General Information

Predator machine monitoring through Predator MDC is available in an Express, Standard and Enterprise versions. Each version is upgraded to the next level and includes functionality to collect data.

Predator MDC Express is a paper-based solution to allow users to collect data manually and report and chart data on events that happen previously.

Predator MDC Standard version is real-time data collection of utilization from the machines and collects cycle time, idle time, alarm and downtime.

Predator MDC Enterprise version is for companies who want to collect OEE, track parts, users, plus other metrics and interface the data with other business systems.

Yes. Predator MDC is real-time machine monitoring software that automatically collects, reports, charts and processes real-time shop floor manufacturing data including OEE, cycle time, idle time, setup time, teardown time, machine downtime and more.

Predator MDC improves manufacturing by supplying accurate shop floor metrics to improve operations and to make better decisions. The Predator MDC is an application that is installed on a computer inside the company facility.

It is only available as an on-premise solution.

Predator Flex Hardware does NOT work under Windows 7 or 8 due to the lack of support for drivers from the manufacturer. The hardware may fit inside of a PC, but known issues have been found in the reliability of communication to the CNC, as well as instances of blue screens.

We also do not recommend running the hardware in a newer PC due to lost functionality in performance and protocol support.

An upgrade is available from SFA to move towards FLEXN or FLEXW hardware, which is supported by Windows 7 and 8 and uses a network connection and network protocols instead of a dedicated ISA/PCI card on the motherboard to communicate with your FLEXN/FLEXW hardware.

Shop Floor Automations has the hardware for wireless and wired solutions on the shop floor, as well as solutions that work with the MTConnect Protocol and can connect multiple ways. Be sure to contact us for more information on what hardware is best for you, depending on your setup!

PC hardware minimum requirements to run Predator Software are a Pentium 4, AMD Athlon, or newer CPU.

40GB or larger hard disk, and 512 MB of RAM or more are the prerequisite components for a computer to run Predator Software.

Most off-the-shelf computers will far exceed these hardware requirements. Please consult with SFA on your specific software installations for the best performance and reliability.

Predator Software supports the following database versions included with Predator v10 and v9 applications: Microsoft Access 2000, 2002. 2003, 2007 and 2010 along with SQL 2000, 2005 and 2008.

Microsoft Express versions are also included for 2005 and 2008. Several customers are supported on Oracle 7, 8, 9, 10i, and 11i.

Predator v11 applications support Windows 2012, Windows 10, Oracle 12, Microsoft Access 2016, Microsoft Access 2013, Microsoft SQL Server 2016, Microsoft SQL Server 2014.

Support for the following Microsoft Windows versions are included with Predator v9 and v10 applications:

Windows 10 (v11 and newer only)
· Windows 2012 Server
· Windows 8
· Windows 7
· Windows 2008 Server
· Windows Vista
· Windows 2003 Server
· Windows XP

Support is included for both 32-bit and 64-bit systems. The latest Windows updates and service packs for each operating system should be installed on any and all computers you wish to run Predator Software.

Predator Software Serial Number and Access Codes are attributed to each legal, paid for, licensed product. These numbers are based on the SIM attached to the PC or from the network card inside of the PC.

Upon receipt of payment for the software, the permanent license will be issued. The software can be run on a temporary basis to allow users to move the software from one PC to another, as well as for evaluation periods.

You can contact your local reseller, such as Shop Floor Automations (SFA), for these codes or refer to your Predator CD label for details.

Please note that SFA can only give you the aforementioned codes and serial numbers if we were the ones who were your reseller of the product. We also do not provide support for copies of free CNC Editor available via our website.

SFA offers media replacement and 90 days of technical support for any software you have purchased from us.

You can also download recent versions of this software directly from our website. For pricing and details to replace a lost software CD, please email us or call us at (877) 611-5825.

No. The first Windows 7 version compatible of Predator DNC is Version 9. However, version 9 and version 10 are both compatible with Windows 8 and 8.1.

If you have an older version but would like to use Predator DNC on a Windows 7 machine, call us!

Yes, numerous software upgrades are available from any level of Predator DNC Hardware. Upgrades depend on each type of hardware.

The Connect series of hardware from SFA is designed to add ports at any time and offers a very easy upgrade path. Contact us to ensure there are no issues.

Yes. Haas CNC’s can communicate to Predator DNC Software using serial RS232 connection or FTP.

Haas FTP is also supported through Predator DNC to enable faster communication. Each Haas control can be configured in the software and can be configured for any method.

Predator DNC communicates up to 115K baud rate to the Haas using Xmodem and hardware handshaking.

Every Predator installation is built using Microsoft Windows Installer technology. There is extensive documentation available on Microsoft’s website.

The following primary command line options are available:
/i    Installs or configures a product
/f    Repairs a product, has 10 options
/a    Administrative install on the network
/x    Uninstalls a product
/j    Advertises a product
/l    Specifies the log file path
/p    Applies a patch
/q    Sets the user interface level
/y    Calls API register server to install
/z    Calls API register server to uninstall

A sample command line option for repairing a CNC Editor installation is as follows:

msiexec /i “predator CNC editor v6.0.msi” /fv

Predator uses a Rainbow Sentinel SuperPro key. This key is in the form of USB key. All software applications are licensed with a SIM and as such the SIM should be insured as property, for the actual cost of the software.

No. Currently, the product is designed as an application that runs on a Windows platform.

Mobile applications for Android and Apple phones and iPads are not developed. A customer can create their own applications using other applications if desired since there are APIs and open databases available.

Predator PDM is a paperless manufacturing driven Production Data Management tool. The software is designed to organize and control many facets of the shop floor.

CNC programs, setup sheets, safety procedures, quality documents, and others are under your control. Supports paperless shop floor operation with integration for CNC Communications and Machine Monitoring.

Predator PDM controls manufacturing driven processes and best practice workflows from manufacturing, quality, programming and other areas to the shop floor. 

Only the approved, released and authorized files are delivered to the shop floor operators and setup personnel to ensure the proven files are machines.  For ISO9000, ITAR, and other standards demanded by customers, Predator PDM is a solution to meet the manufacturing document control requirements.

Predator PDM supports an unlimited number of documents and support for numerous file types to be managed and viewed on the shop floor.

With the built-in viewing capability from Microsoft Internet Explorer, Predator leverages the built-in plug-in viewers supported and allows for continued upgrade path as new versions of file types are released.

For example, if Adobe released a new format or version of PDFs, Predator automatically embraces this compatibility with the new plug-ins from Internet Explorer.  A variety of files are supported for document control such as: Word, Excel, PDF, NC, TXT, STL, MPEG, TIFF. JPEG, and hundreds more.

As a manufacturer, you need to abide by legal code 21 CFR 820.40 – establishing and maintaining procedures to control documents (more info). As a business, you need to keep tax documents and any related records for anywhere from three to seven years. Employment records need to be kept for a minimum of a year and payroll records kept a minimum of three years.

There are over 140 permissions for control and management of who has access to files, approval process, released, un-released, rollback or pending files.

All security follows Microsoft standards for assigning permissions to users and groups.  Two versions of Predator PDM are available for purchase, PDM Administrator, and PDM Client.  Predator PDM Administrator allows for all control, configuration, and assignment of the security roles.

Yes. Predator PDM Client is used to view the proven, released and authorized manufacturing documents to the shop floor operator and setup users.  Once a user logs into Predator PDM with the username and password, the documents are displayed on the shop floor PC.

The operator can then deliver the NC program to the CNC machine via Predator DNC Software as well as collect real-time data on machine utilization from Predator Machine Monitoring Software.  Any other files related to the part can be viewed on the shop floor terminal providing a paperless environment.

Yes, Predator DNC supports long filenames, long directory names, names with spaces, shared network drives, and UNC names.

Refer to the following examples:

  •     Job 1234.NC
  •     H:CUSTOM PARTSJOB 4567.NC
  •     \\SERVER1\C\LARGE CUSTOMER\PART No 1234-5678.NC

Predator DNC can also automatically name your files when uploading to the server. They can be “auto-named” using their O-number, a user-chosen name, the first comment in the file, and so on.

Yes. Predator MDC supports automatic, error-free, and unattended machine monitoring for events such as job start and end, setup start and end, cycle start and end, to name a few of the events that can be monitored. This type of data is collected automatically using software, hardware, custom macros and other methods without requiring operator training or input.

A typical practice is when downloading the NC program into the machine, the system will automatically track the part #, job #, user and place the status of the work order in setup. Upon cycling the part, the status of the machine would change from in setup to in cycle.

Yes. Using Predator MDC Express, users can print out the data collection form to enter cycle information, part quantity, good and scrap parts, and other metrics. Predator MDC standard also supports manual monitoring of events that are initiated by machine operators such as machine log on/offs, downtimes, and scrap reasons.

Predator MDC can be used to manually collect data using several methods including remote request, swiping bar codes, touch screen PCs or standard PCs. SFA does provide an Android solution to also input this data via a tablet.

Yes. Dedicate one or more large-screen monitors on the shop floor for real-time digital signage using Predator MDC.

Create slides of charts, dashboards, and reports with specific filters and details. Eliminate manual posting of paper reports and charts on the shop floor. Provide a focal point for standup shop meetings while enforcing productivity and manufacturing metrics that management, engineering, and quality departments care about. Eliminate the clutter of paper and go high tech!

Over 1300 reports and charts provide unique insight into the productivity and efficiency of each manufacturer.

The flexibility of the reporting and charting options within Predator MDC converts the volume of data collected into concise reports and charts to identify issues and drive improved productivity. Eliminate manual OEE driven data collection and OEE spreadsheets. Software supports real-time OEE data collection with an OEE Dashboard, OEE Performance ranking charts, OEE Trend Analysis charts and OEE Reports.

Predator MDC standard and enterprise versions support up to 4096 CNC machines, robots, PLCs and ATE Test Stands per PC.

Data the software can monitor – simultaneous cycle time, setup time, teardown time, downtimes with reasons, good parts, scrap parts with reasons and an unlimited number of user-defined events.

Predator CNC Service is a comprehensive service designed to work with Predator MDC.

The service can be installed on a computer to communicate to various machine types using proprietary protocols. Predator MDC supports FANUC FOCAS, MTConnect, and Structured XML to capture real-time data from the machine using the network connection of the controller.

Development is also being tested for working with Okuma Thinc controllers on P100 and P200 where the service is installed on the machine. The service will then communicate through APIs and no interface is required.

Predator MDC Administrator is designed for the manufacturing department head or IS/manufacturing project lead to manage real-time machine monitoring processes centered on time and utilization. This seat is required with every purchase and allows for the creation of equipment, departments, locations, shifts, parts, reason codes, users, permissions and other administrative tasks.

Predator MDC Client is designed for personnel and users that need to run MDC reports and charts centered on time and utilization. Users can also see real-time data on a dashboard.

Predator MDC Shop Floor is designed for data entry for shop floor personnel. The software can also be used to display real-time data on the shop floor using LCD monitors or can be displayed in Engineering and Quality Departments to provide feedback on equipment status.

Most revision control software packages use a database for the backend to store “links” or flags to shared files and reference the actual file.  The problem with this system is that while you might have the NC program and can place it in a database for check-in and check-out, there is no control with these systems. Whoever saves the file last wins!

Most revision control software packages use a database for the backend to store “links” or flags to shared files and reference the actual file.  The problem is that while you might have the NC program and can place it in a database for check-in and check-out, there is no control with this system. Whoever saves the file last wins!

With a true PDM system, complete revision control, lockout, and access only can be obtained by a single user until completed.  This eliminates changes of multiple file revisions – they will be unapproved.

More on Predator PDM:

  • Paperless manufacturing-driven Production Data Management
  • Designed to organize & control CNC programs
  • Master your setup sheets, safety procedures, quality documents, & more
  • Complete revision control
  • Integration with DNC, CNC Editor, Virtual CNC, MDC & Tracker.

Predator PDM includes best practice workflow wizards for release, unreleased, revise, rollback, check-in, and check out. Every wizard honors user and group permissions and includes ISO 9000-style history.

Yes, as long as you have the permission setup for each user. If you need more help with setting up your Predator PDM software, contact us.

If you want a paperless manufacturing shop floor, Predator PDM will help you accomplish this goal.

Within Predator PDM, you will be able to pull up your Job and any file that connects to that job. PDF’s, SolidWorks, eDrawings, MS office files, and images.

Predator uses the Sentinel Hasp Key (ex: SIMs & Dongles). They are typically plugged into the USB port on the workstation or server to license the product. If you are in a virtual operating system, we have hardware that will allow this USB key to be seen. Contact our sales team for more info on how to license Predator Software applications.

Predator Software can also help with data-driven decision making in manufacturing. 

From our Predator MDC product page – Hardware-based data collection for older CNCs, manual machines, and other equipment are supported by the Predator MDC Adapter. Predator MDC Adapters are din rail mounted and are wired into signal lamps, light towers, extended M functions or any digital input or output.

Predator MDC Adapters are available in 5, 12, 24, 48, 110 and 230 volt editions. Domestic and international editions simplify installation and configuration.

Cloud/Monthly Machine Monitoring

Predator machine monitoring through Predator MDC is available in an Express, Standard and Enterprise versions. Each version is upgraded to the next level and includes functionality to collect data.

Predator MDC Express is a paper-based solution to allow users to collect data manually and report and chart data on events that happen previously.

Predator MDC Standard version is real-time data collection of utilization from the machines and collects cycle time, idle time, alarm and downtime.

Predator MDC Enterprise version is for companies who want to collect OEE, track parts, users, plus other metrics and interface the data with other business systems.

Yes. Predator MDC is real-time machine monitoring software that automatically collects, reports, charts and processes real-time shop floor manufacturing data including OEE, cycle time, idle time, setup time, teardown time, machine downtime and more.

Predator MDC improves manufacturing by supplying accurate shop floor metrics to improve operations and to make better decisions. The Predator MDC is an application that is installed on a computer inside the company facility.

It is only available as an on-premise solution.

Predator Flex Hardware does NOT work under Windows 7 or 8 due to the lack of support for drivers from the manufacturer. The hardware may fit inside of a PC, but known issues have been found in the reliability of communication to the CNC, as well as instances of blue screens.

We also do not recommend running the hardware in a newer PC due to lost functionality in performance and protocol support.

An upgrade is available from SFA to move towards FLEXN or FLEXW hardware, which is supported by Windows 7 and 8 and uses a network connection and network protocols instead of a dedicated ISA/PCI card on the motherboard to communicate with your FLEXN/FLEXW hardware.

Shop Floor Automations has the hardware for wireless and wired solutions on the shop floor, as well as solutions that work with the MTConnect Protocol and can connect multiple ways. Be sure to contact us for more information on what hardware is best for you, depending on your setup!

PC hardware minimum requirements to run Predator Software are a Pentium 4, AMD Athlon, or newer CPU.

40GB or larger hard disk, and 512 MB of RAM or more are the prerequisite components for a computer to run Predator Software.

Most off-the-shelf computers will far exceed these hardware requirements. Please consult with SFA on your specific software installations for the best performance and reliability.

Predator Software supports the following database versions included with Predator v10 and v9 applications: Microsoft Access 2000, 2002. 2003, 2007 and 2010 along with SQL 2000, 2005 and 2008.

Microsoft Express versions are also included for 2005 and 2008. Several customers are supported on Oracle 7, 8, 9, 10i, and 11i.

Predator v11 applications support Windows 2012, Windows 10, Oracle 12, Microsoft Access 2016, Microsoft Access 2013, Microsoft SQL Server 2016, Microsoft SQL Server 2014.

Support for the following Microsoft Windows versions are included with Predator v9 and v10 applications:

Windows 10 (v11 and newer only)
· Windows 2012 Server
· Windows 8
· Windows 7
· Windows 2008 Server
· Windows Vista
· Windows 2003 Server
· Windows XP

Support is included for both 32-bit and 64-bit systems. The latest Windows updates and service packs for each operating system should be installed on any and all computers you wish to run Predator Software.

Predator Software Serial Number and Access Codes are attributed to each legal, paid for, licensed product. These numbers are based on the SIM attached to the PC or from the network card inside of the PC.

Upon receipt of payment for the software, the permanent license will be issued. The software can be run on a temporary basis to allow users to move the software from one PC to another, as well as for evaluation periods.

You can contact your local reseller, such as Shop Floor Automations (SFA), for these codes or refer to your Predator CD label for details.

Please note that SFA can only give you the aforementioned codes and serial numbers if we were the ones who were your reseller of the product. We also do not provide support for copies of free CNC Editor available via our website.

SFA offers media replacement and 90 days of technical support for any software you have purchased from us.

You can also download recent versions of this software directly from our website. For pricing and details to replace a lost software CD, please email us or call us at (877) 611-5825.

No. The first Windows 7 version compatible of Predator DNC is Version 9. However, version 9 and version 10 are both compatible with Windows 8 and 8.1.

If you have an older version but would like to use Predator DNC on a Windows 7 machine, call us!

Yes, numerous software upgrades are available from any level of Predator DNC Hardware. Upgrades depend on each type of hardware.

The Connect series of hardware from SFA is designed to add ports at any time and offers a very easy upgrade path. Contact us to ensure there are no issues.

Yes. Haas CNC’s can communicate to Predator DNC Software using serial RS232 connection or FTP.

Haas FTP is also supported through Predator DNC to enable faster communication. Each Haas control can be configured in the software and can be configured for any method.

Predator DNC communicates up to 115K baud rate to the Haas using Xmodem and hardware handshaking.

Every Predator installation is built using Microsoft Windows Installer technology. There is extensive documentation available on Microsoft’s website.

The following primary command line options are available:
/i    Installs or configures a product
/f    Repairs a product, has 10 options
/a    Administrative install on the network
/x    Uninstalls a product
/j    Advertises a product
/l    Specifies the log file path
/p    Applies a patch
/q    Sets the user interface level
/y    Calls API register server to install
/z    Calls API register server to uninstall

A sample command line option for repairing a CNC Editor installation is as follows:

msiexec /i “predator CNC editor v6.0.msi” /fv

Predator uses a Rainbow Sentinel SuperPro key. This key is in the form of USB key. All software applications are licensed with a SIM and as such the SIM should be insured as property, for the actual cost of the software.

No. Currently, the product is designed as an application that runs on a Windows platform.

Mobile applications for Android and Apple phones and iPads are not developed. A customer can create their own applications using other applications if desired since there are APIs and open databases available.

Predator PDM is a paperless manufacturing driven Production Data Management tool. The software is designed to organize and control many facets of the shop floor.

CNC programs, setup sheets, safety procedures, quality documents, and others are under your control. Supports paperless shop floor operation with integration for CNC Communications and Machine Monitoring.

Predator PDM controls manufacturing driven processes and best practice workflows from manufacturing, quality, programming and other areas to the shop floor. 

Only the approved, released and authorized files are delivered to the shop floor operators and setup personnel to ensure the proven files are machines.  For ISO9000, ITAR, and other standards demanded by customers, Predator PDM is a solution to meet the manufacturing document control requirements.

Predator PDM supports an unlimited number of documents and support for numerous file types to be managed and viewed on the shop floor.

With the built-in viewing capability from Microsoft Internet Explorer, Predator leverages the built-in plug-in viewers supported and allows for continued upgrade path as new versions of file types are released.

For example, if Adobe released a new format or version of PDFs, Predator automatically embraces this compatibility with the new plug-ins from Internet Explorer.  A variety of files are supported for document control such as: Word, Excel, PDF, NC, TXT, STL, MPEG, TIFF. JPEG, and hundreds more.

