MDSI's OpenCNC V5.0 Software Supports Microsoft Windows DNA for Manufacturing

Maker of Software CNC Leads the Way in CNC Industry

ANN ARBOR, MI—Manufacturing Data Systems, Inc. (MDSI), an industry leader in software computer numerical control (CNC) technology, today announced that the latest release of its product, OpenCNC® software Version 5.0, is one of the first CNC solutions on the market to support Microsoft Corp.'s Windows Distributed interNet Applications Architecture for Manufacturing (Windows DNA for Manufacturing). Windows DNA for Manufacturing is a software and network architecture that allows different manufacturing software applications to integrate, enterprise–wide.

Because OpenCNC is an open-architecture, all–software CNC, it already allows easy integration of third-party technologies and the export of machining data enterprise-wide. But, with the added support of Windows DNA for Manufacturing, MDSI can now offer its customers more choice in Windows-based data exchange applications.

In addition to Windows DNA for Manufacturing, OpenCNC V5.0 utilizes standard Windows tools and products— such as OPC (OLE for Process Control), a specification for linking and distributing data throughout a factory network; OLE DB, a technology that ensures manufacturing data interchangeability between diverse database formats; SQL Server, the primary Windows enterprise-wide database; and Microsoft's Visual Basic, a development system for creating high-performance components and applications to integrate multiple hardware and software manufacturing applications. These include HMI (Human Machine Interface), SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition), SPC (Statistical Process Control), MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems), and ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) solutions.

"With OpenCNC Version 5.0 and Windows DNA for Manufacturing, OpenCNC users will be able to easily develop and implement the necessary tools for a higher level of efficiency in data exchange and collection," said James R. Fall, president and CEO of MDSI. "The combined technologies of Windows DNA for Manufacturing and OpenCNC create the ideal software solution for manufacturers looking to optimize data flow and CNC machine control."

"Windows DNA for Manufacturing is a framework that allows compliant manufacturing software applications, such as OpenCNC, to easily integrate with each other, providing a complete system solution," said Don Richardson, manufacturing industry manager at Microsoft Corp. "We are pleased to have the support of MDSI and OpenCNC as one of the first CNC applications to take this important step."

About MDSI

Manufacturing Data Systems, Inc. supplies factory automation software and services that increase manufacturing flexibility and enable agile manufacturing. The company's primary product, OpenCNC software, is a software CNC control that reduces machine tool control costs and extends the productive life of machine tools. Unlike traditional CNC controls, OpenCNC uses no proprietary hardware or motion control cards. The entire control is delivered on a CD.

The company's customers, spanning many industries, include Boeing, Caterpillar, Dana-Spicer, Detroit Diesel, Emerson Electric, Ford Motor Company, General Electric, General Motors, Lockheed-Martin, Marconi Precision Aerostructures, Rolls Royce, Tecumseh Products Company, Teledyne, Textron, and Vickers. For more information, visit MDSI's Web site at www.mdsi2.com.

MDSI, the MDSI logo, and OpenCNC are registered trademarks of Manufacturing Data Systems, Inc. Significant Events and OpenEvents are trademarks of Manufacturing Data Systems, Inc. Microsoft, Windows, Windows NT, Visual Basic, and Visual C++ are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the U.S. and/or other countries. All other brand or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.