Shop Floor Automations Blog - Manufacturing Productivity

Accessing CNC programs through Touch HMI

Blog, Human Machine Interface, Predator DNC, Predator MDC, Software

Flatten the HMI Friction: How Your Browser Unlocks a Smarter Shop Floor

In a manufacturing world that never sleeps, where uptime is king and every minute counts, the smallest friction can ripple across an entire operation. If you’ve ever juggled machine data, NC file transfers and production metrics while also trying to modernize aging infrastructure, then you know: even well-oiled systems can feel stuck in the past.

That’s why a quiet but important piece of software is giving shops a new option. It starts with something deceptively simple: your web browser.

Tethered to a Terminal

Plant facilities across America – those places where high-speed CNCs carve out precision parts day and night – are filled with operations folks tired of the extra steps, the workarounds and the security risk of client-server Human-Machine Interface (HMI) software. Managing CNC file transfers mean hopping between terminals, dealing with clunky software installs and coordinating with IT every time a patch is needed. It can be exhausting.

Teams that rely on Predator DNC and MDC software as the backbone to their operation can find that their HMI interface, while touch accessible, is rigidly tethered to specific hardware and software, and not built for a world full of ruggedized iPads and remote monitoring.

Web-based HMIs offer a compelling solution. By enabling access to machine data through standard web browsers, they eliminate the need for specialized software installations. This allows operators and managers to monitor and control equipment from virtually any device – be it a desktop in engineering or a tablet on the production floor.

From Screens to Situational Awareness

At first glance, pWidgets Browser HMI doesn’t look flashy. It looks like something designed by people who know what shop floor teams actually need: fast access to files, real-time data and easy navigation for fingers operating some of your most expensive assets.

Suddenly, the same tasks that previously required bouncing between terminals can happen from a tablet or even a smartphone. Need to transfer a program to a CNC across the floor? A few taps and done. Want to see a machine status without leaving your desk? There it is — live data, customizable, browser-based and secure.

It’s not just convenient. It’s tranquilly transformative.

With client-server HMIs, a touchscreen hardware failure may require full device replacement or extended downtime. A web-based HMI grants access to any device with browser capabilities so there’s less IT overhead and a faster path toward uptime.

The Bigger Picture for IT and Operations

For IT leaders, the shift can be almost invisible — in a good way. No client software installs. No new infrastructure. Permissions can flow directly from the existing Windows Service accounts so there’s fewer vulnerabilities to patch, less friction with user access and smoother scaling across multiple sites.

“The smaller the attack surface, the easier it is to protect.”

— Fortinet

From an operations perspective, the win is clear: faster response times, better visibility and more flexibility for teams who are constantly adapting to changes on the floor.

And perhaps most importantly, pWidgets brings modern access to an environment that’s often stuck behind the glass of legacy systems.

One Step Toward a Smarter Shop Floor

Incorporating web-based HMIs, like pWidgets, into your manufacturing operations isn’t just about keeping up with technological trends – it’s about positioning your facility for greater agility, efficiency and competitiveness in a rapidly-changing industry landscape that demands maximum quality output for every minute.

For more information on web-based HMI and how they can enhance your manufacturing operations, contact the software experts at Shop Floor Automations.

May 7, 2025

Prep tips to ensure your onsite manufacturing integrator service doesn't cause delays.

Blog

How to Avoid Costly Delays During Onsite Manufacturing Integrator Service

Save Thousands with Quick Installations for Faster ROI

Picture this: The manufacturing integration technician arrives, ready to install your long-awaited machine monitoring, PDM software or DNC software. But within the first 10 minutes, there’s a problem—there’s no login credentials available and your IT staff is occupied with another project. You put in a support ticket to your Managed Services Provider (MSP). The technician waits. Then waits some more. You also learn the IP address that was previously provided is not configured for the proper VLAN. Before you know it, the billable hours are stacking up.

Sound familiar? Hopefully not.

Implementing shop floor software and hardware solutions, especially as part of a connectivity and automation strategy in partnership with your trusted manufacturing integrator, can transform your shop floor’s efficiency—but only if the setup goes smoothly. Every unnecessary holdup adds extra costs of delay, eating into your budget, productivity and ROI realization.

The Costs of Poor Planning

If the technician has to wait for network access, firewall changes or machine availability, you’re paying them to stand around. Your internal team may need to drop other priorities to troubleshoot issues, creating a ripple effect on other projects and avoidable stress and frustration. If delays force a technician to leave and return later, additional travel time and service charges may apply, and tight schedules may push installations even further out. A longer implementation of your software defers its benefits, like potential improvements to efficiency, Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) and downtime, and produces hardware and software licensing waste. And if your machines were taken offline in anticipation of the installation, delays extend unplanned downtime – potentially impacting delivery commitments and disrupting work among operators and supervisors. Each day of delay also leaves you susceptible to falling behind competitors who are busy optimizing their shop floor performance.

