Thank you for your business, your partnership, and your friendship. We love what we do and that’s because we enjoy working with you all so much.

Things get hectic this time of year. We want to provide you with our holiday schedule so you’ll know when you can reach us.

 

Thursday Dec 24th – Office closes at noon.

Friday Dec 25th – Office closed all day.

Thursday Dec 31st – Office closes at noon.

Friday Jan 1st – Office closed all day.

 

Other than the days listed above, we’ll be observing our normal business hours of 7am to 4:00pm, Monday – Friday.

We wish everyone a Happy Holidays and A wonderful New Year!

Christmas Wreath on a Door

A shop floor worker opens up a CAD file from a master computer, which houses all the data to be sent to machines via a DNC network.

Our manufacturing environment relies heavily upon fully integrated and automated computerization systems for greater precision, accuracy, and convenience. From the simple numerical control systems of the 1940s to the wide breadth of integrated Distributive Numerical Control (DNC) system technologies we have today, these advancements are continuing to improve the way we automate shop floors and expedite manufacturing processes.

In this article, we take a closer look at two common ways to transfer files into CNCs: Manual Transfer Systems and DNC Systems. Each with their own set of potential benefits and hazards, read on for a greater understanding of how the two systems work and which one may be best for your facility’s needs and specifications.

First, What is DNC?

Direct Numerical Control, more recently known as Distributive Numerical Control (DNC), allows a single master computer to house all manufacturing data and be networked with machines that use Computer Numerical Control (CNC). Typically using a broadband Ethernet connection, this network allows operators to quickly load CNC programs into multiple machines automatically. By establishing a direct connection between the computer housing the data and all CNC machines on the

A CNC technician works with a CNC program on his laptop, which is drip fed to the CNC machine through a DNC network.

shop floor, DNC systems have quickly become an invaluable resource for operators and consumers alike.

Advantages of DNC System Technologies

Beyond simple convenience, there are several additional benefits to using DNC systems. A few that you can expect are:

  • Improved ability and flexibility of computation for more efficient manufacturing
  • Highly reliable transfers for machine programs, offsets, parameters, etc.
  • Superior shop performance reporting, which can be used to make positive operational changes
  • Highly convenient editing and diagnostic features for improved machine functionality
  • File management and revision control to maintain NC program compliance

In short, DNC system technologies can help you seamlessly and easily control multiple programmable robots with less manual input for greater productivity.

Compared to Manual Transfer Systems…

When comparing DNC systems with Manual Transfer Systems (MTSs), the differences are both readily apparent and extremely telling. Using portable media such as USB sticks and PCMCIA cards, MTSs require operators to walk to the central computer, load the desired NC program on the CNC, walk to the CNC machine, plug in the device and load the program into each individual machine or unit.

Both time consuming and unnecessary, this process has the potential to harm the CNC equipment by damaging the port or the pins while inserting and removing the card. Furthermore, security is a concern due to uncontrolled files with proprietary information and intellectual property moving from a secured computer to employees.  With today’s viruses and ransomware, using USB sticks could lock out your CNC and computer network if one is not aware of what is loaded on these devices.

It’s time your facility caught up with the best practices and considered implementing DNC system technologies.

Shop Floor Automations: Your Partner in DNC System Technologies

Shop Floor Automations has helped thousands of companies increase shop floor efficiencies and profits through proven automation software and DNC system integration. We want to help you do the same.

If you would like further insight into which DNC system technology is best for your specific needs, we can help. With a wide variety of machine automation and DNC software products to choose from, you will have access to all the resources necessary to create a fully automated, more productive shop floor.

Contact our team today to get started on your DNC system integration or to learn more about our other machine automation services.

 

Manufacturing News – November 2020

Shop Floor Automations’ ad in Manufacturing News this past month of November 2020.

Please take a look and see what else is going on in the Manufacturing News Nov. 2020 issue.

There are some foundational abilities that a Shop Floor needs to have to compete in 2021 and beyond.


That includes the following:

  • DNC
    • Send to Machine
    • Receive from Machine
    • Remote Request
    • Subroutines & Sub Programs
    • Tool Restart after tool break
  • Machine Monitoring
    • Accountability and Traceability
    • Real-time signage
    • Improve productivity
    • Impartial metrics
    • Reward results
  • Production Document Management
    • Paperless mfg
    • Revision control
    • Reduce the # of documents
    • Controlled documents
    • Product mix avoidance
    • Resolve CAPA’s

SFA has become the industry leader in Shop Floor Communications and Machine Monitoring Solutions. Totally redefining what “Shop Floor Automation” solutions should be.  We have thousands of customers from across the United States, Mexico, Canada, Europe and Asia.

