Frequently Asked Questions

Q : How much extra output can I expect from a mill or lathe fitted with ProtoTRAK?: It depends on the type of work you're doing. But research from the 7000 UK users suggests you can double or treble your output, even more on complex parts.
Q : I get a lot of repeat work, can I save my programs so that I don't have to write them again?: Yes, either on the machine's floppy disk, flash memory hard drive or on a computer.
Q : Why should I pay more for your machine than your competitor’s?: We think that what is important is to help you lower your overall cost. One element of that cost is the price of the machine but it’s not the only one. We believe that the higher level of support and performance that you will receive…; Read the full Answer »
Q : Why does XYZ use Box Ways on their VMC range?: Our standard range of VMCs use Induction Hardened Box Ways and Turcite coated anti-friction slide ways. This design offers the maximum rigidity and vibration absorption – far exceeding what is possible for machines using linear bearing slides. …; Read the full Answer »
Q : Why do you only use Siemens controls on your VMC and TC machines?: The Siemens control fits perfectly with the XYZ philosophy of “easy to use” programming systems. The ProtoTRAK is the easiest to use possible CNC in the market but is tailored to non-production applications. The Shop Mill and…; Read the full Answer »
Q : Is ProtoTRAK more productive than other CNC controls?: For one-offs and small batch production, the answer is a resounding YES!
Q : Are the mill and lathe controls the same?: Very similar. If you can operate either machine fitted with ProtoTRAK it will only take a few moments to familiarise your self with the other type.
Q : Do you need a CAM system to program ProtoTRAK?: No! However, ProtoTRAK will accept programs created on CAD/CAM for sophisticated 3D jobs.
Q : Will I need training to use ProtoTRAK?: Not very much! If you can use a centre lathe or mill fitted with DRO then you should be producing parts confidently within hours.
Q : Hopw do I know XYZ machines are built to a standard I can rely on?: Most of XYZ’s machines come from one supplier with whom we have done business for over 23 years. Our business represents about 90 percent of their production so they have tailored their quality and standards to levels expected by European…; Read the full Answer »
Q : How long will XYZ support me with ProtoTRAK spares?: Our parent, Southwestern Industries, carries every spare for every ProtoTRAK ever made going back to 1984. Here in England, XYZ carries full spares for every one of the 15,000 ProtoTRAKs ever sold in Europe. We believe our customers bought…; Read the full Answer »
Q : Why are some other Mini Mills on the market cheaper than yours?: Because they are of lower specification. Our most popular Mini Mill, the 560, has 560mm x 400mm x 500mm travel on X, Y and Z. It has an 8,000 rpm spindle, more power, a 12 station tool changer, heavier weight and a much better and easier…; Read the full Answer »
Q : How are programmes transferred on the Siemens and ProtoTRAK controls?: Although the Siemens control is equipped with a RS232 Port, it also comes with a much superior Ethernet Port. RS232 is now considered old fashioned, slow and not particularly reliable. Programmes can be transferred to and from the ProtoTRAK…; Read the full Answer »
Q : Is there enough memory in the Siemens control to run large programmes? How about the ProtoTRAK?: The standard memory in the Siemens control is 1.2Mb. This is sufficient to run most large programmes but if yours is exceptionally large you may simply insert a PCM/CIA card into the control for capacity far greater than anyone would ever need. …; Read the full Answer »