DC-HI-NET Interface Systems
STEINWALD datentechnik builds interface systems that connect calipers, micrometers and gauges — regardless of manufacturer — to any quality-assurance, production-control or Excel software.
How it works
DC-HI-NET interface systems connect gauges, controllers and machines using the common measuring-device interfaces and protocols — and pass the readings on to your software in a standardised form.
incl. compatibility with MarConnect, MULTIcom and DATA VARIABLE (DIGIMATIC family)
The device-independent "DC-HI-NET" protocol handles convenient background functions, so simple commands are enough to bring pre-processed data into the host computer:
DC-HI-NET MULTI — the universal connector for DIGIMATIC/OPTO (standard), RS232/422/485 (option) and IW/bt/FUNK/digital I/O (option). "Automatic gauge recognition" lets you combine DIGIMATIC- or OPTO-/PROXIMITY-/POWER-interface devices on MULTI inputs without any extra configuration.
Products
From the wired USB keyboard interface to wireless connectivity — each product line covers one PC connection type and a set of gauge interfaces.
PC connection via USB keyboard interface (HID) for DIGIMATIC/OPTO/PROXIMITY/POWER and RS232, wireless optional. Transmits as keyboard code — driver-free into any software.
Connects: calipers, dial gauges, micrometers, height gauges
PC connection via USB (virtual COM port) for DIGIMATIC/OPTO/PROXIMITY/POWER, RS232/422/485, BCD/IEEE, incremental and I/O. Dynamic processing (MIN/MAX/range), multi-point measurement.
Cascading option: combine several SINGLE x-USB units, expandable to max. 78 inputs (not on M1/M2-USB).
PC connection via RS232 for DIGIMATIC/OPTO/PROXIMITY/POWER, RS232/422/485, inductive and analog. Powered via integrated PSU, robust metal housing.
SINGLE IP8-RS rated IP65 for harsh environments. Cascadable up to 78 inputs.
Receivers with built-in radio for Mahr i-wi, Helios-Preisser "i", Sylvac BT and Tesa TLC-BLE. Transmitters are managed on the receiver — no PC software from the gauge manufacturer needed.
Manufacturer-independent transmitters for DIGIMATIC/MarConnect/OPTO/PROXIMITY/POWER and RS232, transmitted via Bluetooth® Smart (2.4 GHz). Optional remote trigger via foot switch.
Receivers: SINGLE bt-USB (up to 8 transmitters, max. 10 m) · MULTI bt
Like DC-HI-NET bt, but transmitted via radio (433 MHz) — ideal for longer range and many transmitters per receiver.
Receivers: SINGLE W (up to 78 transmitters, max. 20 m) · MULTI W (max. 5 m)
+ RS232 interface: device-specific transmitter available on request.
Software tools
Five free tools bring readings into any PC software or MS Excel, and help with system testing, configuration and software integration.
Sends readings from a COM/USB-connected DC-HI-NET interface to the active window as simulated keyboard input.
Excel® sheet for importing readings from DC-HI-NET interfaces — including tolerance monitoring.
Test and configuration software for DC-HI-NET interfaces, independent of the end-user application.
Records the data stream from a gauge with an RS232 interface.
Dynamic Link Library (32/64 bit) for embedding DC-HI-NET communication into your own Windows applications.
Services
Development and testing of interfaces according to your specific requirements.
Billed per man-day · price on requestSoftware adaptation, setup support, installation, commissioning and testing on your premises.
Billed per on-site working hour · price on requestSupport & practical tips
Practical tips from real customer experience, personal advice and a free test program help with selection, installation and troubleshooting.
In standard configuration, protect from moisture: ambient humidity 5–95% (non-condensing), operating temperature 0–50°C, no conductive particles or aggressive vapours. Splash-proof, climate-controlled special versions exist for harsh environments.
Only use STEINWALD data cables or cables approved by STEINWALD, self-twisted (15 turns/m) and shielded. Do not run parallel to power lines — if unavoidable, keep at least 50 cm distance (details: VDI/VDE 3551).
Avoid mounting "DC-HI-NET" next to devices with strong interference (e.g. thyristor controls, contactors) or heavy heat output. Where unavoidable, add shielding plates or fans.
Yes — the DC-HI-NET test program (DCDemo32) supports development, commissioning and testing, and is available for download on request. Technically interested users and software developers also receive detailed information on the DC-HI-NET protocol.
Download
We provide the following tools to our customers. Since they are updated regularly, we send current versions directly on request.
FAQ
It depends on your device's connection type: DC-HI-NET offers matching SINGLE and MULTI interfaces for DIGIMATIC, OPTO, PROXIMITY or POWER interfaces as well as RS232/422/485, BCD, IEEE, digital I/O, analog, inductive or incremental signals. Tell us your device type and we'll recommend the right model.
No. DC-HI-NET SINGLE x-K transmits readings as a simulated keyboard code (HID) — this works driver-free in any software that accepts text input (Office, CAQ, ERP, MES). SINGLE x-USB/x-RS use the STEINWALD protocol or a virtual COM port.
Yes. Three wireless paths are available: DC-HI-NET IW for gauges with built-in radio (Mahr i-wi, Sylvac BT, Tesa TLC-BLE), DC-HI-NET bt via Bluetooth® Smart (2.4 GHz), and DC-HI-NET FUNK via 433 MHz radio — each with receivers for PC or STEINWALD interfaces.
Depending on the model, 1 to 8 MULTI inputs directly. The cascading option lets you combine several SINGLE x-USB or SINGLE x-RS units for up to 78 inputs.
In-house interface adaptation is billed per man-day, on-site service per working hour — both on request, since the effort depends on your specific CAQ/software environment.
Contact
Tell us about your gauges and your CAQ/software environment — we'll recommend the right DC-HI-NET interface.