Shop Floor Automations (SFA), has been a leader in the realm of working with CNC machines to connect them to DNC or to add A Dynatorch plasma cutting machine at work, one of the many types of machines that are compatible with machine monitoring technology.Machine Monitoring to them. Since many shops have a wide variety of machines to handle various needs, it is important to know what we can connect far more than just CNC’s.

The core benefits of machine monitoring still apply to Plasma Cutters, Ovens, Grinders and more.

  • Uptime reporting
  • Operator assignment stuff
  • Other things that still apply to non CNC’s

With LAN-USB, network outage protection also occurs via a local server to CNC connection that is independent of the shop floor’s network. The USB function of the device allows it to act as an interface between commercially available USB sticks and any CNC control with a functioning RS232 port. Machine programs can be sent from the CNC memory to the USB stick, USB to CNC memory, or can be drip-fed (DNC) from the USB.

A shot of a shop floor, featuring various production machines that are set up on a machine monitoring network.Flexible CNC communication firmware is built into the unit. This allows for a connection to a large variety of machine tool controls. The device buffers the entire program at the machine, and acts as a dedicated computer that responds instantaneously to data flow changes from the CNC.

Positioning this device on the control allows the machine to run at its maximum baud rate. This will prevent a machinist from having to walk back and forth from the DNC PC to the machine in order to initiate machine operation. This important feature allows the LAN-USB to increase your shop floor efficiency by maximizing productivity and reducing downtime.

Find out if we can connect all of your machines.

You can call us at (877) 611-5825 or email us at info@shopfloorautomations.com or complete the form below and we’ll contact you. Once we help you add monitoring to your machines, we’ll support you with our industry leading support team!

Two black binders and a pen on top of a conference table. One binder is labeled "Manufacturing Processes".Shop Floor Automations (SFA), a notable Automation Supplier for the CNC Machine Tool Industry, has released a new hardware product to add USB and Ethernet connectivity to any machine. This new hardware, LAN-USB Connect, packs a one-two punch by providing the user the ability to drag and drop files to and from the CNC machine, utilizing an Ethernet connection via FTP protocol. No logon is required because you can use anonymous logins or configure security. Even better, these functions are achieved with no special software required.

With LAN-USB, network outage protection also occurs via a local server to CNC connection that is independent of the shop floor’s network. The USB function of the device allows it to act as an interface between commercially available USB sticks and any CNC control with a functioning RS232 port. Machine programs can be sent from the CNC memory to the USB stick, USB to CNC memory, or can be drip-fed (DNC) from the USB.

Flexible CNC communication firmware is built into the unit. This allows for a connection to a large variety of machine tool controls. The device buffers the entire program at the machine, and acts as a dedicated computer that responds instantaneously to data flow changes from the CNC.

Positioning this device on the control allows the machine to run at its maximum baud rate. This will prevent a machinist from having to walk back and forth from the DNC PC to the machine in order to initiate machine operation. This important feature allows the LAN-USB to increase your shop floor efficiency by maximizing productivity and reducing downtime.

More benefits of this device come with the financial freedom of keeping an older machine in operation longer, rather than retrofitting a machine with new controllers or replacing a machine altogether. The hardware replaces cost-prohibitive measures of adding OEM memory or USB to the machine in a proprietary manner from the machine tool builder.

The LAN-USB Connect works with the majority of CNC controls on the market with a serial port. It has been tested with Haas, Mazak, Hurco, Fadal, Mitsubishi, Mori Seiki, Okuma, Siemens, and other brands. This device is also available in a “headless” version, as well as a low-cost wireless version.

Interested in the LAN-USB Connect? Contact Shop Floor Automations Today!

If you are interested in adding the LAN-USB Connect to your shop floor equipment today, contact Shop Floor Automations. With over years of experience, we have the knowledge and experience necessary to get your equipment set up with the LAN-USB connect so it can easily interface with your CNC controls. Give us a call today at (619) 461-4000 to learn more or get the order process started!

A tv monitor on a shop floor displaying machine monitoring software for various machines, most of which appear to be running and one that appears to be idle.

