If your company has an older OptiPro machine model with the Fagor 8055 control, communication from the control to your computer system is only achievable via an RS-232 port. OptiPro has received several requests to switch from RS-232 to Ethernet because laptops are no longer supporting RS-232. RS-232 is an outdated form of communication that is being phased-out on many modern devices, including new generation desktop and laptop computers. If your Fagor 8055 is hooked up to an old computer, then an upgrade may not be necessary. However, if you have recently replaced older generation computers and no longer have access to an RS-232 port, there are several options to upgrade to Ethernet and/or USB:
Option 1: Upgrade from Fagor 8055 to Fagor 8065.
Upgrading to a Fagor 8065 will give you access to both ethernet and USB ports. Typically, companies will utilize Ethernet communication, since the control can be hooked up directly to the computer on which the CNC software is loaded. Often times, this computer is in an entirely different area of the building, making Ethernet very convenient. Upgrading to a Fagor 8065 keeps your company on pace with modern technology.
Option 2: Installing an ethernet port to an existing Fagor 8055 control.
OptiPro considers this option the least cost-effective, as it is expensive to install an Ethernet port and you do not receive the benefits of the newer Fagor 8070 control that do not exist on the 8055.
Option 3: Utilizing an RS-232 to USB Adapter.
For companies that do not need an ethernet connection but need to communicate the Fagor 8055 to a newer laptop or desktop computer without an RS-232 port, OptiPro recommends purchasing an RS-232 to USB Adapter (see below). Machine tool files can be sent from the Fagor 8055 to the USB drive, USB drive to the Fagor 8055, or drip fed (DNC) from the USB drive. Once the connection to the OptiPro machine has been established, settings can be saved and recalled for future use. This is a relatively low-cost option for companies looking for a “quick fix”.
