The RS232 Serial Line System
The RS232 Line System in its most basic form consists of a cable between a PC and a CNC control to allow RS232 communication. On the single line system a CDS RS232 Isolator is used to prevent damage to either the control or PC as a result of earth potential differences, voltage/current spikes or phase faults. This system can be used in conjunction with the CDS CNC-Talk Software or with most of the Communication Modules supplied with the CAM systems.

The Switch Box System
Alternatively a CDS Auto-Switch Switchbox can be used to simultaneously connect up to 16 controls to a single Serial port on the PC. The CDS Auto-Switch Switchbox is connected to a single serial port on the PC. One Auto-Switch Switchbox allows up to eight controls to be connected to the PC at one time. A second Auto-Switch switchbox can be added allowing a maximum of sixteen controls to be connected to a single serial port. The Auto-Switch switchbox is controlled via software, allowing the box to be conveniently located anywhere between the PC and the controls. The maximum cable length on either side of the switchbox is approximately 100m. If the cable is longer, then additional line boosters are required. The CDS Auto-Switch Switchbox is fitted with isolated channels to prevent damage to either the control or the PC as a result of earth potential differences, voltage/current spikes, or phase faults. The CDS Auto-Switch Switchbox is used in conjunction with the CDS CNC-Talk software