One of our critical markets is high tech machining and manufacturing. From our IT practice we have every day experience with Predator DNC  solutions, Surfcam, Mastercam, GeoPath and many more related products. Since 2006 we’ve been a reseller of CIMCO Software including CIMCO Edit Professional, DNC Max, NC-Base, MDC-Max, CNC-Calc, Cimco PDM, and Mastercam Post Processors. We are proud to receive very positive feedback from our CIMCO clients for our prompt service.

We are grateful to have provided CIMCO software to these companies, and we’d love to help you:

• Custom Product Development
• Advanced Plastic Molding
• L&T Precision
• Mountain States Automation
• J J Machining, LLC
• Cutpath
• Composite Manufacturing, Inc.
• Synvasive Technology
• General Atomics
• Racetec Pistons
• Martindale Manufacturing Company
• PASCO Scientific
• Aerojet
• Stewart Tool
• Triumph Group
• Lathrom Manufacturing, Inc.
• J.C. Machining, Inc.
• Steam Turbine Blading
• Howell Precision Machine and Engineering
• Wightman Engineering
• Paul Component Engineering
• Antron Precision Machining
• DexM Aerospace
• Tri Models, Inc.
• BR Motorsports
• International Environmental
• Reata Engineering
• Masimo
• Stellar Machine
• Microphor
• CIRCOR Aerospace
• Cobb Tuning, LLC
• G&L Machining
• General Dynamics
• Calpipe Industries
• Shulte Corp
• Southwest Greene International
• AEG Industries
• Nelson Thread Grinding
• Advanced Plastic Molding
• ITT Corporation
• Calpipe Industries
• Great Plains Industries
• Ellison Technologies
• Pacific Basin Business Group
• Sherpa Design
• Toyota Racing Development
• Blue-White Industries
• Primary Weapon Systems
• RJB Industries
• Jacob Grey Precision Machining
• Watts Engineering
• Covington Engineering
• RMS Laser
• Honeywell
• Ellison Technology
• Ganesh Machinery
• Carlson Formetec
• Watts Engineering
• Caterpillar
• US Tower Corporation
• L-3 Communications Systems
• Apple
• Hiline Engineering and Fabrication
• Quality Aluminium Forge
• South Dakota School of Mines & Technology
• Evaero Aerospace
• AR Wilfley & Sons
• Gulfstream Aerospace
• Gordon Brush Manufacturing Company
• Industrial Dynamics
• CAPO Industries
• Everett Charles Technologies
• CRC Inc.

Here is the official list of hardware recommended by CIMCO for serial communications via DNC Max and CIMCO Edit:

CIMCO DNC-Max and CIMCO Edit (communications) work with all industry standard serial communication hardware devices including but not limited to multiport serial adapters (PCI) and single/multi-port Ethernet (wired and wireless) serial device servers (converters) from MOXA (www.moxa.ccom), DIGI International (www.digi.com), and Quatech (www.quatech.com). 

Because of the consistently high quality and reliability of device servers (wired and wireless) from MOXA we recommend the following devices for Ethernet based communications: NPort 5610-8, NPort 5610-16, NPort 5210, NPort 5110, NPort 2250 Plus US and NPort 2150 Plus.

For multi-port PCI serial adapters CIMCO recommends DIGI Neo Adapters and related concentrator boxes.

Some users find it useful to show the toolpath over the finished part in the backplot window on CIMCO Edit 6.1. To do this with Edit 6.1 you can manually load an STL file into the backplot window however you cannot use the STL as stock for the solid verification in CIMCO. In Mastercam X6 there are 32 bit and 64 bit versions. The C hook has not yet been installed for the 64-bit version yet but it is being worked on. Here is a method to manually import the STL file:

1. File – Save As in Mastercam
2. Select STL. Binary and Ascii files are supported in CIMCO. (early version of V6 did not support both)
3. There are no tools for transforming the STL in CIMCO. You can select different coordinate systems in the Mastercam dialog.

Backplot the NC file and then load the STL as show above.

Up to X5 when you installed CIMCO standalone version it detected Mastercam and installed a toolbar that launches the Editor and backplots the currently selected toolpath. It also transfers the correct tool info (flat, ball and bull supported).

Have a question about CIMCO Products? Don’t hesitate to call Joe at 925-272-0384 or send your question using our contact form.

You may already know that CIMCO DNC-Max provides end-to-end functionality designed to make every aspect of CNC communications more reliable and efficient. What you may not know is that to meet the demands in the marketplace for an open and scalable solution CIMCO also offers a Application Programming Interface (API) and remote control application to give users the ability to get more out of the system.

DNC-MAX Remote Control Application

Included with DNC-Max is the remote control application C:\CIMCO\DNCMax6\DNCMaxCtrl.exe. This is a command line program that can be used instead of the DNC-Max client application. Here are the available parameters for this utility:

DNC-MAX Remote Control Application

DNC-MAX Application Programming Interface

If you are writing an application that needs to use DNC-Max there is also an API that gives more options than using the remote control application. The API documentation can be supplied on request to CIMCO. Feel free to contacts us to make a formal request on your behalf.

DNC-MAX API Parameters

Both CIMCO Edit and DNC Max allow you to communicate with machines but there are significant differences. A common use of CIMCO Edit would be on a laptop that is carried around a shop as a backup, but this is not always the case. So what are the main differences between CIMCO Edit and DNC Max?

*CIMCO Editor will communicate with multiple machines at one time with additional DNC Port Licenses.

Which one is best for you?

If you are only using RS-232 and don’t have machines with complex protocols you can probably get by with CIMCO Edit. However if you are looking to get more than just communications or have complex controls, DNC Max may be the only choice for you. Call us at 925-272-0384 or use our contact form if you’d like more information about either product.

Tablet devices have become a much more viable alternative for many roles handled traditionally by touch screen PC’s and Barcode readers. This article demonstrates how an Android Tablet can be used instead of a barcode reader or touch screen PC to enter downtime reason codes at the CNC for CIMCO MDC-Max. Tablets can be configured to display live machine status, enter reason codes, and enter job information directly at the CNC.

The pictures below show a tablet mounted above the machine control. The interface is configured with real-time status info, buttons for entering downtime reasons and input fields for user input. The tablet is a SuperPad 10.2″ running Android 2.3 or later with the CIMCO MDC App installed.

Screen layout

Tablet MDC interface with areas for status, reason codes and user input.

The tablet interface is divided into 3 sections:

Status Area – this area displays the current status of the CNC machine (up to 10 items) and typically shows the machine name, Current Job, Machine Status, Cycle time and number of parts. This data is for informaton display only and can be configured at install time. This data is updated in real-tme from the MDC-Max server.

