cnc network

[chips2000]

Hello to all:

I am trying to establish a network among my cncs using a 10t hub( network adapter). I have 12 cncs and 4 computers hooked up to an rs232 data switch (ABCD). Every time I send or receive a program, I must manually hook up the cable to the proper cnc machine. You can imagine my weekly mileage.
Does any one know how to wire this thing so that I can create a network.
An schematic would be highly appreciated.

In advance, Thanks a bunch.

[svenakela]

Check out http://www.bsdhome.com/comserv/

We used to have a Minix (small Unix-clone, similar to BSD) with 12 RS232 connectors and it was working as a switch for the CNC's, the only thing the operator had to do was to drop the file to be transmitted in the folder for the specific machine. I can't remember the name of the software but it should be possible to create a program for com port handling pretty easily with Linux with similar functionality.

--Sven

[Ferenczyg]

The logic is, as svenakela said, to use a 'smart hub' and a linux is a good solution. To put at work lot of rs232, that can be a little bit hard to manage in the sense of irq's and similar, you can use the kind of multiple line cards that where used for modem pools, they are cheap now.

[Scott_bob]

I hate RS232 stuff, I wish it would go away!
No, really I just hate the waste of time that this stuff ends up taking...
I know your pain though, with that many CNC machines you've got to have enough justification to have this done for you.

I'd recommend Predator...
They will come in and wire it up for you and you won't have to deal with it...

[chips2000]

Thanks for all the input.

[ESjaavik]

If what you want to do is replace the RS232 cabling with UTP/Cat5 Ethernet cabling, this box: http://www.ethernetip.de/products.htm#HILSCHER may be what you're looking for.
In USA you should call: (+1) 630-836-8679 Ask for Phil Marshall (Sales) or Tobias Klebert (Technical)