As a manufacturer, you need to abide by legal code 21 CFR 820.40 – establishing and maintaining procedures to control documents (more info). As a business, you need to keep tax documents and any related records for anywhere from three to seven years. Employment records need to be kept for a minimum of a year and payroll records kept a minimum of three years.

There are over 140 permissions for control and management of who has access to files, approval process, released, un-released, rollback or pending files.

All security follows Microsoft standards for assigning permissions to users and groups.  Two versions of Predator PDM are available for purchase, PDM Administrator, and PDM Client.  Predator PDM Administrator allows for all control, configuration, and assignment of the security roles.

Yes. Predator PDM Client is used to view the proven, released and authorized manufacturing documents to the shop floor operator and setup users.  Once a user logs into Predator PDM with the username and password, the documents are displayed on the shop floor PC.

The operator can then deliver the NC program to the CNC machine via Predator DNC Software as well as collect real-time data on machine utilization from Predator Machine Monitoring Software.  Any other files related to the part can be viewed on the shop floor terminal providing a paperless environment.

Yes, Predator DNC supports long filenames, long directory names, names with spaces, shared network drives, and UNC names.

Refer to the following examples:

  •     Job 1234.NC
  •     H:CUSTOM PARTSJOB 4567.NC
  •     \\SERVER1\C\LARGE CUSTOMER\PART No 1234-5678.NC

Predator DNC can also automatically name your files when uploading to the server. They can be “auto-named” using their O-number, a user-chosen name, the first comment in the file, and so on.

Yes. Predator MDC supports automatic, error-free, and unattended machine monitoring for events such as job start and end, setup start and end, cycle start and end, to name a few of the events that can be monitored. This type of data is collected automatically using software, hardware, custom macros and other methods without requiring operator training or input.

A typical practice is when downloading the NC program into the machine, the system will automatically track the part #, job #, user and place the status of the work order in setup. Upon cycling the part, the status of the machine would change from in setup to in cycle.

Yes. Using Predator MDC Express, users can print out the data collection form to enter cycle information, part quantity, good and scrap parts, and other metrics. Predator MDC standard also supports manual monitoring of events that are initiated by machine operators such as machine log on/offs, downtimes, and scrap reasons.

Predator MDC can be used to manually collect data using several methods including remote request, swiping bar codes, touch screen PCs or standard PCs. SFA does provide an Android solution to also input this data via a tablet.

Yes. Dedicate one or more large-screen monitors on the shop floor for real-time digital signage using Predator MDC.

Create slides of charts, dashboards, and reports with specific filters and details. Eliminate manual posting of paper reports and charts on the shop floor. Provide a focal point for standup shop meetings while enforcing productivity and manufacturing metrics that management, engineering, and quality departments care about. Eliminate the clutter of paper and go high tech!

Over 1300 reports and charts provide unique insight into the productivity and efficiency of each manufacturer.

The flexibility of the reporting and charting options within Predator MDC converts the volume of data collected into concise reports and charts to identify issues and drive improved productivity. Eliminate manual OEE driven data collection and OEE spreadsheets. Software supports real-time OEE data collection with an OEE Dashboard, OEE Performance ranking charts, OEE Trend Analysis charts and OEE Reports.

Predator MDC standard and enterprise versions support up to 4096 CNC machines, robots, PLCs and ATE Test Stands per PC.

Data the software can monitor – simultaneous cycle time, setup time, teardown time, downtimes with reasons, good parts, scrap parts with reasons and an unlimited number of user-defined events.

Predator CNC Service is a comprehensive service designed to work with Predator MDC.

The service can be installed on a computer to communicate to various machine types using proprietary protocols. Predator MDC supports FANUC FOCAS, MTConnect, and Structured XML to capture real-time data from the machine using the network connection of the controller.

Development is also being tested for working with Okuma Thinc controllers on P100 and P200 where the service is installed on the machine. The service will then communicate through APIs and no interface is required.

Predator MDC Administrator is designed for the manufacturing department head or IS/manufacturing project lead to manage real-time machine monitoring processes centered on time and utilization. This seat is required with every purchase and allows for the creation of equipment, departments, locations, shifts, parts, reason codes, users, permissions and other administrative tasks.

Predator MDC Client is designed for personnel and users that need to run MDC reports and charts centered on time and utilization. Users can also see real-time data on a dashboard.

Predator MDC Shop Floor is designed for data entry for shop floor personnel. The software can also be used to display real-time data on the shop floor using LCD monitors or can be displayed in Engineering and Quality Departments to provide feedback on equipment status.

Most revision control software packages use a database for the backend to store “links” or flags to shared files and reference the actual file.  The problem with this system is that while you might have the NC program and can place it in a database for check-in and check-out, there is no control with these systems. Whoever saves the file last wins!

Most revision control software packages use a database for the backend to store “links” or flags to shared files and reference the actual file.  The problem is that while you might have the NC program and can place it in a database for check-in and check-out, there is no control with this system. Whoever saves the file last wins!

With a true PDM system, complete revision control, lockout, and access only can be obtained by a single user until completed.  This eliminates changes of multiple file revisions – they will be unapproved.

More on Predator PDM:

  • Paperless manufacturing-driven Production Data Management
  • Designed to organize & control CNC programs
  • Master your setup sheets, safety procedures, quality documents, & more
  • Complete revision control
  • Integration with DNC, CNC Editor, Virtual CNC, MDC & Tracker.

Predator PDM includes best practice workflow wizards for release, unreleased, revise, rollback, check-in, and check out. Every wizard honors user and group permissions and includes ISO 9000-style history.

Yes, as long as you have the permission setup for each user. If you need more help with setting up your Predator PDM software, contact us.

If you want a paperless manufacturing shop floor, Predator PDM will help you accomplish this goal.

Within Predator PDM, you will be able to pull up your Job and any file that connects to that job. PDF’s, SolidWorks, eDrawings, MS office files, and images.

Predator uses the Sentinel Hasp Key (ex: SIMs & Dongles). They are typically plugged into the USB port on the workstation or server to license the product. If you are in a virtual operating system, we have hardware that will allow this USB key to be seen. Contact our sales team for more info on how to license Predator Software applications.

Predator Software can also help with data-driven decision making in manufacturing. 

From our Predator MDC product page – Hardware-based data collection for older CNCs, manual machines, and other equipment are supported by the Predator MDC Adapter. Predator MDC Adapters are din rail mounted and are wired into signal lamps, light towers, extended M functions or any digital input or output.

Predator MDC Adapters are available in 5, 12, 24, 48, 110 and 230 volt editions. Domestic and international editions simplify installation and configuration.

DNC Software

Predator machine monitoring through Predator MDC is available in an Express, Standard and Enterprise versions. Each version is upgraded to the next level and includes functionality to collect data.

Predator MDC Express is a paper-based solution to allow users to collect data manually and report and chart data on events that happen previously.

Predator MDC Standard version is real-time data collection of utilization from the machines and collects cycle time, idle time, alarm and downtime.

Predator MDC Enterprise version is for companies who want to collect OEE, track parts, users, plus other metrics and interface the data with other business systems.

Yes. Predator MDC is real-time machine monitoring software that automatically collects, reports, charts and processes real-time shop floor manufacturing data including OEE, cycle time, idle time, setup time, teardown time, machine downtime and more.

Predator MDC improves manufacturing by supplying accurate shop floor metrics to improve operations and to make better decisions. The Predator MDC is an application that is installed on a computer inside the company facility.

It is only available as an on-premise solution.

Predator Flex Hardware does NOT work under Windows 7 or 8 due to the lack of support for drivers from the manufacturer. The hardware may fit inside of a PC, but known issues have been found in the reliability of communication to the CNC, as well as instances of blue screens.

We also do not recommend running the hardware in a newer PC due to lost functionality in performance and protocol support.

An upgrade is available from SFA to move towards FLEXN or FLEXW hardware, which is supported by Windows 7 and 8 and uses a network connection and network protocols instead of a dedicated ISA/PCI card on the motherboard to communicate with your FLEXN/FLEXW hardware.

Shop Floor Automations has the hardware for wireless and wired solutions on the shop floor, as well as solutions that work with the MTConnect Protocol and can connect multiple ways. Be sure to contact us for more information on what hardware is best for you, depending on your setup!

PC hardware minimum requirements to run Predator Software are a Pentium 4, AMD Athlon, or newer CPU.

40GB or larger hard disk, and 512 MB of RAM or more are the prerequisite components for a computer to run Predator Software.

Most off-the-shelf computers will far exceed these hardware requirements. Please consult with SFA on your specific software installations for the best performance and reliability.

Predator Software supports the following database versions included with Predator v10 and v9 applications: Microsoft Access 2000, 2002. 2003, 2007 and 2010 along with SQL 2000, 2005 and 2008.

Microsoft Express versions are also included for 2005 and 2008. Several customers are supported on Oracle 7, 8, 9, 10i, and 11i.

Predator v11 applications support Windows 2012, Windows 10, Oracle 12, Microsoft Access 2016, Microsoft Access 2013, Microsoft SQL Server 2016, Microsoft SQL Server 2014.

Support for the following Microsoft Windows versions are included with Predator v9 and v10 applications:

Windows 10 (v11 and newer only)
· Windows 2012 Server
· Windows 8
· Windows 7
· Windows 2008 Server
· Windows Vista
· Windows 2003 Server
· Windows XP

Support is included for both 32-bit and 64-bit systems. The latest Windows updates and service packs for each operating system should be installed on any and all computers you wish to run Predator Software.

Predator Software Serial Number and Access Codes are attributed to each legal, paid for, licensed product. These numbers are based on the SIM attached to the PC or from the network card inside of the PC.

Upon receipt of payment for the software, the permanent license will be issued. The software can be run on a temporary basis to allow users to move the software from one PC to another, as well as for evaluation periods.

You can contact your local reseller, such as Shop Floor Automations (SFA), for these codes or refer to your Predator CD label for details.

Please note that SFA can only give you the aforementioned codes and serial numbers if we were the ones who were your reseller of the product. We also do not provide support for copies of free CNC Editor available via our website.

SFA offers media replacement and 90 days of technical support for any software you have purchased from us.

You can also download recent versions of this software directly from our website. For pricing and details to replace a lost software CD, please email us or call us at (877) 611-5825.

No. The first Windows 7 version compatible of Predator DNC is Version 9. However, version 9 and version 10 are both compatible with Windows 8 and 8.1.

If you have an older version but would like to use Predator DNC on a Windows 7 machine, call us!

Yes, numerous software upgrades are available from any level of Predator DNC Hardware. Upgrades depend on each type of hardware.

The Connect series of hardware from SFA is designed to add ports at any time and offers a very easy upgrade path. Contact us to ensure there are no issues.

Yes. Haas CNC’s can communicate to Predator DNC Software using serial RS232 connection or FTP.

Haas FTP is also supported through Predator DNC to enable faster communication. Each Haas control can be configured in the software and can be configured for any method.

Predator DNC communicates up to 115K baud rate to the Haas using Xmodem and hardware handshaking.

Every Predator installation is built using Microsoft Windows Installer technology. There is extensive documentation available on Microsoft’s website.

The following primary command line options are available:
/i    Installs or configures a product
/f    Repairs a product, has 10 options
/a    Administrative install on the network
/x    Uninstalls a product
/j    Advertises a product
/l    Specifies the log file path
/p    Applies a patch
/q    Sets the user interface level
/y    Calls API register server to install
/z    Calls API register server to uninstall

A sample command line option for repairing a CNC Editor installation is as follows:

msiexec /i “predator CNC editor v6.0.msi” /fv

Predator uses a Rainbow Sentinel SuperPro key. This key is in the form of USB key. All software applications are licensed with a SIM and as such the SIM should be insured as property, for the actual cost of the software.

No. Currently, the product is designed as an application that runs on a Windows platform.

Mobile applications for Android and Apple phones and iPads are not developed. A customer can create their own applications using other applications if desired since there are APIs and open databases available.

Predator PDM is a paperless manufacturing driven Production Data Management tool. The software is designed to organize and control many facets of the shop floor.

CNC programs, setup sheets, safety procedures, quality documents, and others are under your control. Supports paperless shop floor operation with integration for CNC Communications and Machine Monitoring.

Predator PDM controls manufacturing driven processes and best practice workflows from manufacturing, quality, programming and other areas to the shop floor. 

Only the approved, released and authorized files are delivered to the shop floor operators and setup personnel to ensure the proven files are machines.  For ISO9000, ITAR, and other standards demanded by customers, Predator PDM is a solution to meet the manufacturing document control requirements.

Predator PDM supports an unlimited number of documents and support for numerous file types to be managed and viewed on the shop floor.

With the built-in viewing capability from Microsoft Internet Explorer, Predator leverages the built-in plug-in viewers supported and allows for continued upgrade path as new versions of file types are released.

For example, if Adobe released a new format or version of PDFs, Predator automatically embraces this compatibility with the new plug-ins from Internet Explorer.  A variety of files are supported for document control such as: Word, Excel, PDF, NC, TXT, STL, MPEG, TIFF. JPEG, and hundreds more.

As a manufacturer, you need to abide by legal code 21 CFR 820.40 – establishing and maintaining procedures to control documents (more info). As a business, you need to keep tax documents and any related records for anywhere from three to seven years. Employment records need to be kept for a minimum of a year and payroll records kept a minimum of three years.

There are over 140 permissions for control and management of who has access to files, approval process, released, un-released, rollback or pending files.

All security follows Microsoft standards for assigning permissions to users and groups.  Two versions of Predator PDM are available for purchase, PDM Administrator, and PDM Client.  Predator PDM Administrator allows for all control, configuration, and assignment of the security roles.

Yes. Predator PDM Client is used to view the proven, released and authorized manufacturing documents to the shop floor operator and setup users.  Once a user logs into Predator PDM with the username and password, the documents are displayed on the shop floor PC.

The operator can then deliver the NC program to the CNC machine via Predator DNC Software as well as collect real-time data on machine utilization from Predator Machine Monitoring Software.  Any other files related to the part can be viewed on the shop floor terminal providing a paperless environment.

Yes, Predator DNC supports long filenames, long directory names, names with spaces, shared network drives, and UNC names.

Refer to the following examples:

  •     Job 1234.NC
  •     H:CUSTOM PARTSJOB 4567.NC
  •     \\SERVER1\C\LARGE CUSTOMER\PART No 1234-5678.NC

Predator DNC can also automatically name your files when uploading to the server. They can be “auto-named” using their O-number, a user-chosen name, the first comment in the file, and so on.

Yes. Predator MDC supports automatic, error-free, and unattended machine monitoring for events such as job start and end, setup start and end, cycle start and end, to name a few of the events that can be monitored. This type of data is collected automatically using software, hardware, custom macros and other methods without requiring operator training or input.

A typical practice is when downloading the NC program into the machine, the system will automatically track the part #, job #, user and place the status of the work order in setup. Upon cycling the part, the status of the machine would change from in setup to in cycle.

Yes. Using Predator MDC Express, users can print out the data collection form to enter cycle information, part quantity, good and scrap parts, and other metrics. Predator MDC standard also supports manual monitoring of events that are initiated by machine operators such as machine log on/offs, downtimes, and scrap reasons.

Predator MDC can be used to manually collect data using several methods including remote request, swiping bar codes, touch screen PCs or standard PCs. SFA does provide an Android solution to also input this data via a tablet.

Yes. Dedicate one or more large-screen monitors on the shop floor for real-time digital signage using Predator MDC.

Create slides of charts, dashboards, and reports with specific filters and details. Eliminate manual posting of paper reports and charts on the shop floor. Provide a focal point for standup shop meetings while enforcing productivity and manufacturing metrics that management, engineering, and quality departments care about. Eliminate the clutter of paper and go high tech!

Over 1300 reports and charts provide unique insight into the productivity and efficiency of each manufacturer.

The flexibility of the reporting and charting options within Predator MDC converts the volume of data collected into concise reports and charts to identify issues and drive improved productivity. Eliminate manual OEE driven data collection and OEE spreadsheets. Software supports real-time OEE data collection with an OEE Dashboard, OEE Performance ranking charts, OEE Trend Analysis charts and OEE Reports.

Predator MDC standard and enterprise versions support up to 4096 CNC machines, robots, PLCs and ATE Test Stands per PC.

Data the software can monitor – simultaneous cycle time, setup time, teardown time, downtimes with reasons, good parts, scrap parts with reasons and an unlimited number of user-defined events.

Predator CNC Service is a comprehensive service designed to work with Predator MDC.

The service can be installed on a computer to communicate to various machine types using proprietary protocols. Predator MDC supports FANUC FOCAS, MTConnect, and Structured XML to capture real-time data from the machine using the network connection of the controller.

Development is also being tested for working with Okuma Thinc controllers on P100 and P200 where the service is installed on the machine. The service will then communicate through APIs and no interface is required.

Predator MDC Administrator is designed for the manufacturing department head or IS/manufacturing project lead to manage real-time machine monitoring processes centered on time and utilization. This seat is required with every purchase and allows for the creation of equipment, departments, locations, shifts, parts, reason codes, users, permissions and other administrative tasks.

Predator MDC Client is designed for personnel and users that need to run MDC reports and charts centered on time and utilization. Users can also see real-time data on a dashboard.

Predator MDC Shop Floor is designed for data entry for shop floor personnel. The software can also be used to display real-time data on the shop floor using LCD monitors or can be displayed in Engineering and Quality Departments to provide feedback on equipment status.

Most revision control software packages use a database for the backend to store “links” or flags to shared files and reference the actual file.  The problem with this system is that while you might have the NC program and can place it in a database for check-in and check-out, there is no control with these systems. Whoever saves the file last wins!

Most revision control software packages use a database for the backend to store “links” or flags to shared files and reference the actual file.  The problem is that while you might have the NC program and can place it in a database for check-in and check-out, there is no control with this system. Whoever saves the file last wins!

With a true PDM system, complete revision control, lockout, and access only can be obtained by a single user until completed.  This eliminates changes of multiple file revisions – they will be unapproved.

More on Predator PDM:

  • Paperless manufacturing-driven Production Data Management
  • Designed to organize & control CNC programs
  • Master your setup sheets, safety procedures, quality documents, & more
  • Complete revision control
  • Integration with DNC, CNC Editor, Virtual CNC, MDC & Tracker.

Predator PDM includes best practice workflow wizards for release, unreleased, revise, rollback, check-in, and check out. Every wizard honors user and group permissions and includes ISO 9000-style history.

Yes, as long as you have the permission setup for each user. If you need more help with setting up your Predator PDM software, contact us.

If you want a paperless manufacturing shop floor, Predator PDM will help you accomplish this goal.

Within Predator PDM, you will be able to pull up your Job and any file that connects to that job. PDF’s, SolidWorks, eDrawings, MS office files, and images.

Predator uses the Sentinel Hasp Key (ex: SIMs & Dongles). They are typically plugged into the USB port on the workstation or server to license the product. If you are in a virtual operating system, we have hardware that will allow this USB key to be seen. Contact our sales team for more info on how to license Predator Software applications.

Predator Software can also help with data-driven decision making in manufacturing. 

From our Predator MDC product page – Hardware-based data collection for older CNCs, manual machines, and other equipment are supported by the Predator MDC Adapter. Predator MDC Adapters are din rail mounted and are wired into signal lamps, light towers, extended M functions or any digital input or output.

Predator MDC Adapters are available in 5, 12, 24, 48, 110 and 230 volt editions. Domestic and international editions simplify installation and configuration.

