DNC - CAM datalink advice

[Alfonzo]

Hi All,

Need some advice. I've fallen 'behind the curve' with all things computer and CAM of late, but have just ordered a seat of OneCNC Mill Advantage & Lathe Express so looking to play catch-up.

I want a datalink between my Windows powered laptop and my Yasnac i80M powered VMC, my Fanuc powered Colchester CNC350 Lathe, and my Heidenhain TNC155 powered Bridgeport mill.

All three machines have a 25 D-pin (RS232?) connector on them. My laptop has no RS232 output. How does one make use of USB connectors? Is there an adaptor I can get? Is it possible to connect the machines wirelessly? Does anyone know whether the OneCNC software handles all comm's or do I need a seperate comms DNC software solution?

Sorry so many questions, and thanks in advance.

Al

[Andre' B]

Lots of USB to RS-232 convertors available.
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&s...+rs232&aqi=g10
Also Ethernet to rs-232 converters, the serial ports can then be assigned to any computer on the network.
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q...apter&aqi=g-c1

Getting everything configured to work together can sometimes be tricky but that has always been true of serial communications.

I know nothing of OneCNC but it seems like every CAM program, backploter and CNC editor has a DNC function, you can also use any terminal program like HyperTerminal which is in your windows (Start \ All Programs \ Accessories \ Communications ) menu.

[Alfonzo]

Thanks for the advice Andre. I'm looking into it.

Cheers & Seasons Greetings.

[DareBee]

get one of these for trouble-free use.
http://www.startech.com/item/EC1S952...6950-UART.aspx
I had to quite using USB based system due to reliability issues.

9 pin to 25 pin cord is easy to make and can also be purchased.

[gm3211]

If your laptop does not have an RS232 port, you can usually find a slot on the side of the laptop and it will be an Xpresscard or PCMCIA card. You can try an USB adapter but make sure you pay $$$ for it otherwise it will be worthless. Most of the USB stuff out there does not have circuits and don't have a true UART.

We do sell hardware and cables to hook up to the machines you listed and free support is included. If you need any advice, just give us a call.