Reason Code Area – this area can display up to 20 buttons with downtime reason codes e.g. Setting, Inspection, Broken Tool, etc. These buttons are tapped by the user when e.g. a machine stops and changes the current machine’s status (displayed in the Status Area).

Input Area – this area can have up to 3 input boxes which are used to enter the Job Number, Part Number and Operator names. The user taps the input box and uses an on-screen keyboard to enter the data.

Advantages of using a tablet over barcode readers:

• When a user taps a downtime reason code the on-screen status instantly updates so the user knows the code is received by MDC-Max.
• The live status tells the operator how many parts he has produced and the cycle times.
• The live status prompts the user to enter a downtime reason when the machine stops.
• No more need to reprint barcode sheets when a downtime reason code is added.

Advantages of using a tablet over a touch screen PC:

• Inexpensive (you can fit one to every machine)
• No need for a power socket as it is powered directly from the machine tool via the MDC box
• Small size – can be mounted directly above or beside the control screen

We have added an installation guide in our Docs section for those who are interested in reading more about tablets and CIMCO MDC-Max – CIMCO MDC-Max Android Tablet Setup Guide

Read more about CIMCO MDC-Max here or contact us directly for information about MDC and tablets.

In this case story we will look at a complete MDC and DNC solution installed recently at one of our customers. This case is a great example of how MDC is used to help optimize production processes and how DNC enables data communication on the shop floor.

Our customer’s manufacturing facility hosts four Hessapp machines and five Okuma machines setup to work as production lines. Workflow and production is highly optimized and efficient – not only because of their professional team of staff but also because they greatly benefit from a CIMCO DNC solution for NC program upload and download and a CIMCO MDC solution for automatic machine data collection that provides essential information, in real-time, about every machine on the shop floor.

The MDC & DNC solution has given our customer the following immediate benefits:

• Automatic and manual collection of machine data
• Real-time monitoring of all machines
• Real-time monitoring of machine, job and part status
• Real-time overview and information about the events on the shop floor
• Performance data for all manufacturing processes
• Identification of bottlenecks in production processes
• Less paperwork
• Unlimited manufacturing data history
• Accurate production data for further analyzing

Hardware and Software

For the CIMCO DNC & MDC solution the following hardware and software were installed:

Hardware

7 x Wireless Serial Servers – MOXA NPORT W2250 PLUS
For wirelessly connecting CNC machines and Barcode readers to the existing Ethernet network.

7 x Barcode Readers – MOTOROLA SYMBOL
For logging events on the shop floor by manually scanning barcodes associated with specific events at machines.

1 x Flat Screen TV – LG 47″ LCD with mini PC, Windows XP Home, HDMI connection and wall mount holder.
For showing real-time machine status and performance on the shop floor.

Software

1 x CIMCO DNC-Max Server running as service on Windows server 2008
For transferring (upload/download) NC programs between machines and PCs.

1 x Backup service set to backup everything once a day
For securing critical production data in case of break-downs.

5 x CIMCO MDC-Max client with floating licenses
For running CIMCO MDC-Max on staff PCs and the Flat Screen TV.

Used by:

• Production Manager
• Shop floor Manager
• Inspectors
• Setters
• Flat Screen TV

Flat screen TV on the shop floor – placed where everyone can see it.

Barcodes at a machine – for manually logging events with barcode reader.

Wireless Serial Server installation at machine.

Overview of CIMCO MDC solution

The image below shows a diagram of the CIMCO MDC solution.

On the left side the machines on the shop floor are equipped with Wireless Serial Servers for network connectivity and Barcode readers for logging and sending back information about events at the machines.

On the right side are the client-PCs with CIMCO MDC-Max installed. The Production Manager uses CIMCO MDC-Max to get reports on production statistics. Setters use CIMCO MDC-Max to see timeline graphs showing performance and activity for every machine. The Flat Screen TV on the shop floor shows the current status of all machines. Everyone can see the TV and act on its real-time updates such as when a machine stops for part reloading or is down for maintenance.

In the center a server with CIMCO DNC-Max Server is responsible for storing and transferring production data between machines, Barcode readers and the client PCs. It is the core of the MDC solution and is scalable in terms of later expanding the setup to support more machines and client PCs.

Diagram of the CIMCO MDC solution.

Gathering information from the shop floor

Production data is gathered from the shop floor both automatically and manually. Automatic data is sent directly from machines and manual data is sent whenever a member of staff scans a barcode to signify an event.

As part of the installation all CNC machines were configured to send back data on three events:

• PROGRAM IS RUNNING
• SPINDLE IS RUNNING
• PART COUNT

When these events are detected on a machine it transfers that data back to CIMCO MDC-Max.

Each CNC machine in the installation is also equipped with a Barcode reader for manual data collection. Barcode readers are used by Operators, Setters and other staff members on the shop floor to log events about their operation at a machine such as JOB START, SETTING STOP, MAINTENANCE, etc.

Logging an event is simply done by scanning a barcode associated with a specific event and verifying, by looking at the flat screen TV, that the MDC system has received the event and updated the machine’s status correctly.

For this installation the following barcodes were set up:

• JOB START + job number
• JOBSTOP
• SETTING + name of setter
• SETTING STOP
• INSPECTION + name of inspector
• INSPECTION STOP
• OPERATORLOGIN + name of operator
• OPERATORLOGOFF
• MAINTENANCE + name of technicians
• MAINTENANCE STOP
• SETTING SCRAP
• DRILLING SCRAP
• PRODUCTION SCRAP
• MATERIAL SCRAP
• DRILL FAILLURE
• MEASURING FAILURE
• TURNING FAILURE
• NO CAST
• UNSPECIFIED FAILURE

CIMCO MDC-Max handles all the data that is gathered and presents it in a structured and accessible manner. Some data is sent in real-time to the Flat Screen TV on the shop floor and other data is shown in e.g. timeline graphs on client PCs or exported as detailed reports including Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE).

The following diagram shows the processes and events involved at one of the machines in the setup. Many of these events are logged and enable CIMCO MDC-Max to generate detailed statistics on each of the processes. This gives a good overview and helps identify bottlenecks.

In the diagram the following staff members are involved in the processes:

• Operators
• Setters
• Inspectors
• Technologists
• Technicians (Maintenance)

Events at a Machine

The daily usage of the CIMCO MDC solution

At our customer it has now become a daily routine to generate reports on:

• Statement of production
• Overview of shifts performances
• Performance of setters
• Performance of inspectors
• Performance of maintenance
• Planning and bonuses

Reports can be generated and exported to Microsoft Excel.

CIMCO MDC-Max is further used for the following:

• Shows real-time monitoring of CNC machine on PCs
• Shows real-time monitoring on Flat Screen TV on the shop floor
• Shop floor Manager and Setters get timeline graphs for every machine
• Inspectors easily indicate scrapped parts with a user-configured button in CIMCO MDC-Max.