Scrap that vision of last-minute scrambling.

Instead, let’s see how you can maximize the installation process and avoid wasting billable service hours with these four practical steps. Your future self (and your CFO) will thank you.

IT & Network Preparation. Start out by installing any required software onto a dedicated PC/server that meets the system’s requirements. Ensure administrative permissions are set for installation and test user logins and any necessary database connections. Apply all Windows updates/patches and have your PC on your network. Open necessary ports for firewall and network access and assign static IP addresses for all relevant CNC machines. Verify Internet and internal network access; if a proxy or VPN is needed, configure it in advance.

💡 Pro Tip: Running a quick pre-installation network check can prevent hours of billable troubleshooting.

Facility & Equipment Access. Prior to your technical installation, secure machine access by powering on all CNCs and granting the technician permissions, like the ability to restart machines, as required. If an escort or safety orientation is mandatory, arrange or complete it before the technician arrives. Prepare the technician for your specific manufacturing environment by confirming any PPE requirements beyond steel-toe shoes and safety glasses. Ask your manufacturing integrator about standard service hours to ensure that overtime demands are minimized. Be sure to have essential personnel, including staff in IT, Engineering and Maintenance, on standby to assist immediately if needed.

💡 Pro Tip: Every minute a technician waits for access or approvals is wasted.

Machine-Specific Configuration. Validate that data collection setup is ready and cabling and connectivity is set. Confirm network drops or Wi-Fi credentials are valid and tested. Keep this information on hand for the technician’s reference.

💡 Pro Tip: If a new installation is involved, lean on personnel familiar with the machine controller and operation to assist with machine parameter changes if needed.

Final Check-In & Testing. Confirm all pre-installation steps with your manufacturing integrator. Double-check that hardware, adapters and licensing is ready to go. Lastly, validate the expected data collection method, machine connectivity to the server and openness of required ports and firewall rules.

💡 Pro Tip: A quick pre-installation test call with tech support can prevent major headaches and productivity losses on installation day.

Now picture this: The manufacturing integration technician arrives to implement your modern machine monitoring, PDM or DNC software. Before the technician’s arrival, your IT team has already confirmed network connectivity, ensuring IPs are valid and firewall settings are configured. You have software pre-installed, permissions granted and a pre-check conducted with your technician.

Busy manufacturer benefitting from its shop floor software and hardware implementation.

With the right manufacturing integrator and the right prep, your team can start realizing ROI from your shop floor software and hardware quickly, efficiently and effectively.

Once onsite, the technician gets straight to work, efficiently installing and configuring the software. Within minutes, your team is seamlessly accessing real-time data streaming from the machines, organizing CNC programs with revision control or transferring CNC files. Machine uptime is restored and personnel can continue about their day. Instead of frustration, the project ends with a successful implementation and a future-ready manufacturing floor.

Preparation is the Key to Success

A poorly prepared installation of shop floor software and hardware can easily cost thousands of dollars in billable hours, downtime, lost productivity and delayed ROI. Plan ahead with the manufacturing integrator experts at Shop Floor Automations to experience a smooth install, faster operational benefits and lower total costs – contact SFA today.

February 26, 2025

Equipment monitoring software for maintenance

Blog, Machine Monitoring, Scytec, Software

The Dilemma of Do-It-Yourself Equipment Monitoring Software

Downtime – and the response time to it – continues to plague manufacturers across the United States. A 2022 Siemens report revealed that a typical large plant “still loses 25 hours a month to unplanned downtime.” They estimate the cost of an hour of downtime to be $500,000 for oil and gas companies, which makes downtime quickly cost millions.

As a result, teams are responding by gathering internal technical requirements, evaluating off-the-shelf machine monitoring solutions and attempting trial implementations. Top machine monitoring solutions will capture data from new and aged CNC equipment and deliver trends and reports using configurable dashboards via modern communication tools, like text and Microsoft Teams, to help you pinpoint production bottlenecks and machine condition degradation for improved Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), quality control and profitability.

But there are hundreds of available equipment monitoring software solutions today, ranging from Predator Software to Scytec DataXchange and beyond, and the equipment monitoring market itself is projected to reach 220.92 million USD by 2031. This makes the vendor decision-making process all the more onerous and lengthier, particularly for time and labor-constrained companies. Some manufacturers are instead taking on a Do-It-Yourself (DIY) approach by assembling internal and/or outsourced developers, collaborating with various departments and rolling out a custom solution. There’s an attraction to this path, but is it truly the right way toward achieving more uptime, better operator performance and greater profits?

