Software

A laptop running machine monitoring software connected to various CNC machines. In the background is a large blue gear and a clip art factory building.

Connect CNC Machine to Computer

April 5, 2019

Machinists looking to connect CNC machines to computers have different needs. Perhaps they want to monitor OEE, or they want to send programs remotely. Here are the top three solutions …

Manufacturing News

April 1, 2019

A long standing publication with a classic newspaper vibe – we are proud to have been featured in Manufacturing News many times. The issues focus on different regions and their …

A large clip art magnifying glass with "75%" in the middle of the glass. In the background is a tool desk in a shop.

3 Reasons for CNC Machine Monitoring

March 21, 2019

There has been a lot of buzz about CNC machine monitoring the past few years. There are also issues manufacturers bring up for reasons why they won’t start such a …

Industrial Automation for Manufacturers

March 15, 2019

Wondering what the best industrial automation solutions are for your shop floor? The biggest factors to focus on are your budget, needs, and the equipment you want to improve performance …

An engineer on the shop floor assessing a machine, which was visibly just in use as shown by the excess of metal shavings.

How to Monitor Manufacturing Progress

March 6, 2019

The need to monitor manufacturing OEE is a big concern for 2019. Because the cost and commitment can be daunting, it may have previously been avoided. The productivity improvement industry …

Plastic Manufacturing

The Plastic Manufacturing Industry

February 21, 2019

Moldmaking is a rewarding area in our industry to work within. Plastic manufacturing touches many facets of our daily lives. Just ask those who work in the field! “Moldmaking and …

A CNC machine and a pallet jack accompanied by various industry icons in a hexagonal pattern.

Manufacturing Management

February 14, 2019

According to SME’s ToolingU Manufacturing Management Supervisor Essentials Course, just because you’re a manager doesn’t automatically make you a leader. Leaders cope with change and complexity. Have you taken the …

A front view of a Fanuc CNC controller, which is being monitored with machine monitoring software.

Fanuc CNC Automation Resources

February 12, 2019

Manufacturers with Fanuc CNC machines have specific needs. Especially when it comes to the subject of shop floor automation. Here are some quick resources: Can you do machine monitoring with …

A smart tablet with a 3d bar graph and pie chart extending from its screen accompanied by a CNC machine.

CNC Software for MFG Productivity

February 11, 2019

Many manufacturers seek out CNC software to increase their productivity. Whether they have older machines and small shops, or the latest technology and many employees. Manufacturers also want software that …

An upper view of a shop floor with various CNC machines in view and several employees hard at work. There is an overlaid silhouette of someone at a desktop computer with the SFA logo on it.

Need An “Automate CNC Machines” Game Plan?

February 7, 2019

Planning to automate CNC machines or other manufacturing equipment? Here are three steps before starting: First, Create a Healthy Technology Relationship: “These tools have been developed not for nefarious reasons, …

A collage featuring a screenshot of DNC software and an above view of a shop floor with numerous CNC machines. At the bottom is clip art of an employee on a computer with the SFA logo.

What is DNC CNC Software?

February 5, 2019

Our article on DNC software functions and benefits was published by MoldMaking Technology recently. “A company’s programs are their livelihood on the shop floor. They make the parts that keep a business …