Timeline graphs for each machine on the shop floor

The CIMCO DNC & MDC solution has provided our customer with a powerful tool to help them optimize and monitor their day-to-day production. A solution that, according to our customer, has resulted in an increase in productivity.

It is possible to remote request multiple files in a single remote request program.

Example remote request program:
%
O9999
(/REQ 1234)
(/REQ 2345)
M30
%

Enable multi file request under Receive – Advanced settings.

Log shows that multiple files have been requested when receiving the single remote request program. In this case the requested files do not exist.

The only thing better than using the worlds #1 NC Editor is getting a fresh new version in your hands. Cimco’s expanded team of developers have been working hard on version 7 and we are anticipating it’s release very soon. Here is a sneak peak into a few features that will be added in v.7:

• Solid simulation with tool animation for milling and turning.
• Automatic Scanning of tools from the NC Program
• Automatic scanning of stock dimensions from NC program
• Load/Save tool chains
• Search/Replace multiple lines
• Support for Fagor

Here is a screenshot of the new Solid Simulation (Milling) this will be a great addition to people who are already using our backplot feature and incentive for those of you who might be considering an upgrade from Mastercam OEM or another older CIMCO Editor:

Any customer with valid maintenance will automatically be eligible to upgrade to this latest release. Give us a call at 925-272-0384 to be among the first to know when Version 7 is officially released or to inquire about the beta program.

Job Listing – CIMCO Support Representative/Installer

Geographic Area:

• West Coast/USA – Preferably California.

Top Skills Desired:

• DNC/MDC Installation Experience
• Networking/IT
• Manufacturing
• CNC Maintenance Procedures

Description:

We are seeking a candidate that can assist with support and installation of CIMCO systems primarily DNC, MDC and PDM. The candidate ideally would be located on the west coast, but other areas will be considered with the right candidate. Training is possible with the right foundation of skills and abilities.

Call Joe at 925-272-0384 or apply online.

The post Now Hiring Support and Installation Technician appeared first on Managed Solutions.

Manufacturing has become a very distributed global enterprise, many of the worlds top producers have facilities all around the globe. This creates unique problems for these complex supply chains. Representing a software company with a very large global presence, we understand this dilemma all too well. To respond to the rapidly changing marketplace, CIMCO has integrated some leading edge web and mobile support into their latest suite of communications and data collection products. This paves the way for a new era in remote communications, management and monitoring for CNC machines.

DNC Max Web

CNC communications have achieved new heights via a web client that allows you to manage your machines directly from a web browser. As a result any computer or mobile device with a modern web browser can Manage DNC-Max. The interface is responsive, which allows the screens to scale to a variety of desktop resolutions as well as tablets and phones.

The web client displays a list of your machines as well as the current status with an easy to see progress bar for the current transmission.

DNC Max 7 Web on Windows PC

Does your production manager prefer an iPad or Tablet? This is not a problem:

DNC Max 7 Web on iPad

Or perhaps you would prefer to monitor things using your iPhone or Smart Phone:

DNC Max 7 Web on iPhone

Still powerful and capable

DNC Max 7 Web Client is also very powerful and capable. Just because it is mobile does not mean it cannot perform the usual roles just like you would on the desktop client including:

• Send and receive files on the DNC-Max Server using the file browser.
• Stop a transmission.
• Restart a machine.
• Remove items from the transmission queue.

MDC Max Web

The new MDC-Max web client allows mobile equipped users to access and interact with the operator screens. Using responsive design the system scales to fit a variety of devices. The sub screens, buttons and inputs are all available. Everything is very easy to setup and use. This system will provide you with the flexibility to access the operator panels from devices of your choosing:

MDC Max 7 Web on Windows PC

MDC Max 7 Web Client on iPad

MDC Max 7 Web Client on iPhone

Want to find out how these options will work with your CNC Environment? Give us a call to discuss your project. 925-272-0384 or use our convenient contact form.

The post CIMCO DNC and MDC Clients go Mobile appeared first on Managed Solutions.

If you have not visited our site recently, you might notice some big changes here. You will find a walk through the history of what led to these changes on the about page. The short version is that effective October 2013 we have stopped taking on new IT Customers to focus on expanding our CIMCO product sales and services to CNC Manufacturers.

What does it mean to our IT Customers?

It means that thanks to your support over the years, we are able to make this transition without impacting the IT services that we provide to you at all. You are like family, having worked together with us for 10, or even 15+ years. You shouldn’t notice any difference now, 6 months from now or 5 years from now. Our commitment to you is unchanged.

What about the IT Based Content?

We have several hundred pieces of content related to Information Technology and they have a new home, right on Joe’s Blog. So if you have no interest in the new focus here, you can follow that blog and still access all the existing content.

Image credit: Mark Hunter, Creative Commons

What information are you after?

Now that you know what our focus is, what kind of content would you like to see? We welcome your recommendations via the comments below or directly via contact.

The post Managed Solutions Moves to CIMCO Focus appeared first on Managed Solutions.

The much anticipated CIMCO Edit 7 includes Solid Simulation of both the tool and stock in the backplot mode. We’ve just added this video to our Youtube channel to show this function to people who have not yet tried or upgraded to CIMCO Edit 7.

Updated 10/22/2013 – Here is a 3D Turning Simulation:

Learn more about CIMCO Edit 7.

The post Solid Simulation in CIMCO Edit 7 Backplot (Video) appeared first on Managed Solutions.

There is a myth that a Machine Data Collection (MDC) solution only benefits management. The truth is that it helps everyone, not just those in the back office crunching the numbers. You might be thinking:

“I would like to install MDC-Max but I know there will be resistance from the shop floor.”

Many shop floor staff are suspicious of monitoring systems as they see it as “big brother” watching them trying to get them to work harder. However, the staff can actually benefit from MDC-Max, since it can highlight problems that have been apparent to them for some time, but of which they have been unable to convince the management.

We installed MDC-Max at a company that was not hitting production targets, and where the production manager was being pushed to increase production. He had already reported problems with several of the machines that made it impossible to hit the targets, but nothing had been done. Two weeks after installation the production manager sat down with the MD, and the MDC-Max figures showed conclusively that 2 machines were indeed causing the backlog in production.

The machines in question were bar fed machines, and the company had switched to a cheaper material supplier, but the bars were constantly sticking and jamming the machines causing lost production. MDC-Max highlighted this problem and the company changed back to their original supplier and are now hitting their production targets.

