Managing multiple iDraw pen plotters with a single computer can be challenging, especially when trying to control them simultaneously. To make this process easier, we’ve introduced a powerful new feature called iDraw Naming. This feature allows you to assign a custom nickname to each iDraw machine, helping you easily identify and control multiple devices without confusion. The iDraw Naming feature is particularly useful when you have more than one iDraw connected to your computer and need to specify which machine to address for each plot or task.
This guide will walk you through the steps to update your firmware, use the iDraw Naming utility, and assign nicknames to your iDraw units for more efficient control.
The iDraw naming feature requires firmware V1.13 or higher.
1.Download software and Update firmware first:
2. iDraw Naming Feature
The iDraw Naming utility allows you to assign a nickname to a specific iDraw. It can
be found in the menu at Extensions > iDraw Utilities > iDraw2 Naming.
A nickname is a semi-permanent label, stored in the iDraw’s flash memory, that
may be used to identify and address it. Nicknames are not required, but can be
helpful if you have more than one iDraw connected: You can use them to specify
which iDraw to plot to when using iDraw 2.0 Control.
2.1 Read iDraw Name
If you click Apply with the “Read iDraw Name” tab selected, it will search for all
attached iDraw units and list them. iDraw machines will be listed by their USB
nickname or by their USB port numeration, if no nickname has been assigned. This
tool can be useful for listing available iDraw units, even if you are not using USB
nicknames.
2.2 Write iDraw name
The second tab, “Write iDraw Name,” is for assigning a nickname. To assign the nickname, enter a name between in the text box (here “idraw1”) and click Apply. Before writing the name, it is recommended that you disconnect any other connected iDraw units, so
that you can be sure of which iDraw you are communicating with. Writing an empty name will clear
the nickname. You can use the “Read iDraw Name” tab to verify that the name has been written correctly. Assigning USB nicknames requires that your iDraw2 has firmware version 2.13 or newer. If you are
unsure what version you have, you can check with iDraw2.0 Control; Check for updates.
2.3 Using Nickname
If Use iDraw port named below is selected, iDraw2.0 Control will only look for and drive a specific
iDraw unit, as entered in the iDraw name or port entry box.Use this method when you have multiple
iDraw machines and want to plot to a specific machine. The name or port may be specified with a nickname – like “idraw1” as entered above – or with a
traditional enumerated serial port name like “COM3” on Windows or “/dev/cu.usbmodem1441”
on a Mac. Since serial port names can change, it is best practice to use a nickname when working
with multiple iDraw machines.
Summary:
In this guide, we’ve covered the steps for using the iDraw Naming feature to easily manage multiple iDraw pen plotters. By assigning a unique nickname to each device, you can specify which iDraw to control when connected to your computer, eliminating any confusion when multiple devices are in use. The process includes updating your firmware to V1.13 or higher, using the Read iDraw Name tool to identify connected devices, and the Write iDraw Name tool to assign a nickname to each iDraw. Remember, using nicknames is recommended for clarity, as it ensures precise control over your plotters. This feature is ideal for anyone working with several iDraw machines at once, making it simpler to direct specific tasks to the right unit.