ORiON User's Guide
v2.6
1. Introduction
The ORiON™ CNC Productivity Hub represents the next generation in machine data connectivity technology.
-Supports DNC, OEE, Machine Event Monitoring, Inspection Data Gathering, Tool Life Monitoring and more
-Windows CE™ architecture allows easy firmware updates and protects your investment over time
-10/100 LAN and WiFi Connectivity
-Physical configuration supports optional full keyboard and full screen display
-USB and RS232 support for bar code readers
-Up to 32 GB local memory with DNC storage and File Server style "Drip Feed" capability
1.1 What's Included
What's Included?
-ORiON™ Base Unit
-Power Adapter
-Ethernet Cable
-USB Shuttle Drive (Optional)
-Null Modem RS-232 Cable (Optional)
1.2 Meet ORiON
Meet ORiON™
Connection Function DC Power Jack Power supply VGA External display connection PS2 Mouse or keyboard connection COM 1 DNC COM 2 Data Collection LAN Ethernet operations such as remote display, mapped drives, FTP, etc. Wireless ethernet operations such as remote display, mapped drives, WLAN FTP, etc. Program push, firmware updates, barcode readers, USB program USB management, etc.
1.3 Specifications
Specifications
2. Getting Started
This guide provides basic instructions to setup and operate your ORiON™ CNC Productivity Hub. For advanced setup and operation assistance please contact your local ORiON™ dealer or Nexas America LLC .
2.1 Configuring ORiON
Getting Started
1. Connect ORiON to the Power Adapter. Once ORiON has booted (about 30 seconds) you will hear a confirmation tone. ORiON comes preconfigured with default DNC values. These values can be modified using the (ORiON Settings INI.txt) file located on the USB Shuttle Drive or through ORiON Splash .
2. Using any USB compatible computer. Plug in the USB Shuttle, open the ORiON folder followed by the folder containing the Assigned/Unique name (default will be the MAC address of the ORiON), the Parameters folder and finally the Status folder to access the setup file (ORiON Settings INI.txt) as shown in the diagram.
2.2 ORiON Settings INI
Below is a sample of the (ORiON Settings INI.txt) file. Values are set after the "= " sign. A description of each section of the file can be found in the table below. The (ORiON Settings INI.txt) file will appear in the Status folder under parameters showing the current status settings of ORiON. To update these settings, change the values in the file and move it into the Update folder. (See Update/Status Folders )
[ORiON Names] Used to create an Assigned Name for your ORiON. [RS232] Set the values to match those on your machine control. [Transmission Start Processing] Character(s) to identify the start of a program. [Transmission End Processing] Character(s) sent at the end of each transmission. [Program Delimiter Options: CNC to Allows you to set which part of a file ORiON processes. ORiON ignores incoming data until ORiON] start delimiter is received and accumulates incoming data until the end delimiter is received. [Subroutine Processing Options: Used to set if ORiON will use M98 or M198 Subroutine calls. ORiON to CNC] Determines ORiON's action at the end of a file using the set values. Program End Rewind [Program End Processing Options: rewinds the file to the top and waits for an X-On. Program End Loop rewinds to the line after the ORiON to CNC] program number and runs again. Default values are M30 and M99. [Character Convert Options - CNC to Special option which allows you to convert ";" characters to "O". ORiON] [Remote Commands] Enter information about remote requests from FTP or local memory. [Default Extension for Remote Will apply the set value (extension) to remote requests without an extension. Requests] [Misc. Control Strings] Message Starter and Message Terminator Control Strings. [Naming Rules for Incoming Files] Choose how to name and where to save incoming files from your machine control. [Wired Network] Wired Ethernet Connection information for ORiON. [FTP] Used to enter the FTP Host, Username and Password to match that on your FTP Server. For remote file transfer via sockets. In Socket Passthrough mode serial streams from the control [Sockets] are converted to socket streams for use with an attached DNC System. Mapped File Persistency is how long (in minutes) a file is held in the mapped folder before it is [Mapped Drive DNC Link Options] deleted. [Version] Version information for your ORiON. [License] License information for your ORiON.
ORiON Settings INI.txt
ORiON(tm) CNC Productivity Hub ; Copyright 2011 - 2013 ; Nexas America, LLC ; ; IMPORTANT !!!!!!!!!!!!
; TO PERFORM AN INI FILE UPDATE VIA USB, CHANGE THE DESIRED VALUES IN THIS FILE THEN MOVE THIS FILE ; TO THE PARAMETERS/UPDATE FOLDER. AFTER ORION PERFORMS THE UPDATE THE INI FILE IN THE UPDATE FOLDER ; WILL AUTOMATICALLY BE DELETED AND A REVISED INI FILE WILL BE PLACED IN THE ; PARAMETERS/STATUS FOLDER.
[ORiON NAMES]
UNIQUE-NAME = 00-1B-EB-21-19-61 ASSIGNED-NAME = TEST
[RS232]
; VALID ORiON BAUD RATES: 110, 300, 600, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600, 115200 ; VALID ORiON DATABITS: 7, 8 ; VALID ORiON PARITY: EVEN, ODD, NONE ; VALID ORiON STOPBITS: 1, 2 ; VALID ORiON XON/XOFF: TRUE, FALSE ; VALID ORiON WAITXON: TRUE, FALSE
BAUD = 19200 DATABITS = 7 PARITY = EVEN STOPBITS = 2 XON/XOFF = TRUE WAIT-FOR-XON = TRUE WAIT-XON-TIMEOUT = 0 CTS/RTS = FALSE
RECEIVE-FILE-CLOSE-TIMEOUT = 2000 [TRANSMISSION START PROCESSING]
; CHARACTER OR CHARACTERS TO IDENTIFY THE START OF A PROGRAM. DEFAULT IS THE LETTER O.
