Applied Motion Products has introduced several automation technologies, including the MCA6 Motion PLC, MET2 Remote I/O System, and AK Series StepSERVO Motors and Drives. The products are designed to support machine control, motion coordination and system integration for machine builders and automation engineers.
The additions address common machine design requirements, including multi-axis coordination, distributed I/O placement and reduced commissioning steps. Their EtherCAT-based architecture and support for multiple industrial protocols make them relevant for OEMs updating motion control and machine automation systems.
The MCA6 Motion PLC combines machine control and motion control functions in a compact platform. Built on an ARM-based processor and supporting PLCopen and IEC 61131-3 programming standards, the controller provides synchronized multi-axis motion for applications ranging from standalone machines to larger automation systems. Motion functions include electronic camming, interpolation, synchronization and robotic motion control.
The MCA6 supports up to 64 EtherCAT motion axes and 128 EtherCAT devices. Communication protocols include EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP/RTU, CANopen, OPC UA and UDP, supporting integration with factory and machine control networks.
The MET2 Remote I/O System extends machine connectivity through an EtherCAT-based architecture supporting digital I/O, analog I/O and temperature monitoring modules. Up to 32 expansion modules can be connected from a single coupler, allowing I/O to be placed closer to sensors and field devices. With module widths as small as 12 mm, the system can help reduce panel space requirements.
Applied Motion Products also introduced the AK Series StepSERVO Motors and Drives, a motion platform that supports open-loop stepper, closed-loop stepper and closed-loop servo operation. The series is intended to help machine builders simplify machine architectures while supporting positioning accuracy, reliability and commissioning.
A battery-free 17-bit multi-turn absolute encoder retains position through power cycles, reducing the need for homing and shortening startup time. The drives support NEMA 11 through NEMA 34 motor frame sizes and operate from 24–48 VDC power, making them suitable for a range of automation applications.
Additional AK Series features include secondary encoder feedback for closed-loop load control, embedded trajectory planning and Q programming, USB-C connectivity for configuration and diagnostics without main power, and SiL3-certified Safe Torque Off. Communication options include EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, CANopen and Modbus.
Configuration and programming are performed through McEngine Pro, a CODESYS-based development environment. The software provides a programming environment for machine builders and supports migration from existing PLC architectures.
For more information, visit applied-motion.com.
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