This Tech Tip explains how to restrict file access in CIMCO DNC-Max by configuring it so that when a user clicks the send button, they can only browse and select files from that machine’s designated base directory.
This is useful in preventing operators from navigating the server’s file system freely when sending programs to a machine. It keeps the right programs going to the right machines and removes the opportunity for human error.
**NOTE: An administrator password must be set on all servers before this option will work. If no administrator password is configured, the restriction will have no effect.
Open the Port Configuration
- Open the DNC-Max Client
- Click on the port (machine) you want to restrict
- Go to Port > Configure Port
Navigate to Advanced Directories
- Select the Directories tab
- Click Advanced
Set the Send Root Directory
- In the manual send file base directory field, enter the path you want to restrict users to. You can use the environment variable $MACHINE here to automatically point to that machine’s base directory.
- Check “Use $SENDROOT” to restrict manual send operations to $SENDROOT and all of its sub-directories. The operator will not be able to browse or send any files from above this directory.
- If you want to restrict access even further, locking the operator to that exact directory with no ability to navigate into sub-folders, you must also check “Browse $SENDROOT” only.
What the Operator Sees
Once configured, when the operator clicks send, the file browser will open directly to the restricted directory. They will not be able to navigate above it. If “Browse $SENDROOT Only” is also checked, sub-directories will be inaccessible as well.
This is just one of the ways you can configure CIMCO DNC-Max to reduce the opportunity for error on the shop floor. Keeping operators in the right directory means the right program goes to the right machine, every time. Any time you can limit or eliminate that kind of manual decision, you are adding a layer of protection against scrap, crashes, and downtime.
If you’d like help configuring your CIMCO DNC-Max environment, please contact us. We’re happy to help!