PROGRAM-IDENTIFIER-STRING = O
; NUMBER OF NULLS TO SEND AT THE BEGINNING OF A PROGRAM. ; GENERALLY EQUIVALENT TO TAPE LEADER. DEFAULT IS ZERO.
START-TRANSMISSION-NULLS = 0
; CHARACTER OR CHARACTERS TO BE SENT AT THE START OF EACH TRANSMISSION. ; FORMAT IS \XXX WHERE XXX IS THE BASE 10 ASCII VALUE OF THE CHARACTER. ; FOR EXAMPLE, \010 SENDS A LINE FEED (ASCIII 10) ; FOR MULTIPLE CHARACTERS PUT THE VALUES IN ONE CONTINUOUS STRING. ) ; FOR EXAMPLE \013\010 WILL SEND CARRIAGE RETURN, LINE FEED. ; FOR NO CHARACTERS, USE \ WITH NO NUMBERS.)
; FOR A PAUSE AFTER THE START-TRANSMISSION-STRING SET THE DESIRED) ; VALUE IN MILLISECONDS. FOR EXAMPLE 500 MILLISECONDS = 1/2 SECOND.)
START-TRANSMISSION-STRING = \ START-TRANSMISSION-PAUSE = 0
[TRANSMISSION END PROCESSING]
; CHARACTER OR CHARACTERS TO BE SENT AT THE END OF EACH TRANSMISSION. ; SEE TRANSMISSION START STRING COMMENTS FOR FORMAT INSTRUCTIONS. )
END-TRANSMISSION-STRING = \ END-TRANSMISSION-NULLS = 0
[PROGRAM DELIMITER OPTIONS: CNC TO ORION]
; INCOMING CHARACTERS PRIOR TO THE PROGRAM-DELIMETER-START CHARACTER ; AND AFTER THE PROGRAM-DELIMETER-END CHARACTER ARE IGNORED. USE-PROGRAM-DELIMETERS = FALSE PROGRAM-DELIMETER-START = % PROGRAM-DELIMETER-END = %
[SUBROUTINE PROCESSING OPTIONS: ORION TO CNC]
PROCESS-M98 = FALSE PROCESS-M198 = FALSE
[PROGRAM END PROCESSING OPTIONS: ORION TO CNC]
USE-PROGRAM-END-PROCESSING = FALSE PROGRAM-END-REWIND = M30 PROGRAM-END-LOOP = M99
[CHARACTER CONVERT OPTIONS - CNC TO ORION]
CONVERT-COLON-TO-O = TRUE
[REMOTE COMMANDS]
REQUEST-FTP = GETFTP REQUEST-LOCAL = GETLOCAL
[DEFAULT EXTENSION FOR REMOTE REQUESTS]
; IF A REMOTE REQUEST COMES IN WITHOUT AN EXTENSION, THE DEFAULT EXTENSION IS AUTOMATICALLY APPENDED ; THE VALUE .### IS RESERVED AND SPECIFIES NOT TO USE A DEFAULT EXTENSION.
REMOTE-REQUEST-EXTENSION = .###
DIR-REQUEST-LOCAL= DIRLOCAL
REQUEST-SEARCH-START = SEARCHSTART REQUEST-HEADER-LINES = HEADERLINES
M198-REQUEST = &FAO M198-EXTENSION = .TXT
[MISC. CONTROL STRINGS]
; STRINGS ARE COMPOSED OF ASCII CHARACTER VALES AND ALPHANUMERIC CHARACTER LITERALS. ASCII VALUES ; START WITH THE A BACKSLASH \ AND MUST BE FOLLOWED BY THE THREE DIGIT DECIMAL VALUE FOR THE ; DESIRED CHARACTER. THUS, \013 IS INTERPRETED AS ASCII(13) OR CARRRIAGE RETURN. LITERAL ; CHARACTERS ARE NOT PRECEDED BY A \ AND TERMINATE WHEN THE NEXT \ IS USED.
MESSAGE-STARTER = \013\010O1000 MESSAGE-TERMINATOR = \013\010M30\013\010
[NAMING RULES FOR INCOMING FILES]
; 0 = AUTO NAME AS RECEIVED FILE + SEQUENCE NUMBER ; 1 = AUTO NAME AS CONTENTS OF FIRST COMMENT: ; 2 = AUTO NAME AS O-NUMBER FROM FILE
AUTONAME-TYPE = 0 AUTONAME-EXTENSION = .TXT
SAVE-DIRECTLY-TO-NC-STORAGE = FALSE
[WIRED NETWORK]
; VALID ORiON IP-ADDRESS: xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx or DHCP ; THIS IS FOR THE WIRED CONNECTION ONLY. ; FOR THE WIRELESS CONNECTION USE THE CONTROL PANEL ON THE ORION DEVICE.