If you’re considering or already headed in this direction, you very well may consider the positive and negative aspects of DIY equipment monitoring development to fully validate your decision. As a manufacturing integrator experienced in helping manufacturers search, select and implement the ideal machine monitoring software solution for your business, the experts at Shop Floor Automations have compiled a comprehensive list to aid your research below. We welcome your comments on other advantages and disadvantages that factor into your own machine monitoring evaluation.

The Pros of DIY Equipment Monitoring Software Development

Potentially less upfront cost. When your teams develop equipment monitoring software in-house, you’re not likely to incur the recurring software subscription or license fees demanded by software vendors. Software subscription revenues are anticipated to grow by a CAGR of 16.6% reports EY, as enterprise technology companies continue to shift away from a perpetual software license model. You also have the benefit of leveraging existing programmable logic controllers (PLCs) without upfront costs for hardware and training to program it.
Built your way. Machine monitoring software designed for your business can be customized to accommodate your specific business processes, equipment types, locations, unique terminology and standards, integrations and more. You’re not forced to adapt to the user interface, limitations and future development of a commercial application geared for a mass of users.
Vendor neutral. A DIY equipment monitoring project allows you to be in control, deciding who is involved and how the system and data is maintained, supported, secured and located. Conversely, a machine monitoring software provider will often dictate the supporting partners and underlying ecosystem available with the solution – which can require data hosted by their third-party provider.
Fringe benefits of familiarity. When you’re able to dedicate your resources to your own project, you can command your own timetable, training program and the coordination of subject matter experts. There’s less of an educational barrier, too, as teams should be familiar with the corporate nomenclature, key personnel and strategic priorities. The purchase of a commercial application like equipment monitoring software, however, means you are beholden to the skills, bandwidth, language and processes of the technology provider and the demands of their existing customer base.

The Cons of DIY Equipment Monitoring Software Development

Susceptibility to higher Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and other impacts. The TCO of your DIY equipment monitoring system goes beyond just IT salaries; often the continued energy costs, hardware, security, training, networking, backup, testing and more will make this project far more expensive than commercial applications. Your custom software would also likely be impacted significantly by change: budgetary constraints, shifts in strategic objectives and corporate systems and policies, personnel movements and other factors. As a dedicated technology business to many users, the commercial developer tends to better absorb and rebound from events like employee attrition and economic impacts.
Less emphasis on contingency and continuity. As an internal project, DIY machine monitoring software can be more prone to decreased attention over time, particularly if the project champion has left for another opportunity or moved to another department. The software and its related documentation and training programs, then, are less likely to stay current or remain relevant as new technology and security protocols are introduced to the business, new machinery is acquired and older machinery is retired or networks are upgraded. In this age of rapid change, software that sits doesn’t help a bit.
Forfeiting best practices. Custom software, such as DIY machine monitoring, inherently lacks the benefits that come from applying industry best practices, including data trends across wide swaths of users and equipment types, new AI developments, the latest security standards and other technological advancements that require research, resources and large, varied datasets. The core competency of software vendors often affords them greater focus, expertise, budgets, data access and more to help customers refine their business processes through proven functionality.
Shouldering the burden of ongoing maintenance and improvements. New requests for features require manual updates to hardware when working with DIY machine monitoring software. Maintenance technicians, for example, have to update the PLC hardware to capture each additional signal desired by internal management. This step may need to be replicated for each machine tool, which can be time-consuming and requires additional documentation to capture every change. Commercial machine monitoring, on the other hand, enables configuration via a web browser without the need to physically walk to the equipment.

In this age of rapid change, software that sits doesn’t help a bit.

Custom machine monitoring applications tend to be rigid in design, requiring a multitude of support tickets to increase flexibility as users engage with the software over months and years. Commercial equipment monitoring solution providers, alternatively, configure the System Resource Controller (SRC) and deploy changes easily. Their solutions tend to be out-of-the-box configurable for user control of reports, charts, and dashboards based on your machine brands. Software developers also have streamlined processes in place to accommodate continued development schedules and software enhancement and integration requests.

A DIY approach to equipment monitoring software can appear practical, especially for manufacturers with in-house IT development. But it’s important to look beyond upfront factors to include the entire scope of such a project, so that your TCO encompasses all opportunity costs, barriers necessary to overcome and anticipated internal and external changes that will impact short- and long-term development. After all, a deviation from core competency can be a costly mistake for manufacturers already reeling from downtime and production loss.

