The CNC64 software enables the control of machines and robots. It uses G-code in accordance with DIN 66025 and supports CAM-generated files. Users can flexibly customize the HMI interface with the integrated designer for each machine, whereby the setup of different user profiles (from operator to administrator) is possible.

Mathematical models help to increase the accuracy and speed of the CNC machine's motion calculations. Because the CNC64 system consists entirely of component-based software, users are free to decide which hardware (motors, I/Os, etc.) they want to use. The open design also allows customers to add their own functions such as image processing using the C/C++ programming language in a deterministic environment.

The concept behind this flexibility is to use standardized software components and interfaces based on RTX64 to transform any Windows 10 industrial PC into a high-performance real-time machine with 64 bit and multicore support with up to 128 GB memory. Numcad chose EtherCAT as the industrial Ethernet standard because many different companies offer EtherCAT systems and components from which customers can choose what they need. The image processing technology can be connected via Gigabit Ethernet interfaces according to the GigE Vision standard in conjunction with a deterministic solution for the actual image processing. The fully integrated soft PLC with OPC UA support works according to the IEC 61131-3 standard and is the real-time engine that ensures the smooth cooperation of all components.

Numcad also offers support for customers who want to port the system to their own environment. "With the CNC64 system, existing production processes can be renewed without losing the 'lifetime cycle guarantee' for the old control hardware," said Numcad. "Shorter process cycles thanks to modern hardware conversion also reduce production costs."

The RTX64 real-time extension for Windows is characterized by 64-bit addressing. "Real-time applications running on a 64-bit Windows 10 with RTX64 can use up to 128 GB of non-paged memory, depending on the actual RAM memory available," explains Bernhard Hartmann, Sales Manager Central Europe at IntervalZero. "The now directly addressable real-time memory in Windows and the resulting performance distinguishes the RTX64 solution from virtualization alternatives and real-time solutions based on an old 32-bit operating system."

Thanks to the CNC64 software solution, the required components are completely integrated in one and the same industrial PC. The components include HMI, soft PLC, EtherCAT system, high-end CNC kernel (optionally with kinematic transformation, multi-channels and gantry, among other things) and material removal with machine simulation to avoid collisions.