IP-ADDRESS = 192.168.2.4 MAC-ADDRESS = 00-1B-EB-21-19-61
[FTP]
; THIS FIRST SET OF VALUES ARE FOR ORION AS A CLIENT TO CONNECT TO A REMOTE FTP SERVER ; VALID HOST NAME MAY BE THE HOST COMPUTER NAME OR HOST COMPUTER IP ADDRESS FTP-HOST = JIM-PC FTP-USERNAME = ORION FTP-PASSWORD = TEST
; FTP-GET-SUB-FOLDER CAUSES THE FTP GET COMMAND TO CHANGE TO A FOLDER ONE LEVEL DEEPER THAN THE ; FTP SERVER LOGIN HOME FOLDER. THE VALUE #NONE# IS RESERVED AND SPECIFIES NOT TO USE A SUB-FOLDER. ; TO USE A SUB-FOLDER, SPECIFY THE FOLDER NAME WITHOUT THE '#' VALUES ; AND DO NOT ADD LEADING OR TRAILING SLASHES ('\') FTP-GET-SUB-FOLDER = #NONE#
; THIS SECOND SET OF VALUES ARE TO ALLOW A REMOTE CLIENT TO LOG INTO THE ORION FTP SERVER
FTP-CLIENT-TO-ORION-USERNAME = CLIENT FTP-CLIENT-TO-ORION-PASSWORD = CLIENT
[SOCKETS]
; VALID SOCKET-PASSTHROUGH-MODE: TRUE, FALSE ; VALID SOCKET-SERVER = IP ADDRESS OF SERVER IN FORMAT xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx
SOCKET-PASSTHROUGH-MODE = FALSE SOCKET-SERVER-IP-ADDRESS = 192.168.2.2 SERVER-PORT = 1024 ORION-PORT = 1025
[MAPPED DRIVE DNC LINK OPTIONS]
; WITH USE-ORION-MAPPED-FOLDER SET TO TRUE, INCOMING FILES FROM A SERIAL OR SOCKET ; CONNECTION ARE AUTOMATICALLY SAVED TO THE ORION MAPPED FOLDER. ; THE MAPPED-FILE-PERSISTENCY IS HOW LONG IN MINUTES A FILE IS HELD IN THE ORION MAPPED FOLDER ; BEFORE IT IS AUTOMATICALLY DELETED. THIS KEEPS THE FILE FROM BEING USED AGAIN WITHOUT A NEW ; REMOTE REQUEST THUS HELPING ENFORCE REVISION CONTROL.
MAPPED-FILE-PERSISTENCY = 5< /P >
[VERSION]
VERSION = 2.7.4
[LICENSE] FULL-LICENSE = 9E27E ; VALID BASIC-LICENSE = 0000 ; NOT VALID
3. Loading NC Programs to CNC
To being loading programs from ORiON to your machine control plug the 9-pin end of the RS232 cable into COM1 on ORiON (left port,) and the 25-pin end into your machine control.
Programs can be transferred to your machine from ORiON memory (local) or from an FTP server.
3.1 DNC Push
DNC Push
DNC Push is a quick and easy way to transfer programs to your CNC Machine. Place a program in the PGMPush folder found on the USB Shuttle (ORiON\Assigned-Unique Name\PGMPush). When plugged into ORiON the first program found inside this folder will automatically be queued to be sent to the machine. Depending on the machine communication parameters the program will then be sent to the machine when the operator hits read as shown below:
The PGMPush folder is also used for all M98 Subprogram Emulation.
3.2 Local Memory Program Load
Load Programs to Machine Control from ORiON Memory (Local)
1. Using a computer, copy one or more NC Programs into the ORiON\Assigned-Unique Name\PGMStore folder on the USB Shuttle.
2. Insert the USB Shuttle into any USB port on ORiON. ORiON will automatically move any NC Programs from the PGMStore folder to ORiON memory. Once ORiON has finished the transfer you will hear 3 ascending tones. It is now safe to remove the USB Shuttle. (This confirmation tone follows any successful USB Shuttle/ORiON interaction.)
(Details of managing NC Program memory are covered in the technical notes section of this manual)
3. To load a program from ORiON to a CNC control, the CNC needs to tell ORiON which program it wants. This is done through a remote request.
4. A remote request is a small program on the NC Control similar to the following:
In this example, “GETLOCAL” is a command to tell ORiON to queue“PROGRAM123.NC” for loading the CNC control. “GETLOCAL” is the default ORiON command for a local remote request. This may be changed using the (ORiON Settings INI.txt) file described previously.
5. Send (Punch) the remote request from the NC Control to ORiON, wait 3 seconds for ORiON to queue the file, then press Read (Input) on the machine control. The program will now be sent to the control.
6. In the event of a request failure, one of the predefined operator messages will be sent instead of the requested program.
(Details about Operator Messages can be found in the technical notes section of this manual)
Dripfeeding (Local)
1. To “dripfeed” a machine from ORiON use the steps above with the machine in tape mode. 3.3 FTP Program Load
Load Programs to Machine Control from FTP (These steps assume the user has a basic understanding of FTP operations)
1. FTP operations require an FTP Server (Host) and Client with matching host names, usernames and passwords. To set the host name, username and password for ORiON, use the (ORiON Settings INI.txt) file on the USB Shuttle (ORiON\Assigned-Unique Name\Parameters\ORiON Settings INI.txt) as shown below:
The host name can either be the name of the PC running the FTP Server or the IP address of that PC.