CIMCO MDC-Max highlights manufacturing problem within 24 hours of installation

A CIMCO Machine Data Collection (MDC) system was recently installed at a customer site that had tooling cost issues. The Production director had only recently taken over the management of the shop floor and felt that the tooling costs were too high. CIMCO MDC-Max was installed and completed before the night shift arrived. The next morning the production director checked the monitoring data collected from the machines and immediately had his answer. The night shift cycle times for 4 machines were 30% less than during the day and the same machines were stopped for over an hour at the end of the shift. The operators had turned up the feed rates so they could take a break at the end of their shift. But the increased feed rates resulted in poor tool tip life and increased tooling costs. The customer now has reduced tooling costs while still achieving the same production schedules and says that the system will pay for itself in a matter of months.

CIMCO MDC-Max tracks reasons for machine down time

At a large Aerospace contractor they were concerned that their production was not keeping up with demand and had made the decision to buy several additional machines. They were suggested to check the runtime clocks on the machines for a week to see how much production time was being achieved. They were astonished to find that their machine utilization was below 50% but could not get an accurate picture of why this was happening. CIMCO MDC-Max was installed to monitor the machines along with bar code readers for the operators to swipe downtime codes. MDC highlighted several problems in production, two of which were poor maintenance response and failure to replace tooling quickly enough to get the machine back in production. Following the MDC-Max installation the customer implemented several measures including a priority system for maintenance and availability of new pre-set tools. They now achieve overall machine utilization of over 68% and meet their production targets which has increased profitability so they can now invest in a new plant.

CIMCO MDC-Max keeps lights-out machining on track

A North West company approached the Advanced Machining Centre in Nelson to find them a solution to their lights-out machining problems. They had 4 automatic bar fed lathes that ran through the night, but occasionally one would stop and no one was there to fix the problem and restart production. It was decided to install CIMCO MDC-Max which monitored in-cycle from the machines and – if the machines stopped – it would send an email and a text message to a stand-by operator at home. The company has increased production and machine utilization without having to pay increased wage costs.

These are real examples from CIMCO A/S, download the full brochure for MDC-Max. CIMCO MDC-Max Brochure (English) you might also want to check out the MDC-Max Product page for more information.

What problems are you looking to solve?

Do you have problems you think Machine Data Collection could solve? Let’s talk about it.

The post Real World Reasons to Implement Machine Data Collection appeared first on Managed Solutions.

The modern manufacturer seeks ways to improve all aspects of production. Many have turned to Machine Data Collection (MDC) to provide deeper insights into what is occurring on the shop floor. Implementing MDC can be challenging, however, considering the age, make and type of CNC machines utilized. This guide will help you plan ahead for an MDC installation and start to consider some possible roadblocks before you get too far down this road.

DNC/Communication Methods

CIMCO MDX-Max is very closely tied to DNC-Max. This is because of the integration between both the DNC system itself often providing key information for the data collection system but also between the MDC software and other related applications such as PDM and/or NC-Base. Let’s start the planning by identifying how you presently communicate with your machines. There are 6 methods that files are uploaded to your controls:

• By hand (USB or Floppy)
• Via RS-232 Upload or Remote Request
• Via RS-232 Drip Feed (Not stored on control/continuous feed)
• Ethernet – FTP
• Ethernet – NFS
• Ethernet – Directory Monitor

In many cases existing infrastructure can be used or altered slightly to accommodate the MDC solution. There are actually 3 corresponding ways for MDC to gather data for a particular CNC machine:

• Via dprnt statement/Macro (RS-232 Machines w/ Macro Support)
• Via network system (Fanuc FOCAS, Haas Mnet, MTConnect, Heidenhein LSV2)
• Via Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) signal acquisition

Using dprnt statements provides much more limited information from the CNC. Basically you can only gather cycle start, cycle stop, and part count. Network systems are extremely useful and provide much more detailed information right out of the box. This is our preferred method whenever possible, to gather MDC data from a CNC machine. PLC Signals are very reliable but can require great knowledge of the CNC machine in order to gather all of the required signals. They often tie into the pilot lamps to get the basics – cycle start/cycle stop. More advanced signals may or may not be supported depending on the machine.

Communication Roadblocks

If you currently use USB or Floppy disks to get files to your CNC machines, your road to implementing MDC will be longer. If you have Ethernet or RS-232 cabling already in place, things should move much more quickly. Ethernet is our preferred method, we can use it for any type of machine. We provide a document you can use to survey your equipment for the most important variables. To receive a copy use our Service Inquiry Tool or call +1-925-272-0384. Older machines may also lack some features that are necessary for advanced MDC installs. If you have very old CNC Machines, you are likely to experience some roadblocks to implementing advanced MDC functions, so also keep that in mind.

Planning for Operator Input

There are a number of situations where human input is required to appropriately track what is occurring on the machine. For example if a machine alarms, it is possible in some cases to get data about the alarm from FOCAS, M-Net or MTConnect but what about other cases? Or how about when a CNC Machine is idle, won’t we want to know why? For this reason one of the most common operator inputted information is related to why a machine is not running such as:

• Setup
• Inspection
• Tooling Issue
• Maintenance
• Scrap Part
• No Operator Available

These are just examples of the reason codes, depending on your application these can be customized and inputted one of several ways:

• Barcode Reader
• Computer Terminal
• Tablet

Each of these methods has it’s own unique advantages and it’s often a matter of preference or access to existing equipment. If for example you have Windows PC’s on your network located around your machining cells it might make sense to just utilize that existing equipment. Most of our customers use bar-code readers, which can do double duty such as remote-request files from the DNC system. With the new web client you can use almost any device. It is also worthy of mention that a number of things can be derived from the .nc file itself including the part number, client name or virtually anything.

Operator Roadblocks

It is sometimes perceived that an MDC system will be viewed like “big brother” watching the employees. The reality we have discovered is that in many cases MDC is instrumental in informing management of things that the operators may already know. Good examples of this are problems related to maintenance, materials or even tooling. Get input from your operators on what they feel the bottlenecks are while planning your MDC install.

What Information do You Need?

Manufacturers often look at industry key performance indicators such as Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE). You might have other metrics that are equally important if not more important to your facility. You might also have specific problems or bottlenecks you are trying to solve. Our customers have identified everything from raw material quality problems to high tooling cost issues. The basic MDC install is designed to see if your machines are running and if they aren’t why they aren’t. Do you want more? Think about your specific challenges and share those with us during the process. You don’t have to be an MDC expert, that’s our job. Still not sure how to proceed? Contact us using the form below or send an inquiry and we’ll help you make sense of it all.

The post Planning Your Machine Data Collection Install appeared first on Managed Solutions.

Licensing should not be complicated and luckily CIMCO believes this philosophy. To keep things simple there are two highly effective ways that CIMCO Products are licensed in North America.

