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Acu-Rite Solutions
Acu-Rite Solutions

The University of Pittsburgh upgrades research machine shop with MILLPWRG2

“Most people don’t realize that large universities have five or even ten machine shops throughout their campus. Some are education centers where students are trained on machinery. Other shops work for the university or even lend themselves outside of the university.” This insight was shared by our valued distribution partner, Gary Kinkela, President of Kinkade Inc. when he was discussing his recent installation of two Acu-Rite Solutions products at the University of Pittsburgh. Gary visited the University of Pittsburgh to meet with familiar faces and discuss their machine shop needs candidly. It became apparent that one of the shops faced challenges with its current equipment, particularly with a bed mill that featured an out-of-date control system. “The previous setup was old. It was aging technology. Parts could not be replaced, and the capabilities just weren’t there,” shared the shop manager, Shawn Artman. Shawn’s machine shop supports the unique machining and assembly requirements for the University’s Kenneth P. Dietrich School of Arts & Sciences. He elaborated, “We support the labs and research teams. We’ve built parts to support research for Quantum Physics and, we’ve created equipment for the Geology department to study frogs and fish underwater. Anything the school needs to be fixed or built, we do it.” After their initial shop walkthrough, Gary recommended replacing their legacy bed mill control with the MILLPWRG2 . The MILLPWRG2  is a powerful yet easy-to-operate CNC retrofit system for knee mills and bed mills. The MILLPWRG2  offers faster set-ups, shorter run times, and a major boost in productivity. hen asked why Shawn and his team selected Acu-Rite Solutions for their shop upgrade, he said, “Most of the team has worked on Acu-Rite Solutions at some point in their career. It’s a reputable brand. And when compared with the old control, Acu-Rite Solutions is just a better overall system to operate and program.” He also shared, “I am a big proponent of customer service, and the quality and support that Gary was showing us made us want to go that route.” In addition to the MILLPWRG2 upgrade at [...]

2025-06-25T19:52:31+00:00

Shaping the future of manufacturing

We’ve all repeatedly heard how it is increasingly difficult to find qualified candidates to fill jobs in the precision metalworking industry. Many know that something must be done to attract people to pursue careers in metalworking. To that end, Acu-Rite Solutions and HEIDENHAIN have supported educational curriculums in the precision metalworking sector for many years. In a continued show of our commitment, Acu-Rite Solutions would like to bring renewed attention to the use of its School Discount Program to all Industrial and Vocational Precision Metalworking programs. Here, deep discounts allow school faculty to upgrade their manual machines with DRO Packages and MILLPWRG2 CNC packages for knee- and bed-type mills, all made in America. In some instances, with the help of industry partners, some school programs have even received new machines delivered with them too. These programs can now offer the best and most relevant curriculum to their students, attracting even more students because they have cutting edge knowledge to impart. We believe these school equipment discount programs help to better prepare manufacturing students to take their place in the future of this industry and we are proud to assist them in keeping America strong. For more information Visit the School Discount Program page Download the School Discount Program flyer Contact John Parker, product manager (jparker@heidenhain.com or 716-661-1844)