November 25, 2024

Blog, Predator DNC, Software

Building Resistance into Aged CNC Machines

How CNC program transfers can overcome the vulnerabilities of SMB1 for greater security and efficiency

It took mere hours. In May of 2017, a devastating ransomware cryptoworm called WannaCry impacted more than 200,000 computers across 150 countries, ultimately amassing over $4 billion in damages. Only months later, a variation of this worm spread to 10,000 machines in Apple’s single supplier of SoC components for iPads and iPhones, causing a production stoppage for a full day and shipment delays among its major tech customer base. The original worm was halted, but IT services management company Cloudflare asserts that WannaCry attacks continue today.

The ransomware cryptoworm WannaCry notably affected TSMC, which manufactures processors and other silicon chips for major technology companies such as Qualcomm, AMD and Apple, due to a Windows SMB1 server vulnerability.

Starting with SMB1

What happened to the National Health Service (NHS), FedEx, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) and so many others? The WannaCry worm exploited “vulnerabilities in the Windows SMB v1 server to remotely compromise systems, encrypt files and spread to other hosts,” explains a fact sheet from the National Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Center (NCCIC). While patches have since been issued by Microsoft, the software company admits there are still instances in which manufacturers may need to run SMB1:

1. Your company is running XP or Windows Server 2003 under a custom support agreement
2. You have old management software that demands admins browse via the “network,” also known as the “network neighborhood” master browser list
3. You run old multi-function printers with antiquated firmware in order to “scan to share”

For manufacturers experiencing such cases, there are workarounds. SMB1 could be disabled on every system connected to the network, recommends the NCCIC. You can block port 445 (Samba). You can verify that there isn’t any unexpected SMB1 network traffic. You can isolate vulnerable embedded systems. But these options may not necessarily be viable for efficient and protected CNC file transfers among aged equipment.

Manufacturers can struggle to disable SMB1 on every machine and still transfer CNC programs efficiently, effectively and securely.

Simplifying Network Setups

An alternate route is to simplify network setups altogether. A modern DNC software, like Predator Secure DNC, enables you to remove Windows shares, corporate domains, workgroups, homegroups, Microsoft SMB, CFS, FTP, DNS, WINS, NETBUI and IPX/SPX within shop floor VLANs, WANs or subnets for DNC or file transfers. This can be especially useful for manufacturers running older CNC equipment with Windows-based controls that lack compatibility with newer operating systems. It can also alleviate the need for system upgrades and service packs to maintain the older versions of Windows.

The original WannaCry worm was halted, but Cloudflare asserts that WannaCry attacks continue today.

In other cases, controllers like Haas classic controllers can be upgraded to another SMB version by contacting the machine tool builder or segmenting the network to address CNC machines that are not upgradable or do not run a Windows operating system. The point is, regardless of your SMB1-dependent machinery environment, you can reduce your ransomware risk while gaining the latest benefits in efficiency and productivity.

An experienced manufacturing integrator possesses the technical expertise to properly assess, assign and execute custom solutions for your company. Contact Shop Floor Automations to understand your full scope of SMB1 options today.

October 8, 2024

USB-LAN Connect with FTPS; USB Encryption for CNC

Hardware, Press Releases

New USB-LAN Connect Hardware Upgrade Protects Sensitive CNC Machine Data During Transmission

The added File Transfer Protocol Secure (FTPS) of USB-LAN Connect reduces the risk of data breaches, operational disruptions and noncompliance for data-regulated manufacturers.

Shop Floor Automations (SFA), a manufacturing integrator specializing in digitally transformative hardware, software and support solutions, introduces the upgraded USB-LAN Connect device with FTPS to facilitate seamless and secure communication between CNC machines and network storage. Designed for manufacturers within data sensitive industries, such as aerospace and defense, oil and gas, heavy equipment and medical device products, the new USB-LAN Connect with FTPS allows such manufacturers with aging equipment to securely transfer and drip feed machine programs between the device and CNC memory using SSL encryption.

The new FTPS upgrade of USB-LAN Connect helps data-regulated manufacturers reduce the risk of data breaches, operational disruptions and noncompliance by securely drip-feeding machine programs between the device and CNC memory using SSL encryption.

Traditionally, manufacturers seeking to digitally transfer programs with Ethernet among older equipment, such as Haas, Hurco, Mitsubishi, Fanuc, Mazak, Mori Seiki, Okuma and other brands, would need to retrofit their equipment with new security controllers or invest in new machinery altogether. USB-LAN Connect with FTPS now allows the device to respond instantaneously to CNC data flow changes with an added layer of security. FTPS encrypts both the command and data channels to ensure that all sensitive data is protected during transmission.

