G&W Selects MDSI as Exclusive CNC System Software Provider

OpenCNC® Open Architecture Software CNC Was Selected for Its Performance, Cost, and Scalability for New and Rebuilt CNC Machine Tools

CHICAGO—Manufacturing Data Systems, Inc. (MDSI) (Ann Arbor, Michigan), the leader in software computer numerical control (CNC) and software motion technology, along with G&W Services, Inc., (Uxbridge, MA) a specialty machine tool builder, rebuilder and retrofitter of BostoMatic&174; equipment, today announced that MDSI's OpenCNC software Version 6.2 will be the exclusive CNC system software used by G&W Services for BostoMatic machinery rebuilds and upgrades, as well as original G&W OEM machine tools.

With OpenCNC V6.2's high-performance machining algorithms, which increase machine performance by up to 25 percent over the previous version of the software and also extend five-axis machining and probing capabilities, G&W has developed a new CNC system that dramatically increases the performance of retrofitted BostoMatic machining centers.

G&W Services will debut a remanufactured BostoMatic 305 CNC 5-axis machining center with OpenCNC software at IMTS 2002, in MDSI's booth D-4232.

G&W-Services set out to find a CNC retrofit package with a series of stringent criteria. They needed an unbundled software system that ran on standard Microsoft® Windows® NT and a single Intel® processor; one that also offered abundant hardware options, open-architecture for freedom to configure and expand at the customer level, and a realistically priced total retrofit package with cost-effective software updates and maintenance. After a year of reviewing numerous commercially available products from major brands, including so-called “PC-based” controls, G&W found that MDSI’s OpenCNC® was the only product that could provide everything G&W required.

"As a rebuilder and retrofitter, we needed a CNC system that provided maximum flexibility to integrate a wide range of products in the BostoMatic line," said Gary Wells, president and CEO, G&W–Services, Inc. "Not only does MDSI have the right technology, they also have a proven track record, and consistently demonstrate a strong commitment to innovation and field support."

Using OpenCNC Version 6.2 as an operating platform, G&W designed a control retrofit package with softlogic and operational control features, as well as state-of-the-art technology in its hardware system. This hardware/software combination creates a truly open architecture CNC, fully serviceable and expandable by the end user, with the freedom and power to meet current and future needs.

"OpenCNC also gives us the essential software tools and diagnostic features for customizing servo, spindle, ATC and other hardware interface options," Wells said. "We can now develop specific applications to be integrated with OpenCNC, giving us the ability to do unlimited system enhancement at a very low cost."

"MDSI and G&W have developed an excellent partnership to bring high performance CNC products and technology to manufacturers," said James R. Fall, president and CEO, "with a goal of helping our customers to increase productivity."

About MDSI

Manufacturing Data Systems, Inc. (MDSI) is a division of Hurco Companies, Inc. MDSI supplies Internet-enabled, open-architecture software motion control applications that increase manufacturing flexibility and enable agile manufacturing for the Computer Numerical Control (CNC) and General Motion Control (GMC) markets. Unlike traditional hardware or proprietary–based CNC or motion controls, MDSI's solutions are unbundled from, and use no, proprietary hardware or motion control cards.

MDSI's foundation soft motion technology provides a common and open architecture control across a variety of machine tools—from two-axis lathes and grinders to five-axis machining centers tools to material handling systems.

MDSI's business strategy emphasizes technological and price/performance leadership, hardware independence and comprehensive customer-support. The company's customers, spanning many industries, include BAE Systems, Boeing, Briggs & Stratton, Caterpillar, Cessna Aircraft, Dana, Detroit Diesel, Emerson Electric, Flowserve, Ford Motor Company, General Electric, General Motors, Halliburton, Lockheed–Martin, Tecumseh Products Company, Teledyne, Textron, and Vickers. For more information, visit MDSI's web site at http://www.mdsi2.com.

About G&W Services, Inc.

Established in 1995, G&W Services, Inc. provides quality services, repair parts, retrofits and machine rebuild services specific to BostoMatic machinery. Presently, we use the remanufacturing process as a method of machinery supply for engraving, rotary cutting die and five-axis equipment. We search out quality used equipment, completely remanufacture the machinery, then couple it with leading edge electronics and MDSI's OpenCNC control system. For more information, visit www.gnw-services.com.

MDSI, the MDSI logo, OpenCNC, and WinMotion are registered trademarks of Manufacturing Data Systems, Inc. Significant Events, and MDSI Motion are trademarks of Manufacturing Data Systems, Inc. All other brand or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.