Two new machine tool CNC systems - for three- and four-axis operation - are for entry-level users and offer ultra-high reliability with real ease of use.

Hot from GE Fanuc are two new models of entry-level CNC machine tool controllers that offer ultra-high reliability with real ease of use. The first of these is the basic Series 0i Mate, that is suitable for up to three axis control. Its more powerful companion, the Series 0i, can control up to two spindle motors and four axes.

Both systems are developments of already well-established versions of GE Fanuc Series i entry-level controls that are specified by many famous CNC machine tool builders throughout Europe.

Basic operation, therefore, along with the clear graphic displays and help functions, will be familiar to thousands of users.

Advanced CNC technology - included are the facilities of a powerful, built-in PMC, which executes sequence controls for both machine tool and peripheral devices.

The incorporation of flash memory chips enable machine tool builders to directly change PMC programs and macro executor programs on the CNC to suit their products.

There is no need for a special writing tool or RAM board for debugging.

Single source total CNC package - the Series 0i can have either a 7.2in monochrome LCD or a 9in monochrome CRT display unit.

It comes with many popular features including linear, circular and even helical interpolation.

The 'M' version is capable of controlling up to three axes and the 'T' (Turning) version, two axes.

Part program storage length is 640m and the SA1 PMC has a 5Kstep, 5ms/step capability.

The drive sub-system is by way of an optical fibre cable link via the GE Fanuc Serial Servo Bus to the Servo Amplifiers.

Thence to the GE Fanuc ai, aCi spindle motor and aCi, b advanced technology digital Servo System.

This single-source total CNC package enables machine tool builders to secure the best possible compatibility between the constituent system elements.

Users are therefore assured of maximum reliability and productivity.

Extensive options - the more fully-featured Series 0i can handle one or two ai or aCi spindle motors as well as ai, aCi or b servo motors for up to four axes and will even support the latest 400V motors.

As well as being able to use the same mono displays as the Mate version, it can be equipped with colour LCDs of 8.4in, 10.4in and a display unit with PC functions.

In addition to the same three basic interpolation methods available on the 0i -Mate system, the 0i has Polar coordinate interpolation.

It is further distinguished from its companion system by offering the following useful options: macro executor, I/O link b Amp.

connection, Ethernet function and, what for many users could be most useful of all, the Manual Guide 0i.

The Manual Guide 0i is a simple conversational operation for cycle machining and contour programming that also provides G-code and M-code assistance when needed.

It is packed full of cycles for both machining centres and milling machines or for lathes, all with excellent graphical displays.

The contouring program has powerful figure calculation abilities, with easy inputs for 11 types of auxiliary calculation and graphical on-screen checks.

The G- and M-code assistance, for which customisation is possible with macro executor, provides both textual and graphical on-screen aid.

Grinding applications - another major 'plus', offered only with the 0i system, is one that will appeal specifically to grinding machine manufacturers.

This is the option of a full set of grinding functions to include: canned cylindrical grinding cycles, a control function for surface grinding, wheel wear compensation in continuous dressing, angular axis control and many more.

Capabilities like these are not normally associated with entry-level CNC machine systems.

GE Fanuc has been able to provide them whilst still keeping to a simple, user-friendly method of operation.

With the top of the range CNC systems from GE Fanuc constantly being uprated to operate at the cutting edge of technology, the company says that, 'Now it is time for entry-level CNC users to benefit from our development work as well.

We believe that these systems provide more of the most powerful, popular features for low-price machine tools than is available on any other CNC on the market today'.