Caron Engineering’s ToolConnect system—an intelligent tool management solution that automates the transfer of presetter-measured tool data to CNC controls via RFID tags in tool holders—now offers advanced CNC tool tracking, user access control, and greater scalability to support CNC automation.
Beyond automating the tool-loading process, ToolConnect now provides real-time reporting to supervisory systems for advanced CNC tool tracking to offer complete visibility into tool locations, tool life status, and overall asset tracking across the shop floor. By eliminating manual data entry, this functionality helps manufacturers accurately monitor tool usage, prevent premature tool changes, and optimize inventory management, reducing waste and improving efficiency
RFID Badge-Based User Authentication for Secure Tool Access
A major new feature of ToolConnect is RFID badge-based user authentication, ensuring only authorized personnel can load preset tools or access the system. With a quick scan of their RFID-enabled employee badge, operators with proper credentials can securely interact with ToolConnect, preventing unauthorized tool loading or data entry.
This feature is powered by Caron Engineering’s new MiConnect Technology, a custom application builder that allows connecting and controlling devices and operations on a shop floor. By limiting access to trained operators, this advancement enhances security, reduces setup errors, and maintains process consistency—key factors for achieving precision manufacturing.
Beyond ToolConnect, this same RFID authentication system extends to other manufacturing systems, allowing businesses to manage user access across both physical and software-based manufacturing platforms directly from the employee badge. This capability enhances shop floor security while simplifying access control management and can be customized per-user right down to a button press.
Greater Scalability and Customization for Evolving Needs
With its latest updates, ToolConnect is now more scalable and adaptable than ever. Shops can expand their tool management processes as production demands evolve, making modifications without major system overhauls. Whether integrating new process steps or changing the existing process, ToolConnect provides a flexible and future-ready solution.
By combining tool load process automation, advanced tool tracking, real-time reporting, and secure user access, ToolConnect delivers a smarter, more controlled, and highly adaptable CNC tool management system—from presetter to CNC.
Learn more about ToolConnect from Caron Engineering.