Calmotion, a leading motion control engineering organization, today announced the LANCNC-FAD controller, which allows fast drag and drop bi-directional file transfers between Fadal CNCs and PC's on a network without additional software. Also, the LANCNC-FAD uses an SD card to store programs at the CNC, allowing it to access program information even if the network crashes. As a result, such operations as DNC are unaffected by a network crash.

The LANCNC-FAD operates with standard PC software, such as MS Internet Explorer. There are no additional licenses or additional interface software requirements for the controller. A programmer can simply drag and drop a file from a PC to the controller. Once loaded on the controller, an operator can load the file into CNC memory or drip feed a program directly from the file server. Also, programs can be saved from CNC memory to the controller.

Using the SD card, files can be transferred from the machine to the server without requiring network resources. The LANCNC-FAD gathers and stores machine information, including machine parameters, as well as survey data. A user can save and restore machine information if needed in case they are lost or modified during maintenance.

Should the network crash, machine operators can access server files by plugging the LANCNC-FAD's SD memory card into the PC for an update. The standard 1 GB SD memory card can then be reinstalled into the LANCNC-FAD for immediate use. Larger memory options are available.

Commands are typed into the LANCNC-FAD controller via the keypad on the Fadal CNC pendant. The file information and the IP address assigned to the CNC are viewed on the Fadal monitor as if it were an integral part of the control. An active help menu displays available commands, eliminating memorization of file interface commands.

A search and mid-tape start function allows the start of a program at a specific location. For example, if a tool were to break, the program can be restarted at the exact location where the break occurred. Prior to executing a mid-tape start, preparatory data can be entered. X-Modem protocol is available to ensure the highest level of data packet transmission communication with the CNC.

The LANCNC-FAD can operate as a wireless server with the addition of a low-cost wireless router. This cuts the substantial cost of installing Ethernet wiring between the server and machines, as well as allows machines to be located further from the network server. Additionally, for shops that frequently move machines, it cuts the time and cost of rerouting cables.


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