Closed-loop stepper-motor control with step-loss compensation is a common performance-boosting algorithm for stepper systems. In one prevalent form of step-loss compensation, an angle sensor or encoder tracks the motor-rotor position and any missed steps. Then the controller records its commands and the actual motor position from the encoder … converting position data to the equivalent […]
FAQ: How do I pick between rotary and linear encoders?
Edited by Zak Khan || It may seem as though linear encoders and rotary encoders have strictly defined (and maybe even mutually exclusive) applications. Prevailing logic is that linear encoders track linear motion and rotary encoders track rotating shafts — but this isn’t always the case. Some motion designs can use linear or rotary encoders, […]
FAQ: What are programmable multi-axis controllers?
Multi-axis controllers are controls for which the entire hardware and software structure is organized around managing complex motion. Given the compute capability of today’s PC processors, any recent generation PAC or PC based controller can handle multi-axis motion control. However, each platform can address the problem in different ways. It’s common to have many independent […]
FAQ: What is the difference between PLCs and programmable controllers (PACs)?
By Steve Meyer || All programmable controllers (PACs) are capable of performing as PLCs but strictly speaking, PLCs can’t work as PACs. That’s because PACs are a superset of PLC-type controls that work when a design needs: • Multiple channels of communication • High data traffic • Coordination with intelligent subsystems Most high-performance PLCs can host intelligent processors […]
FAQ: How to use incremental encoders with stepper motors?
When using a stepper motor, integrating an incremental encoder is relatively straightforward. Still, there are some general guidelines to consider. Incremental encoders (like any encoder) all function as part of a feedback system — providing closed-loop operation. Using information from the encoder, the drive system alters motor operation. However, incremental encoders don’t keep track of […]
EtherCAT Plug Fest fully booked again
The EtherCAT Plug Fests take place at venues all over the world and continue to enjoy great popularity within the industrial Ethernet community. This trend continues with the 21st event, the 2016 Spring European EtherCAT Plug Fest, which was recently organized and conducted by the EtherCAT Technology Group (ETG). An ETG member company typically acts […]
Galil Motion Control Releases DMC-52xx0 EtherCAT Master
Galil Motion Control Inc. now offers the DMC-52xx0 EtherCAT master, Galil’s first 32-axis motion controller. This new addition to Galil’s EtherCAT family is a pure EtherCAT controller with the ability to control up to 32 drives and two I/O modules. This space-efficient package also provides uncommitted I/O for easy integration into any EtherCAT application. “What […]
New CAD models available for download
Nippon Pulse is pleased to announce that more than 10 new CAD models for the company’s tin-can and hybrid stepper motors are now available for download. These new models will make it easier for manufacturers to determine which motor will best fit their application. PartSolutions created the new 2D and 3D CAD drawings and models […]
How to program smart encoders and their diagnostics
Edited by Zak Khan || Smart encoders are encoders that contain hardware and associated software that let them dynamically change settings such as resolution and output circuit type. So one model of smart encoder can often replace many different models of traditional encoders. Read the related encoder FAQ: Why do some encoders have embedded microprocessors for signal […]
FAQ: Why do some encoders have embedded microprocessors for signal processing?
Edited by Zak Khan || Embedded microprocessors in encoders offer many advantages. They improve reliability, accuracy and responsiveness. Plus in the case of magnetic encoders, embedded microprocessors can give encoders characteristics associated with optical encoders, but without optical-encoder drawbacks of sensitivity to dust. Signal processing software running on a microprocessor can make rotation measurements that […]