Predator Tracker

Predator Tracker is tool management software from Predator Software that automates the tracking and organization of tools, gages and fixtures in a manufacturing plant. Each item gets an identified bin, drawer or location, and the software then records where it is, who has it and what has happened to it.

Check-in, check-out and records

Tools, cutters, inserts, kits, gages and fixtures are checked in and out in real time, with crib locations and serial numbers chosen automatically. Bar code readers can be used on every screen, and support extends to major reader vendors and to Dymo label printers for labels, serial numbers and crib locations. Data gathered during check-out is configurable by department, location, group, machine, job, part type, part and person. A full audit trail follows each serial number through its life, and nine security reports show permissions, users and their activities.

Inventory control

Consumption rates, reorder points, scrap, calibration dates, certifications and rework all have records. Purchase requests can carry recommendations, losses and breakages are logged, and gage certificates are kept current so instruments that are due for calibration stand out. A part and material knowledge base is part of the product.

Reports and integration

More than 180 reports and charts can be exported to PDF, Excel or HTML and cover inventory, checked-out items, purchase requests and gages due for calibration. The software uses an open client/server database design with Microsoft Access, SQL Server or Oracle, and its open API has over 300 documented methods. This allows connections to ERP, MES and scheduling software, for instance passing part and job numbers from the ERP system. Projects can be written in languages such as C#, C++ and Visual Basic. The software is available in several languages and includes online help, with an upgrade path to Predator SFC.

Related products from a reseller

The site now supplied for this product belongs to Shop Floor Automations, a North American manufacturing integrator. It offers machine monitoring built on Scytec DataXchange and Predator MDC, which collect data from CNC machines to give live machine status and OEE visibility.