“The modern manufacturer is accountable for delivering quality products, efficiently, securely and profitably,” says Greg Mercurio, president of SFA. “Our unique role as a manufacturing integrator affords us the ability to design the right hardware, software and service to help resolve the automation challenges of our customers. The upgraded USB-LAN Connect with FTPS is the latest example of our pledge to provide the best offerings to support the goals of manufacturers by exceeding industry standards for data protection.”

Key Features of USB-LAN Connect with FTPS

Includes FTPS Protocol layer for secure file transfers
4-line, easy-to-read LCD display with USB port
Supports drip feed and protocols for Xon/Xoff, software handshaking, RTS/CTS hardware handshaking and X-modem
Drag-and-drop files over Ethernet to your CNC
Supports Baud rates of 1200-115,200
Configurable data/parity/stop bits
Supports Fadal X-modem/Fadal file transfers and Haas X-modem
No special software is required; utilizes standard FTPS software
Mid-tape start with search function
End of block character control
Add percent sign to programs on the fly
Configurable line delay & EOB CR/LF
Connects via RS232 serial on CNC
Allows a directory listing and the creation of unlimited folders to organize part programs
Includes RS232 cable for your CNC
Includes power cord for support between 115-230 volts AC
Uses any brand/size USB memory stick; includes 8GB USB memory stick
1-Year Warranty
Lifetime support in USA

Product Versions and Availability

All versions of USB-LAN Connect, as listed below, are available for immediate purchase by calling SFA hardware sales at 619-461-4000:

USB-LAN Connect with FTPS and Ethernet
Unsecured USB-LAN Connect with Ethernet
USB-LAN Connect device

Current USB-LAN Connect users may upgrade existing devices to the FTPS-enabled version by simply downloading and updating firmware as part of a minimally-disruptive process to ongoing operations.

For more information about SFA and the new USB-LAN Connect with FTPS upgrade, call 877-611-5825 or visit www.shopfloorautomations.com.

September 18, 2024

For more information about DataXchange machine monitoring or the VERICUT® CNC Machine Connectivity software, visit the SFA booth (#133240) at IMTS 2024

Events, Press Releases, Scytec, Trade Shows

New VERICUT® CNC Machine Connectivity Feature Improves Program Accuracy Through Digital Twin Technology

Latest feature to be displayed at the Shop Floor Automations booth at IMTS 2024 in Chicago

Shop Floor Automations (SFA), a manufacturing integrator specializing in digitally transformative hardware, software and support solutions, will demonstrate the new Postcheck feature of the VERICUT® CNC Machine Connectivity software at IMTS 2024 from September 9-14 in Chicago, Illinois. This feature of CNC Machine Connectivity, which utilizes the Scytec DataXchange machine monitoring solution, supports the analysis of digital twin simulations through the replay of stored, live-streamed data from the numerical control (NC) machine. Through such replays, Postcheck allows programmers to retrieve archived data from when a part was machined, then rerun that data in VERICUT® to investigate issues that may have occurred during the machining process.

The VERICUT® CNC Machine Connectivity modules were launched as an add-on to the 9.3 release of VERICUT® software in 2022 through a partnership between CGTech and Scytec Consulting Inc. CNC Machine Connectivity aligns digital twin simulations of CNC programs and live production to enable manufacturers to detect, communicate and validate variances in order to produce higher quality parts at faster rates.

“After verifying NC programs and sending them to the shop floor, NC programmers frequently lose visibility into what happened with those programs in the shop. When asking the machine operator or shop foreman about the performance of the NC programs and any necessary changes, their responses can be too vague at times to identify how or where modifications were needed. This means the same issues will likely occur the next time the programs run,” says CGTech director of product management, Gene Granata. “The Postcheck feature of CNC Machine Connectivity closes the loop on the NC programming process by providing engineers and programmers with access to factually-recorded data about how NC machines and programs ran, including exact spindle or feed rate override percentages or emergency stops that occurred, right at their fingertips.”

VERICUT CNC Machine Connectivity Postcheck

The new Postcheck feature of VERICUT® CNC Machine Connectivity software allows programmers to document and verify actual jobs at any time and location to increase productivity and program accuracy.

As a reseller of DataXchange and various CNC hardware and software solutions, SFA president Greg Mercurio understands the opportunity CNC Machine Connectivity offers those involved with NC manufacturing.

“This latest feature of CNC Machine Connectivity is yet another example of how today’s technology is tightening the processes and relationship between engineering, programming, quality, estimating and the machine shop and tool crib on the floor,” states Mercurio. “We’re excited to share the range of possibilities with manufacturers at this year’s IMTS.”