• Activation Based
• Network License Server

Activation Based License

The “standard” CIMCO license is activation based, that is a license without a license server. The software license you get from us will be allowed a certain number of activation’s based upon the number of seats that you purchased. Each activation is associated with one physical (or virtual) computer. This license model is typically used in these situations:

• Where a single or very small number of licenses are involved
• Where the customer does not want to have a license server
• Situations where a TCP/IP Network is not available

The activation process is actually pretty simple, the user installs the product such as CIMCO Edit and then runs the product for the first time. On Windows Vista/7/8 you will right click and choose “run as administrator” when launching for the first time one of two things will occur. The system will either start in demo mode if the computer has never run CIMCO Edit:

You may wish to take advantage of the DEMO mode, as it does include options you might not have in the license you purchased such as CNC-CALC. If you want to go ahead and apply the license key file you click “Find keyfile” and browse to a directory where you saved the license file you received from us. This could be either a permanent or temporary license. You will then be prompted to activate:

At this point you can click the “You can obtain the Activation Key by clicking on this text” if the computer has internet access and it will generate an activation key for you. Once established this key is unique to the computer and to move or re-install you may require a re-activation. We will explain that procedure later in this article. If the computer is not connected to the Internet you will need to write down the System Identification Number and type it into the CIMCO Activation Page. That page will return the key that you will need to type in to the Activation Key box as pictured above.

Problems with Activation and Demo Mode

If CIMCO Edit has been run in demo mode previously on your computer, you will get a message indicating that the demo has expired prompting you for a key file. If you found this article while trying to Demo CIMCO Edit, you can request a temporary file from us in these situations. Support is always available also for activation issues.

Moving your License or Re-installing on a Failed System

It is sometimes necessary to move the CIMCO software from one machine to another, or just re-install on a completely failed machine such as one that has a failed hard disk. In both situations the procedure involves contacting us to re-activate your license. We can do this quickly for you, just be sure to include your Company Name and Address so we can locate your license in the system.

CIMCO Network License Server

The license server is used in more complex configurations with multiple users. The typical applications are:

• Multiple licenses or even multiple CIMCO products are in use
• Where you desire to share a license across a number of computers
• When a TCP/IP Network is utilized

The network license server requires a little more effort but is still relatively simple to implement. We have several entries in our Product Documentation about the License Server. Keep in mind you can collapse or expand each category as needed:

CIMCO License Server

Running a Network License Server

This document describes how to set up the CIMCO Network License Server.

When using the license server, the customers can install the CIMCO products listed below, on as many computers as they wish. However, only the licensed number of products can run at the same time. This is also known as a floating license.

The license server works with the following products:

• CIMCO Edit
• CIMCO DNC-Max Server
• CIMCO DNC-Max Client
• CIMCO NC-Base Server
• CIMCO NC-Base Client
• CIMCO MDC-Max Client

The license server can only be installed on Windows NT 4, Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows Server 2003, Windows Server 2008 and Windows Server 2012. However, license clients can run on all supported platforms.

A special network license keyfile is needed to run the license server, and only one license server can be installed on a network. The license server cannot run in demo mode or with regular key files. Make sure you have a valid License server license file before starting, ask us if you’re not sure..

The license server runs as a Windows Service, and does not require that a user is logged in on the computer. The license server will automatically start when the computer is started.

System Requirements

The license server can be installed on any computer on the network. If you are planning to install a DNC-Max or NC-Base server, we recommend that you install the license server on the same computer.

Server Requirements

• Pentium III / 300MHz or better.
• 64 Mb of memory (128 Mb for Window XP / Server 2003 or newer)
• 20 Mb of disk space.
• Network adapter with TCP/IP enabled.
• NT 4, Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows Server 2003, Windows Server 2008 or Windows Server 2012.
• CIMCO Network License Server installation file.
• A CIMCO Network License Keyfile.

Minimum service pack level: NT4 SP3, Windows 2000 SP2, Windows XP and newer SP1.

The license server uses about 4 Mb of memory, and few system and network resources, and will cause a minimal load on the server.

Client Requirements

• Network adapter with TCP/IP enabled.
• One or more CIMCO Software products.

The license server installation is included in the DNC-Max software package; however, you do not need to run DNC-Max to use the license server. The DNC-Max software package can be downloaded from CIMCO.

Installation

First you must log on using an account with full administrative privileges.

If you have a previous version of the license server installed, you should stop it before proceeding with the installation. If you do not stop it, you will be prompted to reboot the computer when the installation is completed.

Start the installation program by clicking on the setup icon. Now follow the instructions on the screen. On the Select Components page you must select the CIMCO Network License Server.

When the installation is completed, you will find a shortcut to the license server console in the CIMCO Software program group in the Start menu.

Starting the Server

Start the license server console by clicking on the Network License Server icon in the CIMCO V7 program group. This will bring up the license server console shown below.

• In Windows Vista/7/8 remember to right-click on the program icon and select Run as administrator to start this program.
• To start the console from a command line, type CIMCOLicenseSrv.exe.

CIMCO Network License Server console.

When you start the console for the first time, the server status should be Service stopped, and the license information field should say “No valid keyfile found!”.

To start the server you must first select a keyfile that should be used. To do this, press Select Keyfile. If you have selected a valid keyfile, the keyfile will be copied to the license server directory, and the server is started automatically.

If the selected license key requires an activation key, the activation key dialog is shown. See Activation Keys for further information.

If there is a problem starting the server, please refer to Trouble Shooting.

•Activation Keys
•Temporary Keys

Running the Server

Once the license server service is running, you can close the license server console. The license server will keep running in the background.

To check the status of the license server, just open the license server console again.

At the top of the license console you can check the server status. Unless a problem has been detected, the server status should read Service started.

On the left hand side are 1-7 fields (depending on the keyfile), that show the current license status.

The license information field contains 3 numbers: The number of active clients, the number of licensed/allowed clients, and the number of license request that has been rejected within the last 24 hours.

Example: 1 / 4 / 0 ( 1 active / 4 allowed / 0 rejected )

The information is provided for the following products:

• Standard Editors - Number of active Standard Editor clients.
• Professional Editors - Number of active Professional Editor clients.

If both Standard and Professional Editors are licensed in the same keyfile, disable the Backplot and Advanced NC-Functions plugins on those editors that should run as Standard Editors.

• NC-Base Clients - Number of active NC-Base clients. Since the NC-Base client also requires the Editor, this number will be the same as the number of Editors, unless one or more Editor have disabled the NC-Base client, in which case this number might be lower.
• DNC-Max Servers - Number of active DNC-Max servers.
• DNC-Max Clients - Number of active DNC-Max clients. This includes stand-alone clients as well as clients running inside the editor.
• CNC-Calc - Number of active CNC-Calc clients.
• Mazak Viewer - Number of active Mazatrol Viewers.

No information is provided for NC-Base servers, since only one NC-Base server should be in use at any given time.

