ADVANCED MICRO SYSTEMS, INC. | HARDWARE |
Introduction
Thank you for using a DCB-274 Stepper Motor Driver/Controller from ADVANCED MICRO SYSTEMS, INC. This unit is designed to provide years of reliable, accurate and cost-effective motion control. As with all AMS products, the DCB-274 is backed by over two decades of manufacturing excellence and a commitment to quality and support that guarantees your satisfaction.
This manual will assist you in optimizing the performance of your system. Its’ purpose is to provide access to information that will facilitate a reliable and trouble-free installation. The manual is organized into the following sections:
Section 1: Hardware. Section 1 is a description of the physical product, i.e., connections, physical and electrical characteristics and a “quick start” guide to get you up and running.
Section 2: Serial Interface. Section 2 defines all AMS serial communication protocols and highlights the specific protocol and hardware required for single and multi-axis operation.
Section 3: SMC-27X2 Software Commands. Section 3 details the software instructions and related parameters of the SMC-27X2 micro-controller that powers the DCB-274.
Section 4: Addendum. Pertinent schematics, charts, etc. are contained in Section 4.
In addition to the Users Manual, a PC/AT compatible systems integration diskette (EASI) is supplied. This powerful programming tool is an easy to use, menu driven utility file with on-line help screens and available source code (Microsoft "C"). Used together, the Users Manual and EASI diskette will enable you to quickly take advantage of the advanced programming features and system capabilities inherent in the system design.
Although the DCB-274 and supporting documentation were designed to simplify the installation and on- going operation of your equipment, we recognize that the integration of motion control often requires answers to many complex issues. Please feel free to take advantage of our technical expertise in this area by calling one of our support personnel to discuss your application at 603-882-1447.
Limitations or Exceptions for the DCB-274
The SMC-27X2 micro-controller used on the DCB-274 has capabilities or functions that vary from product to product. Therefore, some topics in this manual include descriptions of commands or hardware that may not be pertinent to the DCB-274, such as:
Serial interface
While it is possible to use a simple 3 wire RS-232 design, the DCB-274 is designed for a 5-volt differential RS-422 implementation only.
Current controls
The hold and run currents are adjusted with a software command (Y) that allows automatic hold current setback.
Encoder input
The Encoder input option allows quadrature digital inputs to be converted to step and direction for jogging or “shuttle” control. For encoder “feedback” or “closed-loop” control, AMS offers it’s MAX series products. Encoder "feedback" is not possible with the DCB-274.
Moving signal
Some AMS products have a “moving” signal available on the serial connector. The signals from all axes are combined to provide an “any-moving” signal. Determination of moving status, on the DCB-274, is better done using the Read Moving Status (^) command.
For applications requiring this type of signal, a mode using the small “l” command is available to allow port 4 to become a hardware “moving” output.
