Q: What is Order Desk?
A: Order Desk is PC-based software that integrates your Pathfinder-controlled folding machines with your office, allowing you to perform programming and job creation functions from any networked PC. It allows you to share one virtually unlimited part library with every folding machine in your shop.
Q: Will Order Desk work with my folding machine?
A: Yes, if you have Pathfinder folding machine controls. Each machine networked to Order Desk must have a Pathfinder controller to be compatible with Order Desk and all of its features. Pathfinder is compatible with all makes and models of folding machines, regardless of age.
Q: Can I use Order Desk on more than one folding machine?
A: Yes, you can use Order Desk to communicate with all of your networked folding machines in one physical location. You only need to purchase another Order Desk license if you plan on using it in more than one physical location.
Q: Why should I use Order Desk?
A: Order Desk simplifies part profile and order creation. Its one-point data entry system prevents mistakes by eliminating paper orders and hand-drawn part profiles. All part creation and order entry can be done from the office PC, leaving folding machine operators to spend their time creating parts.
In addition, Order Desk further streamlines your operations with bar code capabilities. Print a bar code with the job information and thumbnail profile image and place it on your blanks. At the machine, the operator can simply scan the bar code and Pathfinder will pull up the proper job. Once the job is finished, Pathfinder asks for confirmation of completion and sends all of the information back to Order Desk. From the office, you can observe jobs as they are being made. You can schedule orders for multiple machines without stepping foot on the shop floor.
Q: How long does it take to install Order Desk?
A: It normally takes ½ of a day to install Order Desk and the underlying framework on which it runs. Training also takes around ½ of a day, depending on the end user’s knowledge and familiarity with Pathfinder controls. If necessary, training on how jobs reach Pathfinder and how Pathfinder completes those jobs is available, but may take another ½ of a day. If you are also integrating with Eclipse Production Management Software, we advise learning Order Desk and becoming familiar with its operation before installing and learning how to use Eclipse.
Q: Is it difficult to learn how to use Order Desk?
A: Order Desk is simple to use. Creating parts and scheduling jobs is straightforward, with minimal training necessary. Most training is provided over the phone if you already are familiar with Pathfinder, and remotely using Copilot, a program that allows us to access your PC from our office.
Q: Is there an annual maintenance fee?
A: Yes, there is an annual maintenance fee. This fee covers technical support (via phone or email) and access to new releases of Order Desk software.
The first year of maintenance is included in your purchase price. After that time, an annual fee of $750 per location will be charged to access technical support and software updates.
Q: How do I get updates for Order Desk?
A: Updating Order Desk is easy, but requires contacting Technical Support. Our support staff will send you the latest software and determine whether you need a database update. Please remember that Order Desk requires an annual maintenance fee to access updates. The first year after installation is included in the purchase price, but after one year, you must stay current on the maintenance fee to receive updates.
Q: Is Order Desk compatible with Eclipse?
A: Yes! When you add Eclipse Production Management Software, you have access to enhanced job scheduling and reporting features. You can also download orders directly from your ERP system. With Eclipse and Order Desk, you will have the highest level of integration possible for your folding machine.
Q: Is Order Desk compatible with my ERP system?
A: If you have Eclipse Production Management Software and you have an ERP system that can export to Eclipse, then they are compatible. Orders can then be imported into Eclipse from your ERP system to Order Desk. Order Desk is used for offline part creation and job database maintenance in this situation, but the jobs are sent from Eclipse. For questions about specific ERP systems, contact support@amscontrols.com.