Indexing System features wireless upload and download.

Hardinge Inc. Feb 24, 2005

Press Release Summary:

All-digital 5C Indexing System is configured with infrared send and receive, which functions with handheld computers utilizing Pocket PC. Programs can be written from remote location and uploaded to indexer's servo control via handheld computer. Retrieval of programs can occur while indexer is operating or on standby. Editing of program can be done using notepad format on handheld computer, however program has to be stopped to beam it to servo control.

Original Press Release:

Hardinge's Indexing System Offers Wireless Program Upload, Download and Editing Capability

"Beaming" is the communication of data between wireless devices using a beam of infrared light during transmission. This beam, invisible to humans, is used in many familiar devices, such as television remote controls and garage door openers. The Hardinge all-digital 5C Indexing System has been configured with infrared "send and receive" that elevates program control and editing to new levels. This capability functions with handheld computers utilizing a Pocket PC operating system. Infrared technology has been thoroughly proven in a host of applications for many years. It is no wonder that its reliability and convenience of use would find its way to the factory floor for demanding applications on a product like the Hardinge Rotary Indexing System.

Wireless portable program transport and editing is more than just a convenience.

A program can be written from a remote location and then quickly uploaded to the indexer's servo control via a handheld computer. This process is highly beneficial to manual machine setups eliminating the physical act of punching in the code on the servo control, greatly speeding up productivity. Hardinge's IR capability also benefits the CNC machine configuration where the indexing system is interfaced with the program residing in the indexer's servo control. CNC operators may be using bulky desktop computers or laptops to access programs and receive information through their company network. These require space and protection from the typically not so clean factory environment. Because the handheld computer works from the palm of your hand and tucks into a pocket when not in use, virtually no extra workspace is required. With infrared there are no cables or connections which means there are no ports to be protected from potential contamination, thereby increasing system reliability. If a standby computer has to be temporarily "rolled" into the workstation, time is wasted maneuvering it into location (most often into cramped areas) and connecting it.

Retrieval of programs from the Hardinge servo control can occur while the indexer is operating or on standby. Editing of a program can be done using the simple notepad format on the handheld computer, however the program will have to be stopped to beam it or any other new program to the Hardinge servo control. Infrared capability is ideal for transporting programs from one indexing system to the other, eliminating the need to have the indexers daisy-chained together, ideal for editing on the spot or delivering programs to the shop floor. Because infrared transmission requires a clear line of sight, it is required that the handheld computer IR port be held in close proximity to the IR port on the front of the Hardinge servo control for data transmission. Hardinge currently offers the Dell Pocket PC Computer Axim X30, model #CI-3279-PPC. Programming software is supplied by Hardinge and is compatible with handheld computers using Pocket PC operating systems.

Expect more from your workholding. Check out other productivity features on the Hardinge 5C Rotary Indexing System at www.hardinge.com or phone 800-843-8801 for more information.