2. Now go to the server, setup a username and password to match the one on the ORiON.
(If you do not have an FTP Server the FileZilla Server install file is provided on the USB Shuttle)
3. To load a file to the machine control via FTP, use a remote request similar to the following:
In this example "GETFTP" is a command to tell ORiON to get "PROGRAM123.NC" from the FTP Server and load it to ORiON temporary memory. That file is then queued for sending to the machine the same way a file is queued from local memory. It should be noted that FTP programs are transient only and are automatically removed from ORiON memory after the transfer is complete. "GETFTP" is the default ORiON command for an FTP remote request. This may be changed using the (ORiON Settings INI.txt) file as described previously.
4. Send (Punch) the remote request from the NC Control to ORiON, wait 3 seconds for ORiON to queue the file, then press Read (Input) on the machine control. The program will now be sent to the control.
5. In the event of a request failure, one of the predefined operator messages will be sent instead of the requested program. (Details about Operator Messages can be found in the technical notes section of this manual)
Dripfeeding (FTP)
1. To “dripfeed” a machine from ORiON use the steps above with the machine in tape mode.
3.4 G Code Memory Manager
G Code Memory Manager
ORiON allows the user to view, call, edit and delete NC Programs on ORiON memory all at the machine control.
View a List of Programs on ORiON
1. To view a list of NC Programs on ORiON memory, make a remote request similar to the following:
In this example, "DIRLOCAL" is a command to tell ORiON to send back a list of all programs within the PGM Store folder. "DIRLOCAL" is the default ORiON command for a local directory listing. This may be changed using the (ORiON Settings INI.txt) file described previously.
2. Once the remote request is sent, you will receive a local directory listing file at the machine control similar to the following:
It is through this file that you will be able to manage your NC Programs.
Manage NC Programs Through the Local Directory Listing
1. To manage your NC Programs you will be changing the (F0) number before each program. Request File from ORiON (in the event that more than one file is preceded F1 by "F1," the last file will be sent to the control) F9 Delete File from ORiON (can be specified on multiple files)
In this example (Program1.TXT) will be sent to the machine control and (Program2.TXT) will be deleted.
3.5 M98 Subprogram Emulation
M98 Subprogram Emulation
ORiON provides M98 Subprogram Emulation. M98 Emulation starts within the DNC Push folder on the USB Shuttle (ORiON\Assigned-Unique Name\PGMPush). To use, create an M98 sub folder as shown below:
The folder should be named M98 followed by a space and the name of the main program including its extension.
Inside the M98 folder place the main NC program and all subprograms. The extension of the main program and all subprograms must be identical. ORiON will parse through the main program and all subprograms creating one continuous file called M98Assembly.txt. This program is stored in local memory and will be queued to be sent to the CNC. The M98Assembly.txt is a temporary file stored in ORiON local memory and will not be written to the USB Shuttle. It can be used for memory load or dripfeed operations. If ORiON encounters errors during an M98 Assembly process the program (M98AssemblyError.txt) will be queued for sending to the CNC Machine. (See Operator Messages ).
4. Saving NC Programs to ORiON
This section describes how to save NC Programs to ORiON from the machine control.
4.1 Received File Options
Set the Save Location of a Received File
When an NC Program is sent from the machine control to ORiON, it is saved in one of two locations, the PGMRecv folder or the PGMStore folder (this does not apply to socket passthrough mode). Programs in the PGMRecv folder are not available for the user at the control until they are retrieved by plugging in the USB Shuttle and moving them into PGMStore (see Managing Multiple NC Programs ). NC Programs saved into the PGMStore folder are available immediately for the user at the control through a remote request. To choose where NC Programs will be saved, use the (ORiON Settings INI.txt) file:
In this example crop of the (ORiON Settings INI.txt) file the "SAVE-DIRECTLY-TO-NC- STORAGE" value is set to "TRUE". This saves all NC Programs received from the machine control to the PGMStore folder. If the value is set to "FALSE", the NC Programs will be saved to the PGMRecv folder.
Set the Naming Convention for Saving a Received File
ORiON also allows you to choose what each NC Program will be saved as using three different naming conventions:
The received program will be named "Received File + a sequence number 0 starting with 0001" The received program will be named as the contents of the first comment (duplicates will be given a sequence number starting with 0001). If ORiON is unable to name the file based on a comment, it will be named one of the 1 following that describes the error: "AUTONAME INVALID COMMENT" "AUTONAME MISSING COMMENT" "INVALID FILE NAME IN COMMENT" The received program will be named as the O-Number from the file (duplicates will be given a sequence number starting with 0001). If ORiON 2 is unable to name the file based on the O-Number, it will be named "AUTONAME INVALID O NUMBER"
Additionally each NC Program can be assigned a file extension such as (.txt) or (.nc).
These settings can be specified also using the (ORiON Settings INI.txt) file under the "AUTONAME-TYPE" and "AUTONAME-EXTENSION" fields. The following examples show where and how NC Programs will be saved based on a few different input possibilities:
5. USB Operations
Summary of ORiON USB Shuttle
In addition to setting parameters, the USB Shuttle can be used to perform the following:
-Moving NC programs to ORiON memory
-Retrieving files sent to ORiON from the machine control
-Updating user defined operator messages
-Updating ORiON firmware
The following pages summarize the interactions between ORiON and the USB Shuttle. Each function is explained following the summary.
5.1 Folder Organization
ORiON USB Shuttle Folder Organization When a blank USB Shuttle is inserted into ORiON, ORiON automatically creates a folder named ORiON and a sub folder with a Unique Name.