On-Premise Machine Monitoring

Predator machine monitoring through Predator MDC is available in an Express, Standard and Enterprise versions. Each version is upgraded to the next level and includes functionality to collect data.

Predator MDC Express is a paper-based solution to allow users to collect data manually and report and chart data on events that happen previously.

Predator MDC Standard version is real-time data collection of utilization from the machines and collects cycle time, idle time, alarm and downtime.

Predator MDC Enterprise version is for companies who want to collect OEE, track parts, users, plus other metrics and interface the data with other business systems.

Yes. Predator MDC is real-time machine monitoring software that automatically collects, reports, charts and processes real-time shop floor manufacturing data including OEE, cycle time, idle time, setup time, teardown time, machine downtime and more.

Predator MDC improves manufacturing by supplying accurate shop floor metrics to improve operations and to make better decisions. The Predator MDC is an application that is installed on a computer inside the company facility.

It is only available as an on-premise solution.

Predator Flex Hardware does NOT work under Windows 7 or 8 due to the lack of support for drivers from the manufacturer. The hardware may fit inside of a PC, but known issues have been found in the reliability of communication to the CNC, as well as instances of blue screens.

We also do not recommend running the hardware in a newer PC due to lost functionality in performance and protocol support.

An upgrade is available from SFA to move towards FLEXN or FLEXW hardware, which is supported by Windows 7 and 8 and uses a network connection and network protocols instead of a dedicated ISA/PCI card on the motherboard to communicate with your FLEXN/FLEXW hardware.

Shop Floor Automations has the hardware for wireless and wired solutions on the shop floor, as well as solutions that work with the MTConnect Protocol and can connect multiple ways. Be sure to contact us for more information on what hardware is best for you, depending on your setup!

PC hardware minimum requirements to run Predator Software are a Pentium 4, AMD Athlon, or newer CPU.

40GB or larger hard disk, and 512 MB of RAM or more are the prerequisite components for a computer to run Predator Software.

Most off-the-shelf computers will far exceed these hardware requirements. Please consult with SFA on your specific software installations for the best performance and reliability.

Predator Software supports the following database versions included with Predator v10 and v9 applications: Microsoft Access 2000, 2002. 2003, 2007 and 2010 along with SQL 2000, 2005 and 2008.

Microsoft Express versions are also included for 2005 and 2008. Several customers are supported on Oracle 7, 8, 9, 10i, and 11i.

Predator v11 applications support Windows 2012, Windows 10, Oracle 12, Microsoft Access 2016, Microsoft Access 2013, Microsoft SQL Server 2016, Microsoft SQL Server 2014.

Support for the following Microsoft Windows versions are included with Predator v9 and v10 applications:

Windows 10 (v11 and newer only)
· Windows 2012 Server
· Windows 8
· Windows 7
· Windows 2008 Server
· Windows Vista
· Windows 2003 Server
· Windows XP

Support is included for both 32-bit and 64-bit systems. The latest Windows updates and service packs for each operating system should be installed on any and all computers you wish to run Predator Software.

Predator Software Serial Number and Access Codes are attributed to each legal, paid for, licensed product. These numbers are based on the SIM attached to the PC or from the network card inside of the PC.

Upon receipt of payment for the software, the permanent license will be issued. The software can be run on a temporary basis to allow users to move the software from one PC to another, as well as for evaluation periods.

You can contact your local reseller, such as Shop Floor Automations (SFA), for these codes or refer to your Predator CD label for details.

Please note that SFA can only give you the aforementioned codes and serial numbers if we were the ones who were your reseller of the product. We also do not provide support for copies of free CNC Editor available via our website.

SFA offers media replacement and 90 days of technical support for any software you have purchased from us.

You can also download recent versions of this software directly from our website. For pricing and details to replace a lost software CD, please email us or call us at (877) 611-5825.

No. The first Windows 7 version compatible of Predator DNC is Version 9. However, version 9 and version 10 are both compatible with Windows 8 and 8.1.

If you have an older version but would like to use Predator DNC on a Windows 7 machine, call us!

Yes, numerous software upgrades are available from any level of Predator DNC Hardware. Upgrades depend on each type of hardware.

The Connect series of hardware from SFA is designed to add ports at any time and offers a very easy upgrade path. Contact us to ensure there are no issues.

Yes. Haas CNC’s can communicate to Predator DNC Software using serial RS232 connection or FTP.

Haas FTP is also supported through Predator DNC to enable faster communication. Each Haas control can be configured in the software and can be configured for any method.

Predator DNC communicates up to 115K baud rate to the Haas using Xmodem and hardware handshaking.

Every Predator installation is built using Microsoft Windows Installer technology. There is extensive documentation available on Microsoft’s website.

The following primary command line options are available:
/i    Installs or configures a product
/f    Repairs a product, has 10 options
/a    Administrative install on the network
/x    Uninstalls a product
/j    Advertises a product
/l    Specifies the log file path
/p    Applies a patch
/q    Sets the user interface level
/y    Calls API register server to install
/z    Calls API register server to uninstall

A sample command line option for repairing a CNC Editor installation is as follows:

msiexec /i “predator CNC editor v6.0.msi” /fv

Predator uses a Rainbow Sentinel SuperPro key. This key is in the form of USB key. All software applications are licensed with a SIM and as such the SIM should be insured as property, for the actual cost of the software.

No. Currently, the product is designed as an application that runs on a Windows platform.

Mobile applications for Android and Apple phones and iPads are not developed. A customer can create their own applications using other applications if desired since there are APIs and open databases available.

Predator PDM is a paperless manufacturing driven Production Data Management tool. The software is designed to organize and control many facets of the shop floor.

CNC programs, setup sheets, safety procedures, quality documents, and others are under your control. Supports paperless shop floor operation with integration for CNC Communications and Machine Monitoring.

Predator PDM controls manufacturing driven processes and best practice workflows from manufacturing, quality, programming and other areas to the shop floor. 

Only the approved, released and authorized files are delivered to the shop floor operators and setup personnel to ensure the proven files are machines.  For ISO9000, ITAR, and other standards demanded by customers, Predator PDM is a solution to meet the manufacturing document control requirements.

Predator PDM supports an unlimited number of documents and support for numerous file types to be managed and viewed on the shop floor.

With the built-in viewing capability from Microsoft Internet Explorer, Predator leverages the built-in plug-in viewers supported and allows for continued upgrade path as new versions of file types are released.

For example, if Adobe released a new format or version of PDFs, Predator automatically embraces this compatibility with the new plug-ins from Internet Explorer.  A variety of files are supported for document control such as: Word, Excel, PDF, NC, TXT, STL, MPEG, TIFF. JPEG, and hundreds more.

As a manufacturer, you need to abide by legal code 21 CFR 820.40 – establishing and maintaining procedures to control documents (more info). As a business, you need to keep tax documents and any related records for anywhere from three to seven years. Employment records need to be kept for a minimum of a year and payroll records kept a minimum of three years.

There are over 140 permissions for control and management of who has access to files, approval process, released, un-released, rollback or pending files.

All security follows Microsoft standards for assigning permissions to users and groups.  Two versions of Predator PDM are available for purchase, PDM Administrator, and PDM Client.  Predator PDM Administrator allows for all control, configuration, and assignment of the security roles.

Yes. Predator PDM Client is used to view the proven, released and authorized manufacturing documents to the shop floor operator and setup users.  Once a user logs into Predator PDM with the username and password, the documents are displayed on the shop floor PC.

The operator can then deliver the NC program to the CNC machine via Predator DNC Software as well as collect real-time data on machine utilization from Predator Machine Monitoring Software.  Any other files related to the part can be viewed on the shop floor terminal providing a paperless environment.

Yes, Predator DNC supports long filenames, long directory names, names with spaces, shared network drives, and UNC names.

Refer to the following examples:

  •     Job 1234.NC
  •     H:CUSTOM PARTSJOB 4567.NC
  •     \\SERVER1\C\LARGE CUSTOMER\PART No 1234-5678.NC

Predator DNC can also automatically name your files when uploading to the server. They can be “auto-named” using their O-number, a user-chosen name, the first comment in the file, and so on.

Yes. Predator MDC supports automatic, error-free, and unattended machine monitoring for events such as job start and end, setup start and end, cycle start and end, to name a few of the events that can be monitored. This type of data is collected automatically using software, hardware, custom macros and other methods without requiring operator training or input.

A typical practice is when downloading the NC program into the machine, the system will automatically track the part #, job #, user and place the status of the work order in setup. Upon cycling the part, the status of the machine would change from in setup to in cycle.

Yes. Using Predator MDC Express, users can print out the data collection form to enter cycle information, part quantity, good and scrap parts, and other metrics. Predator MDC standard also supports manual monitoring of events that are initiated by machine operators such as machine log on/offs, downtimes, and scrap reasons.

Predator MDC can be used to manually collect data using several methods including remote request, swiping bar codes, touch screen PCs or standard PCs. SFA does provide an Android solution to also input this data via a tablet.

Yes. Dedicate one or more large-screen monitors on the shop floor for real-time digital signage using Predator MDC.

Create slides of charts, dashboards, and reports with specific filters and details. Eliminate manual posting of paper reports and charts on the shop floor. Provide a focal point for standup shop meetings while enforcing productivity and manufacturing metrics that management, engineering, and quality departments care about. Eliminate the clutter of paper and go high tech!

Over 1300 reports and charts provide unique insight into the productivity and efficiency of each manufacturer.

The flexibility of the reporting and charting options within Predator MDC converts the volume of data collected into concise reports and charts to identify issues and drive improved productivity. Eliminate manual OEE driven data collection and OEE spreadsheets. Software supports real-time OEE data collection with an OEE Dashboard, OEE Performance ranking charts, OEE Trend Analysis charts and OEE Reports.

Predator MDC standard and enterprise versions support up to 4096 CNC machines, robots, PLCs and ATE Test Stands per PC.

Data the software can monitor – simultaneous cycle time, setup time, teardown time, downtimes with reasons, good parts, scrap parts with reasons and an unlimited number of user-defined events.

Predator CNC Service is a comprehensive service designed to work with Predator MDC.

The service can be installed on a computer to communicate to various machine types using proprietary protocols. Predator MDC supports FANUC FOCAS, MTConnect, and Structured XML to capture real-time data from the machine using the network connection of the controller.

Development is also being tested for working with Okuma Thinc controllers on P100 and P200 where the service is installed on the machine. The service will then communicate through APIs and no interface is required.

Predator MDC Administrator is designed for the manufacturing department head or IS/manufacturing project lead to manage real-time machine monitoring processes centered on time and utilization. This seat is required with every purchase and allows for the creation of equipment, departments, locations, shifts, parts, reason codes, users, permissions and other administrative tasks.

Predator MDC Client is designed for personnel and users that need to run MDC reports and charts centered on time and utilization. Users can also see real-time data on a dashboard.

Predator MDC Shop Floor is designed for data entry for shop floor personnel. The software can also be used to display real-time data on the shop floor using LCD monitors or can be displayed in Engineering and Quality Departments to provide feedback on equipment status.

Most revision control software packages use a database for the backend to store “links” or flags to shared files and reference the actual file.  The problem with this system is that while you might have the NC program and can place it in a database for check-in and check-out, there is no control with these systems. Whoever saves the file last wins!

Most revision control software packages use a database for the backend to store “links” or flags to shared files and reference the actual file.  The problem is that while you might have the NC program and can place it in a database for check-in and check-out, there is no control with this system. Whoever saves the file last wins!

With a true PDM system, complete revision control, lockout, and access only can be obtained by a single user until completed.  This eliminates changes of multiple file revisions – they will be unapproved.

More on Predator PDM:

  • Paperless manufacturing-driven Production Data Management
  • Designed to organize & control CNC programs
  • Master your setup sheets, safety procedures, quality documents, & more
  • Complete revision control
  • Integration with DNC, CNC Editor, Virtual CNC, MDC & Tracker.

Predator PDM includes best practice workflow wizards for release, unreleased, revise, rollback, check-in, and check out. Every wizard honors user and group permissions and includes ISO 9000-style history.

Yes, as long as you have the permission setup for each user. If you need more help with setting up your Predator PDM software, contact us.

If you want a paperless manufacturing shop floor, Predator PDM will help you accomplish this goal.

Within Predator PDM, you will be able to pull up your Job and any file that connects to that job. PDF’s, SolidWorks, eDrawings, MS office files, and images.

Predator uses the Sentinel Hasp Key (ex: SIMs & Dongles). They are typically plugged into the USB port on the workstation or server to license the product. If you are in a virtual operating system, we have hardware that will allow this USB key to be seen. Contact our sales team for more info on how to license Predator Software applications.

Predator Software can also help with data-driven decision making in manufacturing. 

From our Predator MDC product page – Hardware-based data collection for older CNCs, manual machines, and other equipment are supported by the Predator MDC Adapter. Predator MDC Adapters are din rail mounted and are wired into signal lamps, light towers, extended M functions or any digital input or output.

Predator MDC Adapters are available in 5, 12, 24, 48, 110 and 230 volt editions. Domestic and international editions simplify installation and configuration.

CNC Editor

Predator machine monitoring through Predator MDC is available in an Express, Standard and Enterprise versions. Each version is upgraded to the next level and includes functionality to collect data.

Predator MDC Express is a paper-based solution to allow users to collect data manually and report and chart data on events that happen previously.

Predator MDC Standard version is real-time data collection of utilization from the machines and collects cycle time, idle time, alarm and downtime.

Predator MDC Enterprise version is for companies who want to collect OEE, track parts, users, plus other metrics and interface the data with other business systems.

Yes. Predator MDC is real-time machine monitoring software that automatically collects, reports, charts and processes real-time shop floor manufacturing data including OEE, cycle time, idle time, setup time, teardown time, machine downtime and more.

Predator MDC improves manufacturing by supplying accurate shop floor metrics to improve operations and to make better decisions. The Predator MDC is an application that is installed on a computer inside the company facility.

It is only available as an on-premise solution.

Predator Flex Hardware does NOT work under Windows 7 or 8 due to the lack of support for drivers from the manufacturer. The hardware may fit inside of a PC, but known issues have been found in the reliability of communication to the CNC, as well as instances of blue screens.

We also do not recommend running the hardware in a newer PC due to lost functionality in performance and protocol support.

An upgrade is available from SFA to move towards FLEXN or FLEXW hardware, which is supported by Windows 7 and 8 and uses a network connection and network protocols instead of a dedicated ISA/PCI card on the motherboard to communicate with your FLEXN/FLEXW hardware.

Shop Floor Automations has the hardware for wireless and wired solutions on the shop floor, as well as solutions that work with the MTConnect Protocol and can connect multiple ways. Be sure to contact us for more information on what hardware is best for you, depending on your setup!

PC hardware minimum requirements to run Predator Software are a Pentium 4, AMD Athlon, or newer CPU.

40GB or larger hard disk, and 512 MB of RAM or more are the prerequisite components for a computer to run Predator Software.

Most off-the-shelf computers will far exceed these hardware requirements. Please consult with SFA on your specific software installations for the best performance and reliability.

Predator Software supports the following database versions included with Predator v10 and v9 applications: Microsoft Access 2000, 2002. 2003, 2007 and 2010 along with SQL 2000, 2005 and 2008.

Microsoft Express versions are also included for 2005 and 2008. Several customers are supported on Oracle 7, 8, 9, 10i, and 11i.

Predator v11 applications support Windows 2012, Windows 10, Oracle 12, Microsoft Access 2016, Microsoft Access 2013, Microsoft SQL Server 2016, Microsoft SQL Server 2014.

Support for the following Microsoft Windows versions are included with Predator v9 and v10 applications:

Windows 10 (v11 and newer only)
· Windows 2012 Server
· Windows 8
· Windows 7
· Windows 2008 Server
· Windows Vista
· Windows 2003 Server
· Windows XP

Support is included for both 32-bit and 64-bit systems. The latest Windows updates and service packs for each operating system should be installed on any and all computers you wish to run Predator Software.

Predator Software Serial Number and Access Codes are attributed to each legal, paid for, licensed product. These numbers are based on the SIM attached to the PC or from the network card inside of the PC.

Upon receipt of payment for the software, the permanent license will be issued. The software can be run on a temporary basis to allow users to move the software from one PC to another, as well as for evaluation periods.

You can contact your local reseller, such as Shop Floor Automations (SFA), for these codes or refer to your Predator CD label for details.

Please note that SFA can only give you the aforementioned codes and serial numbers if we were the ones who were your reseller of the product. We also do not provide support for copies of free CNC Editor available via our website.

SFA offers media replacement and 90 days of technical support for any software you have purchased from us.

You can also download recent versions of this software directly from our website. For pricing and details to replace a lost software CD, please email us or call us at (877) 611-5825.

No. The first Windows 7 version compatible of Predator DNC is Version 9. However, version 9 and version 10 are both compatible with Windows 8 and 8.1.

If you have an older version but would like to use Predator DNC on a Windows 7 machine, call us!

Yes, numerous software upgrades are available from any level of Predator DNC Hardware. Upgrades depend on each type of hardware.

The Connect series of hardware from SFA is designed to add ports at any time and offers a very easy upgrade path. Contact us to ensure there are no issues.

Yes. Haas CNC’s can communicate to Predator DNC Software using serial RS232 connection or FTP.

Haas FTP is also supported through Predator DNC to enable faster communication. Each Haas control can be configured in the software and can be configured for any method.

Predator DNC communicates up to 115K baud rate to the Haas using Xmodem and hardware handshaking.

Every Predator installation is built using Microsoft Windows Installer technology. There is extensive documentation available on Microsoft’s website.

The following primary command line options are available:
/i    Installs or configures a product
/f    Repairs a product, has 10 options
/a    Administrative install on the network
/x    Uninstalls a product
/j    Advertises a product
/l    Specifies the log file path
/p    Applies a patch
/q    Sets the user interface level
/y    Calls API register server to install
/z    Calls API register server to uninstall

A sample command line option for repairing a CNC Editor installation is as follows:

msiexec /i “predator CNC editor v6.0.msi” /fv

Predator uses a Rainbow Sentinel SuperPro key. This key is in the form of USB key. All software applications are licensed with a SIM and as such the SIM should be insured as property, for the actual cost of the software.

No. Currently, the product is designed as an application that runs on a Windows platform.

Mobile applications for Android and Apple phones and iPads are not developed. A customer can create their own applications using other applications if desired since there are APIs and open databases available.

Predator PDM is a paperless manufacturing driven Production Data Management tool. The software is designed to organize and control many facets of the shop floor.

CNC programs, setup sheets, safety procedures, quality documents, and others are under your control. Supports paperless shop floor operation with integration for CNC Communications and Machine Monitoring.

Predator PDM controls manufacturing driven processes and best practice workflows from manufacturing, quality, programming and other areas to the shop floor. 

Only the approved, released and authorized files are delivered to the shop floor operators and setup personnel to ensure the proven files are machines.  For ISO9000, ITAR, and other standards demanded by customers, Predator PDM is a solution to meet the manufacturing document control requirements.

Predator PDM supports an unlimited number of documents and support for numerous file types to be managed and viewed on the shop floor.

With the built-in viewing capability from Microsoft Internet Explorer, Predator leverages the built-in plug-in viewers supported and allows for continued upgrade path as new versions of file types are released.

For example, if Adobe released a new format or version of PDFs, Predator automatically embraces this compatibility with the new plug-ins from Internet Explorer.  A variety of files are supported for document control such as: Word, Excel, PDF, NC, TXT, STL, MPEG, TIFF. JPEG, and hundreds more.

