Applied Motion

Did You Know? - Various Control Options

Glenn Johnson — Wed, 02 May 2012 15:41:53 +0000

Applied Motion Products has a long history of making products that are simultaneously powerful and easy to use. While this remains a priority for us, the sheer number of variables can seem a bit daunting to a newcomer. Let’s take a step back and examine the different options.

While all of our current generation drives offer advanced current control and anti-resonance algorithms, in terms of usability they can be loosely grouped into the five most popular categories of programmability, or “intelligence”.

The shiny new “R” step drive (link) offers advanced current control and anti-resonance algorithms, allowing very smooth control of a standard 2-phase stepper motor. It was designed for extreme ease of use, being entirely configurable with DIP switches. No computer is required to commission the drive, and it will respond to industry-standard pulse/direction signals for motion.

The “R” drive is mentioned here for completeness. Not technically a programmable drive at all, it is also the only option we offer that is exclusively available for step drives. All the other options below are available on step and servo drives alike.

The ubiquitous “S drive” is a drive with a “-S” in the middle of the model number. Some examples include the ST5-S, STAC5-S-N120, and SVAC3-S-E120. These drives offer all the same motor control options as their more advanced brothers such as advanced current control and anti-resonance algorithms, and are very easily commissioned with our free configuration software. These drives will accept SCL commands sent over a serial or Ethernet link (depending on drive type), step/direction signals, analog inputs for velocity, position or torque, and all have a range of outputs that can be configured to perform specific functions like controlling a motor brake, notifying the PLC of an alarm condition, etc. The difference is that the “S drive” will not accept a stored program. In layman’s terms, it won’t do anything until you tell it to. Note that these drives are available with RS-232, RS-485 and Ethernet communication options.

The venerable “Q drive” builds on the foundation laid by the “S drive” above. It will do everything an “S drive” will do, with the additional capability of storing and executing a Q program. Some examples include ST5-Q-NN, STAC5-Q-N120, and SVAC3-Q-E120. A Q program can be a simple indexing routine or a very complicated positioning sequence with many different operations all tightly coordinated. While very powerful, the Q language is a simple one to learn. Composed entirely of SCL commands, Q programs can be written quickly and effectively by most users with at least some programming experience. Note that these drives are available with RS-232, RS-485 and Ethernet communication options.

The all-powerful “Si drive” builds on this foundation again by adding support for an additional programming environment: Si programming. Some examples include ST5-Si-NN, STAC6-Si, and BLuAC5-Si. “Si” stands for “Simple Indexer”, and is just that. It is best used when a relatively simple sequence of moves must be automated. It is intended for use by individuals with little to no programming experience (though even master programmers appreciate the ease of use and rapid programming capabilities). Note that these drives are available with RS-232 or RS-485 communication options only. Further, note that the Si option is not available for every drive type; look closely at the model listings on the website or contact Applied Motion Products for details.

The next category, the “IP drive” (link), is at its core, a Q drive. It is given a different part number with the letters “IP” in place of the more common “S”, “Q” or “Si”, but it can be thought of as a Q drive that is specifically intended for use on EtherNet/IP-based control networks. There is a common misconception that “Ethernet”, the same networking scheme you’re using to get on the internet and read this newsletter, is the same as “EtherNet/IP”. They are indeed related, but don’t let the names fool you. The explanation can get a bit complicated, so if you’re squeamish you might want to close your eyes until you’re done reading this next section.

Our “Standard Ethernet” drives use the standard Ethernet hardware (CAT5 cable, routers, etc) and UDP and TCP protocols to send our SCL commands between the host and drive. “EtherNet/IP” uses the same Ethernet hardware but is actually a very powerful industrial communication protocol defined by an international standards body to make sure devices from different vendors can communicate. That is, it uses the same wires to send the data, but the data that is sent is different. Think of it like this: Let’s say someone speaks to you in a language you don’t understand. You can hear the words just fine (same physical layer: in this case, sound), but you can’t communicate verbally (different protocols / languages).

Okay, you can open your eyes now.

