Here is a solution.
I have been using my palm pda for transferring text files to and from cnc machines.
Palm PDA is the best and inexpensive tool.
I have tested the Palm M100 and M125 and recently I was able to get Sony Clie to do the same.
If you are interested in this I can sell cables for pda to communicate with machines.
I do not sell software but I know where to get the software you can buy.

Hi Chris,

Would this have a DNC type connection capability (with hardware handshake)?

Can you actually read and edit these same files on your PDA? I have a Palm M505. So far, I've only used Quickword to transfer a NC file text file into my PDA, just as a test, since my controller will not print comments on the screen, I can now take an electronic copy of the program out to the shop floor and still have the comments handy.

Hello
I have never had use hardware hadshake for my Palm M100 or M125

Yes you can read edit copy and paste on you palm isnt that very nice.

There is software to transfer text from computer to pda and to machine and back .

How does the transfers happen. Via infrared or ? What's the maximum file size you can transfer?

Klox

The transfer rate can be up to 19200 using serial cable from pda to machine.
The size on pda can be as much as your pda can hold or software can allow.
usually the machines can't hold too much.

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Chris I am using a zire 71 with the vista serial software. I can send and receive programs to the machines via RS232 no sweat. The problem I am having is that when I hotsync to the PC I can't open the programs as text files and edit them. The palm is saving the files in a .pdb format (palm data base). Do you know anyway around this? I am also in need of a cable to go from the zire to RS232. Got one? How much?

Chris,

What's the source for the software? Thanks.

TX, you can find the software at:
http://www.vista-software.com/vistaserial.htm

The cost for cables is $60 s&h included

Send me a private messege if you interested.

For getting the g-code to text file i use freeware dnc software if you cant find one i can send you one.


Chris I am using a zire 71 with the vista serial software. I can send and receive programs to the machines via RS232 no sweat. The problem I am having is that when I hotsync to the PC I can't open the programs as text files and edit them. The palm is saving the files in a .pdb format (palm data base). Do you know anyway around this? I am also in need of a cable to go from the zire to RS232. Got one? How much?

Both work fine for me

http://www.marucit.com/products/software/pcnc.html

http://www.vista-software.com/vistaserial.htm


Chris,

What's the source for the software? Thanks.

Thanks for the links...very interesting.

We are working on putting together a package deal on a PDA and the Vista Software. Two versions will be offered, a low end unit (black and white) and high end (color). Anyone have recommendations on what models?

We will be responsible for all support, configuration and cabling. Since we deal with this all the time, it makes a logical since to move this direction.

I have the Palm Zire 71. It works great. I don't think they are currently making the Zire 71 anymore. Palm is making the Zire 72 now. I havn't got to play with one yet, but I think if it is the same as the 71 with upgrades it would be the best choice. I don't know what black and white models are available. One of the most important decisions about which PDA to use is which cables are available to link from the PDA to the RS232 port.

Is there a way to use a handheld device to comm with PLC's???

What Make of PLC are you refering to as some have standard RS232 and others have proprietary interfaces.
Al

Mainly Omron or AB. Just curious to know if it has been tried/done???
That woould give me one more reason to get the boss to buy me a PDA. ;)

Hi ChrisW,
Can you tell me where I can buy software to communicate CNC to PDA.

Thanks
Mike

We do offer a solution to purchase a complete bundle or just the software:

http://www.shopfloorautomations.com/pdaconnect.php

Hope this helps.

For the cables and support on Vista Software, now PDA Connect, please contact us:

http://www.shopfloorautomations.com/pdaconnect.php

We can upgrade you to the latest rev, provide any cables needed and even provide a turnkey bundle.