This Unique Name represents the ORiON and is derived from the MAC address of the primary (wired) Ethernet card. Any changes you want to make to ORiON will be done through the Unique Name subfolder.
If you use the same USB Shuttle for multiple ORiONs, a Unique Name folder will automatically be created for each ORiON.
For ease of use you may create an “Assigned Name” for each ORiON. ORiON will use this name instead of the Unique Name. This can be done using the (ORiON Settings INI.txt) file. When you create an Assigned Name, ORiON will replace the Unique Name associated with that particular unit.
5.2 USB Shuttle Files
Summary of ORiON Shuttle Files
Parameters Status- Current status of the 1 PGMRecv- Files that were received from 9 (ORiON Settings INI.txt) file as reported by the CNC control. ORiON when the USB is inserted. 2 Assigned Name (Unique Name)- Assigned 10 Parameters Update- Updates (ORiON ORiON specific name. This sub folder is Settings INI.txt) file when placed in this folder. created for each ORiON used with the USB. 3 PGM Push- Transfer folder that immediately places an NC program in queue to be sent to 11 NC Storage List.txt- List of all programs the machine. Also used for M98 Subprogram stored on ORiON. Emulation.
Event Log.txt- Record of all significant 4 FileZillaServer.exe- Freeware FTP Server. 12 transaction/errors made between ORiON and See FTP section for details. the USB Shuttle. Operator Messages Status- Current 5 FileZillaClient.exe- Freeware FTP Client for 13 messages as reported by ORiON when the simulating ORiON FTP connections. USB is inserted. 14 Operator Messages Update- Updated 6 PGMStore- Transfer folder to move NC messages to be stored into ORiON when the programs into ORiON memory. USB is inserted. 7 Firmware Update- Folder for firmware update files. Used only under the direction of your ORiON service representative.
8 Operator Messages- User defined error messages.
5.3 Manage Multiple NC Programs
Manage Multiple NC Programs
ORiON has the ability to store multiple NC Programs that can be called as needed by the machine control (see Local Memory Program Load) . These programs are stored in ORiON memory. You can use the USB to add/remove programs to/from ORiON as shown below:
Add NC Programs to ORiON
To add NC Programs into ORiON memory, copy them into the PGMStore folder on the USB Shuttle then plug it into ORiON. These programs will be moved into ORiON memory and are ready for use. Any existing programs in ORiON memory with the same name will be updated.
View/Remove NC Programs from ORiON
To view or remove programs from ORiON memory use the (NC Storage List.txt) file. This (NC Storage List.txt) file is a list of all the NC Programs currently in ORiON memory. Each time you plug in the USB Shuttle this list is updated. To delete NC Programs from ORiON memory, simply delete them from the list. The next time the USB is inserted into ORiON, any files not on the NC Storage List will be removed from ORiON memory.
5.4 Update/Status Folders
Update and Status Folders
The Update and Status Folders are found in two areas of each ORiON on the USB; the Parameters folder and the Operator Messages folder:
The Parameters folder is used to check and update the (ORiON Settings INI.txt) file. The file will by default be found in the Status folder and shows the current settings on that particular ORiON. To change these settings, input the appropriate values in the (ORiON Settings INI.txt) file and move it to the Update folder. The file will be pushed to ORiON next time the USB is plugged in and the settings will be updated. The (ORiON Settings INI.txt) file will then be removed and placed back into the Status folder reflecting the current settings you've just updated.
The Operator Messages folder is used to edit and manage the message received at the control during certain events. These messages will by default be found in the Status folder and show the current Operator Messages on that particular ORiON. To change these messages, edit them in a (.txt) editor and move them into the Update folder. The messages will be pushed to ORiON and updated the next time the USB is plugged in. These messages will then be removed and placed back into the Status folder reflecting the current messages you've just updated.
5.5 Operator Messages
Operator Messages
Operator Messages are error messages that the user will receive at the CNC control upon certain events. These are user definable and can be changed by editing each individual (.txt) file. They will be updated when placed into the Update folder under the Operator Messages section (ORiON/Assigned-Unique Name/Operator Messages/Update).
The four operator messages are:
1. FTPConnectionFailed.txt
2. FTPRequestFileNotFound.txt
3. LocalRequestFileNotFound.txt
4. InvalidRemoteRequest.txt
5. M98AssemblyError.txt
5.6 ORiON/USB Communications
Summary of ORiON/USB Communications
When the USB Shuttle is plugged into ORiON the following events occur:
• All received files inside ORiON are transferred to the USB Shuttle in the PGMRecv folder. These files are then deleted off of ORiON to preserve memory.
• The first program found inside the PGMPush folder is immediately queued to be sent to the machine (or the M98Assembly.txt program is created and immediately queued to be sent to the machine).
• Transaction-Log.txt is updated with significant events and errors.
• NC Storage List.txt is read. Any programs not on the list are removed from ORiON memory. A program can be removed from ORiON memory by removing that program name from the list.
• Any files in the PGMStore folder are moved to ORiON memory. If a file in this folder has the same name as a file in ORiON memory, then the file in ORiON memory is overwritten.
• NC Storage List.txt is updated with the current list of programs in ORiON memory.
• The files in the Operator Messages Update folder are transferred to ORiON, overwriting the existing files, ORiON then records these files into the Operator Messages (Status) folder for viewing or future changes.