To the right of the license information is the License Server Log.

Clients

Normally no setup is needed in the client applications. When a client is started for the first time, it will attempt to automatically connect to the license server. If you intend to run a client based on a license server, you should delete any key files in the client directory (e.g. license.key).

If you have been running a demo version of the product, and the demo period has not yet expired, the following dialog is shown:

Click Contact License Server to connect to connect to the license server.

If the demo period has expired, the following message is shown:

In this case click OK to connect to the license server.

If the client is located on the same IP subnet as the license server, the client will automatically locate the server and attempt to acquire a license.

If the license server is located on a different IP subnet, or the license server has been stopped, the client cannot automatically locate the license server, in which case the client application will prompt the user to specify the name or IP address of the license server as shown below.

Use this dialog to manually specify the name or TCP/IP address of the license server, as shown below.

The specified name/address is stored in the client configuration file, and will be used the next time the client is started.

If the client is unable to contact the license server that was last used, it will attempt to automatically locate a new server. If a new server is found, the client will acquire a license from the new server, and use this server in the future. If no server is found, the following message is shown:

After clicking on OK, the user is prompted to specify the name/address of the license server as described above.

If there is a problem connecting to the server, please refer to Trouble Shooting.

Static IP vs. DHCP

The Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) is an Internet protocol for automating the configuration of computers that use TCP/IP. DHCP can be used to automatically assign IP addresses, to deliver TCP/IP configuration parameters such as the subnet mask and default router.

Using DHCP on a client should not cause any problems, however there are some issues when using DHCP on the server.

If the server is located on the same IP subnet as the clients, the clients will be able to detect the server, even if the IP address of the server is changed. However, the client stores the address of the last server that was used, and will try to connect to the stored server when it is started. Only if the server fails to respond within 2 seconds, will the client attempt to locate a new server. So every time the server changes IP address, there will be a 2 second delay when starting a client.

A solution to this problem is to utilize a dynamic DNS (Domain Name Server) or Microsoft WINS (Windows Internet Name Service) that will map a server name to the current IP address of the server.

If the server is on a different subnet, the client application will prompt the user to specify the name or address of the server, as described in Clients. In this case, just enter the server name and not the IP address as shown below.

If the server is on a same subnet as the client, this dialog is never shown, since the client can obtain the server IP address automatically. To force the client application to use the name of the server, you must manually edit the client configuration file as shown below:

[LICENSE]
LICENSESERVER = Server name
The Editor / NC-Base Client configuration is stored in CIMCOEdit6\Cfg\Cimco.ini.
The NC-Base Server configuration is stored in NCBase6\Cfg\NCBaseSrv.ini.
The DNC-Max Server configuration is stored in DNCMax6\Cfg\DNCMax.ini, and the DNC-Max Client stores the configuration in DNCMax6\Cfg\DNCAdm.ini.
The MDC-Max Client configuration is stored in MDCMax6\Cfg\MDCMax.ini.

Using Multiple Network Adapters

Normally it should not cause any problems if the server or client has multiple network adapters installed, but in some cases this can cause problems.

If a client with multiple network adapters has problems connecting to the license server, the solution is to specify which adapter is connected to the server. To do this, you must manually edit the client configuration file, and set:

[LICENSE]
LICENSEADAPTER = TCP/IP address of adapter to use

This will only work if the client is assigned a static IP address, or if the client is issued a permanent DHCP address.

If clients are having trouble connecting to a license server with multiple network adapters, the solution is to manually specify which adapter should receive connections from license clients. To do this, you must manually edit the license server configuration file (Cfg\License.ini) and set:

[GLOBAL]
LICENSEADAPTER = TCP/IP address of adapter to use

This solution requires that all clients are connected to the same adapter on the server. If that is not the case, it will not be possible to run a license server.

This will only work if the server is assigned a static IP address, or if the server is issued a permanent DHCP address. You must restart the server after updating the configuration file.

How to Backup/Restore the Server Configuration

Unless you changed the adapter settings as specified in Using Multiple Network Adapters, you only need to backup the keyfile. All other server settings are auto configured when you re-install the application.

If you changed the adapter settings, you should also backup the configuration file Cfg\License.ini.

If you need to restore the server, simply re-install the license server, and copy the keyfile (and configuration file) back.

Troubleshooting – General

Always start by making sure that the network is properly configured on both the server and the client.

The easiest way to check this is to ping the server from the client. If the client cannot ping the server, it will not be able to obtain a license.

Troubleshooting – Server Cannot Start or Shuts Down

The following should help you solve problems related to starting the server, or the server suddenly shutting down.

Failure accessing install service
This indicates that there was a problem installing the service. Additional information is provided that should help you solve the problem.

Try rebooting the system. This will reset the service manager entry for the license server, and might solve the problem.

Remember to log on with an account that has full system administration privileges.

If you are still unable to start the service, delete all references to CIMCOLICENSESRV in the registry, then reboot and try again.

Multiple license servers detected
Only one license server is allowed on the network. If you receive this message, the other license server on the network has likely been shut down as a result, and you can simply hit Start again to start this server.

Server problem detected – Restarting server
This error indicates a problem with the network.

Unless you also receive a Unable to correct problem – Shutting down! message, it was a temporary glitch, and the server will keep running.

Unable to correct problem – Shutting down!
If you manually specified the adapter to use, as described in Using Multiple Network Adapters, make sure you specified the correct IP address.

The license server uses 2 ports: 4440 (TCP) and 4441 (UDP). If any of these ports are used by another application, the server cannot start. To verify if this is the problem, you can temporarily change the ports used by the server by manually editing the server configuration file (Cfg\License.ini) and set:

[GLOBAL]
LICENSEPORTTCP = 8440
LICENSEPORTUDP = 8441

If the server can start after this, it is likely that one of these ports is in use by another application. However, since the clients are still connecting to the original ports, the license server is of little use unless you change the values back. If you are unable to change the ports used by the other application, it is possible to reconfigure the clients to connect to the new ports. You will have to contact CIMCO support to obtain information on how to do this.

Could not load keyfile
Make sure a valid server license key is located in the program directory.

Start/Stop button is disabled
Make sure a valid server license key is located in the program directory.

Activation key not entered
Restart the setup program and enter the activation key.

License expired
The activation key was not entered within 7 days of installing the server, or the dongle was not found. Restart the setup program and enter the activation key, and/or make sure the dongle is connected.

Could not initialize TCP/IP layer
Make sure TCP/IP support is installed.

Troubleshooting – Client is Unable to Obtain a License

The following should help you solve problems with clients that are unable to connect to the license server.

Client doesn’t contact the license server
Make sure there is no regular keyfile in the client program directory.

