The base next Control software is a powerful and user-friendly operating system that fully supports the machining of your CAD/CAM programs. From configuring cutting tools and setting up your workpiece to simulating toolpaths and running programs, the standard control includes everything you need for essential machining tasks.
Expand Your Capabilities with DATRON next Control Software Add-Ons
However, some applications demand more advanced capabilities. For these situations, DATRON has developed a range of software add-ons that extend the functionality of the next Control. These options allow you to customize your control system to match your unique applications and production requirements.
To help you evaluate them, DATRON offers a free 30-day trial for any add-on. During the trial, you’ll have full access to the features, with no limitations other than time. If you decide to purchase, activation is quick and simple – enter an unlock code. No reinstallation is required.
Below are the main software add-ons available for the next control.
Surface Profiling
When equipped with a measuring probe, your DATRON machine can measure X, Y, and Z, allowing you to locate edges and set the origin of the workpiece. However, a single Z-point measurement may not ensure precise depth across the part if your material surface varies.
The Surface Profiling add-on solves this challenge by expanding the probe’s capabilities. Instead of one point, it can capture multiple or matrix-style measurements to create a surface map. The control then automatically compensates in Z, ensuring exact machining depths—even if the surface is uneven or not perfectly flat.
If you’re probing a part with pockets or holes, you can visually deselect unwanted points directly on the touchscreen. The surface map can also be exported to Excel for analysis.
Protected Areas
Your CNC machine is a significant investment; protecting it from damage is critical. While DATRON machines are preconfigured to avoid built-in “no-go” zones like the tool changer or table surface, unexpected CAM outputs or operator errors can still cause crashes.
The Protected Areas add-on lets you define custom restricted zones inside the machining area to prevent collisions with fixed objects such as workholding or a rotary axis. These zones are active only while a program is running and can be turned on or off as needed. This feature provides an extra safeguard against downtime and costly repairs.
Multiple Executions
For production runs, manufacturers often need to machine multiple parts at once. Traditionally, this requires proving out one part and then going back to CAD/CAM to create a new “matrix” layout program. This introduces errors and lost time risks—especially if feeds and speeds were fine-tuned at the control during the proving out phase of making one part.
The Multiple Executions add-on allows you to scale a single validated part program into a grid of parts—directly at the control, without reposting from CAD/CAM. Enter the number of parts and spacing in X and Y, and the control automatically generates the layout. Tool changes are optimized so each tool completes all parts before switching.
This option gives operators complete flexibility for multi-part jobs while keeping programming simple. (Note: it does not provide intelligent nesting for material optimization, which remains a CAD/CAM function.)
Auto Tool Management
Unattended machining can maximize productivity—but a broken or worn tool can ruin parts and waste hours of production.
The Auto Tool Management add-on monitors tool conditions during machining and automatically swaps out tools when necessary. The machine can pull a replacement tool from the magazine when duplicate tools are preloaded. You can stock as many duplicates as your magazine allows, using DATRON or third-party tools.
Monitor tools in four ways:
- Cutting distance (automatically calculated)
- Total machining time
- Length measurement compared against defined tolerances
- Tool buildup detection (e.g., polymer accumulation)
The software can even re-machine affected toolpaths if a tool fails to ensure part accuracy. This option helps protect both productivity and part quality during extended or unattended runs.
User Management
In many shops, multiple people interact with the same machine—operators, setup technicians, maintenance staff, or supervisors. Not all need (or should have) access to the same functions.
The User Management add-on enables an “Administrator” to define access levels for each user. Operators may be limited to starting jobs and managing tools, while setup staff or maintenance teams may have broader control. By restricting access, companies can prevent accidental damage, reduce liability risks, and maintain a safer production environment—especially on second and third shifts.
Crosshair Measurement
Sometimes, you need a quick measurement without using the probe. The Crosshair Measurement add-on lets operators visually select two points on the touchscreen and calculate the distance and angle between them.
While less precise than probing, zooming in on reference points enhances accuracy. This is particularly useful for applications like printed sheet material, where probing is not possible. Note that the AR camera option is required for this feature.
Rest API (Basic & Automation)
The Rest API Basic option enables the control to share real-time data while machining. This can include diagnostics, production tracking, or probe measurement results for quality reporting. It’s beneficial for integrated production cells.
The Rest Automation API includes all Basic features and allows remote control of the machine, such as executing programs, pausing, aborting, or adjusting parameters. It is ideal for advanced automation with robots, inspection systems, or other connected equipment.
SimPL-PLC
Automation is increasingly critical for competitiveness. The SimPL-PLC add-on allows the DATRON control to interface directly with external PLC systems, enabling seamless integration with robots, cobots, pallet changers, or custom automation setups. Programs can be triggered automatically based on machine states or process conditions.
OPC-UA Integration
As part of Industry 4.0 and IIoT initiatives, OPC-UA Integration enables secure, standardized communication between your DATRON machine and external systems.
This option allows the machine to share data with other CNCs, robots, measurement devices, ERP systems, or cloud platforms. Managers can monitor spindle speed, part counts, machine status, and real-time alerts—supporting better performance tracking and smart factory integration.
Mail Alert
The Mail Alert add-on provides real-time email notifications for multi-shift operations or managers needing remote updates. Alerts can include job completion or machine errors (e.g., air supply interruption). This helps reduce spindle downtime when operators aren’t present. The feature can be turned on or off directly from the main control screen.
DATRON Live
The DATRON Live app offers convenient machine monitoring via smartphone, tablet, web browser, or computer. It provides:
- Current program name and remaining time
- Live video feed from the AR camera (optional)
- Status of compressed air, vacuum, and coolant
- Tool magazine overview
- Milling tool wear data
The app is a one-time purchase, with free future updates and no subscription fees.
3D Probe Calibration
The 3D Probe Calibration add-on automates the process of calibrating the X, Y, and Z touch probes for easier and safer calibration. It uses a dedicated calibration post mounted within the machine travel area, reducing setup time and operator errors—ideal for environments with multiple users or less experienced operators.
Your Next Step Toward Smarter Machining
With DATRON’s range of software options for the next Control, you can tailor your CNC system to meet the exact needs of your production—whether that means precision surface mapping, safer operations, or full automation integration. Each add-on is designed to boost performance, simplify workflows, and expand what’s possible on your DATRON machine. Ready to see how these tools can enhance your machining process? Start your free 30-day trial today and experience the next control software suite in action.
