Abstract: A machine monitoring system is disclosed for use with a machine which performs cyclic work operations. The monitoring system includes a machine unit adjacent the machine which detects each work cycle of the machine and generates a work cycle output signal representative thereof. A counter in the machine unit then counts the work cycle output signals and generates a count signal representative of the number of machine cycles. This count is displayed on the switches at each machine unit. The machine unit also communicates with a central station which is positioned remotely from the machine. The central station includes a receiver which receives the count output signal from the machine unit. The central station includes a computer which is programmed to compare the count output signal from the machine unit with a predetermined limit count.