Hewlett-Packard Co is always looking for new fields to conquer, and has just entered the computerized numerical control market with launch of its Open Architecture Controller at the Japan International Machine Tool Fair. When it comes to factory automation, computing equipment is typically two to three generations out of date with the latest controllers using the 80486 or 68040 rather than Pentium Pro or PowerPC, and are linked together with costly nonstandard networks. Hewlett’s controller is designed to enable machine tool users to reduce their machinery lifecycle costs and cut their capital cost by enabling them to take advantage of off-the-shelf software for factory networking, electronic mail and computer-aided design files. Price for the controller ranges from $30,000 to $40,000 depending on options and configuration, and it is expected to be available in February.
