The first TNC changed the machining world. Here’s how.

In the early days, NC programs were created away from the machine and recorded on primitive storage media such as punch cards. Among other drawbacks, this process made it hard to modify existing programs.

But in 1976, HEIDENHAIN introduced its first TNC control. The new TNC 110 pioneered technologies such as manual data input via a keypad and dialogue-guided operation.

By empowering users to input cutting positions at the machine, the TNC 110 brought new versatility to shop floors while keeping skilled machine operators in the loop.

Of course, the TNC has evolved exponentially since then: The user’s manual in 1976 was only 10 pages long. But for today’s TNC7 controls, thousands of pages are needed to cover their vast functionality, including precision 5-axis machining, program simulation, digital connectivity, advanced process reliability, and so much more.

What hasn’t changed, however, is a philosophy that continues to shape the TNC: to implement technologies that empower machine operators.