2025-06-25T19:49:29+00:00

Company Developments and Vision for 2024

Schaumburg, IL [February 2024] — In a dynamic progression through recent years, Acu-Rite Solutions, a leader in DRO (Digital Readouts), CNC, encoders and accessories has consistently advanced despite global changes, reinforcing its commitment to machinists nationwide. Starting in 2019, Acu-Rite Solutions embarked on a significant transformation by relocating its manufacturing facilities from Jamestown, NY, to the larger, state-of-the-art facilities at the North American headquarters of parent company HEIDENHAIN CORPORATION in Schaumburg, IL. This move not only represents Acu-Rite Solutions dedication to the “Made in America” tradition but also strategically places the company in a centralized location. This benefits Acu-Rite Solutions with quicker access to industrial resources in the Chicagoland area, enhancing its operational efficiency in shipping and receiving, both domestically and internationally. Further emphasizing its commitment to education and customer support, Acu-Rite Solutions opened the Acu-Rite Solutions Technology Education Center (ATEC) in 2021. ATEC stands as a pillar of innovation, offering North American customers and prospects a unique opportunity to directly engage with Acu-Rite Solutions extensive range of machine tool components. This facility provides an environment where expert trainers can demonstrate the application of Acu-Rite Solutions controls, digital readouts, encoders, and accessories on various machine tools. By appointment, customers can experience Acu-Rite Solutions latest products, including the MILLPWRG2 control system for knee mill and bed mill applications and the TURNPWR control for lathe applications, in a fully functional setting. Additionally, Acu-Rite Solutions is extending its support to the educational sector through its School Discount Program. This initiative is designed to bring the latest in precision metalworking technology to students across the country. By partnering with local distributors, Acu-Rite Solutions is able to offer its advanced MILLPWRG2 CNC controllers and comprehensive DRO packages at significantly reduced prices to schools with precision metalworking and vocational programs. This effort not only equips educators with the tools necessary to provide in-depth instruction on turning and milling machine cycles, probing functions, and conversational CNC programming, but also highlights Acu-Rite Solutions commitment to fostering the next generation of machining professionals. In line with its innovative spirit, Acu-Rite Solutions proudly announced the launch of droPWR in 2022, [...]

2024-07-16T13:32:34+00:00

2024 training calendar released

2024 TNC Training Calendar: Click image to open interactive PDF Technical qualification and continuing training are indispensable for achieving technological improvement and securing the future of a company and its employees. HEIDENHAIN CORPORATION in Schaumburg, IL, provides technical training covering installation and programming as well as general training for distributors and end-users. Classes include engaging presentations and live machine demonstrations with the latest CNC and motion control from HEIDENHAIN. Click the 2024 TNC Training Calendar above to open an interactive PDF. Once there, you can click on a class to view detailed information and a registration form. _______ NOTE In-person TNC training classes may change to online/virtual classes at the last minute. This would only be done in response to changes in COVID restrictions mandated by state or local authorities. All training events and visitor approvals are subject to COVID-19 constraints and protocols. Please check with us in advance as they can change at short notice.

2025-06-25T19:29:05+00:00

Acu-Rite Solutions releases droPWR app

The new iOS app allows users to turn an iPad® into a versatile digital readout Schaumburg, IL (March 2023) – Acu-Rite Solutions announced that its new iOS app, droPWR, is now available in the Apple App Store. The app allows users to turn an ordinary iPad into a versatile digital readout console. This advancement leverages Acu-Rite Solutions long-standing expertise and offerings in the DRO space—while taking flexibility and ease-of-use even further. Key benefits of the droPWR include: Provides intuitive user experience and touchscreen conventions Allows users to dynamically switch between milling, turning and grinding machines/applications to save time and money Allows multiple configurations on one tablet, with parameters set to each user On-boarding configuration easily walks the user through application setup Uses Bluetooth technology for wireless connectivity to encoders via an interface box Two key user advantages of the droPWR app are split-screen functionality and dynamic zoom. The split-screen capability allows users to multitask—having more than one application displayed at a time (the readout application on one side and part print on the other, for example). The dynamic zoom feature when enabled allows the user to visually see the position value of the current moving axis to greatly improve legibility—especially from a distance. “Acu-Rite Solutions DROs allow manufacturers and educators to take their manual machines to the next level in terms of precision, productivity and overall potential,” says Acu-Rite Solutions Business Unit Manager, John Parker. “The droPWR takes this to the next level, thanks to its versatility and multi-machine capabilities. It’s a perfect fit for classrooms and manufacturing environments of all kinds.” To learn more about droPWR and get a link to download the app, visit acu-rite solutions.com/controls-readouts/dropwr. To download a high-resolution image click here.