For more information about DataXchange machine monitoring or the VERICUT® CNC Machine Connectivity software, visit the SFA booth (#133240) at IMTS 2024, call SFA at 619-461-4000 or visit www.shopfloorautomations.com.

July 17, 2024

Scrap material in manufacturing - Shop Floor Automations

Blog, Predator PDM, Software

Revise Your Revisions: Scrapping the Rework from Poor CNC Production Documentation

Imagine this: as a manufacturer, one of your engineers or CNC programmers has finally completed a product design for a part worth $75,000. They add the files to a USB thumb drive and run it out to the shop floor to upload the design and work instructions for the second shift. Success, he or she thinks. However, one of your team members made a last-minute change to the files without your knowledge. You won’t find out until the prototype is rejected by the customer, scrapping the part and costing your company thousands of dollars, even more time and effort, further project delays, interdepartmental frustration and a dissatisfied customer. Yikes.

In reality, manufacturers today have far greater ability to prevent a scenario like this from occurring in the first place. Modern production data management or product data management (PDM) software solutions are specifically designed to manage your manufacturing documentation, like CNC programs, CMM programs, machine offsets, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), to reduce inaccuracies, improve productivity, security and efficiency and speed up time to market. The revision control features of a well-designed PDM, such as Predator PDM, can allow for revisions per vault item, not per file, allowing you to condense the number of files it takes to run your business. New revisions or status changes are validated once-a-minute on every shop floor PC, and the correct program and work instructions may be selected from a pick list tied with the job scheduled in your ERP or MES system – all features to ensure the right CNC production documentation is sent to the right job at the right time.

Proper PDM software aids the CNC program and documentation process on the shop floor for less waste, faster time to market, increased productivity and more.

The use of Windows folders and other alternatives to fulfill regulated traceability requirements often fall short of meeting compliance standards.

Compliance Tracking for CNC Production Documentation

“Manufacturers and their industry partners are becoming greater generators and consumers of data output from their operations, particularly as automation increases,” wrote the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in late 2023. As regulatory bodies, such as the Food & Drug Administration (FDA), Department of Defense (DoD), and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) seek to control this data collection and consumption movement, manufacturers are responsible for tracking, restricting and proving the path of all production documentation. Applying traditional means, like pen and paper, text files or Windows folders, to meet the latest traceability requirements lack the revision control, visibility and reliability to fulfill such mandates. Even USB thumb drive usage can be significantly limited or prohibited altogether in order to achieve compliance. With so much regulation and new technology available now, how does a manufacturer find and implement an optimal PDM solution?

A partnership with a manufacturing integrator with experience in your industry – be it aerospace, defense, oil and gas, medical device and pharmaceuticals or another industrial sector – and a broad software and hardware portfolio can help you better navigate options to institute effective and compliant processes to deliver profitable products. Contact a manufacturing expert at Shop Floor Automations to help reduce time to market, decrease waste and enhance the security of your CNC production documentation by visiting shopfloorautomations.com now.

June 26, 2024

IMTS 2024 attendees can visit Shop Floor Automations for manufacturing integration solutions and support

Blog, Machine Monitoring, Scytec, Software, Trade Shows

Map Your Show with this IMTS 2024 Exhibitor Lineup

“Everything we have today is the result of going to Chicago, walking through those doors of IMTS, and seeing all the amazing technology. It’s a great atmosphere. It’s like walking into a living room that’s set up as a CNC shop with people smiling and ready to help you.”

— Ashley Miller, Co-owner, ARC EDM

For those who attended the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) 2022, like Miller, they know that there was plenty to keep over 86,000 registrants from 110 countries interested in the 1,816 exhibitors. IMTS 2024 promises much more, with many new product launches and networking connections anticipated over the course of the six-day event.

New Products, New Connections

ZOLLER (booth #432018), for one, plans to introduce its >>coraMeasure LG<< automated tool measurement system to improve tool measurement precision and speed by delivering tools to a linear robot that removes tools from the pallet and moves them to a ZOLLER >>venturion<< presetting and measuring machine. Each tool is identified with the ZOLLER >>dChip<< system and tool data is stored in the ZOLLER z.One database and accessible anywhere.

The new HAIMER (Booth #431510) Automation Cube One will also make its debut at IMTS 2024. This fully automatic robotic cell can shrink fit a tool, measure it and send the data to the machine tool in just 60 seconds. The Automation Cube One features a FANUC cobot for handling of tool assemblies and a Siemens Sinumerik One CNC control.