As a manufacturer, you need to abide by legal code 21 CFR 820.40 – establishing and maintaining procedures to control documents (more info). As a business, you need to keep tax documents and any related records for anywhere from three to seven years. Employment records need to be kept for a minimum of a year and payroll records kept a minimum of three years.

There are over 140 permissions for control and management of who has access to files, approval process, released, un-released, rollback or pending files.

All security follows Microsoft standards for assigning permissions to users and groups.  Two versions of Predator PDM are available for purchase, PDM Administrator, and PDM Client.  Predator PDM Administrator allows for all control, configuration, and assignment of the security roles.

Yes. Predator PDM Client is used to view the proven, released and authorized manufacturing documents to the shop floor operator and setup users.  Once a user logs into Predator PDM with the username and password, the documents are displayed on the shop floor PC.

The operator can then deliver the NC program to the CNC machine via Predator DNC Software as well as collect real-time data on machine utilization from Predator Machine Monitoring Software.  Any other files related to the part can be viewed on the shop floor terminal providing a paperless environment.

Yes, Predator DNC supports long filenames, long directory names, names with spaces, shared network drives, and UNC names.

Refer to the following examples:

  •     Job 1234.NC
  •     H:CUSTOM PARTSJOB 4567.NC
  •     \\SERVER1\C\LARGE CUSTOMER\PART No 1234-5678.NC

Predator DNC can also automatically name your files when uploading to the server. They can be “auto-named” using their O-number, a user-chosen name, the first comment in the file, and so on.

Yes. Predator MDC supports automatic, error-free, and unattended machine monitoring for events such as job start and end, setup start and end, cycle start and end, to name a few of the events that can be monitored. This type of data is collected automatically using software, hardware, custom macros and other methods without requiring operator training or input.

A typical practice is when downloading the NC program into the machine, the system will automatically track the part #, job #, user and place the status of the work order in setup. Upon cycling the part, the status of the machine would change from in setup to in cycle.

Yes. Using Predator MDC Express, users can print out the data collection form to enter cycle information, part quantity, good and scrap parts, and other metrics. Predator MDC standard also supports manual monitoring of events that are initiated by machine operators such as machine log on/offs, downtimes, and scrap reasons.

Predator MDC can be used to manually collect data using several methods including remote request, swiping bar codes, touch screen PCs or standard PCs. SFA does provide an Android solution to also input this data via a tablet.

Yes. Dedicate one or more large-screen monitors on the shop floor for real-time digital signage using Predator MDC.

Create slides of charts, dashboards, and reports with specific filters and details. Eliminate manual posting of paper reports and charts on the shop floor. Provide a focal point for standup shop meetings while enforcing productivity and manufacturing metrics that management, engineering, and quality departments care about. Eliminate the clutter of paper and go high tech!

Over 1300 reports and charts provide unique insight into the productivity and efficiency of each manufacturer.

The flexibility of the reporting and charting options within Predator MDC converts the volume of data collected into concise reports and charts to identify issues and drive improved productivity. Eliminate manual OEE driven data collection and OEE spreadsheets. Software supports real-time OEE data collection with an OEE Dashboard, OEE Performance ranking charts, OEE Trend Analysis charts and OEE Reports.

Predator MDC standard and enterprise versions support up to 4096 CNC machines, robots, PLCs and ATE Test Stands per PC.

Data the software can monitor – simultaneous cycle time, setup time, teardown time, downtimes with reasons, good parts, scrap parts with reasons and an unlimited number of user-defined events.

Predator CNC Service is a comprehensive service designed to work with Predator MDC.

The service can be installed on a computer to communicate to various machine types using proprietary protocols. Predator MDC supports FANUC FOCAS, MTConnect, and Structured XML to capture real-time data from the machine using the network connection of the controller.

Development is also being tested for working with Okuma Thinc controllers on P100 and P200 where the service is installed on the machine. The service will then communicate through APIs and no interface is required.

Predator MDC Administrator is designed for the manufacturing department head or IS/manufacturing project lead to manage real-time machine monitoring processes centered on time and utilization. This seat is required with every purchase and allows for the creation of equipment, departments, locations, shifts, parts, reason codes, users, permissions and other administrative tasks.

Predator MDC Client is designed for personnel and users that need to run MDC reports and charts centered on time and utilization. Users can also see real-time data on a dashboard.

Predator MDC Shop Floor is designed for data entry for shop floor personnel. The software can also be used to display real-time data on the shop floor using LCD monitors or can be displayed in Engineering and Quality Departments to provide feedback on equipment status.

Most revision control software packages use a database for the backend to store “links” or flags to shared files and reference the actual file.  The problem with this system is that while you might have the NC program and can place it in a database for check-in and check-out, there is no control with these systems. Whoever saves the file last wins!

Most revision control software packages use a database for the backend to store “links” or flags to shared files and reference the actual file.  The problem is that while you might have the NC program and can place it in a database for check-in and check-out, there is no control with this system. Whoever saves the file last wins!

With a true PDM system, complete revision control, lockout, and access only can be obtained by a single user until completed.  This eliminates changes of multiple file revisions – they will be unapproved.

More on Predator PDM:

  • Paperless manufacturing-driven Production Data Management
  • Designed to organize & control CNC programs
  • Master your setup sheets, safety procedures, quality documents, & more
  • Complete revision control
  • Integration with DNC, CNC Editor, Virtual CNC, MDC & Tracker.

Predator PDM includes best practice workflow wizards for release, unreleased, revise, rollback, check-in, and check out. Every wizard honors user and group permissions and includes ISO 9000-style history.

Yes, as long as you have the permission setup for each user. If you need more help with setting up your Predator PDM software, contact us.

If you want a paperless manufacturing shop floor, Predator PDM will help you accomplish this goal.

Within Predator PDM, you will be able to pull up your Job and any file that connects to that job. PDF’s, SolidWorks, eDrawings, MS office files, and images.

Predator uses the Sentinel Hasp Key (ex: SIMs & Dongles). They are typically plugged into the USB port on the workstation or server to license the product. If you are in a virtual operating system, we have hardware that will allow this USB key to be seen. Contact our sales team for more info on how to license Predator Software applications.

Predator Software can also help with data-driven decision making in manufacturing. 

From our Predator MDC product page – Hardware-based data collection for older CNCs, manual machines, and other equipment are supported by the Predator MDC Adapter. Predator MDC Adapters are din rail mounted and are wired into signal lamps, light towers, extended M functions or any digital input or output.

Predator MDC Adapters are available in 5, 12, 24, 48, 110 and 230 volt editions. Domestic and international editions simplify installation and configuration.

MTConnect

Predator machine monitoring through Predator MDC is available in an Express, Standard and Enterprise versions. Each version is upgraded to the next level and includes functionality to collect data.

Predator MDC Express is a paper-based solution to allow users to collect data manually and report and chart data on events that happen previously.

Predator MDC Standard version is real-time data collection of utilization from the machines and collects cycle time, idle time, alarm and downtime.

Predator MDC Enterprise version is for companies who want to collect OEE, track parts, users, plus other metrics and interface the data with other business systems.

Yes. Predator MDC is real-time machine monitoring software that automatically collects, reports, charts and processes real-time shop floor manufacturing data including OEE, cycle time, idle time, setup time, teardown time, machine downtime and more.

Predator MDC improves manufacturing by supplying accurate shop floor metrics to improve operations and to make better decisions. The Predator MDC is an application that is installed on a computer inside the company facility.

It is only available as an on-premise solution.

Predator Flex Hardware does NOT work under Windows 7 or 8 due to the lack of support for drivers from the manufacturer. The hardware may fit inside of a PC, but known issues have been found in the reliability of communication to the CNC, as well as instances of blue screens.

We also do not recommend running the hardware in a newer PC due to lost functionality in performance and protocol support.

An upgrade is available from SFA to move towards FLEXN or FLEXW hardware, which is supported by Windows 7 and 8 and uses a network connection and network protocols instead of a dedicated ISA/PCI card on the motherboard to communicate with your FLEXN/FLEXW hardware.

Shop Floor Automations has the hardware for wireless and wired solutions on the shop floor, as well as solutions that work with the MTConnect Protocol and can connect multiple ways. Be sure to contact us for more information on what hardware is best for you, depending on your setup!

PC hardware minimum requirements to run Predator Software are a Pentium 4, AMD Athlon, or newer CPU.

40GB or larger hard disk, and 512 MB of RAM or more are the prerequisite components for a computer to run Predator Software.

Most off-the-shelf computers will far exceed these hardware requirements. Please consult with SFA on your specific software installations for the best performance and reliability.

Predator Software supports the following database versions included with Predator v10 and v9 applications: Microsoft Access 2000, 2002. 2003, 2007 and 2010 along with SQL 2000, 2005 and 2008.

Microsoft Express versions are also included for 2005 and 2008. Several customers are supported on Oracle 7, 8, 9, 10i, and 11i.

Predator v11 applications support Windows 2012, Windows 10, Oracle 12, Microsoft Access 2016, Microsoft Access 2013, Microsoft SQL Server 2016, Microsoft SQL Server 2014.

Support for the following Microsoft Windows versions are included with Predator v9 and v10 applications:

Windows 10 (v11 and newer only)
· Windows 2012 Server
· Windows 8
· Windows 7
· Windows 2008 Server
· Windows Vista
· Windows 2003 Server
· Windows XP

Support is included for both 32-bit and 64-bit systems. The latest Windows updates and service packs for each operating system should be installed on any and all computers you wish to run Predator Software.

Predator Software Serial Number and Access Codes are attributed to each legal, paid for, licensed product. These numbers are based on the SIM attached to the PC or from the network card inside of the PC.

Upon receipt of payment for the software, the permanent license will be issued. The software can be run on a temporary basis to allow users to move the software from one PC to another, as well as for evaluation periods.

You can contact your local reseller, such as Shop Floor Automations (SFA), for these codes or refer to your Predator CD label for details.

Please note that SFA can only give you the aforementioned codes and serial numbers if we were the ones who were your reseller of the product. We also do not provide support for copies of free CNC Editor available via our website.

SFA offers media replacement and 90 days of technical support for any software you have purchased from us.

You can also download recent versions of this software directly from our website. For pricing and details to replace a lost software CD, please email us or call us at (877) 611-5825.

No. The first Windows 7 version compatible of Predator DNC is Version 9. However, version 9 and version 10 are both compatible with Windows 8 and 8.1.

If you have an older version but would like to use Predator DNC on a Windows 7 machine, call us!

Yes, numerous software upgrades are available from any level of Predator DNC Hardware. Upgrades depend on each type of hardware.

The Connect series of hardware from SFA is designed to add ports at any time and offers a very easy upgrade path. Contact us to ensure there are no issues.

Yes. Haas CNC’s can communicate to Predator DNC Software using serial RS232 connection or FTP.

Haas FTP is also supported through Predator DNC to enable faster communication. Each Haas control can be configured in the software and can be configured for any method.

Predator DNC communicates up to 115K baud rate to the Haas using Xmodem and hardware handshaking.

Every Predator installation is built using Microsoft Windows Installer technology. There is extensive documentation available on Microsoft’s website.

The following primary command line options are available:
/i    Installs or configures a product
/f    Repairs a product, has 10 options
/a    Administrative install on the network
/x    Uninstalls a product
/j    Advertises a product
/l    Specifies the log file path
/p    Applies a patch
/q    Sets the user interface level
/y    Calls API register server to install
/z    Calls API register server to uninstall

A sample command line option for repairing a CNC Editor installation is as follows:

msiexec /i “predator CNC editor v6.0.msi” /fv

Predator uses a Rainbow Sentinel SuperPro key. This key is in the form of USB key. All software applications are licensed with a SIM and as such the SIM should be insured as property, for the actual cost of the software.

No. Currently, the product is designed as an application that runs on a Windows platform.

Mobile applications for Android and Apple phones and iPads are not developed. A customer can create their own applications using other applications if desired since there are APIs and open databases available.

Predator PDM is a paperless manufacturing driven Production Data Management tool. The software is designed to organize and control many facets of the shop floor.

CNC programs, setup sheets, safety procedures, quality documents, and others are under your control. Supports paperless shop floor operation with integration for CNC Communications and Machine Monitoring.

Predator PDM controls manufacturing driven processes and best practice workflows from manufacturing, quality, programming and other areas to the shop floor. 

Only the approved, released and authorized files are delivered to the shop floor operators and setup personnel to ensure the proven files are machines.  For ISO9000, ITAR, and other standards demanded by customers, Predator PDM is a solution to meet the manufacturing document control requirements.

Predator PDM supports an unlimited number of documents and support for numerous file types to be managed and viewed on the shop floor.

With the built-in viewing capability from Microsoft Internet Explorer, Predator leverages the built-in plug-in viewers supported and allows for continued upgrade path as new versions of file types are released.

For example, if Adobe released a new format or version of PDFs, Predator automatically embraces this compatibility with the new plug-ins from Internet Explorer.  A variety of files are supported for document control such as: Word, Excel, PDF, NC, TXT, STL, MPEG, TIFF. JPEG, and hundreds more.

As a manufacturer, you need to abide by legal code 21 CFR 820.40 – establishing and maintaining procedures to control documents (more info). As a business, you need to keep tax documents and any related records for anywhere from three to seven years. Employment records need to be kept for a minimum of a year and payroll records kept a minimum of three years.

There are over 140 permissions for control and management of who has access to files, approval process, released, un-released, rollback or pending files.

All security follows Microsoft standards for assigning permissions to users and groups.  Two versions of Predator PDM are available for purchase, PDM Administrator, and PDM Client.  Predator PDM Administrator allows for all control, configuration, and assignment of the security roles.

Yes. Predator PDM Client is used to view the proven, released and authorized manufacturing documents to the shop floor operator and setup users.  Once a user logs into Predator PDM with the username and password, the documents are displayed on the shop floor PC.

The operator can then deliver the NC program to the CNC machine via Predator DNC Software as well as collect real-time data on machine utilization from Predator Machine Monitoring Software.  Any other files related to the part can be viewed on the shop floor terminal providing a paperless environment.

Yes, Predator DNC supports long filenames, long directory names, names with spaces, shared network drives, and UNC names.

Refer to the following examples:

  •     Job 1234.NC
  •     H:CUSTOM PARTSJOB 4567.NC
  •     \\SERVER1\C\LARGE CUSTOMER\PART No 1234-5678.NC

Predator DNC can also automatically name your files when uploading to the server. They can be “auto-named” using their O-number, a user-chosen name, the first comment in the file, and so on.

Yes. Predator MDC supports automatic, error-free, and unattended machine monitoring for events such as job start and end, setup start and end, cycle start and end, to name a few of the events that can be monitored. This type of data is collected automatically using software, hardware, custom macros and other methods without requiring operator training or input.

A typical practice is when downloading the NC program into the machine, the system will automatically track the part #, job #, user and place the status of the work order in setup. Upon cycling the part, the status of the machine would change from in setup to in cycle.

Yes. Using Predator MDC Express, users can print out the data collection form to enter cycle information, part quantity, good and scrap parts, and other metrics. Predator MDC standard also supports manual monitoring of events that are initiated by machine operators such as machine log on/offs, downtimes, and scrap reasons.

Predator MDC can be used to manually collect data using several methods including remote request, swiping bar codes, touch screen PCs or standard PCs. SFA does provide an Android solution to also input this data via a tablet.

Yes. Dedicate one or more large-screen monitors on the shop floor for real-time digital signage using Predator MDC.

Create slides of charts, dashboards, and reports with specific filters and details. Eliminate manual posting of paper reports and charts on the shop floor. Provide a focal point for standup shop meetings while enforcing productivity and manufacturing metrics that management, engineering, and quality departments care about. Eliminate the clutter of paper and go high tech!

Over 1300 reports and charts provide unique insight into the productivity and efficiency of each manufacturer.

The flexibility of the reporting and charting options within Predator MDC converts the volume of data collected into concise reports and charts to identify issues and drive improved productivity. Eliminate manual OEE driven data collection and OEE spreadsheets. Software supports real-time OEE data collection with an OEE Dashboard, OEE Performance ranking charts, OEE Trend Analysis charts and OEE Reports.

Predator MDC standard and enterprise versions support up to 4096 CNC machines, robots, PLCs and ATE Test Stands per PC.

Data the software can monitor – simultaneous cycle time, setup time, teardown time, downtimes with reasons, good parts, scrap parts with reasons and an unlimited number of user-defined events.

Predator CNC Service is a comprehensive service designed to work with Predator MDC.

The service can be installed on a computer to communicate to various machine types using proprietary protocols. Predator MDC supports FANUC FOCAS, MTConnect, and Structured XML to capture real-time data from the machine using the network connection of the controller.

Development is also being tested for working with Okuma Thinc controllers on P100 and P200 where the service is installed on the machine. The service will then communicate through APIs and no interface is required.

Predator MDC Administrator is designed for the manufacturing department head or IS/manufacturing project lead to manage real-time machine monitoring processes centered on time and utilization. This seat is required with every purchase and allows for the creation of equipment, departments, locations, shifts, parts, reason codes, users, permissions and other administrative tasks.

Predator MDC Client is designed for personnel and users that need to run MDC reports and charts centered on time and utilization. Users can also see real-time data on a dashboard.

Predator MDC Shop Floor is designed for data entry for shop floor personnel. The software can also be used to display real-time data on the shop floor using LCD monitors or can be displayed in Engineering and Quality Departments to provide feedback on equipment status.

Most revision control software packages use a database for the backend to store “links” or flags to shared files and reference the actual file.  The problem with this system is that while you might have the NC program and can place it in a database for check-in and check-out, there is no control with these systems. Whoever saves the file last wins!

Most revision control software packages use a database for the backend to store “links” or flags to shared files and reference the actual file.  The problem is that while you might have the NC program and can place it in a database for check-in and check-out, there is no control with this system. Whoever saves the file last wins!

With a true PDM system, complete revision control, lockout, and access only can be obtained by a single user until completed.  This eliminates changes of multiple file revisions – they will be unapproved.

More on Predator PDM:

  • Paperless manufacturing-driven Production Data Management
  • Designed to organize & control CNC programs
  • Master your setup sheets, safety procedures, quality documents, & more
  • Complete revision control
  • Integration with DNC, CNC Editor, Virtual CNC, MDC & Tracker.

Predator PDM includes best practice workflow wizards for release, unreleased, revise, rollback, check-in, and check out. Every wizard honors user and group permissions and includes ISO 9000-style history.

Yes, as long as you have the permission setup for each user. If you need more help with setting up your Predator PDM software, contact us.

If you want a paperless manufacturing shop floor, Predator PDM will help you accomplish this goal.

Within Predator PDM, you will be able to pull up your Job and any file that connects to that job. PDF’s, SolidWorks, eDrawings, MS office files, and images.

Predator uses the Sentinel Hasp Key (ex: SIMs & Dongles). They are typically plugged into the USB port on the workstation or server to license the product. If you are in a virtual operating system, we have hardware that will allow this USB key to be seen. Contact our sales team for more info on how to license Predator Software applications.

Predator Software can also help with data-driven decision making in manufacturing. 

From our Predator MDC product page – Hardware-based data collection for older CNCs, manual machines, and other equipment are supported by the Predator MDC Adapter. Predator MDC Adapters are din rail mounted and are wired into signal lamps, light towers, extended M functions or any digital input or output.

Predator MDC Adapters are available in 5, 12, 24, 48, 110 and 230 volt editions. Domestic and international editions simplify installation and configuration.