When most people think of machine monitoring, they think of increasing utilization, but there are other benefits to consider as well. Monitoring can provide valuable information to help with preventative maintenance, can act as a communication tool between the shop floor and management, and it can be used on all types of shop floor equipment.

Here are three benefits of OEE monitoring systems that often get overlooked:

    1. This system can integrate with other software to help optimize machine capacity.

For example, ERP systems are a great fit for machine monitoring. Also, CMMS systems paired with OEE monitoring helps to provide a more realistic PM schedule. Actual run times on your machines are monitored and the data feeds into the CMMS to create an accurate PM schedule. For manufacturers without a CMMS, a simple spreadsheet with PMs to complete sometimes is enough. The software also integrates with protocols such as MTConnect and OPC UA to make shop floor data more universally available.

    1. Machine monitoring is not just for CNC machines.

Manufacturers with autoclaves, manual machines, press brakes, PLC-driven machines, and more can monitor their productivity. Those in the fabrication and mold making industries can benefit heavily from utilization monitoring. The software is also not limited to looking at shop floor monitors or your desktop PC on location because notifications on the go via text alerts, emails, or viewing dashboards via a mobile device or tablet are all available.

    1. Machine monitoring helps operators working at machines convey important information to those not working on the shop floor.

Via data entry screens and tablets at the machines, machinists can enter notes and let back-office employees know why certain machines are down. It also helps with machine maintenance since there are notes on what causes downtime for machines. In addition, machine repairs can be anticipated so there can be planned downtime, which allows employees to map out a more streamlined process.

The Bottom Line

Machine monitoring is not only a method for knowing machine utilization, nor is it only for CNC machinery. It helps the people who are making parts at machines communicate issues that need attention in an easily understandable manner. It enables a shop floor to know what equipment needs attention in order to be more productive.

If you are interested in adding machine monitoring software to your shop floor, call us today at (619) 461-4000!

A close up of a machine's tool head at work cutting metal based on the data it receives via a secure CNC network.Your programs are your livelihood on the shop floor. They make the parts that keep you in business. You want to make sure no one is stealing them or changing them without authority, and that they are securely loaded into your CNC machines. What measures are you taking to make sure your machine programs are on track for success? Let’s take a look at Shop Floor Automations Top 3 list of solutions for better CNC networking.

DNC Software

If controlling program communication for over 4,000 devices sounds impossible, you’ll be surprised. One network for all the equipment on your shop floor is more than a pipe dream. DNC is available for many controls, including Haas, DMG, Mazak, Fagor, Okuma, Fanuc, and more. Communication can be achieved wirelessly, via ethernet, and through RS232. Another benefit of Predator DNC is Remote Request. Using this feature through the software helps machinists improve productivity, as they can send, receive, and drip-feed programs at the machine. Since they have directory listings of programs at their machine tool, they no longer need to walk back and forth from the PC to the CNC.

Secure DNC

Some companies are prioritizing hiring new workers to fill in the manufacturing skills gap as the previous generation of workers retires out. When old machine tools can’t always be replaced right away, older, Windows-based controls can instead use a Predator feature called Secure DNC. Secure file transfers can take place through firewalls for these machines. You can send programs directly to the hard drive without interfering with the shop’s network or adding them to the domain. This exclusive Predator feature has been sought after especially by companies that have concerns about cybersecurity in their shops.

CNC Revision Control

A critical element to manufacturing productivity, CNC Revision Control is often overlooked for the processes of hand-coded programs and programs floating around the shop on portable media. No control over shop programs leads to old programs running at machines or inaccuracies in the part, which can generate wasted raw material, man time, and unhappy customers. Our customers have stated that implementing revision control helps with better throughput, saved money, improved margins, and more accuracy in delivery times. Predator PDM (Production Data Management) can help with achieving these goals.

Are you ready to implement any of these solutions? Contact Shop Floor Automations today at (619) 461-4000 or info@shopfloorautomations.com!

Two shop floor employees discussing the status of machines as shown on a large tv screen displaying machine monitoring software.In today’s competitive environment, it’s essential to take action to make your process as efficient as possible. If you are not using manufacturing software in Fort Worth TX, you are putting yourself behind the competition. Thankfully, with the help of Shop Floor Automations, you can take your shop floor efficiency to the next level. We offer a wide variety of manufacturing software in Fort Worth TX that can help improve your process.

