Technology
The Nanotec stepper motor positioning controls of the SMCI series and the motors with integrated controller, the Plug&Drive motors, are distinguished by a great wealth of functions. In addition to different operating modes, position monitoring and the analysis of limit switches, the positioning controls can also be operated and parameterized with the aid of a simple protocol via the PC interface.
Here you can find an initial overview of the functions and all subjects are discussed further in the respective manuals.
NanoPro software
The NanoPro stepper motor software from Nanotec means it is now possible to put a stepper motor into operation in a few minutes and it is also easy to set specific motor and machine parameters, to set up reference and end position switches and much more...
You can download the Windows software here free of charge
Programming
The positioning controllers of the SMCI series as well as the Plug&Drive motors with RS485/USB can be operated with any programming language and from any suitable programmable device:
- via simple ASCII commands, also with application examples, e.g. for Labview and Delphi
- via a COM object for .NET-compatible programming languages
In addition, with the Java-based NanoJ programming language, own programs can run in the controller.
Operating modes
The stepper motor positioning control can be operated in a total of seven different operating modes. Due to the great capacity and functions available, it offers designers and developers a rapid and simple method of resolving numerous drive requirements with less programming effort. Select the required operating mode for your stepper motor application and configure the controller according to your requirements.
Position monitoring
Position monitoring and error correction are an integral part of all new stepper motor positioning controls from Nanotec. The current position of the rotor can be readjusted up to an accuracy of 0.9° when the current travel profile is complete. An optical encoder is already integrated in the Plug&Drive motors...
Referencing
Three adjustable reference modes (external and internal) enable automatic machine settings where external reference switches may be unnecessary if there is a shift < 360° due to the index signal of the internal encoder...
Inputs and outputs
With the aid of the digital inputs and outputs on the positioning controls of the SMCI series as well as on the Plug&Drive motors, it is possible to analyze reference switches or limit switches. However, the release and selection of the previously stored travel profiles are also made via these inputs. Thus, it is possible to select up to 16 different positions or speeds that can also be linked with one another via NanoPro or NanoJ easy.
Fieldbuses/Interfaces
The positioning control of the SMCI series and also the Plug&Drive motors can be operated alone in different environments or in a network and actuated separately or synchronously. The following possibilities are available:
- RS232
- RS485
- USB
- CANopen
CANopen
The CANopen field bus interface means Nanotec positioning controls can now also be easily networked in a standardized way with other components. The profile complies with the CiA 402 standard and implements the positioning, velocity and homing operating modes.
ClosedLoop
In contrast to conventional stepper motor positioning controls where only the motor is actuated or the position adjusted via the encoder, sinusoidal commutation controls the stator magnetic field as in a servomotor via the rotary encoder.
