ReThink Engineering | 5554 Eureka Drive Suite I | Hamilton, OH 45011 | 513-737-6408 | 513–737-6412 fax

Wired DNC Options

Hardware

We use Serial to Ethernet bridge hubs from a variety of vendors. For 1-, 2-, 4- and 8-port hubs we prefer Quatech devices, which have a 5-year warranty. For 16-port devices, we prefer Rocketports. These devices are connected to the Ethernet network in the plant and installed on the application PC as multi-port serial devices. This gives a PC or server as many as 256 COM ports.

We position the hubs in a location close to as many CNCs as possible and then run cables from the CNCs to the hub. ReThink Engineering does not have the necessary equipment to run cables in a factory, so we ask that this task be done internally or contracted out. We have relationships with cable installation professionals if you need a referral.

Installation

ReThink Engineering will terminate all cable ends, configure each machine in the software, install the software, test the system, train operators and document the installation for a fixed price, either per-day or per-machine. We estimate we need an average of 30 minutes per machine to set parameters, test the configuration and train the operator. Some machines will take significantly longer. We assume that the customer provides us with machines that are currently communicating. If not, the time and cost will increase. We are not responsible for machines with bad RS-232 communication boards.

Cable

In most instances, CAT5e cable is sufficient. In the case of longer runs (greater than 100 meters) or in electrically noisy environments, we do suggest a stranded, double or triple shielded cable. The alternative is to put a signal booster in-line, which will require a 110-volt power outlet.

If the cable is running through an area with significant electrical noise, such as a welding area, a higher quality cable is needed. Cable costs for CAT5e run around $0.10 per foot, while triple shielded stranded cable costs up to $1 per foot.