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.

Implement DNC Software in Fort Worth TX to Improve Shop Floor Efficiency

In a competitive environment, maintaining an advantage over the competition is essential. Are you tired of wasting time walking to and from your CNC control and computer? Are you wondering if there is a better way to network and communicate with your machines? Improving shop efficiencies is important to keep productivity—and profits—high, and by implementing DNC Software in your Fort Worth TX facility, you can do just that.

What is DNC Software?

DNC Software enables you to manage CNC programs, machine parameters, and offsets on a single network. This type of software allows a wide range of CNC communication options from your PCs to your DNC machines, and by implementing DNC Software in your Fort Worth TX facility, you can greatly improve shop floor efficiency.

Benefits of Installing DNC Software

There are numerous benefits that come with installing DNC Software at your facility. Some of these benefits include:

 

  • Drip-feeding, downloading, and bi-directional communication
  • Eliminates walking to and from CNC controls and PCs
  • Improves CNC revision control
  •   Eliminates time wasted due to CNC communication failures
  • Ability to manage machine files, remote requests, and file transfers
  •   Works on any machine because it is not just serial-based
  •   Enables you to drip-feed large programs

Types of DNC Software

There are two main types of DNC Software offered by Shop Floor Automations.

The first is Predator DNC Software. This package 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.

Ascendant eXtremeDNC Software is another type of quality DNC Software. This software allows you to push and pull files to CNCs from PCs remotely. You also gain reliable RS232 communication and support for Windows XP, Vista, 7, Server 2003/2008R2 – 32bit & 64bit systems. If you are looking to implement quality DNC Software in Fort Worth TX, Ascendant eXtremeDNC Software is a good option.

Contact Shop Floor Automations today for help implementing DNC Software in Fort Worth TX!

Are you ready to implement DNC Software at your facility in Fort Worth TX? If so, contact Shop Floor Automations today at (619) 461-4000 to learn more about the services we offer or request a quote. Whether you are looking to implement Ascendant eXtremeDNC Software to enable reliable RS232 communication via wireless and wired or Predator DNC Software, which networks all CNCs, EDMs, PLCs, and robots with singular DNC software, Shop Floor Automations can help. We’ve helped automate thousands of shop floor machines and would be happy to help improve the efficiency of your shop as well!

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

Happy Manufacturing Day from Shop Floor Automations!

A close up of various machine tool heads not currently in use by a machine.Manufacturing Day is held every year on the first Friday of October. The purpose of this national celebration is to encourage and inspire the next generation of manufacturers. Events are held across the country as manufacturers open their doors to students, parents, teachers, educational institutions, and community leaders, allowing them to get a first-hand look at what a manufacturing career entails.

By working together on this annual day of recognition, manufacturers can address the skilled labor shortage, connect with future generations and potential future employees, and ensure the ongoing prosperity of the entire manufacturing industry.

How Can You Get Involved with Manufacturing Day?

There are a few different ways to get involved with Manufacturing Day. First, you can host an event! If you are a manufacturer, feel free to open your doors to students, parents, and teachers in an effort to inspire the next generation of manufacturers. By hosting an event you can showcase the diversity of manufacturing career paths to the community.

Another way to get involved in Manufacturing Day is to attend an event that is already happening. Manufacturing Day events take place across the entire country. These events take place on Manufacturing Day, which is October 4, 2019, but also throughout the rest of the month of October as well. Click here to find a Manufacturing Day event near you!

Finally, you can also get involved by sponsoring Manufacturing Day. Sponsors are one of the biggest reasons that Manufacturing Day is so successful every year. Becoming a sponsor for the initiative on a state or national level is easy. Simply click here to learn more!

Shop Floor Automations is Proud to Support Manufacturing!

At Shop Floor Automations, we are proud to support manufacturing. We know how big of an impact manufacturing has on our nation’s economy and the importance of inspiring the next generation of manufacturers to ensure the continued prosperity of the industry. We’ve been around for over years and are happy to provide services that help manufacturers improve their shop floor efficiencies, productivity, and profits.

If you need help automating your manufacturing shop floor, contact Shop Floor Automations today!

If you are a manufacturer looking for assistance with automating your shop floor equipment, Shop Floor Automations can help! Since , we’ve automated thousands of pieces of equipment. Whether you’re in need of software like CNC Editor or Scytec DataXchange or hardware like MTConnect, Shop Floor Automations can help. Let us take your shop floor to the next level so you can proudly display your modern manufacturing facility during next year’s Manufacturing Day celebration! Contact us today at (619) 461-4000 to learn more or request a quote for services.

To learn more about the software and hardware we offer to help you improve your shop floor efficiency, check us out on the web at Shop Floor Automations.

Does Your Shop Need Predator Secure DNC and Predator Alarm Systems?

An infographic explaining how secure DNC works by blocking unauthorized access while allowing DNC data transfers to get through.Corporate internet security systems can be complex, which often makes it difficult for shop floor machines to communicate effectively. If you are looking to securely transfer files to and from your shop floor equipment through company firewalls, Predator Secure DNC is the best option.

What is Predator Secure DNC?

In short, Predator Secure DNC is essentially a tool that allows you to securely transfer files to and from CNC machines through firewalls. This is important for businesses that have strict network security that would otherwise hinder the transfer of a file. This Windows-based application is a headless Windows product that can be installed on any shop equipment.

The Benefits of Installing Predator Secure DNC

There are many benefits associated with installing Predator Secure DNC. Unlike other applications that contain restrictions, you can integrate Predator Secure DNC on any type of legacy equipment. It also boasts transparent CNC network security and can reduce the cost for upgrades that would otherwise be required with older equipment.

Another benefit of Predator Secure DNC is that it has a minimal footprint. The standardized communication protocol’s PSDNC.EXE is just 228k and only consumes 1750k of memory while it’s running. While it will create an ASC II log file for troubleshooting and one backup log file, these are capped at just 120k so they shouldn’t take up too much bandwidth.

Last but not least, Predator Secure DNC uses just a standard TCP/IP protocol and is actually included with Predator DNC and DNC Enterprise. That means there is no additional cost for the security application, aside from any minimal expenses incurred to hire a shop floor automation specialist like Shop Floor Automations to implement it.

Predator Secure DNC is Supported by Numerous Operating Systems

Predator Secure DNC is designed for Windows systems. Predator DNC v.11 supports many client operating systems, including Windows 7, 8, 9, Vista, XP, ME, 98, and 95. The variety of operating system compatibility makes Predator Secure DNC a great option for those operating legacy systems and older equipment.

In addition, Predator Secure DNC also supports different server operating systems, including Windows 2016 Server, Windows 2012 Server, Windows 2008 Server, Windows 2003 Server, Windows 2000 Server, and Windows NT v4.0 Server.

Let Shop Floor Automations Bridge the Gap between Your Shop Floor and IT Department!

Many machines can be connected to a corporate network, but there are often risks associated with that. At Shop Floor Automations, we can help bridge the gap between the shop floor and your IT Department by implementing a standard across all your equipment. By installing Predator Secure DNC you can let your IT Department focus on fighting viruses and hackers instead of dealing with domains, home groups, workgroups, NETBUI, unsupported operating systems, and more.

With over years of experience working to improve shop floor efficiencies, Shop Floor Automations can implement Predator Secure DNC in a timely manner. Contact us today at (619) 461-4000 to get started!