2025-06-25T19:32:52+00:00

Acu-Rite Solutions new PCBA Bridge Adapter

SCHAUMBURG, IL (August 2022) – A new Acu-Rite Solutions adapter to enable a bridge from an Acu-Rite Solutions CNC control to a HEIDENHAIN control on the same machine will be introduced at the IMTS show in Chicago (September 12-17). This new product bridges the gap to bring an Acu-Rite Solutions control user to the next step, an entry-level HEIDENHAIN TNC 320 control, all on the same machine tool. This new system from HEIDENHAIN’s Acu-Rite Solutions brand will be especially useful for shop owners who want to easily upgrade their machine already equipped with an Acu-Rite Solutions MILLPWR control to the next-step HEIDENHAIN TNC 320 or to switch between both controls such as in teaching environments at trade schools and in machine shops. The PCBA was developed to allow Acu-Rite Solutions controls users to define and order a TNC 320 for small machine tool applications (i.e., VMC with tool changer) as a simple upgrade. This new system includes the PCBA adapter, a TNC 320 control and a complete AC package (motors, drives and electrical cabinet). Two options will be available: Kit Style: For a user who has an Acu-Rite Solutions bed mill kit installed on a machine and they want to add the flexibility of the HEIDENHAIN TNC 320, the interface PCBA adapter can accommodate the functionality by using the backend Acu-Rite Solutions components. The use could be educational where most instructing is done on the Acu-Rite Solutions MILLPWR or TURNPWR control but there is a need to show advance functionality of the TNC 320. This allows users to become experienced with HEIDENHAIN entry-level controls. OEI: This is the console-only option that a builder can integrate into the machine, using Acu-Rite Solutions backend components. This can be used for CNC ready machines that have older controls and the end user wants to upgrade. Acu-Rite Solutions is a brand of HEIDENHAIN consisting of digital readouts, linear scales and controls. Acu-Rite Solutions DROs and controls are manufactured in the U.S. www.acu-rite solutions.com High-resolution image available here. Media contact: Kathleen Herrmann, K-Pro PR, Inc. kherrmann@kpropr.com or 224-520-0665 Product contact: John Parker, HEIDENHAIN Machine Tool [...]

2025-06-25T19:34:09+00:00

“The Q”– Meet Acu-Rite Solutions new metrology DRO

SCHAUMBURG, IL (August 2022) – The new metrology-focused digital readout by Acu-Rite Solutions will be introduced in the HEIDENHAIN booth next month at IMTS in Chicago (September 12-17). The new Acu-Rite Solutions-brand DRO203Q known as “the Q” utilizes the power of the established Acu-Rite Solutions DRO203 hardware to integrate geometric metrology functions from the past iconic QUADRA-CHEK series. Users of optical comparators and measuring microscopes and more will find this of particular interest as it meets the need for basic 2-D metrology functions. The Q functions as an entry-level readout, providing the user with geometric feature construction, basic part view detail and data output via USB-C connection. This enables users to quickly gather the needed points, construct desired features, and export them easily over a modern interface. The Acu-Rite Solutions DRO203Q is plug-and-play, walking the user through initial set up parameters and display options on first power-up. Acu-Rite Solutions is a brand of HEIDENHAIN consisting of digital readouts, linear scales and controls. Acu-Rite Solutions DROs and controls are manufactured in the U.S. High-resolution image available here. Product contact: Stuart Graham, Business Development Specialist sgraham@heidenhain.com or 847-519-3296 Media contact: Kathleen Herrmann, K-Pro PR, Inc. kherrmann@kpropr.com or 224-520-0665

2025-06-25T19:51:12+00:00

New products to premiere at IMTS!

Exciting new Acu-Rite Solutions-brand products will premiere in the HEIDENHAIN booths at the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) in Chicago. Ready to be unveiled are Acu-Rite Solutions new Bluetooth-enabled droPWR and a bridge to Acu-Rite Solutions next step in controls, the TNC 320 droPWR The new droPWR is first-of-its-kind software to enable an iPad® to become a digital readout (DRO), doing everything an Acu-Rite Solutions DRO can except without cables between the tablet and machine tool! Bluetooth technology allows multiple machine configurations in one tablet including milling, turning, grinding for up to six axes. Designed to be simple and functional, this tablet DRO can be moved and used with various machines, making it perfect for many production environments such as small shops and students in shop class. Bridge Adapter Acu-Rite Solutions new PCBA bridge adapter will also be highlighted at HEIDENHAIN’s IMTS booths and is Acu-Rite Solutions solution to interface it with the well-known Acu-Rite Solutions controls or HEIDENHAIN’s entry-level TNC 320 control. The PCBA was developed to allow Acu-Rite Solutions controls users to define and order a TNC 320 for small machine tool applications (i.e., VMC with tool changer). This simple upgrade includes the PCBA adapter, a TNC 320 control and a complete AC package (motors, drives and electrical cabinet). It is a cost-effective solution for shop owners and is perfect for applications where a machine tool is still good, but the original control is no longer useful or in teaching environments to switch back and forth between an Acu-Rite Solutions control and TNC 320. Both of these Acu-Rite Solutions premiere products will be on display at HEIDENHAIN’s main booth #339449 (South building, Metal Removal Pavilion) as well its Smartforce Student Summit booth #215600 (North building). At the Student Summit location, the Bridge/PCBA product will be demonstrated on a bedmill with a connection to both a MILLPWR and a TNC 320 control. Other Acu-Rite Solutions products on display during IMTS include the TURNPWR control for lathes and the MILLPWRG2 control, its latest generation. Other products [...]