• If the (ORiON Settings INI.txt) file is in the Parameters Update folder it is transferred to ORiON updating the changes, ORiON then writes this file into the Parameters (Status) folder for viewing or future changes.
5.7 Update Summary of Communications
Summary of ORiON/USB Shuttle Communications for Update Folder
5.8 Status Summary of Communications
Summary of ORiON/USB Shuttle Communications for Status Folder
5.9 Firmware Update
Firmware Updates
Nexas America LLC will occasionally release updates. These will be sent to you in 4 update files:
1. ORiONUpdater-v.x.x.x.exe 2. ORiON-v.x.x.x.exe 3. ORiONSplash-v.x.x.x.exe 4. NK-v.x.x.x.bin
To complete a firmware update. Plug a USB into ORiON for 3 seconds until you here 3 confirmation beeps. Next, plug this USB into a PC and navigate to the folder specific for that ORiON, then the Firmware Update folder. Copy the 4 update files into this folder.
Insert the USB back into ORiON. Wait until ORiON responds with 10 quick beeps. If you're unable to hear the confirmation beeps wait 1 minute before removing the USB. (Warning: If removed before the 10 beeps/1 minute the update may be corrupted.)
Once the USB is removed ORiON will automatically restart and will be running the new version. All your files and folders will be preserved.
After an update you will need to reset the wireless configuration. This can be done through the wireless configuration manager under the Setup tab on ORiON Splash.
6. ORiON Splash
This section describes how ORiON can be used with a mouse and keyboard through the ORiON Splash screen. The ORiON Splash screen is accessed by either plugging an external monitor, mouse and keyboard into the device or through the remote display feature.
6.1 Interactive DNC
Interactive DNC
The Interactive DNC tab on ORiON Splash allows you to send NC Programs to your CNC from the PGMStore folder in ORiON memory. It also offers a view of the files as they're being sent to the control and an estimate of when they are being executed. This view can be populated either by sending a program directly from the Interactive DNC tab or through a remote request.
Start Program From PGMStore
Goes to PGMStore folder in ORiON and lets you select a file from that folder.
Current DNC Stream
Displays the file being sent to the control. Each line is highlighted as the data is being sent to the control in real time.
Lagging DNC Stream
Allows you to look back or ahead a set number of characters using the Lag Count feature. This gives you an approximate view of which line is actually being executed at the control based on your machines buffer.
Reset to Top
This stops the transmission of the file to the control and takes you back to the top of the file.
Warning: Machine Operator should reset and clear the buffer to the machine. Cycle start will start again from the top of the file.
Search Search looks for the first matching value and highlights it. To start sending the file from that point, hit cycle start on the control.
Current Sequence Number
Tells you which section you are on in the program. A section is defined by an N number on a line by itself.
6.2 Diagnostics
Diagnostics
The Diagnostics tab on ORiON Splash allows you to view key files and events associated with ORiON.
View Active DNC File
Allows you to look at the active DNC File from the Interactive DNC tab.
View Last Received DNC File
Shows last received file from the CNC.
View Event Log
Shows list of events. Recent items are added to the bottom of the log as they occur.
6.3 Setup
Setup
The Setup tab on ORiON Splash allows you to configure your ORiON Settings INI file. To view the file click "Read INI". You may edit the appropriate fields and select "Update INI" to save your settings. Be sure to restart ORiON each time you update the INI file. For more information on the ORiON Settings INI (click here ).
FTP Home Folder
The FTP Home folder is the folder which an FTP client (ex. FileZilla) will log into. The client can then only communicate with this folder and its subfolders. To change the FTP Home folder select an option from the list and click "Use Selected Value". You must restart ORiON for this change to take effect.
Set Date and Time
This allows you to set the date and time of ORiON. This does not require a system restart.
Wireless Configuration
This allows you to configure and connect to wireless networks. This screen also allows you to get the MAC address of your wireless card by navigating to IP Information>Details.
IP Addresses
This allows you to configure your wired and wireless IP address settings by double-clicking the corresponding adapter. Changes for the wired IP address will only be temporary until the INI is updated or ORiON is restarted. Once ORiON is restarted it will use the wired IP address in the (ORiON Settings INI ) file.
Wireless IP address changes should be made from here.
System Variables
This allows you to change your ORiON's device name to be used instead of the IP Address (found in the INI file) when mapping or using FTP. This only works with Windows XP machines.
Restart ORiON
This will restart your ORiON.
6.4 Device Identification
Device Identification
The Device Identification tab on ORiON Splash allows you to view basic information regarding your ORiON including the Unique/Assigned Names, ORiON Version, License Status and IP Addresses for your device.
6.5 Receive Viewer
Receive Viewer
The Receive Viewer tab on ORiON Splash is a diagnostic tool which allows you to view files coming in from the control.
7. Folder Functions
ORiON has 4 special folders that are available via FTP or mapping. Each folder supports special functionality as described in this section.
