Abstract: A system is disclosed for selecting a band saw blade for a particular product to be cut on a selected band saw. Specifically, a schedule of predetermined parameters for operating most known types of band saws is entered into a microprocessor. The identity of the specific band saw and product to be cut it also entered. The microprocessor provides recommendations as to the optimum band saw blade for cutting the product. An additional feature of the invention is a system for providing a cost per-piece analysis of the product being cut, using both the present blade and the recommended blade. Further, a library of band saw problems and their recommend solution is provided. Finally, a product cross-reference schedule is provided in order to identify appropriate blades for a plurality of band saw brands.

Abstract: A testing and inspection recording apparatus for use in recording the operating conditions and physical condition of a metal working tool such as a motor driven band saw or the like has a portable computing unit programmed to receive, store and reproduce information regarding the type of machine being tested, the physical condition of the machine, the particulars of the owner's name and location of the machine. The computer is programmed to calculate the cross-sectional area of a particular workpiece after inputting of data regarding one or more linear dimensions of the workpiece. Proximity switches are connected to the computing unit. The switches are mounted to measure the initiation and the completion of a cutting operation and the completion of an operating cycle of the machine.