Shop Floor Automations Offers a Full Suite of Manufacturing Software in Fort Worth TX

There are many types of manufacturing software in Fort Worth TX that can help improve the processes at your facility. These include:

  • Machine Monitoring: Scytec DataXchange & Predator MDC (Machine Data Collection)
  • DNC Software: Predator DNC Software & Ascendant eXtremeDNC Software
  • CNC Editor: Predator CNC Editor Software, Predator CNC Editor Express Software, Ascendant XYZPRO32 EditPlus & Predator CNC Editor Light Software
  • Document Control: Predator PDM Software
  • Tool Management: Predator Tracker Software
  • MTConnect

If you are not sure what manufacturing software in Fort Worth TX is right for you, the experts at Shop Floor Automations can help!

Which Manufacturing Software is Right for Your Shop?

When it comes to manufacturing software in Fort Worth TX, Shop Floor Automations has what you need. There are many options when it comes to turnkey machine automation software, but Predator, Scytec, and MTConnect are some of the best in the game. Keep reading to learn what these software solutions have to offer:

Predator Software

  • CNC Editor: NC file editing, backplotting & file compare. Basic RS232 CNC communication. For your G-code editing needs.
  • DNC: Shop floor connectivity. Security, management, & reliability for any CNC make/model. Drip-feeding of large programs. The ultimate manufacturing automation software.
  • MDC: Data collection of shop floor productivity metrics. Improve operations & decisions. Increase OEE & track machine trends.
  • PDM: Manufacturing documentation management. Sign-offs, instructions, requirements, & processes are in a secured vault with revision control. Go paperless and obtain shop floor management through PDM!
  • Tracker: Keep track of tooling, gauges, & other valuable tools on the shop floor.

Scytec DataXchange

  • Cloud or on-premise. Real-time machine monitoring for improved OEE
  • Real-time data from any CNC control/equipment, regardless of machine age
  • Unlimited number of reporting and charting licenses
  • View & report on your data results from anywhere
  • Track multiple types of cycle time

MTConnect

  • A universal factory floor communication standard
  • Enables the efficient transfer of data between devices & manufacturing shop floor software applications.
  • We provide MTConnect Adapters for a variety of machines, plus implementation services.

We Offer Reliable Manufacturing Software in Fort Worth TX

Shop Floor Automations is a leader in the manufacturing software industry. With a variety of options for manufacturing software in Fort Worth TX, you can rest assured that our experienced team will hook you up with exactly what you need to boost your overall shop floor efficiency. Give us a call today at (619) 461-4000 to speak about our manufacturing software options and how they can benefit your operation.

To learn more about the machine manufacturing software and machine automation services that we offer, visit us on the web at Shop Floor Automations.

Man working with DNC Software at his desk.If you want to take your shop floor efficiency to the next level you need to utilize manufacturing software in Los Angeles CA. Manufacturing software can reduce your downtime, improve your ability to make informed decisions, and transform your entire manufacturing process. At Shop Floor Automations, we offer a variety of manufacturing software in Los Angeles CA.

Shop Floor Automations Offers a Full Suite of Manufacturing Software in Los Angeles CA

At Shop Floor Automations, we know the importance of utilizing manufacturing software in Los Angeles CA. We offer a variety of manufacturing software solutions, which include:

  • Machine Monitoring: Scytec DataXchange & Predator MDC (Machine Data Collection)
  • DNC Software: Predator DNC Software & Ascendant eXtremeDNC Software
  • CNC Editor: Predator CNC Editor Software, Predator CNC Editor Express Software, Ascendant XYZPRO32 EditPlus & Predator CNC Editor Light Software
  • Document Control: Predator PDM Software
  • Tool Management: Predator Tracker Software
  • MTConnect

To determine what manufacturing software in Los Angeles CA is right for your facility, give us a call!

Which Manufacturing Software is Right for You?

Shop Floor Automations carries the top brands of manufacturing software in Los Angeles CA. From machine automation to drip-feeding, we have you covered. Keep reading to learn what these various manufacturing software solutions have to offer:

Predator Software

  • CNC Editor: NC file editing, back plotting & file compare. Basic RS232 CNC communication. For your G-code editing needs.
  • DNC: Shop floor connectivity. Security, management, & reliability for any CNC make/model. Drip-feeding of large programs. The ultimate manufacturing automation software.
  • MDC: Data collection of shop floor productivity metrics. Improve operations & decisions. Increase OEE & track machine trends.
  • PDM: Manufacturing documentation management. Sign-offs, instructions, requirements, & processes are in a secured vault with revision control. Go paperless and obtain shop floor management through PDM!
  • Tracker: Keep track of tooling, gauges, & other valuable tools on the shop floor.

