“Automation1 continues to become more flexible and powerful while prioritizing a simple user experience,” said Daniel Hong, controls product manager at Aerotech. “Version 2.8 offers users – especially CNC operators – key tools for developing and deploying an HMI quickly and easily.”

More Device Compatibility. With new flexible linear gantry support, users can configure flexible linear gantry devices in Machine Setup. Additional compatibility with iXA4 PWM servo drive configurations – including 4-axis, DC power supply (100 VDC) and expansion board options – gives users access to MachineApps and Automation1 APIs, STO for integration with safety controllers, EtherCAT and MODBUS support, and more.

Presets for Faster, More Flexible HMI Development. New data collection presets – predefined data collection configurations stored on the controller – make it easy to quickly switch between presets, saving users time.

Even Easier User Experience. Automation1’s help file now features a restructured homepage with navigation to hardware manuals and sections for data collection, controller status and motion.

New Tools for CNC UI Builders. Version 2.8’s wide selection of new tools better equips Automation1 better CNC machine builders. Custom T-codes (for the Aerotech G-code dialect) allow users to create custom Aeroscript and tool selection routines. With cutter and work offest compensation tools, users can compensate for a cutting tool’s X, Y and Z offsets or program motion relative to a fixed point.