Mitsubishi Electric Introduces Real-Time Machine Monitoring Software for Legacy Citizen CNC Machines!

Mitsubishi Electric Automation Inc. has launched the Integrated Machine Analytics (IMA) Citizen M6 Adapter, a software package designed to give manufacturers real-time insight into the performance of older Citizen CNC machines. Purpose-built for seamless integration with the Mitsubishi Electric M6 Series NC control, the adapter helps shops modernize their operations without investing in new equipment — making it especially valuable for facilities running long-serving Swiss-type lathes.

The IMA Citizen M6 Adapter captures live NC data directly from the machine’s control system, making it possible for operators and managers to remotely monitor key performance parameters. Compatible with a range of Citizen models produced between 2001 and 2007 — including the C16-VI, L20-VIII, M16 and M32 — the adapter brings advanced connectivity and visibility to machines that traditionally lacked digital monitoring capabilities.

Once installed on the NC hard drive, the software transmits real-time machine data to an MTConnect Agent, which converts it into a universal industry-standard format. Users can then access this information via a client application that displays performance metrics both numerically and graphically. With this level of transparency, manufacturers can quickly identify inefficiencies, track performance trends and make smarter operational decisions based on accurate, live data.

According to David Simak, Product Manager at Mitsubishi Electric Automation, the goal of the new adapter is to bridge the technological divide between older equipment and modern smart manufacturing environments. “This adapter bridges the gap between legacy equipment and modern smart manufacturing,” he explains. “It empowers users with real-time analytics and remote monitoring capabilities, helping them make faster, more informed decisions on the shop floor.”

By extending data connectivity to early-generation Citizen Swiss-type lathes, Mitsubishi Electric is helping manufacturers unlock hidden value from their existing machine assets. The IMA Citizen M6 Adapter enables proactive decision-making, improved productivity and better shop-floor visibility — all without requiring costly hardware upgrades or machine replacements.