Fanuc FOCAS

Predator machine monitoring through Predator MDC is available in an Express, Standard and Enterprise versions. Each version is upgraded to the next level and includes functionality to collect data.

Predator MDC Express is a paper-based solution to allow users to collect data manually and report and chart data on events that happen previously.

Predator MDC Standard version is real-time data collection of utilization from the machines and collects cycle time, idle time, alarm and downtime.

Predator MDC Enterprise version is for companies who want to collect OEE, track parts, users, plus other metrics and interface the data with other business systems.

Yes. Predator MDC is real-time machine monitoring software that automatically collects, reports, charts and processes real-time shop floor manufacturing data including OEE, cycle time, idle time, setup time, teardown time, machine downtime and more.

Predator MDC improves manufacturing by supplying accurate shop floor metrics to improve operations and to make better decisions. The Predator MDC is an application that is installed on a computer inside the company facility.

It is only available as an on-premise solution.

Predator Flex Hardware does NOT work under Windows 7 or 8 due to the lack of support for drivers from the manufacturer. The hardware may fit inside of a PC, but known issues have been found in the reliability of communication to the CNC, as well as instances of blue screens.

We also do not recommend running the hardware in a newer PC due to lost functionality in performance and protocol support.

An upgrade is available from SFA to move towards FLEXN or FLEXW hardware, which is supported by Windows 7 and 8 and uses a network connection and network protocols instead of a dedicated ISA/PCI card on the motherboard to communicate with your FLEXN/FLEXW hardware.

Shop Floor Automations has the hardware for wireless and wired solutions on the shop floor, as well as solutions that work with the MTConnect Protocol and can connect multiple ways. Be sure to contact us for more information on what hardware is best for you, depending on your setup!

PC hardware minimum requirements to run Predator Software are a Pentium 4, AMD Athlon, or newer CPU.

40GB or larger hard disk, and 512 MB of RAM or more are the prerequisite components for a computer to run Predator Software.

Most off-the-shelf computers will far exceed these hardware requirements. Please consult with SFA on your specific software installations for the best performance and reliability.

Predator Software supports the following database versions included with Predator v10 and v9 applications: Microsoft Access 2000, 2002. 2003, 2007 and 2010 along with SQL 2000, 2005 and 2008.

Microsoft Express versions are also included for 2005 and 2008. Several customers are supported on Oracle 7, 8, 9, 10i, and 11i.

Predator v11 applications support Windows 2012, Windows 10, Oracle 12, Microsoft Access 2016, Microsoft Access 2013, Microsoft SQL Server 2016, Microsoft SQL Server 2014.

Support for the following Microsoft Windows versions are included with Predator v9 and v10 applications:

Windows 10 (v11 and newer only)
· Windows 2012 Server
· Windows 8
· Windows 7
· Windows 2008 Server
· Windows Vista
· Windows 2003 Server
· Windows XP

Support is included for both 32-bit and 64-bit systems. The latest Windows updates and service packs for each operating system should be installed on any and all computers you wish to run Predator Software.

Predator Software Serial Number and Access Codes are attributed to each legal, paid for, licensed product. These numbers are based on the SIM attached to the PC or from the network card inside of the PC.

Upon receipt of payment for the software, the permanent license will be issued. The software can be run on a temporary basis to allow users to move the software from one PC to another, as well as for evaluation periods.

You can contact your local reseller, such as Shop Floor Automations (SFA), for these codes or refer to your Predator CD label for details.

Please note that SFA can only give you the aforementioned codes and serial numbers if we were the ones who were your reseller of the product. We also do not provide support for copies of free CNC Editor available via our website.

SFA offers media replacement and 90 days of technical support for any software you have purchased from us.

You can also download recent versions of this software directly from our website. For pricing and details to replace a lost software CD, please email us or call us at (877) 611-5825.

No. The first Windows 7 version compatible of Predator DNC is Version 9. However, version 9 and version 10 are both compatible with Windows 8 and 8.1.

If you have an older version but would like to use Predator DNC on a Windows 7 machine, call us!

Yes, numerous software upgrades are available from any level of Predator DNC Hardware. Upgrades depend on each type of hardware.

The Connect series of hardware from SFA is designed to add ports at any time and offers a very easy upgrade path. Contact us to ensure there are no issues.

Yes. Haas CNC’s can communicate to Predator DNC Software using serial RS232 connection or FTP.

Haas FTP is also supported through Predator DNC to enable faster communication. Each Haas control can be configured in the software and can be configured for any method.

Predator DNC communicates up to 115K baud rate to the Haas using Xmodem and hardware handshaking.

Every Predator installation is built using Microsoft Windows Installer technology. There is extensive documentation available on Microsoft’s website.

The following primary command line options are available:
/i    Installs or configures a product
/f    Repairs a product, has 10 options
/a    Administrative install on the network
/x    Uninstalls a product
/j    Advertises a product
/l    Specifies the log file path
/p    Applies a patch
/q    Sets the user interface level
/y    Calls API register server to install
/z    Calls API register server to uninstall

A sample command line option for repairing a CNC Editor installation is as follows:

msiexec /i “predator CNC editor v6.0.msi” /fv

Predator uses a Rainbow Sentinel SuperPro key. This key is in the form of USB key. All software applications are licensed with a SIM and as such the SIM should be insured as property, for the actual cost of the software.

No. Currently, the product is designed as an application that runs on a Windows platform.

Mobile applications for Android and Apple phones and iPads are not developed. A customer can create their own applications using other applications if desired since there are APIs and open databases available.

Predator PDM is a paperless manufacturing driven Production Data Management tool. The software is designed to organize and control many facets of the shop floor.

CNC programs, setup sheets, safety procedures, quality documents, and others are under your control. Supports paperless shop floor operation with integration for CNC Communications and Machine Monitoring.

Predator PDM controls manufacturing driven processes and best practice workflows from manufacturing, quality, programming and other areas to the shop floor. 

Only the approved, released and authorized files are delivered to the shop floor operators and setup personnel to ensure the proven files are machines.  For ISO9000, ITAR, and other standards demanded by customers, Predator PDM is a solution to meet the manufacturing document control requirements.

Predator PDM supports an unlimited number of documents and support for numerous file types to be managed and viewed on the shop floor.

With the built-in viewing capability from Microsoft Internet Explorer, Predator leverages the built-in plug-in viewers supported and allows for continued upgrade path as new versions of file types are released.

For example, if Adobe released a new format or version of PDFs, Predator automatically embraces this compatibility with the new plug-ins from Internet Explorer.  A variety of files are supported for document control such as: Word, Excel, PDF, NC, TXT, STL, MPEG, TIFF. JPEG, and hundreds more.

As a manufacturer, you need to abide by legal code 21 CFR 820.40 – establishing and maintaining procedures to control documents (more info). As a business, you need to keep tax documents and any related records for anywhere from three to seven years. Employment records need to be kept for a minimum of a year and payroll records kept a minimum of three years.

There are over 140 permissions for control and management of who has access to files, approval process, released, un-released, rollback or pending files.

All security follows Microsoft standards for assigning permissions to users and groups.  Two versions of Predator PDM are available for purchase, PDM Administrator, and PDM Client.  Predator PDM Administrator allows for all control, configuration, and assignment of the security roles.

Yes. Predator PDM Client is used to view the proven, released and authorized manufacturing documents to the shop floor operator and setup users.  Once a user logs into Predator PDM with the username and password, the documents are displayed on the shop floor PC.

The operator can then deliver the NC program to the CNC machine via Predator DNC Software as well as collect real-time data on machine utilization from Predator Machine Monitoring Software.  Any other files related to the part can be viewed on the shop floor terminal providing a paperless environment.

Yes, Predator DNC supports long filenames, long directory names, names with spaces, shared network drives, and UNC names.

Refer to the following examples:

  •     Job 1234.NC
  •     H:CUSTOM PARTSJOB 4567.NC
  •     \\SERVER1\C\LARGE CUSTOMER\PART No 1234-5678.NC

Predator DNC can also automatically name your files when uploading to the server. They can be “auto-named” using their O-number, a user-chosen name, the first comment in the file, and so on.

Yes. Predator MDC supports automatic, error-free, and unattended machine monitoring for events such as job start and end, setup start and end, cycle start and end, to name a few of the events that can be monitored. This type of data is collected automatically using software, hardware, custom macros and other methods without requiring operator training or input.

A typical practice is when downloading the NC program into the machine, the system will automatically track the part #, job #, user and place the status of the work order in setup. Upon cycling the part, the status of the machine would change from in setup to in cycle.

Yes. Using Predator MDC Express, users can print out the data collection form to enter cycle information, part quantity, good and scrap parts, and other metrics. Predator MDC standard also supports manual monitoring of events that are initiated by machine operators such as machine log on/offs, downtimes, and scrap reasons.

Predator MDC can be used to manually collect data using several methods including remote request, swiping bar codes, touch screen PCs or standard PCs. SFA does provide an Android solution to also input this data via a tablet.

Yes. Dedicate one or more large-screen monitors on the shop floor for real-time digital signage using Predator MDC.

Create slides of charts, dashboards, and reports with specific filters and details. Eliminate manual posting of paper reports and charts on the shop floor. Provide a focal point for standup shop meetings while enforcing productivity and manufacturing metrics that management, engineering, and quality departments care about. Eliminate the clutter of paper and go high tech!

Over 1300 reports and charts provide unique insight into the productivity and efficiency of each manufacturer.

The flexibility of the reporting and charting options within Predator MDC converts the volume of data collected into concise reports and charts to identify issues and drive improved productivity. Eliminate manual OEE driven data collection and OEE spreadsheets. Software supports real-time OEE data collection with an OEE Dashboard, OEE Performance ranking charts, OEE Trend Analysis charts and OEE Reports.

Predator MDC standard and enterprise versions support up to 4096 CNC machines, robots, PLCs and ATE Test Stands per PC.

Data the software can monitor – simultaneous cycle time, setup time, teardown time, downtimes with reasons, good parts, scrap parts with reasons and an unlimited number of user-defined events.

Predator CNC Service is a comprehensive service designed to work with Predator MDC.

The service can be installed on a computer to communicate to various machine types using proprietary protocols. Predator MDC supports FANUC FOCAS, MTConnect, and Structured XML to capture real-time data from the machine using the network connection of the controller.

Development is also being tested for working with Okuma Thinc controllers on P100 and P200 where the service is installed on the machine. The service will then communicate through APIs and no interface is required.

Predator MDC Administrator is designed for the manufacturing department head or IS/manufacturing project lead to manage real-time machine monitoring processes centered on time and utilization. This seat is required with every purchase and allows for the creation of equipment, departments, locations, shifts, parts, reason codes, users, permissions and other administrative tasks.

Predator MDC Client is designed for personnel and users that need to run MDC reports and charts centered on time and utilization. Users can also see real-time data on a dashboard.

Predator MDC Shop Floor is designed for data entry for shop floor personnel. The software can also be used to display real-time data on the shop floor using LCD monitors or can be displayed in Engineering and Quality Departments to provide feedback on equipment status.

Most revision control software packages use a database for the backend to store “links” or flags to shared files and reference the actual file.  The problem with this system is that while you might have the NC program and can place it in a database for check-in and check-out, there is no control with these systems. Whoever saves the file last wins!

Most revision control software packages use a database for the backend to store “links” or flags to shared files and reference the actual file.  The problem is that while you might have the NC program and can place it in a database for check-in and check-out, there is no control with this system. Whoever saves the file last wins!

With a true PDM system, complete revision control, lockout, and access only can be obtained by a single user until completed.  This eliminates changes of multiple file revisions – they will be unapproved.

More on Predator PDM:

  • Paperless manufacturing-driven Production Data Management
  • Designed to organize & control CNC programs
  • Master your setup sheets, safety procedures, quality documents, & more
  • Complete revision control
  • Integration with DNC, CNC Editor, Virtual CNC, MDC & Tracker.

Predator PDM includes best practice workflow wizards for release, unreleased, revise, rollback, check-in, and check out. Every wizard honors user and group permissions and includes ISO 9000-style history.

Yes, as long as you have the permission setup for each user. If you need more help with setting up your Predator PDM software, contact us.

If you want a paperless manufacturing shop floor, Predator PDM will help you accomplish this goal.

Within Predator PDM, you will be able to pull up your Job and any file that connects to that job. PDF’s, SolidWorks, eDrawings, MS office files, and images.

Predator uses the Sentinel Hasp Key (ex: SIMs & Dongles). They are typically plugged into the USB port on the workstation or server to license the product. If you are in a virtual operating system, we have hardware that will allow this USB key to be seen. Contact our sales team for more info on how to license Predator Software applications.

Predator Software can also help with data-driven decision making in manufacturing. 

From our Predator MDC product page – Hardware-based data collection for older CNCs, manual machines, and other equipment are supported by the Predator MDC Adapter. Predator MDC Adapters are din rail mounted and are wired into signal lamps, light towers, extended M functions or any digital input or output.

Predator MDC Adapters are available in 5, 12, 24, 48, 110 and 230 volt editions. Domestic and international editions simplify installation and configuration.

Shop Floor Hardware

Predator machine monitoring through Predator MDC is available in an Express, Standard and Enterprise versions. Each version is upgraded to the next level and includes functionality to collect data.

Predator MDC Express is a paper-based solution to allow users to collect data manually and report and chart data on events that happen previously.

Predator MDC Standard version is real-time data collection of utilization from the machines and collects cycle time, idle time, alarm and downtime.

Predator MDC Enterprise version is for companies who want to collect OEE, track parts, users, plus other metrics and interface the data with other business systems.

Yes. Predator MDC is real-time machine monitoring software that automatically collects, reports, charts and processes real-time shop floor manufacturing data including OEE, cycle time, idle time, setup time, teardown time, machine downtime and more.

Predator MDC improves manufacturing by supplying accurate shop floor metrics to improve operations and to make better decisions. The Predator MDC is an application that is installed on a computer inside the company facility.

It is only available as an on-premise solution.

Predator Flex Hardware does NOT work under Windows 7 or 8 due to the lack of support for drivers from the manufacturer. The hardware may fit inside of a PC, but known issues have been found in the reliability of communication to the CNC, as well as instances of blue screens.

We also do not recommend running the hardware in a newer PC due to lost functionality in performance and protocol support.

An upgrade is available from SFA to move towards FLEXN or FLEXW hardware, which is supported by Windows 7 and 8 and uses a network connection and network protocols instead of a dedicated ISA/PCI card on the motherboard to communicate with your FLEXN/FLEXW hardware.

Shop Floor Automations has the hardware for wireless and wired solutions on the shop floor, as well as solutions that work with the MTConnect Protocol and can connect multiple ways. Be sure to contact us for more information on what hardware is best for you, depending on your setup!

PC hardware minimum requirements to run Predator Software are a Pentium 4, AMD Athlon, or newer CPU.

40GB or larger hard disk, and 512 MB of RAM or more are the prerequisite components for a computer to run Predator Software.

Most off-the-shelf computers will far exceed these hardware requirements. Please consult with SFA on your specific software installations for the best performance and reliability.

Predator Software supports the following database versions included with Predator v10 and v9 applications: Microsoft Access 2000, 2002. 2003, 2007 and 2010 along with SQL 2000, 2005 and 2008.

Microsoft Express versions are also included for 2005 and 2008. Several customers are supported on Oracle 7, 8, 9, 10i, and 11i.

Predator v11 applications support Windows 2012, Windows 10, Oracle 12, Microsoft Access 2016, Microsoft Access 2013, Microsoft SQL Server 2016, Microsoft SQL Server 2014.

Support for the following Microsoft Windows versions are included with Predator v9 and v10 applications:

Windows 10 (v11 and newer only)
· Windows 2012 Server
· Windows 8
· Windows 7
· Windows 2008 Server
· Windows Vista
· Windows 2003 Server
· Windows XP

Support is included for both 32-bit and 64-bit systems. The latest Windows updates and service packs for each operating system should be installed on any and all computers you wish to run Predator Software.

Predator Software Serial Number and Access Codes are attributed to each legal, paid for, licensed product. These numbers are based on the SIM attached to the PC or from the network card inside of the PC.

Upon receipt of payment for the software, the permanent license will be issued. The software can be run on a temporary basis to allow users to move the software from one PC to another, as well as for evaluation periods.

You can contact your local reseller, such as Shop Floor Automations (SFA), for these codes or refer to your Predator CD label for details.

Please note that SFA can only give you the aforementioned codes and serial numbers if we were the ones who were your reseller of the product. We also do not provide support for copies of free CNC Editor available via our website.

SFA offers media replacement and 90 days of technical support for any software you have purchased from us.

You can also download recent versions of this software directly from our website. For pricing and details to replace a lost software CD, please email us or call us at (877) 611-5825.

No. The first Windows 7 version compatible of Predator DNC is Version 9. However, version 9 and version 10 are both compatible with Windows 8 and 8.1.

If you have an older version but would like to use Predator DNC on a Windows 7 machine, call us!

Yes, numerous software upgrades are available from any level of Predator DNC Hardware. Upgrades depend on each type of hardware.

The Connect series of hardware from SFA is designed to add ports at any time and offers a very easy upgrade path. Contact us to ensure there are no issues.

Yes. Haas CNC’s can communicate to Predator DNC Software using serial RS232 connection or FTP.

Haas FTP is also supported through Predator DNC to enable faster communication. Each Haas control can be configured in the software and can be configured for any method.

Predator DNC communicates up to 115K baud rate to the Haas using Xmodem and hardware handshaking.

Every Predator installation is built using Microsoft Windows Installer technology. There is extensive documentation available on Microsoft’s website.

The following primary command line options are available:
/i    Installs or configures a product
/f    Repairs a product, has 10 options
/a    Administrative install on the network
/x    Uninstalls a product
/j    Advertises a product
/l    Specifies the log file path
/p    Applies a patch
/q    Sets the user interface level
/y    Calls API register server to install
/z    Calls API register server to uninstall

A sample command line option for repairing a CNC Editor installation is as follows:

msiexec /i “predator CNC editor v6.0.msi” /fv

Predator uses a Rainbow Sentinel SuperPro key. This key is in the form of USB key. All software applications are licensed with a SIM and as such the SIM should be insured as property, for the actual cost of the software.

No. Currently, the product is designed as an application that runs on a Windows platform.

Mobile applications for Android and Apple phones and iPads are not developed. A customer can create their own applications using other applications if desired since there are APIs and open databases available.

Predator PDM is a paperless manufacturing driven Production Data Management tool. The software is designed to organize and control many facets of the shop floor.

CNC programs, setup sheets, safety procedures, quality documents, and others are under your control. Supports paperless shop floor operation with integration for CNC Communications and Machine Monitoring.

Predator PDM controls manufacturing driven processes and best practice workflows from manufacturing, quality, programming and other areas to the shop floor. 

Only the approved, released and authorized files are delivered to the shop floor operators and setup personnel to ensure the proven files are machines.  For ISO9000, ITAR, and other standards demanded by customers, Predator PDM is a solution to meet the manufacturing document control requirements.

Predator PDM supports an unlimited number of documents and support for numerous file types to be managed and viewed on the shop floor.

With the built-in viewing capability from Microsoft Internet Explorer, Predator leverages the built-in plug-in viewers supported and allows for continued upgrade path as new versions of file types are released.

For example, if Adobe released a new format or version of PDFs, Predator automatically embraces this compatibility with the new plug-ins from Internet Explorer.  A variety of files are supported for document control such as: Word, Excel, PDF, NC, TXT, STL, MPEG, TIFF. JPEG, and hundreds more.

