Controller

From Granite Devices Knowledge Wiki
Revision as of 13:17, 14 August 2013 by Tero K (Talk | contribs)


Jump to: navigation, search

Controller means something that is in control of things. In motion control this usually means a CNC controller, software, PLC or similar that generates the setpoint signals for the drive as well as other control signals such as enable & reset errors.

CNC controllers

There are two main types of CNC controllers:

  • Software controllers (run on PC)
  • Hardware controllers (stand alone controllers with screen, jogging buttons etc)

Mach 3

Mach 3 is probably the most famous low cost CNC controller for Windows PC's. It can produce pulse and direction setpoint signals from PC parallel port and also via external pulse generators.

EMC2

EMC2 is based on realtime Linux platform and offers high flexibility at expense of somewhat more complex setup process compared to others. However, due to realtime OS platform it provides very stable output on pulse and direction control as well as analog and PWM modes.

Stand-alone controllers

PLC

Programmable logic controller is usually a stand-alone device where operator can write programs to do various things, such as control I/O signals and generate motion setpoint signals. Many PLC's are motion control capable and are a suitable choice also for VSD drives.

Software

TODO Direct software control and SimpleMotion here.


In no event the Product Information or parts hereof shall be regarded as guarantee of conditions or characteristics. The Product Information or any part thereof may also not be regarded as a warranty of any kind. No liability of any kind shall be assumed by Author with respect to Product Information or any use made by you thereof, nor shall Author indemnify you against or be liable for any third party claims with respect to such information or any use thereof.

As content of this Wiki may be edited by user community, Granite Devices Oy or it's affiliates do not take any responsibility of the contents of this Wiki. Use information at your own risk. However, Granite Devices staff attempts to review all changes made to this Wiki and keep information trustworthy.

Without written consent, Granite Devices' Products or Intellectual Property shall not be used in situations or installations where living beings, material property, or immaterial property could be harmed by the operation, features or failures of Product. Products may only be used in a way where hazards like moving parts, electric shock, laser radiation, or fire can't be realized even if the content of this Wiki would suggest otherwise.