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Auto Setup

What is Auto Setup?​

Auto Setup automatically transitions machines from Setup to Production mode based on cycle consistency when using APM (Automatic Production Monitoring).

Access: Settings → Auto Setup

Who Can Manage: Managers, Executives, IT Admins

Prerequisites:

  • Machine must use APM (Automatic Production Monitoring)
  • APM typically used with machines reporting program headers via Ethernet (FOCAS, MTConnect, OPC-UA)

How Auto Setup Works​

Automatic Workflow:

1. Job Change Detected (via APM)

  • Machine program changes (new part number/operation detected)
  • APM creates new Production Run
  • Auto Setup activates: Machine automatically enters Setup mode

2. Consistent Parts Detected

  • MachineMetrics monitors cycle times
  • Once cycle times stabilize and become consistent
  • Auto Setup deactivates: Machine automatically switches to Production mode

3. Next Job Change

  • Process repeats for next operation

Example:

Time: 8:00 AM - Program changes to Part ABC-123
Action: Auto Setup puts machine in Setup mode

Time: 8:00 AM - 8:30 AM - Operator sets tools, runs first articles (cycle times variable)

Time: 8:30 AM - Cycle times stabilize at ~120 seconds
Action: Auto Setup switches machine to Production mode

Time: 8:30 AM - 2:00 PM - Production runs (cycle times consistent)

Time: 2:00 PM - Program changes to Part XYZ-789
Action: Auto Setup puts machine back in Setup mode

Benefits​

  • No Operator Input Required: Automatic tracking of setup vs. production
  • Accurate Setup Time: Based on actual cycle consistency, not manual operator selection
  • Reduced Operator Burden: One less thing for operators to remember

Enabling Auto Setup​

Step-by-Step:

  1. Navigate to Settings → Auto Setup
  2. Select machines to enable Auto Setup (must have APM enabled)
  3. Toggle Enable Auto Setup for each machine
  4. Click "Save"

Bulk Enable:

  • Select multiple machines
  • Click "Enable All"

Limitations​

Auto Setup Requires:

  • APM (Automatic Production Monitoring) enabled
  • Machine with consistent cycle times
  • Program header data from machine

Not Compatible With:

  • Manual operation start/stop (non-APM machines)
  • Highly variable cycle times
  • One-off jobs or prototype runs

See Also: Automated Production Monitoring (APM) Guide

Auto Setup configuration with machines listed