Abstract: A system and method for monitoring the use of consumable materials in packaging machines is provided. The system generally includes a plurality of packaging machines that are configured to selectively operate in first and second modes to perform different packaging operations, e.g., by using consumable materials at different consumable usage rates to form different packaging devices. A controller in each machine controls the operation of the machine in the different modes and is configured to communicate the consumable usage data via a port. A portable module can be electronically connected to each machine during a connection session to communicate with the controller and receive the consumable usage data. The data from the module is then received by a user interface that provides an indication to a user of the usage of the machines in the first and second modes, e.g.

Abstract: A system and method for monitoring the use of consumable materials in packaging machines is provided. The system generally includes a plurality of packaging machines that are configured to selectively operate in first and second modes to perform different packaging operations, e.g., by using consumable materials at different consumable usage rates to form different packaging devices. A controller in each machine controls the operation of the machine in the different modes and is configured to communicate the consumable usage data via a port. A portable module can be electronically connected to each machine during a connection session to communicate with the controller and receive the consumable usage data. The data from the module is then received by a user interface that provides an indication to a user of the usage of the machines in the first and second modes, e.g.