What DNC software are most of you using?

[Pijetro]

Forgive me it this isn't the correct forum, but since most of us use Powermill, I'm also hoping that most of us are using some sort of communications software to feed the machines.

So i'm trying to get a consensus on which software and/or hardware to purchase.

Currently, we're using an old version of MultiDNC with an even older computer to feed 3 vertical mills. These milling machines are hardwired to a board coming out of the old computer.

Since the computer's age is of concern, it would make sense to upgrade..

I've been asking around (support included), and have a few options.

Option1) Get rid of the old computer, install some COM cards on my current Powermill workstation, and feed the milling machines directly (from network)

Option2) Replace the old computer with a dedicated hub from the folks at MultiDNC, upgrade our current version of MultiDNC, and use the same hookups.

Option 1 seems to be an obvious choice for a low cost, and effective solution.

What software could you recommend for output?

These are older machines with 25 Pin connectors, and get drip fed for 98% of the toolpaths we generate.

Most toolpaths are 1 OFFS, so I'm trying to wrap my head around all the bells and whistles that new DNC softwares are offering.

Any help would be appreciated..

[stdpattern]

We are a small shop, one seat of Powershape / Powermill, and three Haas mills.

Haas VF2, oldest.  DNC or transfer from a dedicated, networked Windows XP pc using rs-232 cable.  

Haas VF6, second oldest, same setup as VF2.

Both of these pc's grab the files from my PC through the local network.  We set that network connection up as a drive( z:\jobs), and dnc using kwikDNC.  Ian at kwikDNC has been great to work with over the years.  We have the simplest version.  He has helped me get new license keys when I have had PC failures and have to replace the PC's for the VF2 and VF6.  One day I will not have a rs-232 port and will have to look for another solution.  The USB > rs-232 adapter I tried was pretty sketchy, but that was years ago.  

Haas VM3, newest machine.  is connected to the network, and can access my PC directly to DNC or transfer.

Hope that helps.

Steve

[Pijetro]

"Haas VF2, oldest.  DNC or transfer from a dedicated, networked Windows XP pc using rs-232 cable. 

So are you running a 9to25 pin converter from your PC to the machine cabling?

I'm guessing you're using a physical 9 pin Com port?

[stdpattern]

I'd have to crawl behind to look, but I believe it is 25 pin on both ends.  Might have a 9 to 25 adapter at the PC though.  It's been a while since I've had to mess with it.

[stdpattern]

Just checked, and yes we have 9 to 25 pin adapters at each PC.  

Steve

[j.lacrasse]

Hi,

We're not using any DNC, we use USB keys.

Cheer,

J.Lacrasse

[Mike_Caliguri]

Shameless plug here, but Cimco DNC is a great solution. It is compatible with Windows XP through Windows 10, has a simple interface for the amount of functionality offered. The reasons why I would suggest Cimco is the machine compatibility not only for rs232 but also as a FTP or NFS server for some Ethernet based machines that require a data server on the server or host side.

Hopefully this is enough information to help make it a consideration. If you would like additional info, I would be glad to help.

Mike