7 steps for setting up DNC / RS-232 communication.

Step 1. Gather all necessary data.
Print & Review the RS-232 Communication Document. -(*Optional -This is an overview to RS-232 Communications )
Print & Complete the RS-232 Checklist.

In order to set up the communications you must first have the following information.
Baud Rate:
Data Bits:
Stop Bits:
Parity:
Flow Control:
The Computer's Comm Port Number:

Step 2. Ensure the serial cable correctly configured.
The cable must be properly configured "wired" for your machine. Cables can be purchased through BobCAD or through your machine dealer.

Step 3. Make sure your serial port is installed correctly configured.
The serial port should have its own baud, parity, data bits, and flow control. These settings must be set to match your machine settings

To access the Device Manager, use any of the following methods:

- Click Start, click Run, and then type "devmgmt.msc" (without the quotation marks).
- Right-click My Computer, click Properties, click the Hardware tab, and then click Device Manager.

To check the Comm Port Properties

-In the device manager look under Ports>COMM and LPT right click the comm port then left click on Properties. (You should now be able to view and change the settings.)

Step 4. Set your machine to Receive.

-If you are not sure how to do this you will need to consult your machine manual or dealer.

Step 5. Launch the communication software (Predator Editor).

To launch the editor use any of the following methods:

-From BobCAD click on Modules then Edit CNC.
-From BobCAD right click in the Posting Manager then left click Edit.
- From the Windows desktop Double Click the PEditor Shortcut.

Step 6. Configure the communication software (Predator Editor).

From the editor click on DNC then Properties set the Port, Baud, Parity, Data, Stop and Flow Control Values.
Click Next 4 times then click finish. (The settings on all but the first page need not be changed. Only the Values described above.)

Step 7. Send A file to the Machine.
From the editor click on DNC then Send To CNC.

Trouble Shooting Notes:
1. A "standard" RS-232 null modem cable from an electronics store will not work. The cable must be wired properly for the machine.
2. The cable must be a serial cable. A parallel cable will not work.
3. USB to serial adapters can be problematic. An internal serial card is always a better solution.
4. If you do not know the proper settings for your machine, contact your machine manufacturer as they will be able to provide the proper settings to you.
5. If no port appears in the device manager, you will need to install or reinstall your serial port device.
6. If using a USB to serial adapter (not recommended!), ensure the driver disk has been loaded and the settings (baud, parity, data bits and flow control) are the same as set on your machine.
7. If the cable is improperly configured sometimes it is possible to send but not receive, and vice versa.
8. If running in a DNC mode you may need to include a line delay amount. Set this value to 0 for standard RS-232 communication.

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