Scytec DataXchange

  • Cloud or on-premise. Real-time machine monitoring for improved OEE
  • Real-time data from any CNC control/equipment, regardless of machine age
  • Unlimited number of reporting and charting licenses
  • View & report on your data results from anywhere
  • Track multiple types of cycle time

MTConnect

  • A universal factory floor communication standard
  • Enables the efficient transfer of data between devices & manufacturing shop floor software applications.
  • We provide MTConnect Adapters for a variety of machines, plus implementation services.

We Offer Reliable Manufacturing Software in Los Angeles CA

When it comes to manufacturing software in Los Angeles CA, Shop Floor Automations has you covered. We offer only the top brands in the industry and know the ins and outs of all of the systems. With over years of experience, you can trust us to help you implement manufacturing software in Los Angeles CA. Give us a call today at (619) 461-4000 to obtain a quote or get started!

To learn more about the machine manufacturing software and machine automation services that we offer, visit us on the web at Shop Floor Automations.

A close up of a machine's tool head at work cutting metal based on the data it receives from CNC manufacturing software such as Predator DNC.Are you looking for ways to improve your shop floor efficiency? If that’s the case, Shop Floor Automations is here to help. We can implement manufacturing software in Houston TX shops that can help take your efficiency to the next level. Whether you need machine monitoring DNC software, a CNC editor, or other manufacturing software, we have you covered.

Shop Floor Automations Offers a Full Suite of Manufacturing Software in Houston TX

At Shop Floor Automations, we know the importance of utilizing manufacturing software in Houston TX. That is why we offer a variety of manufacturing software solutions, including:

  • Machine Monitoring: Scytec DataXchange & Predator MDC (Machine Data Collection)
  • DNC Software: Predator DNC Software & Ascendant eXtremeDNC Software
  • CNC Editor: Predator CNC Editor Software, Predator CNC Editor Express Software, Ascendant XYZPRO32 EditPlus & Predator CNC Editor Light Software
  • Document Control: Predator PDM Software
  • Tool Management: Predator Tracker Software
  • MTConnect

If you need help choosing the right manufacturing software in Houston TX, Shop Floor Automations is here to assist!

Which Manufacturing Software is Right for You?

When it comes to manufacturing software, Predator, Scytec, and MTConnect are some of the best names in the game. That is why we carry them! Keep reading to learn what these various options for manufacturing software in Houston TX have to offer:

Predator Software

  • CNC Editor: NC file editing, back plotting & file compare. Basic RS232 CNC communication. For your G-code editing needs.
  • DNC: Shop floor connectivity. Security, management, & reliability for any CNC make/model. Drip-feeding of large programs. The ultimate manufacturing automation software.
  • MDC: Data collection of shop floor productivity metrics. Improve operations & decisions. Increase OEE & track machine trends.
  • PDM: Manufacturing documentation management. Sign-offs, instructions, requirements, & processes are in a secured vault with revision control. Go paperless and obtain shop floor management through PDM!
  • Tracker: Keep track of tooling, gauges, & other valuable tools on the shop floor.

Scytec DataXchange

  • Cloud or on-premise. Real-time machine monitoring for improved OEE
  • Real-time data from any CNC control/equipment, regardless of machine age
  • Unlimited number of reporting and charting licenses
  • View & report on your data results from anywhere
  • Track multiple types of cycle time

MTConnect

  • A universal factory floor communication standard
  • Enables the efficient transfer of data between devices & manufacturing shop floor software applications.
  • We provide MTConnect Adapters for a variety of machines, plus implementation services.

We Can Implement Reliable Manufacturing Software in Houston TX

When it comes to implementing manufacturing software in Houston TX, Shop Floor Automations is the best in the game. Not only do we sell and install the best brand names in the industry, but we also know the ins and outs of all of those systems. If you are interested in installing manufacturing software in Houston TX, contact us today at (619) 461-4000 or info@shopfloorautomations.com!

To learn more about the machine manufacturing software and machine automation services that we offer, visit us on the web at Shop Floor Automations.