IMTS machine monitoring exhibitor Shop Floor Automations

DataXchange, available through IMTS machinoe monitoring exhibitor Shop Floor Automations, has released new protocol for supported equipment brands, including Okuma, Heidenhain and Siemens.

For those exploring machine monitoring and data collection solutions, Scytec Consulting (Booth #133240) has released new protocol for machine brands like Okuma, Heidenhain and Siemens to connect more data points for greater depth and analysis of equipment on the shop floor with its DataXchange equipment monitoring software. The added collection of Siemens spindle speed rates, for example, can help identify faults for better finish and surface quality due to consistent cutting speed at the tool cutting edge.

The partnership between Scytec and CGTech’s VERICUT® takes machine monitoring a step further through digital twins to simulate your manufacturing environment and identify the presence of variances before production begins on the floor, thereby minimizing or eliminating non-conformances and rework. Attendees seeking an IMTS machine monitoring exhibitor will have first access to the latest Post Check feature of CNC Machine Connect, in which users may replay stored, live-streamed data from the program for even greater visibility and predictive accuracy of your simulations.

Greg Mercurio, president of manufacturing integrator Shop Floor Automations, says that “It’s the relationships that we start and build at IMTS that make the show such a vital experience. Not only are we able to demonstrate the latest advances in our technology portfolio, but our deep customer connections allow us to match the right solution and service to their environment so they can focus on their producing high-quality product.”

To plan your IMTS show with these exhibitors and others, visit www.imts.com.

May 13, 2024

Blog, CMMC 2.0, Predator DNC

Upgrade DNC Software & Streamline Your CMMC 2.0 Compliance

In an effort to ensure defense contractors are following best practices to protect sensitive data, Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification Program (CMMC) rulemaking is inching closer and closer to finalization, with rules proposed by the U.S. Defense Department (DoD) on December 26, 2023. While these rules are published for comment, the codified version isn’t expected to change too drastically, however, DNC software upgrades may be something to consider, and Shop Floor Automations can help.

Townsend Bourne, partner at Sheppard Mullin, noted during an interview with Federal News Network. “Personally, I don’t know that we’re going to see significant changes from the proposed rule that came out at the end of December and the way the final rule is drafted,” said Bourne. “Most importantly, because DoD has been working on this program for so long, and I think they’re at the point where they think it’s pretty close to final.”

CMMC 2.0 Level 1 Sneak Preview

Transferring CNC programs via USB can not only require hefty management of manual user authorizations, device logs and documentation, but they can risk USB CNC program transfer attacks and noncompliance with CMMC 2.0.

The progression of this rulemaking process is quickly advancing the impact of CMMC 2.0 to manufacturers of all sizes, especially small-to-medium sized businesses (SMBs) that will need to carefully manage finite resources to absorb added costs, personnel and training to meet and maintain compliance.

One aspect of CMMC 2.0 that will deliver a layer of complexity is the proper storage and control of removable media, like USBs and CDs, which many defense contract manufacturers utilize today to transfer CNC programs, images and other Federal Contract Information (FCI) and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) to and from computers and machines. Let’s review a few aspects of the Level 1 requirements clause of 52.204-21, Basic Safeguarding of Covered Contractor Information Systems, to illustrate some of the necessary steps to store and control sensitive data appropriately on these devices.

Limit information system access to authorized users, processes acting on behalf of authorized users, or devices (including other information systems).

There should be a clear set of procedures regarding who is permitted access to removable media, their accountabilities related to this access, and how often these procedures are reviewed, validated and updated. Programmers, engineers and others involved in the CNC program transfer process should have unique credentials and the correct identity or role-based permissions across devices and systems.

Credentials and keys should be properly managed and rotated to enhance the security of sensitive information. If you’re manually managing user security and authorization related to CNC program transfers via paper or spreadsheets, for example, it can be a time-consuming and involved endeavor that may be prone to errors and noncompliance.

Limit information system access to the types of transactions and functions that authorized users are permitted to execute.

It’s necessary to have documentation of the transactions roles and personnel who are authorized to execute, so that sensitive data is not processed by those lacking permissions to do so. But do you also have the safeguards to block unauthorized transactions and track those attempts? Again, a manual means to meet this requirement can not only be labor-intensive and riddled with inaccuracies, but near impossible for some DoD contract manufacturers with complex operations.

Verify and control/limit connections to and use of external information systems.

Even limiting the use of removable media can still leave data susceptible, as USBs are re-gaining popularity in cyberattacks. Daniel Wiley, the head of threat management at Check Point, relayed an instance in which a power company employee received a sealed USB device from an Amazon package, complete with Amazon tape. “He thought his wife ordered it. So he opened it up, plugged it in. Everything else was a chain reaction. It was able to break in across their VPN. Let’s just say the power company was not in a good place.”

