The DARDI ESA PC is the central CNC controller used across DARDI waterjet cutting machines. Unlike traditional embedded CNC systems, it runs on a full Windows 10 operating system, allowing NEW-CAM and IGEMS CAD/CAM software to execute directly on the controller — no separate programming workstation required.

What CAD/CAM software does the ESA PC run?

The controller comes with NEW-CAM for 2D cutting applications, providing automatic DXF-to-NC conversion, trajectory simulation, corner deceleration, automatic kerf compensation, and material warehouse management. For 3D and 5-axis applications, IGEMS handles DXF, DWG, STL, STP, and IGS formats with anti-collision simulation and automatic stone jigsaw layout. Both packages run natively on the controller's Windows 10 environment.

How many axes can the ESA PC control?

The ESA PC supports configurations from standard 3-axis (X, Y, Z) through 4-axis (with C-axis rotating at 3,600°/min, bevel angle ±5°) to full 5-axis linkage, including AB 5-axis jigsaw cutting (±10° on B and A axes) and X5 true 5-axis with A-axis swing of ±60° to ±90° and C-axis rotation of ±360° at ±30 arc-second accuracy. All axes are driven by Yaskawa AC servo motors over a ball screw and guide rail drive system.

How does the operator interact with the ESA PC?

The system provides a large LCD color touchscreen alongside a physical keyboard, mouse, and a portable pulse handwheel controller. The touchscreen handles primary CNC operations including visualized origin setting for multiple workpieces, while the handwheel enables manual axis jogging during setup. An axis-stopping function allows the operator to pause cutting mid-process for inspection and resume seamlessly.