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Optimum CNC Questions andAnswers.

This page covers basic questions on production, setup and connections, along with scenario-based answers.
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Our Optimum Dev Team is on top of the latest upgrades and has a grasp with involvement into the community that grows and the assistance that applies to the  niche environments our Optimum Owners apply their CNC software to. We strive to equipt the fabricators with the tools that produce efficiency and gain them ownership over their competition & success. Below is an up-to-date list of change logs so you are aware of the Optimum Dev Team’s releases and improvements along the software’s evolution and expansion.

How to update your Optimum CNC Video CLICK HERE

Frequently Asked Questions

Operation: What’s recommended for Table Operation?

The Optimum™ Control System includes a palm-size, Linux-based Mini PC & necessary cabling. Optimum CNC Owners will need to purchase a HDMI monitor display, wireless keyboard and mouse separately. Those items will then be connected to the Linux-based Mini PC. The Mini PC will have the Optimum CNC Software already installed and is set to focus on Plasma Cutting Table Operation. One will not be required to download any executable programs.
Please note that the Mini PC is not for creating ART DESIGN CUT FILES. For this reason, Optimum Owners will also be required to source a separate laptop or desktop computer to run heavy processing Design/CAD programs, create design cut files, organize and store files.
Recommended to store, backup & save all cut files created onto your separate laptop/desktop computer. The separate laptop or desktop computer does not connect to the Linux-based Mini PC, unless you are setting up the Mini PC on a Local Network (LAN). Once all is connected to the Linux Mini PC, cut files can be created on the separate laptop or desktop computer and then one can transfer the cut files from the Design Computer to the Linux Mini PC using a USB Thumb Drive (not included or transfer cut files through one’s on-site Local Network (LAN).
Optimum Owners will also be able to create custom shapes & cut files within the Optimum CNC Software in the beta CAD/CAM area, on the Linux-based Mini PC.
Reminder: Keep your MiniPC free of unnecessary files. Organize your design files on a separate design-based laptop/desktop to keep Mini PC processing power focused primarily for the Optimum CNC Software.

Protected Site: Does my Mini PC work at a IT Protected Site?

The Linux-based MiniPC allows for downloads & can be added to your network for Review and Protection. MiniPC will require Internet connectivity for future Optimum software updates.

Daily Tasks: What’s the daily flow of operation look like?

  1. Prepare cut files on your separate design computer.
  2. Transfer DXF cut files onto USB Thumb drive.
  3. Insert USB into MiniPC and select files to cut on Table
  4. You can also create parts in Optimum CNC in the beta CAD/CAM area of the software. (OPTIMUM CAD: Optimum Owners have design tools to create custom shapes in the CAD area of the software. OPTIMUM CAM: Optimum Owners have a Library of 80+ editable shapes to create, edit and nest parts in the CAM area of the software for cutting.)

Work Station: What requirements should I have ready?

List of required and optional items one will be required to purchase separately.
  1. SEPARATE LAPTOP OR DESKTOP COMPUTER to run heavy processing. Design/CAD programs, design cut files, organize and store files.
  2. USB THUMB DRIVE to transfer your files from the Design computer to the Optimum,Linux-based Mini PC
  3. HDMI-READY TV MONITOR DISPLAY to use a viewport for the Mini PC. (Your choice of monitor display in preference)
  4. WIRELESS KEYBOARD for on-site mobility and function. (Wireless Keyboards prevent interference signals.)
  5. WIRELESS MOUSE for on-site mobility and function. (Wireless Mice prevent interference signals.)
  6. Wi-Fi CONNECTION to be established for Software, Firmware & Profile Updates.
  7. (Optional) HDMI CABLE for on-site extension of your shops’ display monitor setup and arrangement.
  8. (Optional) SURGE PROTECTED POWER STRIP for multiple connections.

Setup: How do I setup my palm-sized Mini PC?

Setting up your Optimum Control System:
  1. Connect Dual Antennas onto sides of Mini PC. (Not all Mini PC models have antennaes; some are integrated.)
  2. Connect the Mini PC Power Supply Cable from back side of MiniPC to 110VAC POWER.
  3. Connect Monitor TV with HDMI cable to Mini PC.
  4. Connect Monitor TV Power cable to 110VAC POWER.
  5. Connect Wireless Mouse USB to the Mini PC.
  6. Connect Wireless Keyboard USB to the Mini PC.
  7. Connect Ethernet Cable from MiniPC to the back of Control Box.

Setup: What’s the Table Connection Diagram look like?

Click here to view the diagram

Updates: How do I update the Software?

Click here to view on how to update your Software.
Option 1: How to Update your software is available on www.youtube.com/@optimumcnc.

Option 2: In your Owner’s Link emailed to you after purchase, you will find a folder labeled “Tutorial videos” with 40+ videos to watch. (Run Time: 2 hr, 15m). Within this folder vou will find a video labeled “#24 Updating Software”. Watch this video to follow steps on updating your Profile, Firmware & Software. A WiFi / internet connection will be required when updating your Mini PC’s software, firmware or profile.
Note: Software Updates are FREE. Software Update Notices are shared to Optimum Owners in the Facebook Optimum CNC Private Community and will also appear on the “Change Log” area of the Optimum CNC website.

Community: How do I join the Private Optimum CNC Community?

Optimum CNC has a private Facebook community of growing members where Owners discuss tips and tricks along with other Optimum NC owners, share settings, quicken their learning curve, troubleshoot, access af-ter-purchase cut files / documents and get direct tech support with solutions.
The JOIN GROUP Link to the Private Community is just above the contact form on www.optimumcnc.com or one can go to facebook.com/groups/ 1384266822364628 to tap on the “Join Group” button to proceed.
NOTE: In joining the private community you will be required to provide your Optimum CNC proof of purchase and invoice number.

Fees: Are there any Fees/License/Subscriptions?

There are no monthly/yearly renewal fees, subscriptions, trials, expiration dates or licenses for the Optimum CNC Software. One can also find new updated messages located at the Change Log area of the optimumcnc.com website.
Optimum CNC Owners have to ability to join the Optimum Private Community, the central location where Optimum Owners will be notified and have the opportunity to follow up with new releases, new tutorial videos, manual updates, software updates, profile updates, firmware updates and any additional applicable information.
Within the Facebook Private Group, Optimum Owners will also have the opportunity to troubleshoot and improve the software to better their industry and niche.

Buy: How do I purchase Optimum CNC?

Fill out & submit vour interest in the contact form on the optimumcnc.com website and we will reach out to you with the available authorized distributors nearest you.

Os Platform: Why Linux and not Windows?

  • Linux offers more stability, security, and real-time processing for long-term.
  • Linux controllers are optimized for real-time CNC motion, reducing lag and improving performance.
  • Linux is lightweight, locked down and yes, you’re spot on with development its effective on our end to get new features completed, tested and released to our table owners.
With Windows one would have to consider: Updates/crash/process interrupt operation, Virus Vulnerability, background apps/services, Licensing cost, and it takes longer to boot.