Unable to contact server

• Check the server log for errors.
• Make sure the client can ping the server.
• Try specifying the IP address and not the name of the server.
• If either the client or the server has multiple network adapters installed, please read Using Multiple Network Adapters.
• If the server is using DHCP, please read Static IP vs. DHCP.
• Disable any firewall software running on the client and/or server, or allow the client/server access to port 4440 (TCP), and 4441 (UDP).
• Make sure no other application is using port 4440.
• Try increasing the client network timeout by specifying the following in the client configuration file:

[LICENSE]
LICENSETIMEOUT = 3

License server not responding
This message is shown when the client starts, and it is unable to contact the license server. If the license server has changed name/address the client will automatically re-connect to the new address, if the server is located on the same IP subnet, otherwise the user must specify the new server address/name manually. If the client is still unable to connect after specifying the new address please refer to the Unable to contact server section above.

Connection to license server lost
If the client is disconnected from the network, or the server is shut down, the client will lose the connection to the server. This will only affect the editor, which is unable to open new documents until the connection has been restored. All other client applications (NC-Base Client, DNC-Max Server and DNC-Max client), will continue to function normally. As soon as the license server is restarted, or the network connection is restored, the license clients will automatically reconnect. If the address of the license server has changed, the clients must be restarted.

Date/time out of sync with the license server
The date/time of the server and clients must be synchronized. If the difference is more than 7 days, the client is refused a license. To solve the problem, adjust the date/time on the server and/or clients.

Old license server version detected
A new version of the client was installed, which is incompatible with the current version of the license server. To correct the problem update the license server to the latest version. If you update the server you will have to update all client applications as well.

New license server version detected
A new version of the license server was installed, which is incompatible with the current version of the client software. To correct the problem update the client software to the latest version. If you are still unable to connect to the server, make sure there is no problem with the network cable/configuration. A simple way to check the reliability of the network is to continuously ping the server from the client using ping -n 9999 servername.

License Server Log

The license server log lists all license activities, and any problems detected by the license server.

Example of log entries:

[09-06-2013 14:52:05] Client accepted: SHOP04 (Editor, NC-Base Client)
[09-06-2013 14:53:33] Client accepted: SHOP07 (Editor, NC-Base Client)
[09-06-2013 14:54:14] Client rejected: SHOP03 (NC-Base Clients rejected:4)
[09-06-2013 14:55:27] Client accepted: SERVER02
[09-06-2013 14:57:02] Client removed: SHOP04 (Editor, NC-Base Client)

The first entry shows that client SHOP04 successfully acquiring an Editor and NC-Base client license.

The second entry shows that client SHOP07 successfully acquiring an Editor and NC-Base client license as well.

The third entry shows that client SHOP03 was denied a license to run an NC-Base client. The number 4 indicates that 4 clients have been denied an NC-Base client license within the last 24 hours.

The fourth entry shows that the client SERVER02 requested license information from the server, but no specific license was requested. This happens if the NC-Base server on DNC-Max Service Manager is started. This application only needs to verify that the application is licensed, but does not need an actual license to run. The client name is the same as the computer name.

Any errors detected by the server are shown in red. In most cases, errors will result in the server shutting down.

Example of log error:

[09-06-20123 15:22:05] Multiple license servers detected – Shutting down!

By default the log is limited to 100 kb and old entries are automatically removed. To change the size of the log file, open the server configuration file (Cfg\License.ini) and set:

[GLOBAL]
LOGSIZE = Size of log in kb.
You must restart the server after updating the configuration file.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I run the license server as a 30 day demo?
No. If you wish to try the license server, you must request a temporary keyfile from your CIMCO reseller.

Can I use my regular keyfile with the license server?
No, a network license key is needed.

Can I use my network license key as a regular keyfile?
No.

Can I upgrade my regular key to a network license?
Yes, but you will be charged a fee.

Does the license server work with V4 products?
No.

I’m only running DNC-Max, should I get a network license?
No, there are no technical or financial benefits in getting a network license if you are only using DNC-Max. DNC-Max supports floating clients by default.

Are local DNC-Max clients free?
When using the license server, a license must be purchase for every client, even local clients running on the DNC-Max server.

When running DNC-Max without a license server, local clients are free. However, the total cost is the same as when using a license server, since the base cost of the server is lower.

Will DNC-Max stop working if the network goes down?
No, DNC-Max only requires a license server is present when it starts.

Will the Editor stop working if the network goes down?
No, you will not lose any work. However, you cannot open new files until the connection to the license server is restored.

Can reseller keys be used with the license server?
Yes, the only type of keys that works as both a regular and a network keyfile are reseller keys.

Does the license server work with CIMCO FTP/CIMCO NFS?
No.

Can I have both Standard and Professional versions of the Editor?
Yes. If both Standard and Professional Editors are licensed in the same keyfile, disable the Backplot and Advanced NC-Functions plugins on those editors that should run as Standard Editors.

Can I also use regular keyfiles when using a license server?
You can have some editors using a license server, and others using a regular keyfile. However, all DNC-Max servers must use either a license server, or a regular keyfile.

Still have questions or need support?

We are available to assist you with your questions about CIMCO licensing or any CIMCO product. Want to learn more about CIMCO Products or make a detailed inquiry?

The post CIMCO Licensing Options appeared first on Managed Solutions.

One of the most exciting developments in the CIMCO side of things has been the development of their training and educational program. Consider this a bit of a sneak peak of some upcoming content on this subject, for now we’re introducing you to the CNC Handbook. The main areas the handbook covers are:

• Introduction & CNC Process Overview
• Shop Safety
• CNC Tools
• Coordinate System
• CNC Programming Language
• CNC Operation
• 2D Milling Toolpaths
• CNC Turning
• 3D Toolpaths
• Milling Setups
• Appendices (Holding, Tool Setting, References, Glossary)

Who is this guide for?

We hope that this valuable resource will help educate future generations of CNC Programmers and refresh certain aspects of the development of seasoned machinists alike.

Click this image to see the full CIMCO Documentation

The post Introducing CIMCO CNC Handbook appeared first on Managed Solutions.

If you’re running CIMCO PDM and want an easy way to make a one-time backup, say before an upgrade or migration to another server then this is for you. CIMCO PDM (Version 7, March 2014 and on) now has the ability to backup and restore the database and create a CIMCO PDM Backup from within the program interface following these steps:

To create a CIMCO PDM backup, go to Database Configuration -> Maintenance, and click the corresponding option for Backup or Restore database.

Default backup creates a backup file (.pdb) that contains all the database tables information. With the option “Settings Only” checked, only PDM settings are backed up. If you want to include in the backup all the files in PDM database (NC programs, CAD/CAM files, pictures etc), then you need to check the option “Store Files”:

Simple, easy to use interface.

