Hello
I saw some perfect things for plasma. And I think we can do all that thinks with mach but how?

Have a look that;
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kcx7BraWrpI (Gas pressure control and amperage control from software.Consumable window for check or change consumables and something like auto sheet detection

)
And can we use probing like this for plasma;
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=*********fyBWAGw (Maybe with any sensor like proximity sensor or capacitive sensor.)
Furkan
Modify; There is a problem at second video

You can search at youtube for this video "Mitsubishi eX Series Laser Demonstrating "Auto Sheet Detection""
or just try search an "auto sheet detection" google.