Controllers that are PC-based are typically programmed via a Windows computer and used to communicate with, monitor, and control industrial machines and equipment. As the name implies, being PC-based means that the PC monitor is the main graphical user interface (GUI). One advantage of PC-based controllers is their GUI. PC-based controllers are programmed via a […]
What is non-uniform memory access in industrial controls?
Non-uniform memory access (NUMA) is a kind of memory architecture that allows a processor faster access to contents of memory than other traditional techniques. In other words, in a NUMA architecture, a processor can access local memory much faster than non-local memory. This is because in a NUMA setup, each processor is assigned a specific […]
Schneider Electric launches Altivar Machine ATV340 variable speed drive
Schneider Electric has expanded its Altivar family of variable speed drives to include the new Altivar Machine ATV340. Designed to address the challenges of the smart machine era, the new Altivar Machine ATV340 drive combines easy installation with cutting-edge application control and advanced, easy-to-integrate automation capabilities. The Altivar Machine ATV340 variable speed drive is suited […]
Step-Flex couplings from Miki Pulley improve ball screw performance
Miki Pulley’s Step-Flex couplings improve ball screw performance while solving resonance and vibration problems. The Step-Flex is an altogether new class of shaft coupling. The coupling design has a two-part elastomer element combination. This assembly dampens vibration caused by the actuator carrier when struggling to find its home position by making small adjustments in rapid […]
New bevel-gearbox from ABM Drives
ABM Drives’ new TDB230/254 Kombi is a bevel-gearbox for material handling applications. The gearmotor features an increased output torque, quiet running, and a long service life and is suitable for building vehicle platforms for material handling trucks. Manual or electric steering can optionally be selected. The TDB230/254 Kombi is flexible and designed for wheel diameters […]
What are pulses per revolution for encoders?
Pulses per revolution (or PPR) is a parameter associated with encoders. Basically, it is a measure of the number of pulses per full revolution or turn of the encoder, with a full revolution being 360 degrees. In essence, it is a measure of an encoder’s resolution. But what counts as a pulse may have different […]
How to design gearmotors for extreme ambient conditions
Following some straightforward advice on gearmotor design will help ensure your gearmotor works in the most extreme environments. Gabriel Venzin • President | ABM Drives Inc. Designing a gearmotor application is tough enough in more or less “normal” conditions, normal here meaning something like room temperature and stable or typical humidity and altitude. Throw that application into […]
Compact, low-power absolute encoders offer 12-bit or 14-bit resolutions
CUI’s Motion Group has added two absolute encoder series, outputting 12 bits or 14 bits of single-turn absolute position information, to its line of AMT modular encoders. The AMT21 series, featuring high speed RS-485 communication, and the AMT23 series, designed with a Synchronous Serial Interface (SSI), are based on CUI’s proprietary capacitive sensing technology. The […]
Clutch/brakes allow precise positioning with virtually no maintenance or adjustment
Posidyne clutch brakes from Force Control Industries feature oil shear technology for rapid and precise stopping, starting, speed change and positioning, all without adjustment or maintenance. Ideal for applications with frequent start/stop cycles, such as indexing conveyors, rotary tables, batch feeders, rotary coal samplers, cutoff machines, and more, these unique motion control devices allow higher […]
What is a stepper motor’s velocity limit?
A velocity limit for a stepper motor is essentially a top speed that is set by a user beyond which the motor will not go. Why is this useful? Mainly because stepper motors have a speed where a resonant frequency is reached and may cause it to vibrate. This can cause the motor to become […]