Abstract: A manual data input facility of a machine control includes graphically assisted input. An MDI main display and lead-through graphic displays are generated to facilitate selection of functions and entry of associated data. The displays make use of graphic icons and text recognizable by an operator. Input devices advantageously include a contact actuated touch screen and numeric keypad. A graphic assisted MDI mode of operation generates instruction blocks conforming to a predetermined user programming convention in response to operator selections and numeric data input. The operator initiates execution of instruction blocks so generated, one block at a time, by operation of a Cycle Start input.

Abstract: A programmable controller is disclosed for the purpose of controlling devices such as machine tools and other machinery, and which is often mated with a host computer numerical controller. The programmable controller is configured such that certain user-designated "fast-scan" outputs can operate at much higher speeds than non-designated "normal" outputs, thereby greatly increasing the response time and efficiency of the operations that are controlled by those fast-scan outputs. The programmable controller uses a processor which scans through its user-definable program (including the value of all system inputs and outputs) before it attempts to change the value of any of its outputs. The physical input/output (I/O) interfaces are located on I/O racks, each of which also includes an intelligent bus adaptor. The intelligent bus adaptor includes its own processor which periodically communicates with the processor in the programmable controller.