Find this useful? Be sure to sign up for our News and Updates and never miss an update like this one. Have a technical question about PDM or need help, try our support page. Or if you haven’t looked at PDM, learn more at our CIMCO PDM Product Page.

The post Creating a CIMCO PDM Backup appeared first on Managed Solutions.

Every once in a while you find yourself in an incredible place with incredible people doing incredible things. Last week that happened. Monday morning we were getting our guest badges and introducing a group that entered as individuals and departed as a team from NASA AMES in Mountain View California. We were hosted by NASA for CIMCO software training for a few of our sub-dealers and one of the NASA shops. It’s hard not to act and impossible to not feel like a kid in the candy store at any NASA facility. They have been at the pinnacle of scientific research and scientific “doing” and for a few days we got a glimpse of the present and past. One cannot help but feel inspired by the value of the work that these people do every day and that we only occasionally hear about. Here are a few pictures to help illustrate the experience, but rest assured you have to be there to really appreciate it. If you ever get a chance to visit NASA AMES, definitely make time to do it!

CIMCO Training at NASA – Conference Room

Some hands on learning – CIMCO MDC

Our CIMCO A/S Trainer Pedro Checking out the Wind Tunnel

XB-70 Valkyrie Wind Tunnel Test Model

NASA epitomizes what we hope for from a government agency – smart people doing amazing work. We are very proud of NASA’s great track record of private-public collaboration and the role they play in American Manufacturing.

Want to be a part of our team? The dealers in attendance are a part of our dealer and referral partner program.

The post CIMCO Software Training at NASA AMES appeared first on Managed Solutions.

Typically with CNC Communication products including our CIMCO DNC Max server, the software resides on a server on the main network. Some companies and government agencies have requirements that don’t allow their CNC Controls to be accessible on the main network. This is actually a smart policy and you might have read about the SIEMENS vulnerability earlier this week. If you wish to better isolate our system but still need access to another network, there is a way to accomplish this by utilizing a technique called dual homing.

In Ethernet LANs, dual-homing is a network topology whereby a networked device is built with more than one network interface. Each interface or port is connected to the network, but only one connection is active at a time. The other connection is activated only if the primary connection fails. Traffic is quickly rerouted to the backup connection in the event of link failure. This feature was designed to provide telecommunications grade reliability and redundancy to Ethernet networks.  -Wikipedia

In our example the DNC Max server resides on the machine that participates on two distinct networks but does not allow traffic to pass between the two. This allows the server to be backed up and managed the way all other assets are but isolates the CNC Controls that are connected to it. In this configuration the DNC Max server will only be accessed from the private network. If you have other products involved in your install such as CIMCO MDC, this guide is incomplete. This is an over-view of the concept of multi-homed DNC Max installation. With some basic understanding of TCP/IP Networks and the installation guide available in the CIMCO Documentation you should have most of what you need to plan the installation. If you have questions about your specific environment you can contact us with your questions or leave them in the comments at the bottom of this article. As always it is best to consider professional installation if any of this is foreign to you. Here is a diagram demonstrating the concept addressed in this article:

Left: Simple Network Right: Dual Homed CNC Machines Isolated

Planning your Dual Homed DNC Max Install

There are a three (item #’s 1-3) unique steps that a dual homed DNC-Max install requires before downloading and installing CIMCO DNC Max on your soon to be dual homed CNC Communications server. There is also 1 special consideration during the installation process (item #4).

1. Determine an (un-used) IP Address subnet for the private CNC LAN.
2. Install a second network card (if not already present) and a network to all the devices on the private LAN.
3. File management considerations.
4. DNC-Max installation considerations.

Choosing an IP Address Subnet

The most critical issue when choosing this subnet is to make sure it is a private address range that is not already in use anywhere on the larger main network. In larger organizations you will probably have to request this from your IT or Network group as they will know which address ranges are in use. Without turning this into a network tutorial, network routers and firewalls can be configured to access a number of different private and public networks. If the IP Address range you choose exists somewhere else on your network it is likely to cause problems for the DNC Max Server machine accessing valid resources on the existing network. The list of private networks is available per RFC-1918, in our example we’ll be using 10.0.1.0/24 for the private CNC network and we’ll pretend that the main network is 192.168.122.0/24, here is a list of all the private ranges that are allocated (source: wikipedia):

RFC-1918 IPv4 Space

You will assign one of these addresses to your private network adapter on the DNC Max Server, in our example we’ve chosen 10.0.1.1. Each CNC Control and network device (such as Moxa Nport devices) with an ethernet port will be assigned a unique address on that subnet. It is a good idea to store all of this information in a spreadsheet or google doc for later reference.

Creating the Private Network

You will need to install a second network card on the machine acting as the DNC Max Server. This network card will be configured using TCP/IP and be sure to leave the default gateway completely blank when configuring the settings. In our example the settings would look like this for the Private network adapter:

IPv4 Settings for Private Network Dual Homed Example

In addition to the network card an isolated network (meaning: completely separated from the Main LAN and only connected to the ethernet based CNC Controls, Moxa Nport or similar ethernet to serial adapters, and the “new” second network card on the server) will need to be in place. This network requires Cat5 or above network cabling and an appropriately matched switch with enough ports to connect all the devices to the private LAN. If you are unsure how to do this and don’t have the resources in house it’s probably a good idea to hire a company that has experience installing Ethernet cabling in an industrial environment.

File Management Considerations

All of the files required to run your programs on your CNC Machines will need to be accessible on the dual-homed DNC Max Server. You will want to take appropriate steps to ensure that this server is backed up sufficiently to protect those files. This is an area where a little careful planning can go a long way. If you traditionally stored the files elsewhere on the network, you may require some additional steps to relocate or mirror the files to the Dual-Homed server. This could represent an opportunity because you could make it so only known good programs are stored on the dual-homed DNC Max server and completely isolate any files that are not approved for production. If you require more control over your files than Windows permissions allow you should also consider CIMCO PDM or CIMCO NC-Base as alternatives to gain much more control over those digital assets.

DNC Max Server Installation Considerations

Once the pre-requisite steps are all complete you will be ready to install DNC Max server. This should be done by or with careful guidance from a qualified CIMCO re-seller or installer.  There is one setting under Server Configuration/Network Settings that where the IP Address of the Private LAN interface will need to be entered:

Bind the DNC Max Server to the Private IP Address

With the noted exceptions the rest of the DNC-Max installation and configuration will be handled normally. We hope that this guide is useful to you, if you are looking to isolate your CNC Network we believe the information will be helpful, there are other ways to manage network traffic including VLANS, static routes and firewall rules. This article is provided purely for informational purposes. Please consult a professional for assistance. If you like, we have a network of dealers and installers ready to help you with your DNC Max Server installation.

The post Isolate your CNC Network by Dual Homing DNC Max appeared first on Managed Solutions.