Direct Numerical Control

Direct numerical control (DNC), also known as distributed numerical control (also DNC), is a common manufacturing term for networking CNC machine tools. On some CNC machine controllers, the available memory is too small to contain the machining program (for example machining complex surfaces), so in this case the program is stored in a separate computer and sent directly to the machine, one block at a time. If the computer is connected to a number of machines it can distribute programs to different machines as required. Usually, the manufacturer of the control provides suitable DNC software. However, if this provision is not possible, some software companies provide DNC applications that fulfill the purpose. DNC networking or DNC communication is always required when CAM programs are to run on some CNC machine control.

Wireless DNC is also used in place of hard-wired versions. Controls of this type are very widely used in industries with significant sheet metal fabrication, such as the automotive, appliance, and aerospace industries.

Read more about Direct Numerical Control:  1950s-1970s, 1980s, 1990s and Beyond, Special Protocols, Machine Monitoring, Alternatives, Footnotes

Famous quotes containing the words direct, numerical and/or control:

    No direct hit to smash the shatter-proof
    And lodge at last the quivering needle
    Clean in the eye of one who stands transfixed
    In fascination of her brightness.
    Karl Shapiro (b. 1913)

    The moment a mere numerical superiority by either states or voters in this country proceeds to ignore the needs and desires of the minority, and for their own selfish purpose or advancement, hamper or oppress that minority, or debar them in any way from equal privileges and equal rights—that moment will mark the failure of our constitutional system.
    Franklin D. Roosevelt (1882–1945)

    Surrealism, n. Pure psychic automatism, by which it is intended to express, whether verbally or in writing, or in any other way, the real process of thought. Thought’s dictation, free from any control by the reason, independent of any aesthetic or moral preoccupation.
    André Breton (1896–1966)