7.1 PGMRECV
PGMRECV Folder
This is the default folder where ORiON automatically saves incoming Serial COM1 files from the CNC. Files in this folder are not available for local remote request and are automatically moved to the USB when it is inserted. See details below:
User Action ORiON Response PC USB CNC DNC None FTP Get None FTP Put File is saved in folder FTP Delete None Drag and Drop Out None (Mapped) Drag and Drop In File is saved in folder (Mapped) Drag and Drop Delete None (Mapped) Files are automatically copied to the USB Insert equivalent folder on the USB, then deleted from PGMRECV If INI file option (Receive Directly to Program Store) equals false:
File is automatically saved using naming File sent via RS232 conventions from to COM1 Received File Options If INI file option (Receive Directly to Program Store) equals true:
None
7.2 PGMSTORE
PGMSTORE Folder
This folder iswhere ORiON saves incoming Serial COM1 files from the CNC should the option be setup in the ORiON Setings INI file. Files in this folder are immediately available for local remote request and are moved to the USB when it is inserted. See details below:
User Action ORiON Response PC USB CNC DNC None FTP Get None FTP Put File is saved in folder FTP Delete None Drag and Drop Out None (Mapped) Drag and Drop In File is saved in folder (Mapped) Drag and Drop Delete None (Mapped) Files are managed according to USB USB Insert Operations(See Manage Multiple NC Programs) If INI file option (Receive Directly to Program Store) equals false:
None If INI file option (Receive File sent via RS232 Directly to Program to COM1 Store) equals true:
File is automatically saved using naming conventions from Received File Options
7.3 PGMPUSH
PGMPUSH Folder
Thisfolder is used to send a file to the CNC. When a new file appears in this folder, it gets pushed and becomes the Active DNC file. This is then queued to the CNC immediately and removed from the folder. This folder will only act on the first file that it sees, other files or folders will be deleted. If a file is put into the folder during an operation, that operation will be aborted. See details below:
User Action ORiON Response PC USB CNC DNC None FTP Get None FTP Put ORiON sees new file event and automatically queues file to CNC for DNC operations FTP Delete None Drag and Drop Out None (Mapped) Drag and Drop In ORiON sees new file (Mapped) event and automatically queues file to CNC for DNC operations Drag and Drop Delete None (Mapped) USB Insert None File sent via RS232 None to COM1
7.4 DNCLINK
DNCLINKFolder
This folder is used for Mapped-Drive DNC Link operations only. FTP or Drag and drop operations should not be used as errors may occur.See details below:
User Action ORiON Response PC USB CNC
This is an automated USB Insert None folder used for DNC File sent via RS232 to None Link processing. No COM1 action should be File is sent to DNC taken from the PC System for processing. side If remote request, File moved from CNC requested file will be memory to mapped- sent back to this folder drive associated with so the operator may DNCLINK folder move it to CNC memory. See Mapped- Drive DNC Link
8. Mapped-Drive DNC Link
ORiON's Mapped-Drive DNC Link allows you to connect your Ethernet based machine controls to your DNC system.
9. Using ORiON Mapped Drives
Using ORiON Mapped Drives
ORiON gives you the ability to map a drive on your computer to access folders on ORiON.
Mapping a Drive
To map a drive, first connect ORiON to your computer using a standard ethernet cable. Next, you must put your computer on the same subnet as ORiON. Navigate on yourPC to the Control Panel>Network and Sharing Center>Change Adapter Settings. Then go to the properties of the ORiON connection. Scroll down to Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4), select this and click properties .
Change the settings as shown below or contact IP personnel for guidance. ORiON's default subnet is 192.168.2.4.
Next, make sure your firewall is off or set to allow port 987. Windows Firewall settings can be found by going to the Control Panel>Windows Firewall. After doing this you must get the Username and Password to login to your ORiON. This is found in the ORiON Settings INI file. You can access this file either through ORiON Splash (remote display or external monitor operation) or by plugging a USB into ORiON.
Once you are viewing the ORiON Settings INI file scroll down to the section for "FTP" and look at the values for "FTP-CLIENT-TO-ORION-USERNAME" and "FTP-CLIENT-TO-ORION- PASSWORD". These will be used to login to ORiON for both the FTP and Mapped-Drive features from any external device.
After noting the login username and password go to the start menu on your PC and select Computer. Next select Map network drive along the top bar as shown below.
Once the Map Network Drive screen appears choose the Drive letter you would like to use. Under the folder field, type in: \\(ORIONSIPADDRESS)\(FOLDERTOMAPTO) as shown below.
Next you will be prompted for your Username and Password. These are the login credentials from your ORiON Settings INI file. The default Username and Password are both "CLIENT".
Select OK after completing the fields to connect. The folder you mapped to on ORiON (in this example: PGMSTORE ) will now appear on your PC.
10. ORiON/CNC Communications
This section describes and illustrates the different communications made between ORiON and your CNC Machines.
10.1 Local
Summary of ORiON/Machine (Local) Communications
ORiON stores files on its local memory (expandable) for communication with the machine. These files are loaded into ORiON using the USB Shuttle by placing the NC Programs to be transferred in the NC Storage folder.
ORiON looks at all incoming programs. If the program does not contain the predefined remote request command (LOCAL or FTP), ORiON stores that incoming program to memory. Saved files can be retrieved from ORiON memory by plugging in the USB Shuttle.
10.2 FTP
Summary of ORiON/Machine (FTP) Communications (For those using FTP)
Using FTP to transfer files to ORiON and into the machine control works using a server (on host computer) and client (on ORiON). When a request is made from the machine, ORiON reads this request and gets the appropriate file from the server, then passes it into the machine when the operator hits read.
An NC Program requested via FTP is only transient on ORiON. It is held temporarily in memory until the next FTP request when it is then overwritten. By having the FTP remote request get the latest file from the file server, this helps enforce revision control.
