is essential for decision making. With access to real-time production data, you can make informed decisions and work to improve the productivity of your shop floor.

Predator MDC Features

Predator MDC is one of the best machine monitoring software solutions that you can buy. Predator software allows you to monitor from 1 to 4,000 machines and gives you the option for both automatic and manual shop floor data collection. With Predator MDC in your facility, you will also have access to over 30,000 reports and charts that allow you to view cycle time, idle, setup, teardown, and downtime in real-time. For those operating a large shop floor with lots of different equipment, Predator MDC is a great option.

Scytec DataXchange Features

Another solid choice for machine monitoring in Fort Worth, TX is Scytec DataXchange. Starting at just $45 per machine per month, Scytec DataXchange provides access to real-time data from any CNC control or equipment regardless of how old the machine is. You also get unlimited reporting and charting licenses and with the cloud-based machine monitoring software, you can view data from anywhere. For facilities with various buildings and a wide geographic footprint, or those with older equipment, Scytec DataXchange is a great machine monitoring option.

Shop Floor Automations Can Implement Scytec DataXchange and Predator Software in Fort Worth TX.

If you need help choosing the best machine monitoring software for your facility, Shop Floor Automations can help. It can be difficult choosing between Scytec DataXchange and Predator software for your Fort Worth TX facility, but we have the knowledge and experience necessary to help you make the right choice. Whether you want to implement machine monitoring for a single piece of equipment or 4,000 machines, we can help! Contact us today at (619) 461-4000 to learn more or request a quote to have Scytec DataXchange and Predator software implemented at your Fort Worth TX facility.

To learn more about the services, software, and hardware offered by Shop Floor Automations, please visit us on the web at Shop Floor Automations.