ExtraTech's intelligent motion controllers are stand-alone computers in their own right. Just like any computer they need to have an operating system loaded into them. To accomplish this, ExtraTech provides free Windows compatible, PC based software with every controller to load the firmware (basic operating system) and other files. Most controllers will contain firmware and at least one file (the INIT file) which tells the controller about the physical world it controls (your machine).

The Machine Tools Suite software package provides everything needed to set up, control and monitor machine activity. Users can create directories on their PC's to store jobs organized by machine, project, customer, etc. Then they can use the pendant (keypad and display at the machine) to view the directories residing on the PC and select the jobs they want to run. A parameters utility is included to set up machine specific information such as table size or cut speed. There is a terminal component to store and retrieve files and data to and from the controller. Full DNC (distributed numerical control) capability is available for managing, grouping, and digitizing jobs. We also provide graphical editing and  previewing tools so jobs can be viewed and modified before execution, and monitored during execution. The software also logs job operations so that users and managers can generate machine usage reports. The data is stored in XML format so that custom reports can be created if the built in reports don't suite your needs.

Our software and the Ethernet connectivity of our hardware gives system designers the option of using LAN's or WAN's to conduct job management and motion control. The concept of having the machine, motion controller, and PC that manages the system all at one site is by no means the only way to do things. ExtraTech has adopted a totally modular approach for the entire line of motion control and interface products.

Check out the complete description of our PC SOFTWARE