The CNC Controller History

An NC controller receives a set of sequenced instructions, the program, consisting of alphanumeric characters. Numerically Controlled were introduced in the late 1940s and early 1950s, they used for all machine control and data processing before the advent of microprocessors or computers. Computerized Numerically Controlled (CNC) controllers are sometimes still referred to as NC controllers. The controller uses this set of instructions to direct the motions of a machine tool such as a milling machine, lathe machine, plasma cutter and of course CNC router, much like the machine controllers today.

In the past the program was edited and programmed with the very basic computers of the time. The program would then be transported to the NC controller via a tape. This permitted the program instructions to be read by the controller's tape reader only once and then stored in the controller's memory. Magnetic tape recorders and floppy disk drives were also being used for program recording and storage. There were no direct links between the computer and controller on early CNC control systems.

This permitted the program instructions to be read by the controller's tape reader only once and then stored in the controller's memory. Magnetic tape recorders and floppy disk drives were also being used for program recording and storage. There were no direct links between the computer and controller on early CNC control systems.

Debugging an N/C program before the advent of the computerized NC required making a new tape, trying out the new tape, finding the next error, making another tape, and so on. The process of debugging a new program could require making a dozen or more punched tapes until an error free program was achieved. Engineering changes required a new tape to be made and debugged.

Modern CNC Controllers: Today, with the use of powerful microprocessors and computer systems, the NC controller now communicated directly to a computer system with a real time link. This is the CNC controller that is standard today. The CNC controllers today do far more than drive motors. Some CNC control systems have the capabilities to machine control spindle speeds, coolant flow, and other peripherals.

Modern CNC controllers still require operators to create a program for the controller to follow. Operators today receive help from Software such as Computer-Aided Design (CAD) packages and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software along with the controller software to create the necessary numerical code such as G-code. The CNC controllers today range from professional standalone control systems, with their own keyboard and user interface, to hobby CNC control system that require a personal computer.

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