In summary, EtherNet/IP is widely used all over the world in industrial machinery, and is a must-have for communication with Allen-Bradley control systems. If you just want a drive with an Ethernet jack on it, go with a standard -S or -Q drive, and choose the Ethernet option.

Speaking of international standards, many of our drives are available with CANopen. Some examples include ST5-C-CN, STM23C-3CN. This is yet another industrial communication option, administered by an international standards body for the purpose of sending data to and from the drive. Unlike EtherNet/IP, CANopen defines a physical layer as well, so you’ll notice that these drives have a different plug and require specific wiring. These drives are a great fit for applications where a CANopen network already exists.

Introducing the STM23 with Ethernet

Jeff Kordik — Wed, 02 May 2012 15:30:00 +0000

Applied Motion Products is pleased to announce the addition of eight integrated drive+motors to our line of Ethernet and EtherNet/IP motion control products.

The new STM23 models fuse a high performance motion controller with 100 MBit Ethernet communications to a high torque NEMA23 step motor. Connecting to an Allen-Bradley ControlLogix, CompactLogix or MicroLogix PLC? EtherNet/IP is also available.

The STM23Q-2Ex provides 125 ounce inches of torque, while the longer STM23Q-3Ex produces 210 ounce inches. Both models are available with an optional 4000 count/rev optical encoder, safely housed inside, that can detect and prevent motor stalls using Applied Motion’s proprietary stall prevention algorithm. Our auto tuned digital current control provides smooth, quiet motion, while an advanced anti-resonance algorithm with electronic damping allows for maximum torque utilization, rapid acceleration, and fast settling times.

Software applications can communicate with the STM23 in real time, using the SCL and Q languages over standard 100 megabit Ethernet cabling, addressing and protocols. Ethernet can transmit data at 100 times the speed of CANopen and more than 1000 times faster than RS-232 and RS-485. The number and types of devices that can share a network are practically unlimited.

Even if you are just programming a Q drive for standalone operation, the Ethernet option can be more convenient than chasing down a USB-serial converter and trying to remember which COM port it uses. Just plug the drive into your office network, install our free, easy to use software, and you’re ready for programming and configuration.

Please visit the integrated steppers page for more information.

50 piece pricing begins at $371

Introducing the STR2 Stepper Drive

Eric Rice — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 16:17:35 +0000

Applied Motion Products is pleased to announce the STR2 step motor drive. The STR2 is a compact, digital step & direction drive, great for OEM applications requiring basic step & direction control of a 2-phase stepper motor. The STR2 outputs up to 2.2 A/phase to the step motor, and is compatible with a variety of 2-phase step motors that have been selected to optimize performance of both the drive and motor.

The STR2 drive features advanced microstepping performance and sophisticated current control with anti-resonance. Anti-resonance electronically damps motor and system resonances, which improves motor smoothness and torque over a wide speed range.

Each STR2 step motor drive operates in either Step & Direction or Pulse/Pulse control mode. Selecting between these two modes is done by moving a jumper located under the cover of the drive. Each STR2 drive can microstep up to 20,000 steps/rev with a 1.8º step motor (1/100 step), and can even microstep the step motor when the command pulses are low resolution. This feature is called Microstep Emulation. All drive setup is done via dip switches on the side of the drive, including motor selection, running current, idle current, and step resolution.

The STR2 is RoHS compliant and CE certified. Matching step motors and DC power supplies are also available from Applied Motion Products.

50 piece pricing begins at $74.25

View the entire family of STR drives.

Jeff's Wining Again - South of the Border

Jeff Kordik — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 15:51:06 +0000

As our cruise ship pulled into port at Ensenada, Mexico, we decided to bypass the popular La Bufadora & Shopping Excursion and board an air conditioned tour bus bound for the Calafia Valley, to see the vineyards of Old Mexico. As luck would have it, our dinner mates Tim and Eva decided to join us. It never hurts to have a judge in tow when you’re out and about in Mexico, even if his jurisdiction is Tucson, Arizona.