As a manufacturer, you need to abide by legal code 21 CFR 820.40 – establishing and maintaining procedures to control documents (more info). As a business, you need to keep tax documents and any related records for anywhere from three to seven years. Employment records need to be kept for a minimum of a year and payroll records kept a minimum of three years.

There are over 140 permissions for control and management of who has access to files, approval process, released, un-released, rollback or pending files.

All security follows Microsoft standards for assigning permissions to users and groups.  Two versions of Predator PDM are available for purchase, PDM Administrator, and PDM Client.  Predator PDM Administrator allows for all control, configuration, and assignment of the security roles.

Yes. Predator PDM Client is used to view the proven, released and authorized manufacturing documents to the shop floor operator and setup users.  Once a user logs into Predator PDM with the username and password, the documents are displayed on the shop floor PC.

The operator can then deliver the NC program to the CNC machine via Predator DNC Software as well as collect real-time data on machine utilization from Predator Machine Monitoring Software.  Any other files related to the part can be viewed on the shop floor terminal providing a paperless environment.

Yes, Predator DNC supports long filenames, long directory names, names with spaces, shared network drives, and UNC names.

Refer to the following examples:

  •     Job 1234.NC
  •     H:CUSTOM PARTSJOB 4567.NC
  •     \\SERVER1\C\LARGE CUSTOMER\PART No 1234-5678.NC

Predator DNC can also automatically name your files when uploading to the server. They can be “auto-named” using their O-number, a user-chosen name, the first comment in the file, and so on.

Yes. Predator MDC supports automatic, error-free, and unattended machine monitoring for events such as job start and end, setup start and end, cycle start and end, to name a few of the events that can be monitored. This type of data is collected automatically using software, hardware, custom macros and other methods without requiring operator training or input.

A typical practice is when downloading the NC program into the machine, the system will automatically track the part #, job #, user and place the status of the work order in setup. Upon cycling the part, the status of the machine would change from in setup to in cycle.

Yes. Using Predator MDC Express, users can print out the data collection form to enter cycle information, part quantity, good and scrap parts, and other metrics. Predator MDC standard also supports manual monitoring of events that are initiated by machine operators such as machine log on/offs, downtimes, and scrap reasons.

Predator MDC can be used to manually collect data using several methods including remote request, swiping bar codes, touch screen PCs or standard PCs. SFA does provide an Android solution to also input this data via a tablet.

Yes. Dedicate one or more large-screen monitors on the shop floor for real-time digital signage using Predator MDC.

Create slides of charts, dashboards, and reports with specific filters and details. Eliminate manual posting of paper reports and charts on the shop floor. Provide a focal point for standup shop meetings while enforcing productivity and manufacturing metrics that management, engineering, and quality departments care about. Eliminate the clutter of paper and go high tech!

Over 1300 reports and charts provide unique insight into the productivity and efficiency of each manufacturer.

The flexibility of the reporting and charting options within Predator MDC converts the volume of data collected into concise reports and charts to identify issues and drive improved productivity. Eliminate manual OEE driven data collection and OEE spreadsheets. Software supports real-time OEE data collection with an OEE Dashboard, OEE Performance ranking charts, OEE Trend Analysis charts and OEE Reports.

Predator MDC standard and enterprise versions support up to 4096 CNC machines, robots, PLCs and ATE Test Stands per PC.

Data the software can monitor – simultaneous cycle time, setup time, teardown time, downtimes with reasons, good parts, scrap parts with reasons and an unlimited number of user-defined events.

Predator CNC Service is a comprehensive service designed to work with Predator MDC.

The service can be installed on a computer to communicate to various machine types using proprietary protocols. Predator MDC supports FANUC FOCAS, MTConnect, and Structured XML to capture real-time data from the machine using the network connection of the controller.

Development is also being tested for working with Okuma Thinc controllers on P100 and P200 where the service is installed on the machine. The service will then communicate through APIs and no interface is required.

Predator MDC Administrator is designed for the manufacturing department head or IS/manufacturing project lead to manage real-time machine monitoring processes centered on time and utilization. This seat is required with every purchase and allows for the creation of equipment, departments, locations, shifts, parts, reason codes, users, permissions and other administrative tasks.

Predator MDC Client is designed for personnel and users that need to run MDC reports and charts centered on time and utilization. Users can also see real-time data on a dashboard.

Predator MDC Shop Floor is designed for data entry for shop floor personnel. The software can also be used to display real-time data on the shop floor using LCD monitors or can be displayed in Engineering and Quality Departments to provide feedback on equipment status.

Most revision control software packages use a database for the backend to store “links” or flags to shared files and reference the actual file.  The problem with this system is that while you might have the NC program and can place it in a database for check-in and check-out, there is no control with these systems. Whoever saves the file last wins!

Most revision control software packages use a database for the backend to store “links” or flags to shared files and reference the actual file.  The problem is that while you might have the NC program and can place it in a database for check-in and check-out, there is no control with this system. Whoever saves the file last wins!

With a true PDM system, complete revision control, lockout, and access only can be obtained by a single user until completed.  This eliminates changes of multiple file revisions – they will be unapproved.

More on Predator PDM:

  • Paperless manufacturing-driven Production Data Management
  • Designed to organize & control CNC programs
  • Master your setup sheets, safety procedures, quality documents, & more
  • Complete revision control
  • Integration with DNC, CNC Editor, Virtual CNC, MDC & Tracker.

Predator PDM includes best practice workflow wizards for release, unreleased, revise, rollback, check-in, and check out. Every wizard honors user and group permissions and includes ISO 9000-style history.

Yes, as long as you have the permission setup for each user. If you need more help with setting up your Predator PDM software, contact us.

If you want a paperless manufacturing shop floor, Predator PDM will help you accomplish this goal.

Within Predator PDM, you will be able to pull up your Job and any file that connects to that job. PDF’s, SolidWorks, eDrawings, MS office files, and images.

Predator uses the Sentinel Hasp Key (ex: SIMs & Dongles). They are typically plugged into the USB port on the workstation or server to license the product. If you are in a virtual operating system, we have hardware that will allow this USB key to be seen. Contact our sales team for more info on how to license Predator Software applications.

Predator Software can also help with data-driven decision making in manufacturing. 

From our Predator MDC product page – Hardware-based data collection for older CNCs, manual machines, and other equipment are supported by the Predator MDC Adapter. Predator MDC Adapters are din rail mounted and are wired into signal lamps, light towers, extended M functions or any digital input or output.

Predator MDC Adapters are available in 5, 12, 24, 48, 110 and 230 volt editions. Domestic and international editions simplify installation and configuration.

Floppy Drive Emulators

Predator machine monitoring through Predator MDC is available in an Express, Standard and Enterprise versions. Each version is upgraded to the next level and includes functionality to collect data.

Predator MDC Express is a paper-based solution to allow users to collect data manually and report and chart data on events that happen previously.

Predator MDC Standard version is real-time data collection of utilization from the machines and collects cycle time, idle time, alarm and downtime.

Predator MDC Enterprise version is for companies who want to collect OEE, track parts, users, plus other metrics and interface the data with other business systems.

Yes. Predator MDC is real-time machine monitoring software that automatically collects, reports, charts and processes real-time shop floor manufacturing data including OEE, cycle time, idle time, setup time, teardown time, machine downtime and more.

Predator MDC improves manufacturing by supplying accurate shop floor metrics to improve operations and to make better decisions. The Predator MDC is an application that is installed on a computer inside the company facility.

It is only available as an on-premise solution.

Predator Flex Hardware does NOT work under Windows 7 or 8 due to the lack of support for drivers from the manufacturer. The hardware may fit inside of a PC, but known issues have been found in the reliability of communication to the CNC, as well as instances of blue screens.

We also do not recommend running the hardware in a newer PC due to lost functionality in performance and protocol support.

An upgrade is available from SFA to move towards FLEXN or FLEXW hardware, which is supported by Windows 7 and 8 and uses a network connection and network protocols instead of a dedicated ISA/PCI card on the motherboard to communicate with your FLEXN/FLEXW hardware.

Shop Floor Automations has the hardware for wireless and wired solutions on the shop floor, as well as solutions that work with the MTConnect Protocol and can connect multiple ways. Be sure to contact us for more information on what hardware is best for you, depending on your setup!

PC hardware minimum requirements to run Predator Software are a Pentium 4, AMD Athlon, or newer CPU.

40GB or larger hard disk, and 512 MB of RAM or more are the prerequisite components for a computer to run Predator Software.

Most off-the-shelf computers will far exceed these hardware requirements. Please consult with SFA on your specific software installations for the best performance and reliability.

Predator Software supports the following database versions included with Predator v10 and v9 applications: Microsoft Access 2000, 2002. 2003, 2007 and 2010 along with SQL 2000, 2005 and 2008.

Microsoft Express versions are also included for 2005 and 2008. Several customers are supported on Oracle 7, 8, 9, 10i, and 11i.

Predator v11 applications support Windows 2012, Windows 10, Oracle 12, Microsoft Access 2016, Microsoft Access 2013, Microsoft SQL Server 2016, Microsoft SQL Server 2014.

Support for the following Microsoft Windows versions are included with Predator v9 and v10 applications:

Windows 10 (v11 and newer only)
· Windows 2012 Server
· Windows 8
· Windows 7
· Windows 2008 Server
· Windows Vista
· Windows 2003 Server
· Windows XP

Support is included for both 32-bit and 64-bit systems. The latest Windows updates and service packs for each operating system should be installed on any and all computers you wish to run Predator Software.

Predator Software Serial Number and Access Codes are attributed to each legal, paid for, licensed product. These numbers are based on the SIM attached to the PC or from the network card inside of the PC.

Upon receipt of payment for the software, the permanent license will be issued. The software can be run on a temporary basis to allow users to move the software from one PC to another, as well as for evaluation periods.

You can contact your local reseller, such as Shop Floor Automations (SFA), for these codes or refer to your Predator CD label for details.

Please note that SFA can only give you the aforementioned codes and serial numbers if we were the ones who were your reseller of the product. We also do not provide support for copies of free CNC Editor available via our website.

SFA offers media replacement and 90 days of technical support for any software you have purchased from us.

You can also download recent versions of this software directly from our website. For pricing and details to replace a lost software CD, please email us or call us at (877) 611-5825.

No. The first Windows 7 version compatible of Predator DNC is Version 9. However, version 9 and version 10 are both compatible with Windows 8 and 8.1.

If you have an older version but would like to use Predator DNC on a Windows 7 machine, call us!

Yes, numerous software upgrades are available from any level of Predator DNC Hardware. Upgrades depend on each type of hardware.

The Connect series of hardware from SFA is designed to add ports at any time and offers a very easy upgrade path. Contact us to ensure there are no issues.

Yes. Haas CNC’s can communicate to Predator DNC Software using serial RS232 connection or FTP.

Haas FTP is also supported through Predator DNC to enable faster communication. Each Haas control can be configured in the software and can be configured for any method.

Predator DNC communicates up to 115K baud rate to the Haas using Xmodem and hardware handshaking.

Every Predator installation is built using Microsoft Windows Installer technology. There is extensive documentation available on Microsoft’s website.

The following primary command line options are available:
/i    Installs or configures a product
/f    Repairs a product, has 10 options
/a    Administrative install on the network
/x    Uninstalls a product
/j    Advertises a product
/l    Specifies the log file path
/p    Applies a patch
/q    Sets the user interface level
/y    Calls API register server to install
/z    Calls API register server to uninstall

A sample command line option for repairing a CNC Editor installation is as follows:

msiexec /i “predator CNC editor v6.0.msi” /fv

Predator uses a Rainbow Sentinel SuperPro key. This key is in the form of USB key. All software applications are licensed with a SIM and as such the SIM should be insured as property, for the actual cost of the software.

No. Currently, the product is designed as an application that runs on a Windows platform.

Mobile applications for Android and Apple phones and iPads are not developed. A customer can create their own applications using other applications if desired since there are APIs and open databases available.

Predator PDM is a paperless manufacturing driven Production Data Management tool. The software is designed to organize and control many facets of the shop floor.

CNC programs, setup sheets, safety procedures, quality documents, and others are under your control. Supports paperless shop floor operation with integration for CNC Communications and Machine Monitoring.

Predator PDM controls manufacturing driven processes and best practice workflows from manufacturing, quality, programming and other areas to the shop floor. 

Only the approved, released and authorized files are delivered to the shop floor operators and setup personnel to ensure the proven files are machines.  For ISO9000, ITAR, and other standards demanded by customers, Predator PDM is a solution to meet the manufacturing document control requirements.

Predator PDM supports an unlimited number of documents and support for numerous file types to be managed and viewed on the shop floor.

With the built-in viewing capability from Microsoft Internet Explorer, Predator leverages the built-in plug-in viewers supported and allows for continued upgrade path as new versions of file types are released.

For example, if Adobe released a new format or version of PDFs, Predator automatically embraces this compatibility with the new plug-ins from Internet Explorer.  A variety of files are supported for document control such as: Word, Excel, PDF, NC, TXT, STL, MPEG, TIFF. JPEG, and hundreds more.

As a manufacturer, you need to abide by legal code 21 CFR 820.40 – establishing and maintaining procedures to control documents (more info). As a business, you need to keep tax documents and any related records for anywhere from three to seven years. Employment records need to be kept for a minimum of a year and payroll records kept a minimum of three years.

There are over 140 permissions for control and management of who has access to files, approval process, released, un-released, rollback or pending files.

All security follows Microsoft standards for assigning permissions to users and groups.  Two versions of Predator PDM are available for purchase, PDM Administrator, and PDM Client.  Predator PDM Administrator allows for all control, configuration, and assignment of the security roles.

Yes. Predator PDM Client is used to view the proven, released and authorized manufacturing documents to the shop floor operator and setup users.  Once a user logs into Predator PDM with the username and password, the documents are displayed on the shop floor PC.

The operator can then deliver the NC program to the CNC machine via Predator DNC Software as well as collect real-time data on machine utilization from Predator Machine Monitoring Software.  Any other files related to the part can be viewed on the shop floor terminal providing a paperless environment.

Yes, Predator DNC supports long filenames, long directory names, names with spaces, shared network drives, and UNC names.

Refer to the following examples:

  •     Job 1234.NC
  •     H:CUSTOM PARTSJOB 4567.NC
  •     \\SERVER1\C\LARGE CUSTOMER\PART No 1234-5678.NC

Predator DNC can also automatically name your files when uploading to the server. They can be “auto-named” using their O-number, a user-chosen name, the first comment in the file, and so on.

Yes. Predator MDC supports automatic, error-free, and unattended machine monitoring for events such as job start and end, setup start and end, cycle start and end, to name a few of the events that can be monitored. This type of data is collected automatically using software, hardware, custom macros and other methods without requiring operator training or input.

A typical practice is when downloading the NC program into the machine, the system will automatically track the part #, job #, user and place the status of the work order in setup. Upon cycling the part, the status of the machine would change from in setup to in cycle.

Yes. Using Predator MDC Express, users can print out the data collection form to enter cycle information, part quantity, good and scrap parts, and other metrics. Predator MDC standard also supports manual monitoring of events that are initiated by machine operators such as machine log on/offs, downtimes, and scrap reasons.

Predator MDC can be used to manually collect data using several methods including remote request, swiping bar codes, touch screen PCs or standard PCs. SFA does provide an Android solution to also input this data via a tablet.

Yes. Dedicate one or more large-screen monitors on the shop floor for real-time digital signage using Predator MDC.

Create slides of charts, dashboards, and reports with specific filters and details. Eliminate manual posting of paper reports and charts on the shop floor. Provide a focal point for standup shop meetings while enforcing productivity and manufacturing metrics that management, engineering, and quality departments care about. Eliminate the clutter of paper and go high tech!

Over 1300 reports and charts provide unique insight into the productivity and efficiency of each manufacturer.

The flexibility of the reporting and charting options within Predator MDC converts the volume of data collected into concise reports and charts to identify issues and drive improved productivity. Eliminate manual OEE driven data collection and OEE spreadsheets. Software supports real-time OEE data collection with an OEE Dashboard, OEE Performance ranking charts, OEE Trend Analysis charts and OEE Reports.

Predator MDC standard and enterprise versions support up to 4096 CNC machines, robots, PLCs and ATE Test Stands per PC.

Data the software can monitor – simultaneous cycle time, setup time, teardown time, downtimes with reasons, good parts, scrap parts with reasons and an unlimited number of user-defined events.

Predator CNC Service is a comprehensive service designed to work with Predator MDC.

The service can be installed on a computer to communicate to various machine types using proprietary protocols. Predator MDC supports FANUC FOCAS, MTConnect, and Structured XML to capture real-time data from the machine using the network connection of the controller.

Development is also being tested for working with Okuma Thinc controllers on P100 and P200 where the service is installed on the machine. The service will then communicate through APIs and no interface is required.

Predator MDC Administrator is designed for the manufacturing department head or IS/manufacturing project lead to manage real-time machine monitoring processes centered on time and utilization. This seat is required with every purchase and allows for the creation of equipment, departments, locations, shifts, parts, reason codes, users, permissions and other administrative tasks.

Predator MDC Client is designed for personnel and users that need to run MDC reports and charts centered on time and utilization. Users can also see real-time data on a dashboard.

Predator MDC Shop Floor is designed for data entry for shop floor personnel. The software can also be used to display real-time data on the shop floor using LCD monitors or can be displayed in Engineering and Quality Departments to provide feedback on equipment status.

Most revision control software packages use a database for the backend to store “links” or flags to shared files and reference the actual file.  The problem with this system is that while you might have the NC program and can place it in a database for check-in and check-out, there is no control with these systems. Whoever saves the file last wins!

Most revision control software packages use a database for the backend to store “links” or flags to shared files and reference the actual file.  The problem is that while you might have the NC program and can place it in a database for check-in and check-out, there is no control with this system. Whoever saves the file last wins!

With a true PDM system, complete revision control, lockout, and access only can be obtained by a single user until completed.  This eliminates changes of multiple file revisions – they will be unapproved.

More on Predator PDM:

  • Paperless manufacturing-driven Production Data Management
  • Designed to organize & control CNC programs
  • Master your setup sheets, safety procedures, quality documents, & more
  • Complete revision control
  • Integration with DNC, CNC Editor, Virtual CNC, MDC & Tracker.

Predator PDM includes best practice workflow wizards for release, unreleased, revise, rollback, check-in, and check out. Every wizard honors user and group permissions and includes ISO 9000-style history.

Yes, as long as you have the permission setup for each user. If you need more help with setting up your Predator PDM software, contact us.

If you want a paperless manufacturing shop floor, Predator PDM will help you accomplish this goal.

Within Predator PDM, you will be able to pull up your Job and any file that connects to that job. PDF’s, SolidWorks, eDrawings, MS office files, and images.

Predator uses the Sentinel Hasp Key (ex: SIMs & Dongles). They are typically plugged into the USB port on the workstation or server to license the product. If you are in a virtual operating system, we have hardware that will allow this USB key to be seen. Contact our sales team for more info on how to license Predator Software applications.

Predator Software can also help with data-driven decision making in manufacturing. 

From our Predator MDC product page – Hardware-based data collection for older CNCs, manual machines, and other equipment are supported by the Predator MDC Adapter. Predator MDC Adapters are din rail mounted and are wired into signal lamps, light towers, extended M functions or any digital input or output.

Predator MDC Adapters are available in 5, 12, 24, 48, 110 and 230 volt editions. Domestic and international editions simplify installation and configuration.

