SEPTEMBER 3--EPSON RC+ programming software from the Factory Automation Robotics Division of Epson America Inc. (Carson, CA; www.robots.epson.com) is now available on the Microsoft Windows 2000 operating system. "This switch to the Microsoft Windows 2000 platform is a continuation of our long-standing strategy of reducing overall automation costs by implementing open systems," said Rick Brookshire, senior manager of product development and engineering for Epson's Robot Division.
"In 1994 when we released our first Microsoft Windows-based programming software, DARLsp for Windows, customers told us they really liked programming in an environment that they were already familiar with, that is, Microsoft Windows. From our perspective, using an industry-standard operating system made it easier and faster for us to find and integrate other third-party automation devices into our programming environment. The 'plug-and-play' attributes of Windows 2000 accelerate this process for us and also make it easier for customers to integrate their own third-party devices." This equipment is used in the manufacturing of appliance, automotive, biotechnology, consumer, electronics, medical, pharmaceutical, photonics, semiconductor, and telecommunication products.
