You can typically run DEA dual-arm systems in two different modes:
Independent arms mode - This mode is similar to dual-arm use on most other types of CMMs, where each arm is independent of the other arm, and separate jog boxes are used to manually control the arms, etc. On machines with F controllers, this is frequently referred to as an F1+F1 mode.
PC-DMIS does not require any special setup in this mode other than the specifics for the interface. In independent mode, the startup order of the arms is unimportant.
Dual-arm mode - In this mode, the two arms act together. You can jog either arm from one jog box; an error on one arm automatically stops both arms. On machines with F controllers, this is frequently referred to as an F2 mode.
When you use dual-arm mode, you must add a DEADualDriveMode = 1 entry to the Option section of the PCDLRN.INI file.
When you start the machine in dual-arm mode (after being powered off), you must start both arms at the same time. The correct sequence is as follows:
Ensure that the controllers are powered on and properly switched into dual-arm mode.
Start PC-DMIS on the master controller. Wait until it prompts to reset/press machine start.
Start PC-DMIS on the slave controller. Wait until it also prompts to reset/press machine start.
Do a reset and machine start (only one button on some machines) on the master controller (starts both arms).
Wait until both computers prompt for OK to home. Answer OK to both prompts.
Some systems require you to press a start button to begin the homing. Make sure that you have answered OK to a home on both computers before you press that start button.