> Close Window

Beta Software

ShopBot's Tools are used in an incredible variety of cutting and machining process, with a wide range of file types, and in numerous kinds of production settings. Because of this extreme variety of use, extensive experience is required to refine and adjust the features and capabilities of the software. The need for feedback from experience is particularly important as we work to extend and enhance the capabilities of the ShopBot software.

ShopBot periodically makes available 'beta' versions of our Control System software that are still undergoing development and testing. This allows interested ShopBotters to participate in testing and evaluating new features and to provide the development team with feedback on what is working well and what is not. We are appreciative of this involvement since it contributes to making the software better for everyone. Thus, we are glad to have your help in testing new software. However, we strongly recommend that beta software only be used experimentally and not for serious work or projects.

Beta Notes

• Keep a copy of the install file for the current-release Control Software on your computer. This will allow you to quickly re-install the standard software when you have finished testing the beta. You do not need to un-install either, just run the installer and it will put that version in play and maintain all the existing settings in your ShopBot.ini file.

• However, you will need to always load the Control Box firmware with the beta software. And, when going back to the regular software you will again need to reload the Control Box firmware. This only takes a second (easiest just to go to the c:/Program Files/ShopBot 3/ControlBoxLoader folder and run the LoadControlBox.exe file and follow the directions). [Note that the regular software always checks to see if you have the current version of firmware, but this check system is disabled in the beta.]

• Beta software is likely to be frequently updated. Make sure if testing that you are using the current version.

• Some new features in the beta software may not yet be operational or only partially functional.

• YOUR FEEDBACK: To report on your experiences with a beta version, just send an email to support with 'Beta report' in the subject line. It would be helpful to us if you note the beta version, and the type tool and PC you are running it on. We will give you a call if we need more detail. Please realize that we appreciate your feedback, but may not be able to reply to all emails. 

Software Designations

At ShopBot we are in a process of continuously upgrading software. Minor revisions (e.g. Sb3.4.xx; where xx signifies the minor revision number) are usually posted as routine maintenance upgrades after in-house testing at ShopBot. Major revisions that involve new features or capabilities (Sb3.X.01; where X signifies the major revision number) are typically subjected to extensive in-house testing as well as 'beta' testing at ShopBotter sites.

Don't forget to install Control Box Firmware if requested!

NO CURRENT BETA Download Available -- Stay Tuned!

Not for PRTstandard before Version4g Control Board.