Computer Developement Systems

Flex Talk &trade

The FlexTalk &trade Communication System is a revolutionary new way for transferring CNC programs between a computer and the CNC machine. It allows for the simultaneous dripfeeding / loading of 16 or more CNC machines from a single PC.

How It Works
The request for up / downloading of the CNC programs to / from the CNC machine is done from the console of the CNC machine. The FlexTalk &trade software continuosly scans the communication ports on the PC. When it receives information from the CNC, it responds by either preparing to receive a program, or placing the requested program in the queue to be sent to the CNC. In the event that the requested program is not on the PC (also called the Server), an error message returned to the control to inform the operator of this condition.

Programs sent back to the Server can be stored in two ways:

The program can be stored as a temporary file without overwriting the Master program. Up to 999 temporary files per program can be stored.

The program can be stored as the new Master program, and the original Master program is then saved as a temporary file. This can happen up to 999 times.

The FlexTalk &trade Communication System allows the system supervisor to compare the temporary programs with the Master program and replace the Master, or delete the temporary program.

FlexTalk &trade allows the Server to be placed in a secure place as direct access to to it is unnecessary and can be restricted. Master programs cannot be altered without the supervisor knowing about it.

FlexTalk &trade maintains extremely detailed log files of everything that happens on the Server, including the times that each program was transferred to and from the system. This allows the supervisor to see at a glance what work has been carried out during a given period of time without him / her actually being present - especially useful for monitoring work on night shifts.

The FlexTalk &trade Communication System runs on the Linux operating system, which is freeware Unix. This has several significant benefits:

Advantages Of Using Flex Talk &trade

Multi - platform connectivity. The system can be seamlessly integrated into almost any environment, including Windows 3.xx, Windows 95, Windows NT, IBM AIX, Sun / OS?, HP / UX?, Solaris, Siemens SNX and Novell environments.

Exceptional stability and reliability. The system is extremely stable, and once it is configured, will continue to provide reliable service without user intervetion almost indefinately. No irritating and time consuming regular restarts are required.

Remote Support. Remote support can be provided via an Internet link or direct modem link to the Server.

Network support. If the Server is connected to a network, the CNC programs can be created by any person on the network and sent to the FlexTalk &trade Server.

Customizable. If a customer has special requirements outside of the normal system specifications, it can be customized to suit the particular situation. *

* All circumstances are dealt with individually, and depending on the requirements, additional charges may be levied.

The Basicf System Consists Of:

A PC, either Pentium, Pentium II, or Pentium III, depending on the customer's requirement. Exact specifications will be confirmed at the time of ordering due to the rapid change in the avilable computer hardware. An additional charge of 6 hours at the prevailing hourly rate will be levied to certify a customer's own PC for compatibility for the FlexTalk &trade if a new machine is not required. **

Linux operating system (Freeware Unix).

CDS FlexTalk &trade Software for 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, or 16 ports.

CDS Multiport Serial Card(s) for 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, or 16 ports.

CDS Isolator Box with optically isolated channels for 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, or 16 ports.

Converters for the control (if required).

Cable and all Connectors.

Optional Additional Lightning Protection.

The system is supplied configured for either 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, or 16 ports per computer.

The system is fully upgradeable.

** Only in special circumstances. As a result of the poor quality of many PC's bought as standard systems, many are not suitable for providing a stable platform for the FlexTalk &trade Communication System. For this reason, CDS usually supplies a PC which is built with quality hardware, and has been tested and certified to provide a reliable system.