RS232 Serial Cabling

Predator machine monitoring through Predator MDC is available in an Express, Standard and Enterprise versions. Each version is upgraded to the next level and includes functionality to collect data.

Predator MDC Express is a paper-based solution to allow users to collect data manually and report and chart data on events that happen previously.

Predator MDC Standard version is real-time data collection of utilization from the machines and collects cycle time, idle time, alarm and downtime.

Predator MDC Enterprise version is for companies who want to collect OEE, track parts, users, plus other metrics and interface the data with other business systems.

Yes. Predator MDC is real-time machine monitoring software that automatically collects, reports, charts and processes real-time shop floor manufacturing data including OEE, cycle time, idle time, setup time, teardown time, machine downtime and more.

Predator MDC improves manufacturing by supplying accurate shop floor metrics to improve operations and to make better decisions. The Predator MDC is an application that is installed on a computer inside the company facility.

It is only available as an on-premise solution.

Predator Flex Hardware does NOT work under Windows 7 or 8 due to the lack of support for drivers from the manufacturer. The hardware may fit inside of a PC, but known issues have been found in the reliability of communication to the CNC, as well as instances of blue screens.

We also do not recommend running the hardware in a newer PC due to lost functionality in performance and protocol support.

An upgrade is available from SFA to move towards FLEXN or FLEXW hardware, which is supported by Windows 7 and 8 and uses a network connection and network protocols instead of a dedicated ISA/PCI card on the motherboard to communicate with your FLEXN/FLEXW hardware.

Shop Floor Automations has the hardware for wireless and wired solutions on the shop floor, as well as solutions that work with the MTConnect Protocol and can connect multiple ways. Be sure to contact us for more information on what hardware is best for you, depending on your setup!

PC hardware minimum requirements to run Predator Software are a Pentium 4, AMD Athlon, or newer CPU.

40GB or larger hard disk, and 512 MB of RAM or more are the prerequisite components for a computer to run Predator Software.

Most off-the-shelf computers will far exceed these hardware requirements. Please consult with SFA on your specific software installations for the best performance and reliability.

Predator Software supports the following database versions included with Predator v10 and v9 applications: Microsoft Access 2000, 2002. 2003, 2007 and 2010 along with SQL 2000, 2005 and 2008.

Microsoft Express versions are also included for 2005 and 2008. Several customers are supported on Oracle 7, 8, 9, 10i, and 11i.

Predator v11 applications support Windows 2012, Windows 10, Oracle 12, Microsoft Access 2016, Microsoft Access 2013, Microsoft SQL Server 2016, Microsoft SQL Server 2014.

Support for the following Microsoft Windows versions are included with Predator v9 and v10 applications:

Windows 10 (v11 and newer only)
· Windows 2012 Server
· Windows 8
· Windows 7
· Windows 2008 Server
· Windows Vista
· Windows 2003 Server
· Windows XP

Support is included for both 32-bit and 64-bit systems. The latest Windows updates and service packs for each operating system should be installed on any and all computers you wish to run Predator Software.

Predator Software Serial Number and Access Codes are attributed to each legal, paid for, licensed product. These numbers are based on the SIM attached to the PC or from the network card inside of the PC.

Upon receipt of payment for the software, the permanent license will be issued. The software can be run on a temporary basis to allow users to move the software from one PC to another, as well as for evaluation periods.

You can contact your local reseller, such as Shop Floor Automations (SFA), for these codes or refer to your Predator CD label for details.

Please note that SFA can only give you the aforementioned codes and serial numbers if we were the ones who were your reseller of the product. We also do not provide support for copies of free CNC Editor available via our website.

SFA offers media replacement and 90 days of technical support for any software you have purchased from us.

You can also download recent versions of this software directly from our website. For pricing and details to replace a lost software CD, please email us or call us at (877) 611-5825.

No. The first Windows 7 version compatible of Predator DNC is Version 9. However, version 9 and version 10 are both compatible with Windows 8 and 8.1.

If you have an older version but would like to use Predator DNC on a Windows 7 machine, call us!

Yes, numerous software upgrades are available from any level of Predator DNC Hardware. Upgrades depend on each type of hardware.

The Connect series of hardware from SFA is designed to add ports at any time and offers a very easy upgrade path. Contact us to ensure there are no issues.

Yes. Haas CNC’s can communicate to Predator DNC Software using serial RS232 connection or FTP.

Haas FTP is also supported through Predator DNC to enable faster communication. Each Haas control can be configured in the software and can be configured for any method.

Predator DNC communicates up to 115K baud rate to the Haas using Xmodem and hardware handshaking.

Every Predator installation is built using Microsoft Windows Installer technology. There is extensive documentation available on Microsoft’s website.

The following primary command line options are available:
/i    Installs or configures a product
/f    Repairs a product, has 10 options
/a    Administrative install on the network
/x    Uninstalls a product
/j    Advertises a product
/l    Specifies the log file path
/p    Applies a patch
/q    Sets the user interface level
/y    Calls API register server to install
/z    Calls API register server to uninstall

A sample command line option for repairing a CNC Editor installation is as follows:

msiexec /i “predator CNC editor v6.0.msi” /fv

Predator uses a Rainbow Sentinel SuperPro key. This key is in the form of USB key. All software applications are licensed with a SIM and as such the SIM should be insured as property, for the actual cost of the software.

No. Currently, the product is designed as an application that runs on a Windows platform.

Mobile applications for Android and Apple phones and iPads are not developed. A customer can create their own applications using other applications if desired since there are APIs and open databases available.

Predator PDM is a paperless manufacturing driven Production Data Management tool. The software is designed to organize and control many facets of the shop floor.

CNC programs, setup sheets, safety procedures, quality documents, and others are under your control. Supports paperless shop floor operation with integration for CNC Communications and Machine Monitoring.

Predator PDM controls manufacturing driven processes and best practice workflows from manufacturing, quality, programming and other areas to the shop floor. 

Only the approved, released and authorized files are delivered to the shop floor operators and setup personnel to ensure the proven files are machines.  For ISO9000, ITAR, and other standards demanded by customers, Predator PDM is a solution to meet the manufacturing document control requirements.

Predator PDM supports an unlimited number of documents and support for numerous file types to be managed and viewed on the shop floor.

With the built-in viewing capability from Microsoft Internet Explorer, Predator leverages the built-in plug-in viewers supported and allows for continued upgrade path as new versions of file types are released.

For example, if Adobe released a new format or version of PDFs, Predator automatically embraces this compatibility with the new plug-ins from Internet Explorer.  A variety of files are supported for document control such as: Word, Excel, PDF, NC, TXT, STL, MPEG, TIFF. JPEG, and hundreds more.

As a manufacturer, you need to abide by legal code 21 CFR 820.40 – establishing and maintaining procedures to control documents (more info). As a business, you need to keep tax documents and any related records for anywhere from three to seven years. Employment records need to be kept for a minimum of a year and payroll records kept a minimum of three years.

There are over 140 permissions for control and management of who has access to files, approval process, released, un-released, rollback or pending files.

All security follows Microsoft standards for assigning permissions to users and groups.  Two versions of Predator PDM are available for purchase, PDM Administrator, and PDM Client.  Predator PDM Administrator allows for all control, configuration, and assignment of the security roles.

Yes. Predator PDM Client is used to view the proven, released and authorized manufacturing documents to the shop floor operator and setup users.  Once a user logs into Predator PDM with the username and password, the documents are displayed on the shop floor PC.

The operator can then deliver the NC program to the CNC machine via Predator DNC Software as well as collect real-time data on machine utilization from Predator Machine Monitoring Software.  Any other files related to the part can be viewed on the shop floor terminal providing a paperless environment.

Yes, Predator DNC supports long filenames, long directory names, names with spaces, shared network drives, and UNC names.

Refer to the following examples:

  •     Job 1234.NC
  •     H:CUSTOM PARTSJOB 4567.NC
  •     \\SERVER1\C\LARGE CUSTOMER\PART No 1234-5678.NC

Predator DNC can also automatically name your files when uploading to the server. They can be “auto-named” using their O-number, a user-chosen name, the first comment in the file, and so on.

Yes. Predator MDC supports automatic, error-free, and unattended machine monitoring for events such as job start and end, setup start and end, cycle start and end, to name a few of the events that can be monitored. This type of data is collected automatically using software, hardware, custom macros and other methods without requiring operator training or input.

A typical practice is when downloading the NC program into the machine, the system will automatically track the part #, job #, user and place the status of the work order in setup. Upon cycling the part, the status of the machine would change from in setup to in cycle.

Yes. Using Predator MDC Express, users can print out the data collection form to enter cycle information, part quantity, good and scrap parts, and other metrics. Predator MDC standard also supports manual monitoring of events that are initiated by machine operators such as machine log on/offs, downtimes, and scrap reasons.

Predator MDC can be used to manually collect data using several methods including remote request, swiping bar codes, touch screen PCs or standard PCs. SFA does provide an Android solution to also input this data via a tablet.

Yes. Dedicate one or more large-screen monitors on the shop floor for real-time digital signage using Predator MDC.

Create slides of charts, dashboards, and reports with specific filters and details. Eliminate manual posting of paper reports and charts on the shop floor. Provide a focal point for standup shop meetings while enforcing productivity and manufacturing metrics that management, engineering, and quality departments care about. Eliminate the clutter of paper and go high tech!

Over 1300 reports and charts provide unique insight into the productivity and efficiency of each manufacturer.

The flexibility of the reporting and charting options within Predator MDC converts the volume of data collected into concise reports and charts to identify issues and drive improved productivity. Eliminate manual OEE driven data collection and OEE spreadsheets. Software supports real-time OEE data collection with an OEE Dashboard, OEE Performance ranking charts, OEE Trend Analysis charts and OEE Reports.

Predator MDC standard and enterprise versions support up to 4096 CNC machines, robots, PLCs and ATE Test Stands per PC.

Data the software can monitor – simultaneous cycle time, setup time, teardown time, downtimes with reasons, good parts, scrap parts with reasons and an unlimited number of user-defined events.

Predator CNC Service is a comprehensive service designed to work with Predator MDC.

The service can be installed on a computer to communicate to various machine types using proprietary protocols. Predator MDC supports FANUC FOCAS, MTConnect, and Structured XML to capture real-time data from the machine using the network connection of the controller.

Development is also being tested for working with Okuma Thinc controllers on P100 and P200 where the service is installed on the machine. The service will then communicate through APIs and no interface is required.

Predator MDC Administrator is designed for the manufacturing department head or IS/manufacturing project lead to manage real-time machine monitoring processes centered on time and utilization. This seat is required with every purchase and allows for the creation of equipment, departments, locations, shifts, parts, reason codes, users, permissions and other administrative tasks.

Predator MDC Client is designed for personnel and users that need to run MDC reports and charts centered on time and utilization. Users can also see real-time data on a dashboard.

Predator MDC Shop Floor is designed for data entry for shop floor personnel. The software can also be used to display real-time data on the shop floor using LCD monitors or can be displayed in Engineering and Quality Departments to provide feedback on equipment status.

Most revision control software packages use a database for the backend to store “links” or flags to shared files and reference the actual file.  The problem with this system is that while you might have the NC program and can place it in a database for check-in and check-out, there is no control with these systems. Whoever saves the file last wins!

Most revision control software packages use a database for the backend to store “links” or flags to shared files and reference the actual file.  The problem is that while you might have the NC program and can place it in a database for check-in and check-out, there is no control with this system. Whoever saves the file last wins!

With a true PDM system, complete revision control, lockout, and access only can be obtained by a single user until completed.  This eliminates changes of multiple file revisions – they will be unapproved.

More on Predator PDM:

  • Paperless manufacturing-driven Production Data Management
  • Designed to organize & control CNC programs
  • Master your setup sheets, safety procedures, quality documents, & more
  • Complete revision control
  • Integration with DNC, CNC Editor, Virtual CNC, MDC & Tracker.

Predator PDM includes best practice workflow wizards for release, unreleased, revise, rollback, check-in, and check out. Every wizard honors user and group permissions and includes ISO 9000-style history.

Yes, as long as you have the permission setup for each user. If you need more help with setting up your Predator PDM software, contact us.

If you want a paperless manufacturing shop floor, Predator PDM will help you accomplish this goal.

Within Predator PDM, you will be able to pull up your Job and any file that connects to that job. PDF’s, SolidWorks, eDrawings, MS office files, and images.

Predator uses the Sentinel Hasp Key (ex: SIMs & Dongles). They are typically plugged into the USB port on the workstation or server to license the product. If you are in a virtual operating system, we have hardware that will allow this USB key to be seen. Contact our sales team for more info on how to license Predator Software applications.

Predator Software can also help with data-driven decision making in manufacturing. 

From our Predator MDC product page – Hardware-based data collection for older CNCs, manual machines, and other equipment are supported by the Predator MDC Adapter. Predator MDC Adapters are din rail mounted and are wired into signal lamps, light towers, extended M functions or any digital input or output.

Predator MDC Adapters are available in 5, 12, 24, 48, 110 and 230 volt editions. Domestic and international editions simplify installation and configuration.

Predator Software

Predator machine monitoring through Predator MDC is available in an Express, Standard and Enterprise versions. Each version is upgraded to the next level and includes functionality to collect data.

Predator MDC Express is a paper-based solution to allow users to collect data manually and report and chart data on events that happen previously.

Predator MDC Standard version is real-time data collection of utilization from the machines and collects cycle time, idle time, alarm and downtime.

Predator MDC Enterprise version is for companies who want to collect OEE, track parts, users, plus other metrics and interface the data with other business systems.

Yes. Predator MDC is real-time machine monitoring software that automatically collects, reports, charts and processes real-time shop floor manufacturing data including OEE, cycle time, idle time, setup time, teardown time, machine downtime and more.

Predator MDC improves manufacturing by supplying accurate shop floor metrics to improve operations and to make better decisions. The Predator MDC is an application that is installed on a computer inside the company facility.

It is only available as an on-premise solution.

Predator Flex Hardware does NOT work under Windows 7 or 8 due to the lack of support for drivers from the manufacturer. The hardware may fit inside of a PC, but known issues have been found in the reliability of communication to the CNC, as well as instances of blue screens.

We also do not recommend running the hardware in a newer PC due to lost functionality in performance and protocol support.

An upgrade is available from SFA to move towards FLEXN or FLEXW hardware, which is supported by Windows 7 and 8 and uses a network connection and network protocols instead of a dedicated ISA/PCI card on the motherboard to communicate with your FLEXN/FLEXW hardware.

Shop Floor Automations has the hardware for wireless and wired solutions on the shop floor, as well as solutions that work with the MTConnect Protocol and can connect multiple ways. Be sure to contact us for more information on what hardware is best for you, depending on your setup!

PC hardware minimum requirements to run Predator Software are a Pentium 4, AMD Athlon, or newer CPU.

40GB or larger hard disk, and 512 MB of RAM or more are the prerequisite components for a computer to run Predator Software.

Most off-the-shelf computers will far exceed these hardware requirements. Please consult with SFA on your specific software installations for the best performance and reliability.

Predator Software supports the following database versions included with Predator v10 and v9 applications: Microsoft Access 2000, 2002. 2003, 2007 and 2010 along with SQL 2000, 2005 and 2008.

Microsoft Express versions are also included for 2005 and 2008. Several customers are supported on Oracle 7, 8, 9, 10i, and 11i.

Predator v11 applications support Windows 2012, Windows 10, Oracle 12, Microsoft Access 2016, Microsoft Access 2013, Microsoft SQL Server 2016, Microsoft SQL Server 2014.

Support for the following Microsoft Windows versions are included with Predator v9 and v10 applications:

Windows 10 (v11 and newer only)
· Windows 2012 Server
· Windows 8
· Windows 7
· Windows 2008 Server
· Windows Vista
· Windows 2003 Server
· Windows XP

Support is included for both 32-bit and 64-bit systems. The latest Windows updates and service packs for each operating system should be installed on any and all computers you wish to run Predator Software.

Predator Software Serial Number and Access Codes are attributed to each legal, paid for, licensed product. These numbers are based on the SIM attached to the PC or from the network card inside of the PC.

Upon receipt of payment for the software, the permanent license will be issued. The software can be run on a temporary basis to allow users to move the software from one PC to another, as well as for evaluation periods.

You can contact your local reseller, such as Shop Floor Automations (SFA), for these codes or refer to your Predator CD label for details.

Please note that SFA can only give you the aforementioned codes and serial numbers if we were the ones who were your reseller of the product. We also do not provide support for copies of free CNC Editor available via our website.

SFA offers media replacement and 90 days of technical support for any software you have purchased from us.

You can also download recent versions of this software directly from our website. For pricing and details to replace a lost software CD, please email us or call us at (877) 611-5825.

No. The first Windows 7 version compatible of Predator DNC is Version 9. However, version 9 and version 10 are both compatible with Windows 8 and 8.1.

If you have an older version but would like to use Predator DNC on a Windows 7 machine, call us!

Yes, numerous software upgrades are available from any level of Predator DNC Hardware. Upgrades depend on each type of hardware.

The Connect series of hardware from SFA is designed to add ports at any time and offers a very easy upgrade path. Contact us to ensure there are no issues.

Yes. Haas CNC’s can communicate to Predator DNC Software using serial RS232 connection or FTP.

Haas FTP is also supported through Predator DNC to enable faster communication. Each Haas control can be configured in the software and can be configured for any method.

Predator DNC communicates up to 115K baud rate to the Haas using Xmodem and hardware handshaking.

Every Predator installation is built using Microsoft Windows Installer technology. There is extensive documentation available on Microsoft’s website.

The following primary command line options are available:
/i    Installs or configures a product
/f    Repairs a product, has 10 options
/a    Administrative install on the network
/x    Uninstalls a product
/j    Advertises a product
/l    Specifies the log file path
/p    Applies a patch
/q    Sets the user interface level
/y    Calls API register server to install
/z    Calls API register server to uninstall

A sample command line option for repairing a CNC Editor installation is as follows:

msiexec /i “predator CNC editor v6.0.msi” /fv

Predator uses a Rainbow Sentinel SuperPro key. This key is in the form of USB key. All software applications are licensed with a SIM and as such the SIM should be insured as property, for the actual cost of the software.

No. Currently, the product is designed as an application that runs on a Windows platform.

Mobile applications for Android and Apple phones and iPads are not developed. A customer can create their own applications using other applications if desired since there are APIs and open databases available.

Predator PDM is a paperless manufacturing driven Production Data Management tool. The software is designed to organize and control many facets of the shop floor.

CNC programs, setup sheets, safety procedures, quality documents, and others are under your control. Supports paperless shop floor operation with integration for CNC Communications and Machine Monitoring.

Predator PDM controls manufacturing driven processes and best practice workflows from manufacturing, quality, programming and other areas to the shop floor. 

Only the approved, released and authorized files are delivered to the shop floor operators and setup personnel to ensure the proven files are machines.  For ISO9000, ITAR, and other standards demanded by customers, Predator PDM is a solution to meet the manufacturing document control requirements.

Predator PDM supports an unlimited number of documents and support for numerous file types to be managed and viewed on the shop floor.

With the built-in viewing capability from Microsoft Internet Explorer, Predator leverages the built-in plug-in viewers supported and allows for continued upgrade path as new versions of file types are released.

For example, if Adobe released a new format or version of PDFs, Predator automatically embraces this compatibility with the new plug-ins from Internet Explorer.  A variety of files are supported for document control such as: Word, Excel, PDF, NC, TXT, STL, MPEG, TIFF. JPEG, and hundreds more.

