
B-63644EN/02 IV. OPERATION 6.15i
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i DATA SERVER FUNCTIONS
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Buffer mode
In the buffer mode, an NC program that is larger than the capacity of
the Fast data server built-in ATA flash card can run more safely than in
the FTP mode. To be specific, if an NC program that is too large to fit
on the Fast data server built-in ATA flash card is to run in the buffer
mode, the NC program is previously divided to several files when it is
on the host computer (personal computer) built-in hard disk, and the
resulting files are listed. Each file is selected from the list and sent
sequentially to the Fast data server built-in ATA flash card for
execution. In the FTP mode, a communication failure can affect
directly the machining controlled by the CNC. In the buffer mode, to
the contrary, the CNC operation can be stopped between the files if a
communication failure occurs, because the Fast data server built-in
ATA flash card functions as a buffer. When the machine program is
divided into several files, an operation such as tool retracting can be
inserted at the end of each of these files. Doing so enables safer
continuous operations.
See Subsection, 6.1.8, "Buffer Mode Specifications," for detailed
explanations about the buffer mode.
When an NC program is output in the buffer mode, the CNC behaves in
the same manner as in the storage mode.
NOTE
The Series 21i-A/B cannot use the buffer mode.