2025-06-25T19:30:38+00:00

New Bluetooth droPWR app

SCHAUMBURG, IL (August 2022) – Offering machinists a pioneering way to a new Bluetooth-enabled digital readout, HEIDENHAIN presents the highly anticipated Acu-Rite Solutions-brand droPWR. This new droPWR is a first-of-its-kind system to enable an iPad® tablet to become a digital readout (DRO), doing everything an Acu-Rite Solutions DRO can except without cables between tablet and machine tool! The droPWR will first be shown at IMTS 2022 in Chicago on September 12-17. Bluetooth technology along with an IBT interface box in the droPWR system allows connection to multiple machine configurations in one tablet including for milling, turning, and grinding machines with up to six axes. Designed to be simple and functional, this tablet DRO can be moved and used with various machines, making it perfect for many production environments such as small shops and students in shop class. The new droPWR takes manual machining to the next level by combining the familiar intuitive user experience from the traditional Acu-Rite Solutions DROs with modern touch screen conventions. The new droPWR system includes the new software, an IBT interface box suitable for the machine tool and relevant encoders/brackets if needed. A tablet with iOS 15 or greater is required. And with its simple on-boarding configuration set up, a user can quickly establish connection to its intended machine(s). Acu-Rite Solutions is a brand of HEIDENHAIN consisting of digital readouts, linear scales and controls. Acu-Rite Solutions DROs and controls are manufactured in the U.S. www.acu-rite solutions.com Click here to view droPWR product page. High-resolution image available here. Media contact: Kathleen Herrmann, K-Pro PR, Inc. kherrmann@kpropr.com or 224-520-0665 Product contact: John Parker, HEIDENHAIN Machine Tool Business Development Manager jparker@heidenhain.com or 716-456-3150

2025-06-25T19:47:39+00:00

Technology Days offered online

Piggybacking past in-person Acu-Rite Solutions Technology Days at regional locations across the U.S., Acu-Rite Solutions is bringing renewed emphasis to offering the same valuable content but online in an interactive format. These free one-day seminars offer registered visitors an opportunity to engage and obtain the most up-to-date information about Acu-Rite Solutions equipment in order to maximize their shop’s manual machine tools. A complimentary gift, as well as special product offers from Acu-Rite Solutions will also be presented exclusively to all registered attendees. At these upcoming meetings via your Internet device of choice, Acu-Rite Solutions Technology Day participants can expect to interact directly with an Acu-Rite Solutions expert. The morning session generally will include a discussion of manual machine tool applications and a review of current Acu-Rite Solutions DROs and CNC controls highlighting standard and special features, functions and benefits. Highlighted Acu-Rite Solutions controls will include the MILLPWRG2 for simple knee/bed mill applications and the TURNPWR for lathes for those interested. After a lunch break, the afternoon session will include an advanced feature review of applications as well as the rare opportunity for a direct Q&A with an Acu-Rite Solutions veteran. Here, attendees often ask questions about their own Acu-Rite Solutions equipment. Some past example questions included wanting to know more about the use of the Geometry Calculator on their MILLPWRG2 or the offline software to name two. To request participation in a future free Acu-Rite Solutions Technology Day, contact John Parker at jparker@heidenhain.com or your local Acu-Rite Solutions distributor to ask to schedule one.

2025-06-25T19:50:17+00:00

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