It is imperative for defense contractors to have the proper controls set up to protect your CUI against USB CNC program transfer attacks – but no controls will be completely failsafe.

Roll Credits

It’s estimated that a CMMC Level 1 self-assessment will cost a small entity about $6,000, according to DefenseScoop. For SMBs, this cost could be significantly more depending upon the existing IT infrastructure, processes and know-how of your staff.

An ideal DNC software, which is a system that leverages Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and connects your shop floor equipment on one network, could be hugely beneficial. An upgraded DNC system can reduce or eliminate manual user authorizations, device logs and documentation for more streamlined CMMC 2.0 compliance and the prevention of USB CNC program transfer attacks.

Not only does this allow for CMMC 2.0 compliance, but DNC software upgrades also can streamline your entire operation. For instance, with Predator DNC software, you can network all CNCs, EDMs, PLCs and robots with a singular DNC package. At Shop Floor Automations (SFA), we have been the top Predator reseller for 20 years, and we also are a top provider of proven software from Scytec and Ascendant Technologies.

The team at SFA can provide you with DNC solutions for any brand, connection type or age of CNC machine. Additionally, we offer hardware solutions that can revolutionize your shop floor. To learn more about our machine monitoring solutions or how DNC software can aid your CMMC 2.0 compliance, contact an SFA representative today.

April 17, 2024

Company News, Predator, Predator DNC, Predator MDC, Predator PDM, Press Releases

SFA: Your Top Predator Software Reseller For 20+ Years

PDM, MDC and DNC software are among the highest-sought Predator solutions supported by the manufacturing integrator

Shop Floor Automations (SFA), a manufacturing integrator specializing in digitally transformative hardware, software and support solutions, announces its exclusive achievement as the top reseller of Predator software since 2004. This significant milestone represents the integrator’s deep industry and technical expertise and unwavering commitment to customer success by serving thousands of North American manufacturers of aerospace and defense, automotive, oil and gas, heavy equipment and medical device products.

“Predator software is a renowned provider of manufacturing automation solutions and leader in Industry 4.0, Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), digital factory and lean manufacturing,” says Greg Mercurio, president and founder of SFA. “By coupling these solutions with the excellent service, skillset and knowledge of our technical team, our customers realize tangible gains and have come to rely on us for all their automation needs.”

Engineer working with DNC Software at his desk.

Shop Floor Automations has served manufacturers as their premier Predator Software reseller for 20 years.

Robert Jackson, a manufacturing engineer at Flowco Production Solutions, shared his DNC experience in an SFA customer success story.

“I’m responsible for helping to design high-quality parts and manage all the planning for manufacturing,” reported Jackson. “Predator DNC gives me the ability to spend my day doing what I’m supposed to be doing.”

Today SFA offers the following suite of Predator Software solutions:

Predator DNC (Direct Numeric Control) is a robust DNC solution designed to simplify and automate the process of managing CNC programs to ensure secure, reliable and efficient program transfer to CNC machines.
Predator MDC (Machine Data Collection) is an advanced manufacturing data collection system that enables real-time monitoring and analysis of machine performance, production metrics, and downtime, thus empowering manufacturers to optimize processes and maximize productivity.
Predator PDM (Product Data Management) is a comprehensive solution for managing and controlling manufacturing documentation, including CAD/CAM files, setup sheets, work instructions and more, to streamline collaboration, version control, and compliance.
Predator CNC Editor is a powerful editor for CNC program editing, revision control, and backplotting, equipped with features such as syntax highlighting, intelligent search, and customizable templates to simplify programming tasks and ensure code accuracy.
Predator Touch HMI (Human Machine Interface) is designed to enhance operator efficiency and productivity by providing easy access to machine status, job information, and process parameters via touch-enabled interfaces.

For more information about SFA and Predator Software to help give your business a competitive edge, call 619-461-4000 or visit www.shopfloorautomations.com.

ABOUT SHOP FLOOR AUTOMATIONS

Founded in 1998, Shop Floor Automations (SFA) is a manufacturing integrator specializing in digitally transformative hardware, software and support solutions to increase the productivity, efficiency and profitability of plant facilities throughout North America.

Shop Floor Automations has been a trusted reseller of Predator Software for 20 years, and we encourage you to contact our team at any time to find software solutions that give your business a competitive edge. For more information about SFA and Predator Software or to add intelligent automation to your shop floor for better communication, control and improvement, contact Shop Floor Automations at www.shopfloorautomations.com.

March 25, 2024