11. Tips and Troubleshooting
This section provides basic support for common issues. For advanced troubleshooting assistance please contact your local ORiON™ dealer or Nexas America LLC .
11.1 Serial Communications
Serial Communication Issues
If remote requests are not working, please try the following:
1. Check your machine parameters and match your (ORiON Settings INI.txt) file.
2. Make sure you’re plugged into the correct serial port on your machine.
3. After doing a remote request, if the request fails, ORiON may have saved it as an incoming file. Insert the USB Shuttle into ORiON then take a look at the received files:
• If the file contents are normal then your communication parameters are correct. Verify that the file contains the correct command (GETLOCAL or the value you specified in the (ORiON Settings INI.txt) file).
• If the file contents are corrupt then the communication parameters are mismatched.
• If there are no files received, either the communication parameters are severely mismatched or the cable is not wired correctly.
4. Instead of a remote request try sending a file then check the file contents as explained above.
11.2 Expandable Memory
Expandable Memory Issues
If you have inserted an external memory card into ORiON and it is not working, please check the following:
1. Be sure you are using a Compact Flash Memory Card. This is the only type of expandable memory ORiON supports at this time.
2. Check that the Media Slot switch is moved to the "slave" side as shown below. If it is not, move the switch and reboot ORiON.
11.3 FTP Issues
FTP Issues
1. Check that the host names, usernames and passwords match between the FTP server and ORiON.
2. Setup a FileZilla Client with the host, username and password that you've assigned to ORiON. Attach to the same Ethernet cable you are using for ORiON and confirm the FTP link is working.
3. If you cannot connect with the FileZilla Client, contact your IT support personnel.
FTP Server and Windows Firewall Issues
If you are having problems with setting up FileZilla Server to run behind Windows Firewall (specifically, it fails on "List" and the client receives a "Failed to receive directory listing" error), you must add the FileZilla Server application to Windows Firewall Exceptions list. To do this, follow these steps:
1. Open Windows Firewall under Control Panel.
2. Click “Allow a program or feature through Windows Firewall” (Windows 7) or similar option for other Windows Versions.
3. Select the “Change Settings.”
4. Click "Allow another program."
5. Do NOT select "FileZilla Server Interface" from the list, instead click on "Browse..."
6. Locate the directory you installed FileZilla Server to (normally "C:\Program Files\FileZilla Server\").
7. Double click or select "FileZilla server.exe" and press open.
8. Be sure "FileZilla server.exe" is selected on the list and click “Add.”
9. Verify that "FileZilla server.exe" is added to the exceptions list and that it has a check mark in the box next to it.
10. Press "OK" to close the window.
Passive mode should now work. If you are still having problems connecting (from another computer or outside the network), check your router settings or try to add the port number in the Windows Firewall settings. 12. Nexas America LLC
Nexas America and its affiliates bring together a team of world-class companies and individuals with products and services aimed at helping manufacturers better compete in today's competitive and highly automated manufacturing environment. Many members of our team have over 25 years' experience each in developing and implementing manufacturing connectivity solutions and delivering automation optimizing products and services.
As a single source vendor, when we deliver a solution to you either from our own product line or from one of our affiliates, we take full responsibility for product quality, delivery, installation, training and post-sale support.
Nexas understands how demanding the manufacturing world can be. Whether you make aerospace components, medical equipment, auto parts or anything in-between, we have the knowledge, experience and products to help you boost your part quality, productivity and profitability.
For additional information please contact us !
12.1 Our Products and Services
Nexas America LLC offers a wide range of best in class products to make your shop more productive. Our solutions are innovative and well supported from our ORiON CNC Productivity Hub to the software we provide from industry leading developers like Predator. We help you find the best solution for your needs then help maximize your benefits with world-class installation, training and support.
ORiON™ CNC Productivity Hub- Intelligent processing of DNC and machine data supporting DNC, OEE, Machine Event Monitoring, Inspection Data Gathering, Tool Life Monitoring and more.
Link/in 100™ CNC I/O Link Adapter- Retrieves machine data directly from the Operator Panel signals. Easy-to-install and cost-effective alternative to hard wiring signals for Machine Event Monitoring and OEE.
Automation Backup™- Structured and standardized process for recording all the information that drives your automation systems. From PLS program logic to machine parameters, manuals, blueprints and technical notes; all the information needed to document and recover your automation assets is stored in a common database and accessible by your technicians with a web browser.
Predator Software™- Nexas America is an authorized reseller for Predator, an industry leading software provider for automating and controlling DNC, shop floor documents, tools, fixtures, travelers and more. Fusion™- DNC Data Management Tool that fuses todays database technology with existing DNC systems. It is ideal for adding functionality to legacy DNC systems that use a DNC shortcut lookup table for managing and retrieving DNC files.
Nexas Cloud™ OEE- Cost effective machine event monitoring utilizes Software as a Service (SaaS) on the cloud.
CNC Memory Upgrades- Competitively priced Memory Boards for Fanuc, Yasnac and Mitsubishi Controls from memory upgrade pioneer Tulip Electronics.
To learn more about products and services from Nexas America LLC, please contact us or visit us on the web!
12.2 Contact Us
Nexas America LLC 484 Main Street, Suite C Hampden, MA 01036
Phone: 1 (413) 566-0100 Email: [email protected] Web: www.nexasamerica.com
Click here to contact us via our website.