Aerotech’s Ndrive is a DSP based high-performance digital servo amplifier that provides the power for A3200 distributed control applications by processing high-speed IEEE-1394 Firewire delivered motion commands with 20kHz servo loop closure rates for current, velocity, and position. Easily configured for linear and rotary brushless servo motors, brushed dc motors and stepper motors, this versatile drive also handles encoder or resolver feedback and digital/analogue I/O with some models benefiting from a 10/100 Ethernet port for third party devices and PLCs.
For most high performance applications, Ndrives are available with PWM power stages delivering smooth motion with excellent in-position stability at competitive pricing. For ultra high precision positioning where extremely low-noise, high bandwidth and zero crossover distortion are paramount, a linear power stage version is available.
Users can choose between full-featured and lower cost semi-featured versions in integrated single-axis or multi-axis rack mounted formats. A wide range of CE approved models with peak current ratings from 10 A to 100A at up to 320 Vdc are offered with a choice of single or three phase on-line ac power supplies. dc power versions are also available; this is particularly cost effective for multi axis set-ups. A compact packaged model is also available for space-restricted applications.
Standard Ndrive options include on-board encoder multiplication for increased high-resolution applications, a three-axis position synchronized output (PSO) for precise on-the-fly laser firing, brake relay output, absolute encoder interface, and separate logic supply inputs for “keep-alive” operation.
Aerotech’s A3200 Digital Automation Platform is a software-based machine and motion control system for Windows based PC’s that requires no additional hardware.
The A3200’s fully deterministic Firewire network includes optional “soft” machine control modules with comprehensive controls for HMI, PLC and Vision Systems providing a completely integrated solution for up to 32 motion axes - with an expansion capability to 64 axes. Programming and software development tools for the Automation 3200 include native RS274 G-code with an optional software development kit used to program the unit with Windows ActiveX components as well as C, C++, VisualBasic and LabVIEW.
Firewire data transfer rates are up to 3.2 Gbit/s over optical fibre – more than 30 to 1000 times faster than competitive motion networks. The non-proprietary architecture is available on standard PC’s so upgrade and future proofing is guaranteed. A3200 systems maintain a consistent performance with no system degradation as the number of axes increase. The comprehensive list of motion control commands available range from simple point-to-point and interpolated moves to velocity and cubic spline profiling, electronic gearbox, fast position capture and high-speed registration moves.