Calafia is about 20 minutes from the coast; the ride was scenic and charming on a typical sunny, dry Baja day. Our first stop was L.A. Cetto, founded by Don Angelo Cetto, who emigrated from Italy in the 1920’s. The winery is named after his son, Luis Agustin. I can say with certainty that it’s the only vineyard I’ve seen planted around a bull fighting ring. I guess I shouldn’t be surprised after visiting Howard Hughes’ flying behemoth The Spruce Goose, which is also surrounded by a vineyard. But if you’ve been paying attention, you already knew that (hint: Jeff’s Wining Again, Sept 2011).

Our guide Tomas showed us around the grounds and the production facility. Judging from the size of the barrel room, I’d guess L.A. Cetto is producing about 10,000 cases per year.

Back in the tasting room, we tried several whites, including Chenin Blanc (not a fan), Blanc de Blancs, and a decent Chardonnay. We also sampled the Italian reds Nebbiolo and Sangiovese, accompanied by excellent local, fresh bread. I am known to seek out good Sangiovese whenever possible, but this particular day I would be unsuccessful.

Our second stop was Casa Pedro Domecq, founded in Spain by an Irishman named Patrick Murphy. While not fluent in Spanish, I’m fairly certain that Pedro Domecq is not a literal translation of Patrick Murphy.

Domecq is an eclectic blend of new and old worlds, and a worthy wine destination. Beneath the modern tasting room with stunning vineyard and mountain views lie a series of tunnels used to age the wine. If they offer you a tour, take it. In addition to housing thousands of barrels and bottles, the caves also serve as an informal “museum” of antique wine making equipment that Pedro Domecq no longer uses but has preserved for posterity.

While lacking a bull fighting ring, the wines were a vast improvement over L.A. Cetto. The Cabernet Sauvignon was good enough for us to bring a few bottles back to the boat.

The lesson of Calafia Valley is that grapes are grown and wine is made in many countries and most American states. You don’t have to go to Burgundy or Napa to find someone who makes a good bottle of wine. Adventure awaits wherever you go.

Buen Viaje.

Questions? Write to Wineguy@applied-motion.com

Did You Know? New Configurator in Town

Eric Rice — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 22:11:57 +0000

Readers who have used our ST, STM or STAC stepper drives are probably familiar with our ST Configurator™ set up software. Many of you have also used Q Programmer™ for constructing and testing stored Q programs, and a few of you have probably updated your drive’s firmware to access the latest features.

On March 31, we’ll be releasing a new version of ST Configurator™ that supports our entire range of configurable stepper drives, including the popular DC powered ST line, the STM integrated drive+motor and our AC powered STAC drives. 98 models are supported.

The new ST Configurator™ version 3.1 provides seamless communication with all models whether they have RS-232, RS-485, CANopen or Ethernet communication. It also includes a built-in Q Programmer™ so you can switch context quickly and easily. Firmware downloader utilities for our DSP and ARM processors are also just a click away.

ST Configurator™ version 3.1 replaces all previous versions of ST Configurator™, as well as ST Configurator™ Ethernet and STAC Configurator™.

This new tool was designed to make your job easier and more productive. Not sure which motor is best for the ST5? Need a connector pin diagram for the STAC6? Context sensitive help is there when you need it. Please check our website for a free download or sign up now and we’ll notify you on release day.

Introducing the STM17R and STM23R

Eric Rice — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 21:56:06 +0000

Applied Motion Products, Inc. is pleased to announce the STM17R and STM23R drive+motors, the newest members to our line of integrated steppers. The STM17R integrates a NEMA 17 step motor and a microstepping drive into a single device, offering savings on space, wiring and cost over conventional motor and drive solutions. The STM23R does the same with a NEMA 23 step motor and a microstepping drive.

The “R” designation in the part number identifies each model as a step & direction-only unit, a feature that promises the best price in an integrated stepper for those applications requiring basic step and direction control. Setup of each drive+motor – including running current, idle current, microstep resolution, load inertia ratio (for peak smoothness), and pulse signal type (pulse-direction or pulse-pulse) – is managed via two banks of dip switches on the drive enclosure. No software downloads are required for configuration.

All STM17R and STM23R integrated steppers come with three digital inputs (step/pulse, direction/pulse, enable) and one digital output (fault), all compatible with 5 to 24 VDC. They are available in single shaft, double shaft, and double shaft with encoder models. Each double shaft with encoder model comes with a 1000-line, incremental encoder assembled to the rear shaft of the unit. This encoder can be wired back to the external controller for position and velocity verification.

