The TNC 320 contouring control from Heindenhain Corp. (Schaumburg, IL) features the ability to control five axes, an analog drive interface for interfacing to existing drive systems, and one-piece construction, the device sports a 15" TFT color flat-panel display (1024 x 768 pixels). The unit’s main computer contains several onboard cycles to simplify most machining operations such as drilling, probing, and milling. The compact flash memory card withstands vibration and shock, stores the PLC program and commissioning information, and offers more memory for NC files. Data interfaces include RS-232, USB, and Ethernet. G-code programming is possible with the addition of a USB keyboard.
The unit is based on the NC Kernel software platform that includes an interface between the PLC and NC, eliminating redundant operations. Help can be called for each parameter by pushing a button. The unit also has expandable I/O capabilities for complex machine applications.