As a manufacturer, you need to abide by legal code 21 CFR 820.40 – establishing and maintaining procedures to control documents (more info). As a business, you need to keep tax documents and any related records for anywhere from three to seven years. Employment records need to be kept for a minimum of a year and payroll records kept a minimum of three years.

There are over 140 permissions for control and management of who has access to files, approval process, released, un-released, rollback or pending files.

All security follows Microsoft standards for assigning permissions to users and groups.  Two versions of Predator PDM are available for purchase, PDM Administrator, and PDM Client.  Predator PDM Administrator allows for all control, configuration, and assignment of the security roles.

Yes. Predator PDM Client is used to view the proven, released and authorized manufacturing documents to the shop floor operator and setup users.  Once a user logs into Predator PDM with the username and password, the documents are displayed on the shop floor PC.

The operator can then deliver the NC program to the CNC machine via Predator DNC Software as well as collect real-time data on machine utilization from Predator Machine Monitoring Software.  Any other files related to the part can be viewed on the shop floor terminal providing a paperless environment.

Yes, Predator DNC supports long filenames, long directory names, names with spaces, shared network drives, and UNC names.

Refer to the following examples:

  •     Job 1234.NC
  •     H:CUSTOM PARTSJOB 4567.NC
  •     \\SERVER1\C\LARGE CUSTOMER\PART No 1234-5678.NC

Predator DNC can also automatically name your files when uploading to the server. They can be “auto-named” using their O-number, a user-chosen name, the first comment in the file, and so on.

Yes. Predator MDC supports automatic, error-free, and unattended machine monitoring for events such as job start and end, setup start and end, cycle start and end, to name a few of the events that can be monitored. This type of data is collected automatically using software, hardware, custom macros and other methods without requiring operator training or input.

A typical practice is when downloading the NC program into the machine, the system will automatically track the part #, job #, user and place the status of the work order in setup. Upon cycling the part, the status of the machine would change from in setup to in cycle.

Yes. Using Predator MDC Express, users can print out the data collection form to enter cycle information, part quantity, good and scrap parts, and other metrics. Predator MDC standard also supports manual monitoring of events that are initiated by machine operators such as machine log on/offs, downtimes, and scrap reasons.

Predator MDC can be used to manually collect data using several methods including remote request, swiping bar codes, touch screen PCs or standard PCs. SFA does provide an Android solution to also input this data via a tablet.

Yes. Dedicate one or more large-screen monitors on the shop floor for real-time digital signage using Predator MDC.

Create slides of charts, dashboards, and reports with specific filters and details. Eliminate manual posting of paper reports and charts on the shop floor. Provide a focal point for standup shop meetings while enforcing productivity and manufacturing metrics that management, engineering, and quality departments care about. Eliminate the clutter of paper and go high tech!

Over 1300 reports and charts provide unique insight into the productivity and efficiency of each manufacturer.

The flexibility of the reporting and charting options within Predator MDC converts the volume of data collected into concise reports and charts to identify issues and drive improved productivity. Eliminate manual OEE driven data collection and OEE spreadsheets. Software supports real-time OEE data collection with an OEE Dashboard, OEE Performance ranking charts, OEE Trend Analysis charts and OEE Reports.

Predator MDC standard and enterprise versions support up to 4096 CNC machines, robots, PLCs and ATE Test Stands per PC.

Data the software can monitor – simultaneous cycle time, setup time, teardown time, downtimes with reasons, good parts, scrap parts with reasons and an unlimited number of user-defined events.

Predator CNC Service is a comprehensive service designed to work with Predator MDC.

The service can be installed on a computer to communicate to various machine types using proprietary protocols. Predator MDC supports FANUC FOCAS, MTConnect, and Structured XML to capture real-time data from the machine using the network connection of the controller.

Development is also being tested for working with Okuma Thinc controllers on P100 and P200 where the service is installed on the machine. The service will then communicate through APIs and no interface is required.

Predator MDC Administrator is designed for the manufacturing department head or IS/manufacturing project lead to manage real-time machine monitoring processes centered on time and utilization. This seat is required with every purchase and allows for the creation of equipment, departments, locations, shifts, parts, reason codes, users, permissions and other administrative tasks.

Predator MDC Client is designed for personnel and users that need to run MDC reports and charts centered on time and utilization. Users can also see real-time data on a dashboard.

Predator MDC Shop Floor is designed for data entry for shop floor personnel. The software can also be used to display real-time data on the shop floor using LCD monitors or can be displayed in Engineering and Quality Departments to provide feedback on equipment status.

Most revision control software packages use a database for the backend to store “links” or flags to shared files and reference the actual file.  The problem with this system is that while you might have the NC program and can place it in a database for check-in and check-out, there is no control with these systems. Whoever saves the file last wins!

Most revision control software packages use a database for the backend to store “links” or flags to shared files and reference the actual file.  The problem is that while you might have the NC program and can place it in a database for check-in and check-out, there is no control with this system. Whoever saves the file last wins!

With a true PDM system, complete revision control, lockout, and access only can be obtained by a single user until completed.  This eliminates changes of multiple file revisions – they will be unapproved.

More on Predator PDM:

  • Paperless manufacturing-driven Production Data Management
  • Designed to organize & control CNC programs
  • Master your setup sheets, safety procedures, quality documents, & more
  • Complete revision control
  • Integration with DNC, CNC Editor, Virtual CNC, MDC & Tracker.

Predator PDM includes best practice workflow wizards for release, unreleased, revise, rollback, check-in, and check out. Every wizard honors user and group permissions and includes ISO 9000-style history.

Yes, as long as you have the permission setup for each user. If you need more help with setting up your Predator PDM software, contact us.

If you want a paperless manufacturing shop floor, Predator PDM will help you accomplish this goal.

Within Predator PDM, you will be able to pull up your Job and any file that connects to that job. PDF’s, SolidWorks, eDrawings, MS office files, and images.

Predator uses the Sentinel Hasp Key (ex: SIMs & Dongles). They are typically plugged into the USB port on the workstation or server to license the product. If you are in a virtual operating system, we have hardware that will allow this USB key to be seen. Contact our sales team for more info on how to license Predator Software applications.

Predator Software can also help with data-driven decision making in manufacturing. 

From our Predator MDC product page – Hardware-based data collection for older CNCs, manual machines, and other equipment are supported by the Predator MDC Adapter. Predator MDC Adapters are din rail mounted and are wired into signal lamps, light towers, extended M functions or any digital input or output.

Predator MDC Adapters are available in 5, 12, 24, 48, 110 and 230 volt editions. Domestic and international editions simplify installation and configuration.

Manufacturing Document Control

Predator machine monitoring through Predator MDC is available in an Express, Standard and Enterprise versions. Each version is upgraded to the next level and includes functionality to collect data.

Predator MDC Express is a paper-based solution to allow users to collect data manually and report and chart data on events that happen previously.

Predator MDC Standard version is real-time data collection of utilization from the machines and collects cycle time, idle time, alarm and downtime.

Predator MDC Enterprise version is for companies who want to collect OEE, track parts, users, plus other metrics and interface the data with other business systems.

Yes. Predator MDC is real-time machine monitoring software that automatically collects, reports, charts and processes real-time shop floor manufacturing data including OEE, cycle time, idle time, setup time, teardown time, machine downtime and more.

Predator MDC improves manufacturing by supplying accurate shop floor metrics to improve operations and to make better decisions. The Predator MDC is an application that is installed on a computer inside the company facility.

It is only available as an on-premise solution.

Predator Flex Hardware does NOT work under Windows 7 or 8 due to the lack of support for drivers from the manufacturer. The hardware may fit inside of a PC, but known issues have been found in the reliability of communication to the CNC, as well as instances of blue screens.

We also do not recommend running the hardware in a newer PC due to lost functionality in performance and protocol support.

An upgrade is available from SFA to move towards FLEXN or FLEXW hardware, which is supported by Windows 7 and 8 and uses a network connection and network protocols instead of a dedicated ISA/PCI card on the motherboard to communicate with your FLEXN/FLEXW hardware.

Shop Floor Automations has the hardware for wireless and wired solutions on the shop floor, as well as solutions that work with the MTConnect Protocol and can connect multiple ways. Be sure to contact us for more information on what hardware is best for you, depending on your setup!

PC hardware minimum requirements to run Predator Software are a Pentium 4, AMD Athlon, or newer CPU.

40GB or larger hard disk, and 512 MB of RAM or more are the prerequisite components for a computer to run Predator Software.

Most off-the-shelf computers will far exceed these hardware requirements. Please consult with SFA on your specific software installations for the best performance and reliability.

Predator Software supports the following database versions included with Predator v10 and v9 applications: Microsoft Access 2000, 2002. 2003, 2007 and 2010 along with SQL 2000, 2005 and 2008.

Microsoft Express versions are also included for 2005 and 2008. Several customers are supported on Oracle 7, 8, 9, 10i, and 11i.

Predator v11 applications support Windows 2012, Windows 10, Oracle 12, Microsoft Access 2016, Microsoft Access 2013, Microsoft SQL Server 2016, Microsoft SQL Server 2014.

Support for the following Microsoft Windows versions are included with Predator v9 and v10 applications:

Windows 10 (v11 and newer only)
· Windows 2012 Server
· Windows 8
· Windows 7
· Windows 2008 Server
· Windows Vista
· Windows 2003 Server
· Windows XP

Support is included for both 32-bit and 64-bit systems. The latest Windows updates and service packs for each operating system should be installed on any and all computers you wish to run Predator Software.

Predator Software Serial Number and Access Codes are attributed to each legal, paid for, licensed product. These numbers are based on the SIM attached to the PC or from the network card inside of the PC.

Upon receipt of payment for the software, the permanent license will be issued. The software can be run on a temporary basis to allow users to move the software from one PC to another, as well as for evaluation periods.

You can contact your local reseller, such as Shop Floor Automations (SFA), for these codes or refer to your Predator CD label for details.

Please note that SFA can only give you the aforementioned codes and serial numbers if we were the ones who were your reseller of the product. We also do not provide support for copies of free CNC Editor available via our website.

SFA offers media replacement and 90 days of technical support for any software you have purchased from us.

You can also download recent versions of this software directly from our website. For pricing and details to replace a lost software CD, please email us or call us at (877) 611-5825.

No. The first Windows 7 version compatible of Predator DNC is Version 9. However, version 9 and version 10 are both compatible with Windows 8 and 8.1.

If you have an older version but would like to use Predator DNC on a Windows 7 machine, call us!

Yes, numerous software upgrades are available from any level of Predator DNC Hardware. Upgrades depend on each type of hardware.

The Connect series of hardware from SFA is designed to add ports at any time and offers a very easy upgrade path. Contact us to ensure there are no issues.

Yes. Haas CNC’s can communicate to Predator DNC Software using serial RS232 connection or FTP.

Haas FTP is also supported through Predator DNC to enable faster communication. Each Haas control can be configured in the software and can be configured for any method.

Predator DNC communicates up to 115K baud rate to the Haas using Xmodem and hardware handshaking.

Every Predator installation is built using Microsoft Windows Installer technology. There is extensive documentation available on Microsoft’s website.

The following primary command line options are available:
/i    Installs or configures a product
/f    Repairs a product, has 10 options
/a    Administrative install on the network
/x    Uninstalls a product
/j    Advertises a product
/l    Specifies the log file path
/p    Applies a patch
/q    Sets the user interface level
/y    Calls API register server to install
/z    Calls API register server to uninstall

A sample command line option for repairing a CNC Editor installation is as follows:

msiexec /i “predator CNC editor v6.0.msi” /fv

Predator uses a Rainbow Sentinel SuperPro key. This key is in the form of USB key. All software applications are licensed with a SIM and as such the SIM should be insured as property, for the actual cost of the software.

No. Currently, the product is designed as an application that runs on a Windows platform.

Mobile applications for Android and Apple phones and iPads are not developed. A customer can create their own applications using other applications if desired since there are APIs and open databases available.

Predator PDM is a paperless manufacturing driven Production Data Management tool. The software is designed to organize and control many facets of the shop floor.

CNC programs, setup sheets, safety procedures, quality documents, and others are under your control. Supports paperless shop floor operation with integration for CNC Communications and Machine Monitoring.

Predator PDM controls manufacturing driven processes and best practice workflows from manufacturing, quality, programming and other areas to the shop floor. 

Only the approved, released and authorized files are delivered to the shop floor operators and setup personnel to ensure the proven files are machines.  For ISO9000, ITAR, and other standards demanded by customers, Predator PDM is a solution to meet the manufacturing document control requirements.

Predator PDM supports an unlimited number of documents and support for numerous file types to be managed and viewed on the shop floor.

With the built-in viewing capability from Microsoft Internet Explorer, Predator leverages the built-in plug-in viewers supported and allows for continued upgrade path as new versions of file types are released.

For example, if Adobe released a new format or version of PDFs, Predator automatically embraces this compatibility with the new plug-ins from Internet Explorer.  A variety of files are supported for document control such as: Word, Excel, PDF, NC, TXT, STL, MPEG, TIFF. JPEG, and hundreds more.

As a manufacturer, you need to abide by legal code 21 CFR 820.40 – establishing and maintaining procedures to control documents (more info). As a business, you need to keep tax documents and any related records for anywhere from three to seven years. Employment records need to be kept for a minimum of a year and payroll records kept a minimum of three years.

There are over 140 permissions for control and management of who has access to files, approval process, released, un-released, rollback or pending files.

All security follows Microsoft standards for assigning permissions to users and groups.  Two versions of Predator PDM are available for purchase, PDM Administrator, and PDM Client.  Predator PDM Administrator allows for all control, configuration, and assignment of the security roles.

Yes. Predator PDM Client is used to view the proven, released and authorized manufacturing documents to the shop floor operator and setup users.  Once a user logs into Predator PDM with the username and password, the documents are displayed on the shop floor PC.

The operator can then deliver the NC program to the CNC machine via Predator DNC Software as well as collect real-time data on machine utilization from Predator Machine Monitoring Software.  Any other files related to the part can be viewed on the shop floor terminal providing a paperless environment.

Yes, Predator DNC supports long filenames, long directory names, names with spaces, shared network drives, and UNC names.

Refer to the following examples:

  •     Job 1234.NC
  •     H:CUSTOM PARTSJOB 4567.NC
  •     \\SERVER1\C\LARGE CUSTOMER\PART No 1234-5678.NC

Predator DNC can also automatically name your files when uploading to the server. They can be “auto-named” using their O-number, a user-chosen name, the first comment in the file, and so on.

Yes. Predator MDC supports automatic, error-free, and unattended machine monitoring for events such as job start and end, setup start and end, cycle start and end, to name a few of the events that can be monitored. This type of data is collected automatically using software, hardware, custom macros and other methods without requiring operator training or input.

A typical practice is when downloading the NC program into the machine, the system will automatically track the part #, job #, user and place the status of the work order in setup. Upon cycling the part, the status of the machine would change from in setup to in cycle.

Yes. Using Predator MDC Express, users can print out the data collection form to enter cycle information, part quantity, good and scrap parts, and other metrics. Predator MDC standard also supports manual monitoring of events that are initiated by machine operators such as machine log on/offs, downtimes, and scrap reasons.

Predator MDC can be used to manually collect data using several methods including remote request, swiping bar codes, touch screen PCs or standard PCs. SFA does provide an Android solution to also input this data via a tablet.

Yes. Dedicate one or more large-screen monitors on the shop floor for real-time digital signage using Predator MDC.

Create slides of charts, dashboards, and reports with specific filters and details. Eliminate manual posting of paper reports and charts on the shop floor. Provide a focal point for standup shop meetings while enforcing productivity and manufacturing metrics that management, engineering, and quality departments care about. Eliminate the clutter of paper and go high tech!

Over 1300 reports and charts provide unique insight into the productivity and efficiency of each manufacturer.

The flexibility of the reporting and charting options within Predator MDC converts the volume of data collected into concise reports and charts to identify issues and drive improved productivity. Eliminate manual OEE driven data collection and OEE spreadsheets. Software supports real-time OEE data collection with an OEE Dashboard, OEE Performance ranking charts, OEE Trend Analysis charts and OEE Reports.

Predator MDC standard and enterprise versions support up to 4096 CNC machines, robots, PLCs and ATE Test Stands per PC.

Data the software can monitor – simultaneous cycle time, setup time, teardown time, downtimes with reasons, good parts, scrap parts with reasons and an unlimited number of user-defined events.

Predator CNC Service is a comprehensive service designed to work with Predator MDC.

The service can be installed on a computer to communicate to various machine types using proprietary protocols. Predator MDC supports FANUC FOCAS, MTConnect, and Structured XML to capture real-time data from the machine using the network connection of the controller.

Development is also being tested for working with Okuma Thinc controllers on P100 and P200 where the service is installed on the machine. The service will then communicate through APIs and no interface is required.

Predator MDC Administrator is designed for the manufacturing department head or IS/manufacturing project lead to manage real-time machine monitoring processes centered on time and utilization. This seat is required with every purchase and allows for the creation of equipment, departments, locations, shifts, parts, reason codes, users, permissions and other administrative tasks.

Predator MDC Client is designed for personnel and users that need to run MDC reports and charts centered on time and utilization. Users can also see real-time data on a dashboard.

Predator MDC Shop Floor is designed for data entry for shop floor personnel. The software can also be used to display real-time data on the shop floor using LCD monitors or can be displayed in Engineering and Quality Departments to provide feedback on equipment status.

Most revision control software packages use a database for the backend to store “links” or flags to shared files and reference the actual file.  The problem with this system is that while you might have the NC program and can place it in a database for check-in and check-out, there is no control with these systems. Whoever saves the file last wins!

Most revision control software packages use a database for the backend to store “links” or flags to shared files and reference the actual file.  The problem is that while you might have the NC program and can place it in a database for check-in and check-out, there is no control with this system. Whoever saves the file last wins!

With a true PDM system, complete revision control, lockout, and access only can be obtained by a single user until completed.  This eliminates changes of multiple file revisions – they will be unapproved.

More on Predator PDM:

  • Paperless manufacturing-driven Production Data Management
  • Designed to organize & control CNC programs
  • Master your setup sheets, safety procedures, quality documents, & more
  • Complete revision control
  • Integration with DNC, CNC Editor, Virtual CNC, MDC & Tracker.

Predator PDM includes best practice workflow wizards for release, unreleased, revise, rollback, check-in, and check out. Every wizard honors user and group permissions and includes ISO 9000-style history.

Yes, as long as you have the permission setup for each user. If you need more help with setting up your Predator PDM software, contact us.

If you want a paperless manufacturing shop floor, Predator PDM will help you accomplish this goal.

Within Predator PDM, you will be able to pull up your Job and any file that connects to that job. PDF’s, SolidWorks, eDrawings, MS office files, and images.

Predator uses the Sentinel Hasp Key (ex: SIMs & Dongles). They are typically plugged into the USB port on the workstation or server to license the product. If you are in a virtual operating system, we have hardware that will allow this USB key to be seen. Contact our sales team for more info on how to license Predator Software applications.

Predator Software can also help with data-driven decision making in manufacturing. 

From our Predator MDC product page – Hardware-based data collection for older CNCs, manual machines, and other equipment are supported by the Predator MDC Adapter. Predator MDC Adapters are din rail mounted and are wired into signal lamps, light towers, extended M functions or any digital input or output.

Predator MDC Adapters are available in 5, 12, 24, 48, 110 and 230 volt editions. Domestic and international editions simplify installation and configuration.