The STM17R provides up to 68 oz-in of torque and can be powered from 24 to 48 VDC. The STM23R provides up to 210 oz-in of torque and can be powered from 12 to 70 VDC. All STM models are CE certified and RoHS compliant. Matching DC power supplies and planetary gearheads are also available.

Did You Know? Trim a Move Parameter

Bob Loyzim — Fri, 16 Mar 2012 20:40:40 +0000

There are some applications using Q Programmer™ that require the operator to make a slight “trim” adjustment to a move parameter. An HMI can be used to do this but a simpler approach, using the drive’s analog input, is often easier and less expensive. The example program below shows trim capability built into an application. An STM24QF integrated stepper is used in this example but all Q drives have an analog input so all can use this approach. In this example, the program waits for IN 1 to go LOW then moves a nominal distance of 40,000 counts. The operator can trim the nominal distance +/- 15% by adjusting a knob on a potentiometer. The potentiometer feeds the analog input of the STM24QF.

Want the operator to have more control, say 25%? Just load register 2 with 25 (line 3 of the program) and now the trim range is 30,000 to 50,000 counts.

You can try this Q program yourself by downloading it here.

The Many Uses of Encoder Feedback

Jeff Kordik — Fri, 16 Mar 2012 20:02:53 +0000

Step motors are popular in part because they are low cost and easy to use. But experienced users know that if the system demands more torque than the motor has available, the motor stalls. Compounding the situation is the fact that stepper systems don’t require feedback, so other devices in the system are unlikely to be aware of the stall. However, by adding an inexpensive encoder, the drive can monitor the motor’s actual position directly, closing the feedback loop and avoiding many of the limitations traditionally associated with stepper systems.

By adding an encoder to the system to track rotor position, the drive can know precisely how far and how fast the motor has moved. Thus, the first use of encoder feedback is position and velocity verification. A PC or PLC can monitor position and velocity over RS-232, RS-485, CANopen, Ethernet or EtherNet/IP.

A step motor is constructed with a permanent magnet rotor that turns on bearings, and a stator, a series of electromagnets surrounding the rotor. When the drive sends electric current through the stator, the resulting electromagnetic field forces the rotor to react. If the stator current is properly controlled, a step motor can perform impressive feats, accelerating at precise rates to exact speeds, and stopping on a dime with great accuracy.

Because step motors produce less torque at high speeds, they can stall if overloaded. The second use of encoder feedback is the immediate detection and reporting of stalls. The driver can be configured to signal other equipment by the state change of a digital output or by providing this information over the communication interface.

The encoder also allows for real time monitoring of the torque producing lead/lag angle, the angular difference between the magnetic fields of the stator and rotor. Applied Motion drives can use this information to precisely control the motor’s torque and prevent unexpected motor stalls, the third and ultimate use of encoder feedback. Stall prevention is enabled by checking the “Stall Prevention” box in our ST Configurator™ set up software.

Encoders can be purchased with Applied Motion motors ranging from NEMA size 11 to 34. The encoder comes pre-assembled to the rear shaft of the step motor and connects via cable to the encoder feedback port available on many of our drives, including our DC powered ST5 and ST10 and the AC powered STAC5 and STAC6.

ST Stepper Drives with Ethernet, Part 1

Eric Rice — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:29:29 +0000

The ST series step motor drives come with a variety of communication options including RS-232, RS-485, CANopen, and now Ethernet.

Part 1 of 3 provides an overview of the ST series stepper drives, the connectors on the Ethernet version, and how to download software from our website.

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3

For more information on the ST series stepper drives visit the series page.

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ST Stepper Drives with Ethernet, Part 2

Eric Rice — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:27:15 +0000

The ST series step motor drives come with a variety of communication options including RS-232, RS-485, CANopen, and now Ethernet.

Part 2 of 3 shows where to download hardware manuals from our website, how to wire a step motor and power supply to the drive, and how to connect the drive to an Ethernet network.

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3

For more information on the ST series stepper drives visit the series page.

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